Lead Value

TA Smith

Active member
Not sure how much lead is worth. I have a about 60 lbs in old sinkers and another lead block that weighs about 70 lbs.

Thanks
 
I typically see it selling in ingots (cleaned) for between $1.50 and $2.00 per lb. I try to buy for $0.50 or so, always less than $1.00 whenever I see it. I have a bunch of folks keeping an eye out for me so I have gotten some good deals. Picked up 200lbs at an estate sale for $50. I was not there or would have offered more. A buddy was and messaged me, "thought" maybe 75lbs or so, so I said offer $50. When I got it all home and weighed it, it was over 200lbs, though some was zinc and some was brass (lead pipe all painted, likely will old lead paint too!).
 
ken yacavone said:
My brother a Metallic engineer always warned me about working with lead. Protect yourselves.
Ken

Excellent point, it is very hot when molten and you can burn yourself easily (it also retains a lot of heat in the solid form and can be quite a surprise if picked up soon out of the mold). Also, it is very dense and even a modest sized chunk hurts if you drop it on your foot.
 
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Look on line for the scrap yard prices. When doing lead, make sure you are working in a well ventilated area, outside is best. We use the garage near the door with a fan blowing out the overhead door. It is easier to clean the mold edges when warm.
 
tod osier said:
ken yacavone said:
My brother a Metallic engineer always warned me about working with lead. Protect yourselves.
Ken

Excellent point, it is very hot when molten and you can burn yourself easily (it also retains a lot of heat in the solid form and can be quite a surprise if picked up soon out of the mold). Also, it is very dense and even a modest sized chunk hurts if you drop it on your foot.

Tod, You want a surprise. Weld a bead on a thick bar of aluminum or stainless steel. Pick it up by the far end without gloves and set it aside for 5 minutes. Then go pick it up again, except this time you better be wearing gloves.
 
i took a few blacksmithing lessons years ago

the instructor said -people don't burn themselves on red hot metal, they burn themselves on black hot metal
 
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