Tillie Doyle
Pan-lubing is a popular method for lubricating cast bullets. It involves melting bullet lube in a pan and allowing the bullets to solidify in the grease before removing them. This process helps to ensure consistency in cartridge performance and avoid the hassle of cleaning a heavily-leaded barrel. There are various formulas for the lubricant, with a popular one being a mixture of Vaseline, gulf wax, and STP oil treatment.
Characteristics and Values of Pan Lubricating Lead
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To lubricate cast bullets to avoid having to clean a heavily-leaded barrel and ensure consistency in cartridge performance |
| Tools | Crock pot, metal baking pan, frying pan, silicone baking pan, discarded fired and unsized case, paper towels, cleaning cloth, gloves, etc. |
| Lube Formulas | 1lb Vaseline to 1lb gulf wax and 2 tbsp of STP oil treatment, 50/50 beeswax and Vaseline with a teaspoon of automatic transmission fluid, Speed Green (beeswax and Bullshop mold hinge lube), 75/25 Beeswax/Alox, 50/50 NRA lube |
| Process | Warm bullets and pan, inspect bullets, stand bullets 1/2"-1" apart in pan, apply lube, let set, freeze or cool, push bullets out |
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What You'll Learn
Lube formulas
Several lube formulas can be used for pan lubricating lead. One popular formula is a mixture of 1lb of Vaseline, 1lb of gulf wax, and 2 tablespoons of STP oil treatment. This formula, however, tends to be soft and may not hold as well. To make a stiffer and more durable lube, you can experiment with different proportions and ingredients.
For example, one variation of the formula uses a 50/50 mixture of beeswax and Vaseline, with the addition of a teaspoon of automatic transmission fluid. This creates a lube that is stiffer and adheres better to the bullets. Another formula mentioned is Speed Green, which is a combination of beeswax and Bullshop mold hinge lube.
Additionally, it is recommended to warm the bullets and the pan before pouring the lube. This helps the lube fill the grooves and retain better. After applying the lube, placing the bullets in the freezer for a few minutes can help solidify the lube and make it easier to push the bullets out.
Another method involves standing the bullets in shallow metal trays and pouring molten lube past the top lube groove. The lube is melted on a small laboratory hot plate at a low temperature to avoid smoking and burning. Once the lube has solidified, the bullets are placed in the freezer for 30-45 minutes, making it easy to pop out the bullets and leaving perfectly filled grooves.
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Pan-lubing cast bullets
Equipment and Materials
Firstly, gather the necessary equipment and materials. You will need a heat source, such as a conventional cooking pot on a stove, a crock pot, or a cheap metal baking or frying pan. It is important to note that the equipment used for pan-lubing should not be used for cooking or serving food afterward due to lead exposure. Alternatively, modern silicone cookware, such as a silicone baking pan, is ideal as it is lightweight, flexible, and easy to use. You will also need bullet lube, which can be purchased from manufacturers or made from scratch using various recipes. Other tools include a ladle or a turkey baster for adding the lubricant, and a pencil, screwdriver, or similar tool for extracting the bullets.
Bullet Inspection and Preparation
While the bullet lube is melting, inspect your bullets for any defects. Wrinkled or malformed bullets should be discarded as they can affect consistency during firing. Once inspected, set up the silicone baking pan on a level surface and stand the bullets upright, spaced about 1/2" to 1" apart. Closer spacing may cause the hardened lube sheet to break during extraction.
Lubrication Process
With the bullets prepared and the lubricant melted to an even consistency, it's time to begin pouring. Using the ladle or turkey baster, add the lubricant from the corners and allow it to flow outward naturally. This technique helps reduce the chance of knocking over the bullets and ensures the lube forms a single, even layer.
Extraction and Final Inspection
Once the lubricant has hardened, carefully peel back the sides of the silicone baking sheet and lift the block free. Using your chosen tool, begin punching the bullets out into a pan or container. Finally, inspect the bullets to ensure they have a consistent band of lubricant in the lube grooves. A small amount of excess lubricant is acceptable, as it will be removed during the sizing process. However, bullets with large bare sections should be re-lubricated to ensure complete coverage for maximum accuracy.
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Using a crock pot
Testing for Lead:
Before using any crock pot for pan lubrication, it is crucial to test it for lead content. You can purchase lead test kits online or from hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the kit to swab or scrape the surface of the crock pot to check for lead. If lead is detected, do not use the crock pot for any task involving food or consumption.
Choosing the Right Crock Pot:
When selecting a crock pot for pan lubrication, opt for one that is specifically labelled "no lead" rather than "lead-free." Crock pots made from primary clay without additives, glazes, or colours are ideal, as they are less likely to contain lead or other toxic materials. Look for crock pots that have been lab-tested and certified as "no lead," ensuring they are free from all contaminants.
