Casting bullets from diving belt lead

[VINTAGE-SLOTCARS]

Has anyone used this as a sorce of lead? A friend gave two large belts both are approx. 40 pounds. The lead seems hard enough as is?? What do you think.

 

[NuJudge]

Dimensions and surface finish is not important for diving weights, so they could be made from anything. They are probably made from scrap.

Twenty years ago I was given a large amount of such, and the ones I had made fine bullets, once some Tin was added.

I would melt some and make a test cast. If there is a problem component like Zinc, you will know it before you cast any bullets, because it will have a consistency of syrup mixed with sand.

 

[ranger335v]

As said, divers are never concerned about the alloy of belt weights so you may have anything.

Melt it down into ingots and thumbnail test it. If you can easily make a dent, it's near pure lead and needs wheel weights (antimony) added for hardness. If you can only make a slight mark it's hard enough for most bullet purposes. Cast a few bullets and see how well the mold fills out, if it doesn't fill well add solder for a bit of tin.

Or, take up diving. That's fun too!

 

[VINTAGE-SLOTCARS]

Thanks for the replies, I dont cast but a friend does it for me. Again, Thanks to those that know casting.