What type of powder should be exclusively used in muzzleloaders?

The correct answer is black powder because muzzleloaders are specifically designed to use this type of propellant. Black powder, which is a mixture of potassium nitrate, charcoal, and sulfur, has been the traditional propellant for firearms, particularly in muzzleloading guns, for centuries. It ignites easily and produces a large volume of smoke upon firing, which is characteristic of its use and is often associated with historical shooting sports and hunting.

Using smokeless powder in a muzzleloader is not only inappropriate but can also be extremely dangerous. Smokeless powder is much more potent and generates higher pressures than black powder, which muzzleloaders are not built to handle. This could lead to catastrophic failures, such as explosions, resulting in severe injuries. Therefore, muzzleloader users must stick to black powder to ensure safe operation.