I decided to join the fun and compare my new cast 54 REAL 40:1 bullets vs. pure lead. My weights were not as consistant. I had to average 4 bullets to get an accurate read. Right on nose, as predicted!
I tried to move far enough back to hide the defects. Darn camera makes them look even worse! I need practice casting.
One question then, how to monitor temperature. Is a thermometer a good idea for the lead pot?
Or else , is there a practical device device to measure both the mold and lead temperature? Like a hand held IR temperature gun I see medical staff using?
This is what I use to measure the temperature of the lead. I like it around 750 degrees. But anywhere between 700-800 is ok. Google it and shop around.
Lyman® 2867793 - Casting Thermometer
Thank you, I ordered one for $40 plus ship. It is a little painful. but; it is not like I had to get everything at one time.
Edit: Oh darn, I did find the Rotometal model and they claim it was a little better (RCBS generic). I moved to fast on the Lyman.
2nd edit: I requested to cancel the Lyman. If or when that is confirmed, I will go with Rotometal generic.
Another question: I had done a little casting in the past. My other molds are iron and I though I did better. Or I was less aware? The Lee is aluminum. Is it easier to work with iron? It seemed the Lee lost temp very quickly. It could have been me - I had a problem maintaining a steady pace. The Lee mold was very low cost. I would have little regrets setting that aside, if the Lyman GP was better to work with. That and Lewis' recommendation on the bullet has me asking if it could be a better all around.
Has been for meIs casting your own bullets sort of a normal progression with muzzleloader shooters after they have been doing it for a while?
Thats pretty well a person by person decision id say . How well do you like muzzleloading ?? How much do you shoot ?? Are bullet types your interested in readily available to buy ot even available especially in a lead composition usefull to You ?? Those things can only be determined by You . Do you mind web purchase and shipping costs for bought bullets ?? What about equipment costs to cast ?? Only you can answer all this for YOU . Currently i buy them but this may change this summer .Is casting your own bullets sort of a normal progression with muzzleloader shooters after they have been doing it for a while?
True. If i didnt have the $ (and room to do it) to get started i probly wouldnt be casting. If i had kids i would give it a 2nd thought as it can be hazardous. It would be a lot easier to just buy the bullets you want but i do enjoy making my own and tinkering with every aspect of each shot that i can.Thats a pretty person by person decision id say . How well do you like muzzleloading ?? How much do you shoot ?? Are bullet types your interested in readily available to buy ot even available ?? Those things can only be determined by You . Do you mind web purchase and shipping costs for bought bullets . What about equipment costs to cast ?? Only you can answer all this for YOU . Currently i buy them but this may change this summer .
Is casting your own bullets sort of a normal progression with muzzleloader shooters after they have been doing it for a while?
Enter your email address to join: