M97 & M98 Owners Manual

Owner’s

Manual

M97 M98

An Owner’s Guide for

WHITERIFLES LLC

Muzzleloading Rifles

G-Series M97 Whitetail Hunter

W-Series M98 Elite Hunter

A Message From “Doc” White

Thank you for purchasing our product. My name is Gary “Doc” White. I was born in the West better than 60 years ago and started hunting before I was a boy scout. It just seemed natural to take to the fields and mountains every day I was out of school. I fell in love with old guns and was soon enmeshed in traditional muzzleloading.

I built my first muzzleloader before I was 16 and have made hundreds since. It was natural to use the guns I made and the old-time guns I collected for hunting, and I became extremely familiar with the quirks and problems of hunting with primitive single shot arms.

The first rifles I built were frank copies of the old originals, both in flintlock and percussion; that is, until I read Greener’s Guns, noting his comments on Jean Samuel Pauly, a displaced Swiss who took out a British patent in 1812 for an in-line percussion action complete with coil spring. All the current fuss over modern looking muzzleloaders is just ridiculous. Coil springed, in-line action muzzle-guns are just as “authentic” and “traditional” as any other sidelock muzzleloading long arm.

This knowledge tickled my imagination and I had an in-line rifle designed and shooting by the early 1970's. It proved to have many handling and safety advantages over more primitive muzzleloaders, the best being that it shot as well as any black powder rifle in the same caliber, handled as slickly as any modern firearm, and had a very positive safety. Now, WHITE’s new muzzleloading lineup with the White Muzzleloading System is at the pinnacle of muzzleloading development yet remains very much in the muzzleloading envelope. Soon, you too will see why I’m so excited about these rifles.

So get out to the range and get shooting! You have chosen what I consider to be the best muzzleloading rifle ever made. And thank you for choosing to be numbered in the ranks of the many hunters and sportsmen enjoying the benefits of WHITE’s “Muzzleloading System.”

A Message From WhiteRifles LLC

Thank you for purchasing our muzzleloading rifles, bullets and accessories. WhiteRifles is proud to have developed these new high performance muzzleloading rifles, bullets and accessories. Our in-line muzzleloading rifles provide true muzzleloading designs with modern applied technological innovation. We call it “Design Integrated Performance.” The results are revolutionizing the muzzleloading industry.

You have either purchased a Model 97 Whitetail Hunter) or a W-Series Model 98 Elite Hunter) rifle. These rifles are the finest in-line percussion muzzleloading rifles ever produced. At the heart of each WHITE rifle is Doc White’s New “White Muzzleloading System.” Doc White’s system redefines muzzleloading performance with the most advanced technology that has come to muzzleloading in the past 100 years. The system approaches muzzleloading “holistically,” in that it takes formerly separate systems, (i.e., bullet, rifling, ignition, locktime, recoil, and overall gun design), and interlocks them into one functionally interdependent yet functionally elegant system.

Just pick up your new WHITE muzzleloading rifle. You will notice its safeties, functionality, pointability and superb balance. Go to the range and you will see and feel what easy loading, reduced recoil, reduced locktime, shot to shot consistency, and down range accuracy really means.

When you take it hunting, be prepared to stare in astonishment as big game collapse under the incredible knockdown power of PowerPunch and PowerStar bullets. You will soon feel the pride and satisfaction of harvesting big game cleanly, reducing wounding loss and conserving our precious wildlife resources.

When you get back from the range or field, you will still have WHITE working for you: reducing maintenance and cleaning to one simple little word - easy! White’s Performance Integration and Doc White’s System do it all for you! With your new muzzleloading firearm purchase it is now your exclusively from WHITE Rifles.

White is a proud company. We are proud of our heritage. We are proud of our products. And we are very proud of our employees. What makes us proudest is that we have enhanced muzzleloading performance without going outside the muzzleloading envelope.

At White, we see little point in chasing the imaginary claims and advertising hyperbole of others. There’s no redemption in muzzleloading products that violate the muzzleloading envelope. We practice pure and simple muzzleloading theology. As a result, we are blessed with true muzzleloading rifle performance and the peace of mind that comes from being at the pinnacle of muzzleloading performance. No gimmicks, no gadgets, no tricks. Just functionally elegant muzzleloading rifles built the time proven way with Advanced Technology, Advanced Designs, Advanced Materials and Advanced Workmanship!

