Lead

[FishingDog]

Where is the best and cheapest place to buy lead for pouring jig heads? I've read that you shouldn't use wheel weights, but that's all a co-worker of mine uses. I had some gift certificates from Christmas and bought my firt lead at BPS, and that was very expensive, I thought.So what's the skinny on all of this?? Thanks in advance!

[shipahoy41]

Send a PM to Grousefly or Crappiedentist. They pour some nice jigs and probably can answer your question.

Mike

[Slabo]

there are several guy's that sell lead on Ebay at a good price, I have used tire weights several times and it seams to work fine.

[fishhunter775]

scrap yards are good sources for soft lead.Wheel weights will work for lots of jigs unless you are after real small say 1/64 or smaller.Least thats my trial and error.Just remember to melt and use in a well ventilated area and wash hands after handling lead.

[smoothlures]

Tire weights work just fine, it's what is called a hard lead, while more pure lead is called soft lead. For jigs it doesn't matter which you use, but for split shots that you want to be able to open and close, use soft lead. You can often get them free from autoshops, just melt it down and scrape off the impurities then pour them into ingots for easy storage.

[Barnacle Bill]

For what its worth I have found that if you add a little hard lead to the soft it will stay shiney.

[Hoosierdaddy]

What is the going rate for soft lead right now?

[smoothlures]

It depends on where you are and how pure it is. Look up and call some of your local scrap yards and they'll be able to quote you a price.

[drifter106]

Tire weights work just fine, it's what is called a hard lead, while more pure lead is called soft lead. For jigs it doesn't matter which you use, but for split shots that you want to be able to open and close, use soft lead. You can often get them free from autoshops, just melt it down and scrape off the impurities then pour them into ingots for easy storage.

I use the same...also if its possible, older houses that are being torn down have a lot of lead around much of the plumbing. If you know a plumber they can usually guide you to some of this soft lead.

[CrappiePappy]

I use the same...also if its possible, older houses that are being torn down have a lot of lead around much of the plumbing. If you know a plumber they can usually guide you to some of this soft lead.

a sleeve of lead, off the plumbing of an old house.

And ... for those whom are melting, or thinking of melting : BE AWARE - - you should have a mask on, be in a well ventilated area, wear gloves and protective clothing, and use every precaution to protect yourself and those around you. Molten lead can produce severe burns, if it comes in contact with skin. Lead vapors are poisonous !! Be safe when working with lead.

... cp