In any hunt, including general any-weapon seasons and short-range hunts, it is unlawful to pursue or kill big game animals. With any muzzleloading rifle or musket that is less than .45 caliber for deer, pronghorn, or mountain lion; or is less than .50 caliber for elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat or black bear.

Any person hunting in a muzzleloader-only season, including controlled hunts, must have in their possession a license with a muzzleloader permit validation. During a muzzleloader only season, it is illegal to pursue or kill a big game animal with any firearm, muzzleloading pistol, or weapon other than a muzzleloading rifle or musket. In addition, the muzzleloading rifle or musket must be: • Capable of being loaded only from the muzzle.

• Equipped with only open or peep sights. Scopes and any electronics are prohibited.

• Loaded only with loose black powder, loose Pyrodex, or

other loose synthetic black powder. Pelletized powders are prohibited.

• Equipped with a single or double-barrel.  Loaded with a projectile that is within .010 inch of the bore diameter. Sabots are prohibited.  Loaded with a patched round ball or conical nonjacketed projectile comprised wholly of lead or lead alloy.  Equipped only with a flint, percussion cap or musket cap. 209 primers are prohibited.

Equipped with an ignition system in which any portion of the cap is exposed or visible when the weapon is cocked and ready to fire.