Remember, Design Integrated Performance and the WHITE Muzzleloading System, from our employees to you: anything less than perfection is not an option.

Congratulations!

You now own the most

advanced muzzleloading rifle

available today.

Your WHITE muzzleloading firearm is designed with the goal of providing you with an affordable and technologically advanced muzzleloading firearm that does not compromise safety, strength or effectiveness. Your WHITE in-line action muzzleloading firearm will serve you for a lifetime.

Safety Code

White firearms are powerful and can be dangerous without proper handling. Always take proper care of your muzzleloading firearm and handle it with caution and safety so that accidents and injuries do not occur. Before you do anything with your new White muzzleloading firearm, read this instruction book very carefully. Also obey the following code:

• CAREFULLY read this instruction manual

• ONLY use Pyrodex, Arco Black Mag, or Black Powder

• ALWAYS use the White double safety system

• ALWAYS assume the firearm is loaded

• ALWAYS point firearm downrange and toward a safe area

• ALWAYS wear hearing and eye protection

• ALWAYS be sure bullet is seated on powder charge

• NEVER use “smokeless” propellants in your rifle

Read This Manual

Forget the old adage , “When all else fails, read the instruction manual.” This approach could be dangerous and costly. Remember, your WHITE muzzleloading rifle is a powerful firearm. If used improperly, it is capable of harming you and/or those around you.

Read through the entire manual before using your WHITE muzzleloading rifle. Use the table of contents to find the information you need, and always follow the instruction steps carefully.

If you have any problems with your WHITE muzzleloading rifle or have any questions, refer to the “Answers to Common Questions” and the “Troubleshooting” sections first.

Model Descriptions

G-Series

Model 97 Whitetail Hunter

G-Series rifles were designed specifically for today’s Whitetail deer hunter. Whether hunting from a blind, tree stand or still-hunting, G-Series rifles are unique in-line percussion rifles, balanced and designed for optimum whitetail deer hunting performance. Each G-Series rifle is engineered with all the benefits of White’s Muzzleloading System. Any rifle of the series will optimize your muzzleloading hunting experience.

All White rifles are made from ordnance-grade stainless steel fro strength and durability. their 22" or 24" barrels provide unsurpassed balance and pointability. The unique side-cocking action of the G-series is designed so that cocking can be performed by the non-shooting hand. This lends itself to easy left or right hand operation. The action’s recoil and stock engagement system increases accuracy and minimized felt recoil with heavy loads. Field stripping the G-series is easy and requires no tools. The short throw in-line hammer and internal coiled hammer spring reduces locktime and unleashes the ignition fury of WHITE’s exclusive FlashFire one piece nipple/breechplug. FlashFire increases standard #11 percussion cap performance by accelerating flash speed and increasing flash temperature and pressure. FlashFire drives the cap flame deep into the powder charge, igniting the powder from the inside-out, improving powder ignition and firing dependability The G-series Model 97 is fitted with a fully adjustable custom trigger and is set for a crisp and clean, three and a half to four and a half pound (3 ½ to 4 ½ lb.) trigger release. It is also equipped with custom high visibility, fully adjustable hunting sights and either WHITE’s solid aluminum or Delrin PowerRod™ threaded 10/32 at both ends for add-on shooting accessories. Each PowerRod™ is equipped with an integral bullet puller and cleaning jag. The barreled action is perfectly fitted to a smooth laminate, black hardwood or checkered black composite stock with recoil pad and sling swivel studs. Each stock features a fourteen inch (14") length of pull, a straight comb for undisturbed sight and target acquisition, a hand fitting pistol grip for comfort and rifle control, and a broad English buttstock for quick shouldering pointability, comfort and felt recoil reduction. G-Series rifles drilled and tapped for easy scope or peep sight mounting, and weigh 6-7 pounds depending on Model. Available in standardized calibers of .410 (1 in 18" twist) .451 (1 in 20" twist) and .504 (1 in 24 “ twist.

