Getting started ...how many lube sticks?

[Conservadude]

Hi,

I'm just getting started with casting and was wondering ...Does anybody know how many bullets can be lubed per stick of lube? Assuming a 357 Mag and an RCBS Lubramatic, I'd like enough lube on hand to lube a couple thousand rounds but don't know how many sticks of lube to buy ...I'll be using White Label Carnauba Red and BAC lubes (1"x4" sticks). I think they weigh something like 1.5 oz per stick or something like that.

Thx,
Brian

[anachronism]

They're all different. Simple rule of thumb: He who dies with the most lube, lead & moulds wins. I usually buy 20 sticks at a time, plus I make my own too.

[mag44uk]

I would suggest you look for a deal on a box full. Perhaps Bullshop may help you out. Check his link at the bottom of the page.
I would guestimate with a typical 38 single lube groove boolit you may get 500 done per stick. I dont do 38 but do loads of 41 and 44`s. A stick doesnt seem to last long! I ended up making my own. Not difficult if your velocities are below 1200fps,you dont need anything "technical".
I mix the gloop in an old saucepan then melt it,as needed,and spoon it into the lube sizer.
HTH.
Tony

[Conservadude]

Thanks, All. I just ordered 7 sticks of Carnauba Red and 11 sticks of BAC lube from White Label. When put in ziploc bags, that's the most that'll fit in a cheap flat rate envelope. Not a bad deal for shipments to Alaska!

BTW, I will be casting/lubing .38 SPL, .357 Mag, .500 S&W Mag, and .30-06 ...I just used the 38 SPL as a ballpark thing for estimation.

Brian

PS: I've been shooting Ranger Rick's bullets and have never had leading issues, and he uses the Red above. The BAC is softer and for practice rounds... in all guns other than the .30-06. The .30-06 will use the Red. For my hot 500 S&W loads, I will continue to buy Rick's 535gr Keith's, or maybe switch to his 600gr RFN's

[mran1126]

Can all the stick lubes also be melted to use as a pan lube?

[Conservadude]

Can all the stick lubes also be melted to use as a pan lube?

That's what I've been told, but I'll be using an RCBS Lubramatic...

bd

[Willbird]

I get around 1000-1200 Lee 45 or 10mm truncated cone bullets from 1 SOLID stick in a Star.