Hi there all first post from the ***. I have zero casting experiance so talk to me as a total beginner. I switched entirely to cast bullets (commercial) in my handguns 2-3 years ago, and have reloaded for about 10 years, haven't bought commercial ammo except for rimfires in who knows how long. I like to try new things in my reloading/shooting/hunting career and I've decided sink or swim, I'm going to learn to cast so I can enjoy bullet designs that were either not avalible or outrageously priced, and be able to keep shooting when the inevitable happens if the political system in this country doesn't change soon. I've ordered a lyman bottom pour furnace, some molds to start with etc., and now I need some lead to get going with. Wheelweights are not a viable option where I'm at, no shop I've asked will part with them free, paid, bribed or otherwise.
So my question to you my fine fellows is what is a fair price for lead? I'm interested in alloying the lead myself to try different hardnesses etc. I've found a source that will ship 500lbs of 99% pure foundry lead to my door for $550, or $1.10/lb. Is this a fair price to pay, or do I need to work them down. I want to be fair to the seller, but not get ripped of at the same time. Thanks for the help, and I look forward to learning alot from all of you...Dave