I'm brand new to casting metallic cartridge bullets. Have been casting minis and balls for my smoke pole for years out of pure lead.
I have the following materials sitting in my garage.
1. Approx 35lbs wheel weights
2. 7 or 8 lbs of linotype
3. 6 to 10 pounds of assorted sizes of birdshot from when I used to load shotgun shells. (back when my eyes were good enough to bird hunt)
4. Approx 10 lbs of 99% pure lead.
5. 1 or 2 pounds of "something". It melts about the same temp as lead but is a little lighter and significantly harder than lead. Doesn't cast worth a darn in mini or ball molds.
6. About 6 pounds of copper plated pistol bullets that a friend pulled out of some loads because he didn't like them.
Just got a couple of Lee moulds, my Lee melting pot (had been using an old camp stove and stainless pan), and sizing dies today. Along with a Lee single stage press. I will be loading for
.38 Spcl., .357 Mag and .30-30.
How would I best use these assorted materials? I have read the Lyman book, and am a little, but just a little, less confused.
Thanks
alan