I was Muzzleloader hunting Elk in NM. I spent the morning still hunting the area in crnchy snow. Headed back to camp on the dirt road since the snow was hard packed and quiet. About 100 yards from camp I heard movement. Looked up and saw a 5x6 trotting in front of me. I thought it was perfect. Wouldn't have to work at all getting him back to camp. I brought the stinkpole up and pulled the trigger when he stopped. All I heard was SNAP! Fizzle! The elk heard it too and took off running. Never saw him again. It took 5 caps to get the rifle to shoot. Note to self. ALWAYS snap a cap before loading up the gun!
