Muzzleloading vs. Breechloading — What's the Difference?

Muzzleloading is the shooting sport of firing muzzleloading guns. Muzzleloading guns, both antique and reproduction, are used for target shooting, hunting, historical re-enactment and historical research.

Designed to be loaded at the breech. Used of a gun or other firearm.

A firearm that is loaded at the muzzle.

Describing a breechloader gun: one that has ammunition loaded from the rear of the barrel rather than where it will exit.

Of a gun, having ammunition loaded from the front of the barrel where it will exit.