W-Series Rifles

Model 98 Elite Hunter

W-Series rifles were designed specifically for today’s elite big game hunter. Whether hunting from Alaska’s highest peaks or the African bush, a W-Series rifle is a unique in-line percussion rifle that blends traditional muzzleloading balance with modern performance and appeal. It is also engineered with all the benefits of the White Muzzleloading System. W-Series rifles everything needed for a successful hunt, starting with ordnance-grade stainless steel for strength and durability. Their 24" or 26" barrels provide traditional balance and pointability, while featuring two (2) ramrod guides for easy left or right hand operation. The action’s two-point stock engagement system increases accuracy and minimizes felt recoil with heavy loads: Field stripping the W-Series is easy and requires no tools. The short throw in-line hammer with rear cocking handle and internal guided coiled hammer spring reduces locktime and is easily removed from the action in a single assembly without tools for easy cleaning. W-Series rifles feature WHITE’s exclusive FlashFire one-piece nipple/breechplug. FlashFire increases standard #11 percussion cap performance by accelerating flash speed and increasing flash temperature and pressure. FlashFire drives the cap flame deep into the powder charge, igniting the powder from the inside-out, improving powder ignition and firing dependability. W-Series rifles are fitted with a fully adjustable custom trigger set for a crisp, and clean, three and a half to four and a half pound (3 ½ to 4 ½ lb.) trigger release. They are also equipped with custom high visibility, fully adjustable hunting sights and WHITE’s solid aluminum or Delrin PowerRod™ threaded to 10/32 at both ends for add-on shooting accessories. Each PowerRod™ is equipped with an integral bullet puller and cleaning jag. The barreled action is perfectly fitted to a smooth laminate, black hardwood, or checkered black composite stock with recoil pad and sling swivel studs. Each stock features a fourteen inch (14") length of pull, a straight comb for undisturbed sight and a target acquisition, a slender pistol grip for hand comfort and rifle control, and a broad English buttstock for quick shouldering pointability, comfort and felt recoil reduction. W-Series rifles are drilled and tapped for easy scope or peep sight mounting, and weigh 7-8 pounds , depending on Model. Available in standardized English caliber of .410 (1 in 18" twist) .451 (1 in 20" twist) and .504 (1 in 24" twist.)

Dual Safety Systems

G-Series M97 Whitetail Hunter

G-series rilfes are equipped with two (2) separate and independent safety systems. These safety systems completely lock the trigger and hammer sear or the hammer. Thoroughly acquaint yourself with the operations of these two (2) safety systems.

WARNING! You must have a clear understanding of the operation of both safety systems! Always use these dual safety systems while handling this firearm!

ENGAGING THE SAFETIES

1. Apply Super Blue BreechPlug Grease to the FlashFire nipple/breechplug threads before reassembly.

2. Carefully align the trigger assembly with the trigger cutout in the receiver. Tighten the trigger assembly securely.

3. When reassembling the barreled action, tighten the large stock screw in the mid-forearm of the stock first. Then place the rear triggerguard screw in place and tighten, where present. Try to be consistent. Establish a consistent tightness for each screw each time you reassemble.

4. With the primary trigger safety lever pushed forward in the “Fire” position, insert the hammer assembly into the receiver while pulling the trigger to release the hammer sear. Push the hammer assembly fully forward until it engages the FlashFire nipple/breechplug. Press fit the cocking lever detent into one end of the hammer spring for reassembly.

5. Place the end cap over the hammer spring. While holding the buttstock under the right arm and supporting the stock by holding the stock pistol grip with the right hand, use the right hand thumb to push the end cap forward toward the receiver. The end cap is under spring tension so be careful.

6. Once reassembled, check the rifle for proper fit and function. Make sure both safeties function properly.

WARNING! Never attempt to remove the barrel from the action or alter the primary or secondary safeties. These items should only be repaired or serviced at the factory.

W-Series M98 Elite Hunter

1. Apply EasyOut Grease to the FlashFire nipple/breechplug threads before reassembly. The active polymers prevent breechplug seizure and excessive blowback.

2. Carefully align the trigger assembly with the trigger cutout in the receiver. Tighten the trigger assembly securely.

3. When reassembling the barreled action, tighten the large stock screw in the mid-forearm of the stock first. Then place the rear triggerguard screw in place and tighten. Try to be consistent. Establish a consistent tightness for each screw each time you reassemble.

4. After reassembling the hammer assembly, pull back the hammer and place it in the secondary hammer block safe position.

