A muzzleloader is a type of firearm that is loaded from the front, or muzzle, rather than from the rear. This means that the shooter must pour gunpowder and a projectile down the barrel before firing. Muzzleloaders can be either rifles or shotguns and are often used for hunting and sport shooting. These firearms have a long history, dating back to the 15th century, and were commonly used in early American history. Today, many enthusiasts enjoy using muzzleloaders for recreational shooting and hunting, often participating in events like muzzleloader hunting seasons and black powder shooting competitions.