Using Crock Pot Liners:
Consider using crock pot liners to create a barrier between the food and the crock pot itself. However, be cautious when choosing liners, as some plastic liners may also leach toxic chemicals when heated. Look for liners made from natural materials, such as canola oil, instead of plastic.
Alternative Options:
If you are hesitant to use a crock pot due to lead concerns, there are alternative options available. You can use a slow cooker made from lead-free materials, such as pure clay or stainless steel. Additionally, you can explore other pan lubrication methods that don't require heat, such as using wax-based lubricants or natural alternatives like canola oil.
Remember, it is essential to prioritize safety when using a crock pot for pan lubrication. Always test your crock pot for lead, opt for "no lead" certifications, use appropriate liners, and consider alternative options if you have any doubts about the safety of your equipment.
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Oven temperature control
Choosing the Right Lubricant:
First, select a lubricant that is specifically designed for oven use and is food-safe. While graphite lubricant is an option, it is not food-safe due to potential contamination with lead and other substances. Instead, opt for food-grade silicone lubricant spray, which is commonly used on food-handling equipment and can withstand high temperatures.
Preparing the Oven:
Before lubricating, ensure the oven is properly cleaned. Remove any sludge, baked goods debris, or build-up from the surfaces to be lubricated. This prevents contaminants from getting trapped in the lubricant and ensures its effectiveness. Refer to the oven manufacturer's guidelines for specific cleaning instructions.
Lubricant Application:
Use the correct tools for applying the lubricant, such as brushes, applicators, or specialized tools designed for lubrication. Applying too much or too little lubricant can be detrimental. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the appropriate amount and frequency of lubrication.
Temperature Considerations:
Be cautious of the oven temperature during the lubrication process. Beeswax, for example, will smoke and produce fumes if overheated, so it's better to work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Additionally, consider the heat distribution within the oven, as direct or indirect firing will impact heat distribution and lubrication evaporation rates.
Monitoring Temperature:
Use an infrared temperature gun to obtain accurate readings of the oven's internal temperature. This will help you maintain a safe operating temperature and prevent overheating, which can cause issues with certain lubricants and oven components.
Automated Lubrication Systems:
For industrial-scale operations, consider implementing automated lubrication systems. These systems monitor friction and amperage draw, automatically adding lubricant when needed. This reduces the reliance on manual labour and helps maintain consistent oven performance.
Remember, proper oven temperature control and lubrication techniques are essential to ensure the efficiency and longevity of your equipment, especially when working with lead. Always refer to manufacturer guidelines and seek expert advice when in doubt.
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Bullet extraction
Preparing the Bullets:
Before beginning the extraction process, it is important to prepare your bullets properly. After melting the bullet lube in the crock pot or pan, use a ladle or a turkey baster to add the lubricant to the pan. Place the bullets upright, about 1/2"-1" apart in a silicon baking pan on a level surface. Avoid grouping them too closely together, as it can cause the hardened lube sheet to break during extraction. At this stage, you can also inspect your bullets for any defects, discarding any that are wrinkled or malformed.
Cooling the Lubricant:
Once the bullets are coated in the lubricant, allow the lube to set and cool. You can use a freezer to speed up the process. Place the pan and bullets in the freezer for about three minutes. Alternatively, you can let them cool at room temperature, but be cautious of the oven's temperature control if using an oven.
Extracting the Bullets:
When the lubricant has solidified, it's time to extract the bullets. Gently push or whack each bullet from the back or front. You can use your fingers, a pencil, or a screwdriver for this step. If you're using a softer lube, you may need to hand-lube by pasting the lubricant into the grooves with a plastic or metal blade. This extra step will help retain the lube.
Choosing the Right Lube:
The choice of lubricant can impact the extraction process. Some popular lube formulas include a 1:1 ratio of Vaseline and beeswax with a small amount of STP oil treatment or automatic transmission fluid. Beeswax is commonly used to stiffen bullet lubes. However, if you're experiencing issues with lube retention, consider using a stiffer formula or adding more beeswax to your mixture.
Tools and Safety:
It is important to use dedicated tools for bullet extraction that are not used for cooking or any other purpose. This includes the pan, ladle or turkey baster, and extraction tools like pencils or screwdrivers. Avoid using pliers as they can damage the bullets. Additionally, be cautious when heating the lubricant, as some lubricants can catch on fire if heated to high temperatures.
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Frequently asked questions
Pan lubing is a method of lubricating cast bullets. It involves using a pan to melt and apply lubricant to the bullets.
A popular formula for pan lubing is 1lb of Vaseline to 1lb of gulf wax and 2 tbsp of STP oil treatment. However, you can experiment with different formulas to find one that suits your needs. Some people add beeswax or automatic transmission fluid to their mixes.
You will need a pan, bullets, bullet lube, and a heat source such as an oven or stove. It is important to note that the equipment used for pan lubing should not be used for cooking or serving food afterward due to lead exposure.
