Wheel weights for Muzzle loader

[saguaro]

I've always thought that I need to use pure lead in my .54 Hawken. Is this true or can I cast my round balls out of wheel weights? Be much easier now to have to do a special batch for the Hawken.

Thanks,
Saguaro

[docone31]

I have used wheel weight, I have used pure.
I have more pure than wheel weight, I use pure.
No real difference.

[white eagle]

I am sure you could
pure comes into its own with conical or r. e. a. l.'s
where the softer lead helps tremendously in seating
round balls however have a patch and if you get to much resistance or have a dirty barrel you can switch sizes in the patch material

[waksupi]

I've been shooting wheel weight RB's for about 40 years. Works for me.

[saguaro]

Thanks guys. I guess I just need to give it a try.

Saguaro

[Old Caster]

I think shooting anything with antimony out of a black powder gun of any kind that you can't see through all of the barrel is a mistake because when leading is formed from an alloy with antimony it is more difficult to get it out and if somehow a bit is left that isn't removed, even one day can hurt because it will rust under the lead. If you can see through the barrel so you know it is clean, it would be safe. This also goes for some plastic sabots that might coat the barrel and keep it from getting clean. -- Bill --

[waksupi]

There is no leading with a patched round ball.

Once you get older, you will stop shooting those "Other" projectiles!

[MT Gianni]

I would not shoot maxi balls from ww but RB work just fine.