The Frontier Sixshooter Community Message Board - I cast some round balls for the cap n ball pistols

I cast some round balls for the cap n ball pistols (reply)

Paul — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 13:05:49 +0000

My Lyman unit needs electrical maintenance, methinks. The last time I used it it wasn't maintaining proper temperature for casting. It could use a good cleaning, too. No telling when I'll have time and around tuit while up north. Had fun casting a couple years ago, although I had to heat the spout with a torch to get it to flow, finally giving up and going to hand pouring instead. Picked it up cheap on the used market, now I know why!

That's a nice pile of future enjoyment you've got put up!

I cast some round balls for the cap n ball pistols (reply)

Slow Hand — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 09:19:18 +0000

Look good! I definitely appreciate a bottom pour pot even though it does require some maintenance.

I cast some round balls for the cap n ball pistols

JimT — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 01:43:47 +0000

last night and this morning. A bunch of .375" and .457" for the .36 and .44 pistols. To do that I had to drain the old Lyman lead pot because I had a hard alloy that I use for the centerfire handguns in it, and replace that with pure lead for the round balls.

I had noticed over the last 6 months or so the lead pot was pouring slower and slower. I had not cleaned it in over 20 years so when I finished with the round ball casting I drained the pot, let it cool off and thoroughly cleaned it. I wire brushed the pot and then pulled the drain shut-off rod out of the way and went to work clearing the drain.

It had some rust buildup in it and a lot of slag. I finally turned a propane torch on it and heated it really hot, then ran a small drill bit through it, cleaning it up.

After it cooled off from that I blew it out, made sure everything was in place and refilled it with the alloyed lead. It did not leak!! YAY!

I should have done this years ago.

Some of what I cast last night and early this morning.