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Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,524
Campfire Regular
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OP
Campfire Regular
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,524 |
I've been thinking about getting into casting bullets but I don't know what I need. Any tips???
Seems we constantly hear about how Social Security is going to run out of money but we never hear about welfare or food stamps running out of money. What's interesting is the first group WORKED for their money but the other group didn't.
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Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 23,089
Campfire Ranger
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Campfire Ranger
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 23,089 |
First thing to do: Buy the Lyman Cast Bullet Handbook, and read it. Then read it again. Then ask about specifics, there are a bunch of good fellas here ready willing and able to help a newcomer- but it really helps to have a little common ground before discussing what works for us and should work for you. You'll need the book as you progress anyway.
Lots of equipment out there. The possibilities are mind boggling- from basic cheap no-frills stuff to sophisticated stuff. It will help in future to mention also what cartridges/guns you'll be casting for.
Welcome! I and my comrades stand ready to assist!
"You can lead a man to logic, but you cannot make him think." Joe Harz "Always certain, often right." Keith McCafferty
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Joined: May 2004
Posts: 56,127
Campfire Kahuna
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Campfire Kahuna
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 56,127 |
And after you have followed that sage advise, take the time to peruse this: http://www.lasc.us/CastBulletNotes.htm
I am..........disturbed.
Concerning the difference between man and the jackass: some observers hold that there isn't any. But this wrongs the jackass. -Twain
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Joined: May 2004
Posts: 56,127
Campfire Kahuna
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Campfire Kahuna
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 56,127 |
Have faith, be diligent, the rewards are bountiful
I am..........disturbed.
Concerning the difference between man and the jackass: some observers hold that there isn't any. But this wrongs the jackass. -Twain
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Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 1,072
Campfire Regular
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Campfire Regular
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 1,072 |
I began casting in 1973 with nothing but a Lyman 45th Edition Loading Manuel for instruction. No friends, no internet, nothing but that book. So, gnoahhh gives you great advice.
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Joined: Mar 2018
Posts: 138
Campfire Member
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Campfire Member
Joined: Mar 2018
Posts: 138 |
Your reasons for getting into casting will determine much of your equipment choices. I shoot alot of 44 and 45 cal in single actions and levers and I'm a tighwad. I would suggest first reading the books previously mentioned. Keep it simple. My favorite method is a simple electric pot and ladle. I like one or two cavity bullet molds. Lighter and easier to work with. I use mostly wheelweights, relatively cheap, easy to find but you gotta sort thru them, lots of zinc and other unknown in there. I'm a scrounger, keep a bucket in the truck for weights I pickup in parking lots, told you I was a tightwad. Still slot of lead out there, just look for it. Lots of safety precautions as I'm sure you know but I'll say fresh air, a faceshield and leather gloves and boots are more comfortable than burns.
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Joined: May 2004
Posts: 56,127
Campfire Kahuna
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Campfire Kahuna
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 56,127 |
Among other things, what is needed is simply a will to walk this path.
I am..........disturbed.
Concerning the difference between man and the jackass: some observers hold that there isn't any. But this wrongs the jackass. -Twain
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Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 2,918
Campfire Regular
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Campfire Regular
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 2,918 |
an open mind helps. read \ listen & try figger what work best for you
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Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 1,072
Campfire Regular
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Campfire Regular
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 1,072 |
Make up your mind to do it.
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 21,955
Campfire Ranger
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Campfire Ranger
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 21,955 |
Buy good equipment that makes you productive along with making quality you cant readily buy.
Dont buy cheap moulds you have to bang on for five minutes to drop bullets, a pot that drizzles and spews or sizing equipment that maximizes labor at the cost of output.
People that tell me they hate casting generally have gone the penny wise, pound foolish route.
I am commonly told "it takes too much time". It certainly does if you set yourself up that way...
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Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 1,188
Campfire Regular
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Campfire Regular
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 1,188 |
I started rather recently and enjoy it! It helps if you have a good source of lead. I would recommend going over to the Cast Boolit website...pretty much dedicated to casting. I learned a ton by just reading a lot.
......the occasional hunter wielding a hopelessly inaccurate rifle, living by the fantastical rule that this cartridge can deliver the goods, regardless of shot placement or rifle accuracy. The correct term for this is minute of ego.
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Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 1,261
Campfire Regular
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Campfire Regular
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 1,261 |
Cast Boolits is a good site for anyone interested in casting. You can learn a lot there. I have been on that site for 15 years.
NRA Endowment Member
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