Bullet Casting
Jmurman,
I suggest that you use the search engines to dig up some articles on bullet casting.
There are a few variables you may wish to consider. For example the bullet
alloy may be adjusted by adding some lead from other sources (lead pipe, etc.). While not essential, this would soften the final product in proportion to the amount of lead added. For most uses though, a hard metal blend is good. The alloy content will also affect the
temperatures required for good quality casting results.
With an
electric melting pot, you can adjust the temperature for optimum casting results and eliminate the need for using a dipper. Too hot or too cool a mix will produce imperfect bulltes.
When using a flux, you want to stir the mix with a wooden handled spoon or similar item. As mentioned parrafin, candles, and other materials will serve as a flux to keep the alloy blended and to promote contaminants to float to the surface.
To minimize the risk of
lead poisoning, it is wise to cast bullets only in a well ventilated area, preferably outside of the house. A garage with open doors would be good.
Steel moulds need to stored with proper rust protection. If using oil, it can be wiped off with a cloth prior to casting. Sometimes using a little solvent will remove the oil more effectively. Heating the mould by casting will burn off any small amounts of oil remaining.
Reloading catalogs offer a number of clues relating to various accessories for bullet casting. See Widener's, Cabela's, Natchez, etc.
Bullet casting is great fun and certainly a practical way to produce low or no cost bullets.
Best of luck.
"ArmaLube Hits The Mark"
