In the declining post-war days of our once world dominant gunmaking industry, when original muzzle loading arms could still be found in the racks in gunsmiths' shops alongside dusty cans of black powder and tins of percussion caps, a few like-minded souls formed the Muzzle Loaders' Association of Great Britain. Their objective was to promote a common interest in the diverse and often superb products of a fast disappearing age that was centred in the 18th and 19th centuries but had its roots in the earliest forms of firearm.

Unlike other arms collectors of the day these individuals were as much interested in the use of the firearm as in its historical study. Nowadays, with our developed appreciation of the past it is not difficult to understand the fascination that these people had for their subject.

Many Association members are primarily collectors of antique arms and accessories and the MLAGB is proud of the part it plays in encouraging the preservation, study and research of our colourful and historic past.

The shooting of muzzle loaders as a sport has today increased out of all proportion to its humble beginnings, to one of enormous participation worldwide. Both original and reproduction arms are catered for and encouraged within the Association, and in many competition events there is no distinction made between the two.

The Association's quarterly magazine 'Black Powder' keeps members up to date with news, forthcoming events, and competition reports; it also includes articles on topical and specialised subjects. Enlarged editions are published in Summer and Winter, the former being a special Collectors issue, and the latter a Shooting number.

The MLAGB is registered as a Full Bore Rifle and Muzzle Loading Pistol
Club and is an active member of the British Shooting Sports Council.

Members of the MLAGB attend the BSSC Westminster Fair to meet MPs

Some Benefits of MLAGB Membership

• Insurance cover for all activities of shooting
  authorised by the MLAGB including target shooting and game shooting
  
• Receipt of the quarterly magazine 'Black Powder'
• To be eligible to join local MLAGB Branches
• Preferential rates for target hire at the MLAGBs own ranges at Wedgnock, Warwick
• Preferential accommodation rates at the MLAGBs Bisley Club House, The Exhibition Hut
• To shoot in MLAGB National Championship Competitions
• To be eligible for selection for MLAGB and Great Britain international teams
• Support of the MLAGB in matters relating to muzzle loading firearms
• To stand for the Council of Management and vote at General Meetings and Elections