Yeah sounds like your mz needs a good cleaning. I am new as well but asked questions on here and also read the instruction booklets. Bought mine used but it is almost like new, haven't shot it yet but what I've done is give it a good cleaning - hot soapy water scrubbed up and down in the barrel, some bore cleaner, then some bore lube so the barrel is seasoned and protected till I get a chance to shoot it. From what I've read and advice, you want to take meticulous care of your muzzeloader.