Do muzzleloaders feature actions like other firearms?

Muzzleloaders are unique compared to most modern firearms in that they do not feature traditional actions like semi-automatics or bolt actions. Instead, they operate using a lock mechanism. In a muzzleloader, after a projectile and charge of powder are loaded from the muzzle (the front of the barrel), the firing process involves a hammer striking a primer or other ignition source, which ignites the gunpowder and fires the projectile.

This design is different from other firearms, which often use various types of mechanical actions to load, fire, and eject cartridges. Muzzleloaders rely on a simpler ignition system, making their operation distinct from that of repeating or semi-automatic firearms. This lock mechanism is fundamental to understanding how muzzleloaders work and how they differ from more modern gun designs.