I will make an assumption that you are shooting 45-70? If so at the velocities you shoot it, the lead does not have to be very hard. I've shot pure lead at those velocities from in line muzzies with no issues.
Straight wheel weights are sufficient for most uses and firearms, and this is what I shoot in just about all my centerfires. If I'm pushing something fast, I use a gas checked bullet. Experiment a bit, and just find what works best for your use.
Ben