5. With the primary trigger safety lever pushed forward in the “Fire” position, pull the trigger while inserting the hammer assembly into the receiver. Remember to align the exposed trigger hammer sear with the hammer sear groove cut into the bottom of the of the hammer assembly housing. After hammer assembly housing inspection, align the hammer assembly detent screw hole located on the left rear side of the receiver with the corresponding hole located on the hammer assembly housing.

6. Tighten the hammer assembly retaining screw, locking the hammer assembly in place.

7. Once reassembled, check the rifle for proper fit and function. Make sure both safeties function properly.

WARNING! Never attempt to remove the barrel from the action or alter the primary or secondary safeties. These items should only be repaired or serviced at the factory.

1. Screw PowerGrip T- Handle onto the PowerRod TM end opposite from the cleaning jag.

2. Place a WipeAway Pre-Saturated Patch on the ramrod cleaning jag.

3. Work the patch back and forth the full length of the barrel. Repeat this step, replacing pre-saturated patches as necessary until barrel is sparkling clean.

4. Repeat step three above except use dry patches until the bore is completely dry and free from cleaning solution residues.

5. After drying, spray the inside and outside of the barrel and action with White’s Water Displacing Oil.

6. Run a pre-saturated White’s Water Displacing Oil Patch down the bore with your ramrod/cleaning jag, followed by a dry patch.

7. Finish the bore cleaning process by running a patch, coated with WHITE PowerLube down the barrel.

Trigger Cleaning & Maintenance

Special attention should be given to the trigger since it is not made of stainless steel and is subject to rust and corrosion. If hunting in inclement conditions, clean, dry and lubricate the trigger assembly often. Make sure you protect the trigger from rust, corrosion and debris.

WARNING! RUST, CORROSION AND DEBRIS CAN CAUSE THE TRIGGER TO FAIL, THEREBY CAUSING THE FIREARM TO MALFUNCTION WHICH MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE SHOOTER AND/OR BYSTANDERS.

1. Inspect the trigger function.

2. Scrub away all powder residues and debris.

3. Lubricate the trigger sear, trigger and safety plate with White’s Water Displacing Oil.

4. Inspect for fit and function.

Reassembly, Inspection & Storage

Now that your WHITE muzzleloading firearm is clean, you can reassemble it following the instructions in the previous Model sections of this manual. After assembly is complete, inspect the sights, ramrod and stock for fit and function. Lightly coat the exterior of the muzzleloader with White’s Water Displacing Oil

Keep your WHITE muzzleloading firearm stored, muzzle horizontal or down, in a cool dry place out of the reach of children. Never store it in a leather wool-lined gun case, or with the muzzle up. This promotes moisture build up and the collection of oil and debris in the breech area. Your muzzleloading firearm is now clean and ready for your next hunting or shooting adventure.

Loading Your New Rifle

Loading

Easy loading is one outstanding feature of WHITE muzzleloading firearms. While the rest of the industry continues to foster the “pound the bullet down the barrel” technique, WHITE invented the White Muzzleloading System, which carefully matches barrel, bullet, and action to precisely deliver easy loading, consistent accuracy, and effective down range performance.

Your WHITE muzzleloading firearm will shoot any conical bullet, saboted/rife bullet, saboted/pistol bullet, or Patched round ball; but White’s Power-Punch™ conical bullets and patented PowerStar™ Saboted bullets deliver greater accuracy and greater energy at longer distances than any other bullet, sabot, or ball combo currently available.

We recommend Pyrodex P and 777 Powders, but for simplicity’s sake, we will use “Pyrodex P” in our text for powder. You may additionally use Pyrodex RS or Select, Arco Black Mag, Cleanshot, Clearshot or Black Powder in your new WHITE muzzleloading firearm as well, however, you will achieve better performance by using Pyrodex P or 777. Any other black powder substitute will require WHITE’s written approval before use. We do not advocate the use of Pyrodex Pellets. While we find the convenience, ignition, and velocity characteristics of Pyrodex Pellets favorable, our testing has proven Pyrodex Pellets to be somewhat inconsistent and inaccurate especially once they have aged. If you desire to try Pyrodex Pellets, you may do so, however if poor accuracy is experienced, switch back to loose Pyrodex P or 777 powders We recommend RWS #11 percussion caps; however, for simplicity’s sake, we will use the term “#11 percussion cap”

WARNING! Carefully read and follow these instructions when loading your WHITE firearm.&nbs