Hello, Bulletstuffer. One thing I do before casting is to use Rapine (or other brand) Mould prep on top, bottom, all over sprue cutter, pins & their locating holes. This not only provides some lubrication, it also helps prevent lead sticking. A No.2 pencil is also used to scribble all over bottom of plate..& top of blocks, for same reason. you could twirl it around in pin holes also. Best of luck!