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Melting lead.

Oakie
I just bought a lee production pot to make bullets and sinkers and was wondering what to use to scoop the crud off of the top after it is melted???? I would appriciate any suggestions. Oak[:D]Well most suggestions that is[:D][:D]
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10 comments

Date Votes
  • BHAVIN
    An old large table spoon. We have been using one for the last 30+ years.
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  • kooterbill
    I use an extremly large household spoon. It melts at a different temp. than lead. You should have no problem.(cool the spoon down a little between dips
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  • p3skyking
    I use a metal spoon that has a wooden handle. Easy enough to make one yourself.
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  • fordsix
    i use a big old serving spoon for skimming the pot
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  • brier-49
    I bought a small lyman ladel and cut a cross in the bottom with a hacksaw, works great and you don't lose any lead.
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  • JohnnyBGood
    quote:Originally posted by Oakie
    I just bought a lee production pot to make bullets and sinkers and was wondering what to use to scoop the crud off of the top after it is melted???? I would appriciate any suggestions. Oak[:D]Well most suggestions that is[:D][:D]


    Not knowing your exact level of experience and what type of bullets (muzzleloader, breechloader, high velocity, etc.), the "crud" on top may be important. If it's before fluxing, then the crud is mostly tin and antimony and necessary if you want to retain some bullet hardness.

    If after fluxing and you are referring to the black specs, then that is dirt and impurities and needs to be removed.

    Just thought I would clarify, and apologize if you already knew that.

    John
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  • USN_Airdale
    Johnny BG, is correct about the "fluxing", i use Bees Wax, just drop a pea sized piece of "BW" on top, it will smoke like hell and may even catch fire, no problem.., just gently stir the melted lead till the smoking stops and skim off the "Dross" as it is known with a table fork, which is what i have used for over 40 years, "DO NOT" use a silver plated fork, spoon or what ever as the lead will "tin" (adhere) to the silver metal, stainless steel is best.
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  • captkirk3@dslextreme.com
    Big Old Table Spoon works for Me....
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  • tsr1965
    Just make sure you do that in a well ventilated area. Lead vapors can be, and are very harmful. Just don't want you to end up Like Obama and his cabinet.

    Best
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  • jonk
    Haha! So that's what's wrong with Obama- sniffed too many lead fumes!

    In reality your Lee pot probably won't get hot enough to vaporize the lead (1000+ degrees) but the gas coming off the melting burning dirt and wax etc isn't good for you either... and might have some lead dust in suspension. Do it outside or make sure you have good ventilation.

    I use an old spoon as well.
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