Spent Boolits

[RoGrrr]

Spent Boolits
I just got back from the range after picking up some bullets from the backstop. Since the backstop is dirt and I didn't have all that much time to sort, I just grabbed all I could in the short time I was there. That amounted to a kitty litter bucket full, about 200 pounds.
I plan to melt it all and discard the jackets (I have a disabled neighbor who gathers and sells scrap and he would love to have the copper jackets. I know it's not that much but he'll be happy), leaving a mixture of lead. I know cast slugs are alloyed but what is the composition of the lead in jacketed bullets ? Is it pure or is it alloyed too ?
I would imagine it won't make much difference in the boolits I'm casting.

[Lizard333]

I think your lead should come in about 8 BHN. Pure lead is right at 5. Good score!!

[Kraschenbirn]

Most of my recovered range scrap (from an outdoor range) runs 8-10 BHN. Mixed 50/50 with WWs, it works just fine for handgun calibers up to 1000 fps or so.

Bill

[williamwaco]

I have bought several 60 lb boxes of range scrap from members here. I really like it. Mine tests at around 8 to 8.5 BNH and makes excellent bullets. It will cast a little better if you add about one half percent tin. ( That is about .8 ounces tin in a 10 lb pot of metal. )

[Jal5]

+1 on adding some tin.
They work fine in my 38/357 revolver, 32 ACP pistol, 9mm Mak pistol, and I am working on the 9mm Luger and the 270 Win rifle. I like free lead!
Joe

[RoGrrr]

OK on adding tin. But where do I get it ?

[Jal5]

keep your eyes open at garage sales, good will stores, etc for pewter items or lead solder can be found at Lowes, etc although per pound its probably more expensive there. Plus there are people selling it on this forum too.