How to Use Tire Weights to Cast Bullets

Bullets can be cast from tire weights.

The home-cast bullet, a tradition that dates to the days of the round ball and muzzleloader, places another variable under the control of the gun owner. Tire weights can be recycled into bullets for handguns and low-power rifles. If the bullet is to be used in a high-power weapon, a different process is required because wheel-weight lead is naturally softer than that used in high-power ammunition.

Things You'll Need

• Cast iron kettle
• Gas camp stove
• Bullet molds
• Cast iron ladle
• Marvelux
• Iron rod
• Sizing die
• Bullet lubricant

Instructions

1. Add tire weights to a cast iron pan and heat with a high capacity camp stove. Commercial lead melting units combine an electric heating element and cast iron container into a single unit. Lead melts at about 600 degrees Fahrenheit, which usually requires all heat sources to be set on high.

2. Add flux to the molten lead while stirring with a cast iron tool or rod. The process remixes the tin and other elements of the metal alloy used in the tire weight. Repeat the flux process at least twice.

3. Skim any impurities that remain on top of the lead alloy after the fluxing process, using the ladle. This includes dirt from the tire weights and possibly steel if steel clips were included on the tire weights.

4. Pour the lead into the bullet mold. The first few bullets cast in each session are likely to be misshapen because the mold is cold in comparison to the lead. These bullets can be placed back in the melting pot.

5. Eject the bullets from the mold onto a soft surface. A towel over a sponge or piece of foam rubber works well. After the bullets cool, weigh them for consistency. Keep only those that meet weight tolerances.

6. Size the bullets using a sizing die and lubricate before loading into the cartridge.

Tips & Warnings

• Lead is toxic and coming in contact with lead or breathing lead vapors is hazardous. Wear gloves while handling any lead during the bullet casting process. Don't eat or drink around the lead casting operation. Cast the lead bullets outdoors where natural air movement limits exposure to fumes.

References

• Gun Digest: Wheel Weight Bullets
• Outdoor Life: Cast Your Own Bullets