Use to be I could get a 5Gal. bucket of w.w. at the local tire store for a 12pk of Bud. Now I have an acquaintance that works for a tire store, but doesn't drink. So I trade him shooting acces. One of the best books I have is Veral's book on casting. You'ld have to check with him to see if he still has it in print. The Lyman casting handbook is also a good place to start. But in all honesty, experience will be the best teacher. If you have a scrap yard close by, you might try them. But with China buying up lead, steel, copper, even they won't be real cheap. Good Luck!! We keep trying peace, it usually doesn't work!!Remember(12/7/41)(9/11/01) gypsyman