Connecticut and Indiana have joined the growing number of states recognizing Federal Premium FireStick technology for use during their 2026 muzzleloader seasons. Two others —Arizona and California—recently approved the product in their hunting regulations.
Federal Ammunition introduced FireStick in 2020. The factory-loaded, encapsulated powder charge is loaded from the breech, while the projectile is still loaded from the muzzle. The system provides hunters consistency and reliability. It is also impervious to moisture.
“Since its launch six years ago, we’ve worked to gain FireStick’s acceptance for use during dedicated muzzleloading seasons in more states across the country,” said Jon Zinnel, Federal’s director of conservation and community relations. “We applaud the 37 states that have legalized FireStick for muzzleloading season use. Their recognition of modern systems helps promote safety, reliability and increased hunting opportunities.”
Traditions helped usher in a new era of muzzleloading by bringing hunters innovative firearms designed around the technology. The NitroFire was the world’s first to use the FireStick system. The duo shared American Hunter’s Golden Bullseye Muzzleloading Product Year award in 2021.
“The continued expansion of FireStick technology demonstrates how muzzleloading continues to evolve, and Traditions is proud to be at the forefront of that evolution,” said Tom Hall, president and CEO of Traditions Performance Firearms. “We’re excited to see FireStick gain acceptance across the country and give more hunters the opportunity to experience the consistency, convenience and confidence it provides.”
The FireStick is a polymer capsule filled with an exact charge of Hodgdon Triple Eight, an ultra-clean blackpowder substitute. It’s a precisely premeasured self-contained powder charge, although the primary benefit of the FireStick is best-in-class safety. It allows safe, easy removal of the unfired charge from the breech. The benefits of overall better shot consistency for improved accuracy and ease of use follow close behind.
The muzzleloader market has also expanded, with respected manufacturers such as Traditions, CVA and Thompson/Center offering an increasing variety of rifles. For more information on FireStick, including product videos, a list of benefits, available firearms, legality by state, frequently asked questions, and more, visit Federal’s FireStick webpage.
