Originally Posted by
kaptain kartridge
I have followed the following method for separating Zinc from Lead weights. Each weight is placed to a grinding wheel to shine a spot on it. They are then swabed with a little Muriatic acid (Hydrochloric Acid) (HCl) which you can buy at pool supply store for about $10/gallon. Lead weights will have no reaction, the zinc ones will foam right away. The only warning, is the acid is strong, it fumes, and a good idea to keep a bottle of water with bi-carb of soda dissolved in it in case of a spill on your self. Aprons, gloves, and a face shield is strongly recommended.
This brings me to my question to all the long time bullet casters...........Can proper rifle bullets be cast from zinc? I have from time to time found zinc .38 wad cuttersa on the backstop cast from zinc. I know they would be lighter, but this could be an advantage ballistically. Would the zinc wipe off on the rifle bore, even with lube? Let me know what you think. I know this question is not a really good one for this forum, but I was just wondering. As lead wheelweights are no longer made, the source will eventually dry up.