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-   -   First Time Casting (http://airgunsforum.org/showthread.php?t=514)

Clifford 02-14-2017 12:20 AM

First Time Casting
 
Today was my first attempt at casting bullets. I'm using the Lee bottom pour 20lb pot and an Arsenal 257388 85gr mold. Out of 200 bullets 61 passed visual inspection and the rest were thrown back into the pot. Some of this is likely because it was my first time but I did have a few hiccups with the Lee pot and figured I'd try to get some advice.

Periodically the bottom pour spout would clog or slow way down. This obviously causes the bullets from that pour to be sub-par. I cleared the jam with a torch lighter and a dental pick. Is there a way to avoid this type of problem? Is boring out the spout worthwhile?

I should note that I am using pure lead so I expect a number of bullets to be rejects based on wrinkles.

Clifford 02-22-2017 02:05 AM

After further experimenting with adding tin I have found 1.5% tin to produce some much better results. I will continue to try and keep the tin content low so the bullets are relatively soft. Adding tin was a game changer for me. Bullets turn out much butter and the whole pot setup works like it should. Periodically I have to tighten the spout screw to keep it from dripping but I can do that by hand if I'm quick (wearing leather gloves).

grumpy 02-22-2017 05:25 AM

Awesome bud. Glad its all working out.

Redrum4fun 02-24-2017 11:00 AM

Curious what your projected cost per bullet is after you get the process down. I understand you're in the midsts of startup cost and all. Don't forget to add your time into the equation. I still don't think I would ever be one to make my own bullets but it's interesting to hear about another persons experiences and of course savings.


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