I found that I was not casting with pure lead and have since given the remainder to a guy that loads his own shot shells for clays. Pure lead works great.

Thanks again for all of the advice.... I whole you all a coffee (or better some day).

Eric

I personally really enjoy casting my own projectiles. It is a good way to spend a day when the weather is not so friendly. Pure lead is getting hard to get unless you're willing to pay big money for it. The last batch of lead I got from some friends, I was told was pure lead but I am not so sure. It is close to it, but not quite. So I added some certified pure lead I bought from a metal company to it and the results were a very nice cast.

From many years of casting, these are some of the safety rules I follow. Besides having your lead hot, fluxed, and your mould clean and treated just remember to work in a well ventilated area, away from moisture, even sweat from your forehead can be dangerous. Wear protective eye wear and clothing because once that stuff starts to burn it is too late. Keep your work area very clean and free of things to slip or trip over. This is not the time for small children and pets to be around. If you ever get light headed, dizzy or you feel a headache coming on, leave the area and get some fresh air. It is not a bad idea to take a break from time to time and get out and get some fresh air. Lead fumes are dangerous.... And last, after your done handling lead it is important to wash your hands well. Use lots of soap and water to make sure all particles of lead are washed off the skin. All of these are common sense for the most part but we still need reminding from time to time.