Casting: So I've been using an older Lee bottom pour fire several years now but upgraded to a Lyman mag 25. Couldn't get smooth boolits to save my life. Had a Lee 356-125 6 banger that other as long as it took to melt solid lead ingots and it to be a steady 770 deg but even after 15 throws all I got were swirls. Even tried another mold, Lyman 429 250 HP mold and still even after 15-18 throws still swirls. Didn't have this issue with the Lee.
Also I really want to try the 312-155 but my of mold wouldn't cat a good pill no matter how hot or cold. My 6.5 CM Lee mold is the same way. Irks me to no end.
Lubing/sizing: with the Lee 356-125 and 358-158 swc, I almost always get a smeared side on the cast even sizing. Using both of the recommended to punches for the 358, but they're not a good fit. Modified one that's close now but still smeared. The 356 smeared with the correct punch as well. I've tried tightening everything down and applying even pressure but nada.