Search:

I should probably elaborate on my original post. The batch I threw out wasn't that big as I was just getting started on the smelting session. Also probably more than 1 or 2 zinc got in as the whole...

Thanks to all
I will go by the route of caution based on the responses
I think I will just pass on the acid core solder. It's only one roll and not worth the fumes or risk of ruining my casting...

Today while smelting some wheel weights I clearly had a zinc one sneak into the batch. I had to trash the whole thing and in disgust I trashed the rest of the wheel weights as well. Scrubbed out the...

Back when I used the Lee push thru sizer and liquid alox I found that it was difficult to size the bullets dry. The process was much easier after lubing. I tumble lubed and then use the push thru...

I came across some acid core 40/60 solder. I am wondering if it's ok to throw this into the melt or will the acid core be a problem?
Thanks

Yes indeed this was a learning experience for me. Since I shoot mild loads generally it seems unnecessary to sweat getting the BHN up to 11-12 which is what I generally do.

Thanks for the many responses. All are on the money.
I shot these earlier today and to my surprise there was no leading. Accuracy was as good as I can do with handgun offhand anyway.

Well I cast a bunch of .429 and .357 boolits without verifying the lead I bought. As it turns out the lead was not as stated and these tested about a 7BHN on my LBT hardness tester. I am usually...

Another vote her for Lee loading products.
Over 30 years ago I got into reloading on a Lee press and dies. It was affordable, especially for a newbie who did not want to spend top dollar on a hobby...

Yes I see now that each mold has it's own personality and needs varying techniques. The MP mold does like to be run hotter than my other molds that was new to me as this is my first MP mold. Once I...

"Second loosen the screw on the sprue plate one half turn.
Oh, one more thing, turn the heat up a little more."
Hickory you were right on this, I loosened the sprue plate a bit and turned up the...

I starting casting again after a year and a half hiatus. I bought this mold in a group buy in 2018 and just got around to using it. I have just finished the second casting session with it and I am...

Yes I was going to replace it but seeing prices over $100 made me hesitant. They used to be fairly cheap but the gas ones got pricey. The propane ones can still be had for a low price but I prefer...

OK then, a good scrubbing and I should be fine. I don't cook on the grate of this stove and of course I have a dedicated pot for smelting. I think I will have to find or rig a dedicated burner for...

Earlier this year I grabbed my Coleman gas stove for a smelting trial. It worked well enough but I now feel foolish as I would like to get this back to camping use. These stoves have become expensive...

You did good with the 4-20 pot, lots of us here are using it including myself. Bottom pour is the only way I cast and isn't a problem for most once you get a rhythm going. Get your lead from the...

Thanks Murf,
I used a tabletop drill press with a small cross vice to hold the plate standing on its side. It made drilling the plate not too bad once I got it set up. I like your idea of protecting...

I promised to post a pic of my homemade heater using a Flea Bay pid and heater. Total cost about $20 if ordering from a slow boat source. The aluminum plate I scrounged up and drilled to accommodate...

Hi,
Anyone use the Dillon brass wand for picking up range brass? I shoot pistol on a packed dirt surface and .223 on a concrete pad at my local range. I was thinking to get one of these items if it...

I got spoiled by free lead in the form of COWW when I first started casting many years ago. Now the wheel weights are all zinc or coated metal and the free lead is pretty much gone. I hate paying for...

Local to me is a guy selling lead at .85 cents a pound pick up only. I asked and was told it's mostly lead pipe collars for cast iron pipe. Not sure what that is so I asked about composition but he...

I too bought the RCBS from Midway. Still on sale and works fine. I made a heater out of a piece of aluminum plate and a cheap wally world iron. Later I got fancy bought a flea bay pid and heater for...

A replacement sticker is a good idea. Although my tester is new the sticker is the only thing to worry about as long as reasonable care is taken in handling and tester storage.

I have recently ordered some push through slugs from him. I contacted him after a few weeks to inquire about the delay. He responded after a few days and asked that I be patient as he is backed up. I...

I thought the LBT was the most consistent tester giving the most reliable results. After reading up on testers I went with it and believe I will stay with it. I like to believe that they're all good...