Great tip, Hawnjigs. Years ago, I had a stubborn pistol-bullet mold that refused to pour well. I tried all the tricks, but it just wouldn't fill well. Not wanting to mess up the mold, I opened the gates by a couple hundredths of an inch. Presto! Problem solved! It made for faster pouring and better fill-out, and the lead would 'swirl-in' and fill the cavities very fast and very consistently. Now I don't even ask questions, I just recut the gates on any new molds, and go from there. Saves a lot of time and hassle in the long run.
I also recut the gates on all my Do-It molds. I measure the constriction at the gate, and re-drill (
carefully!) with a bit 1/32" to 1/16" larger, just to true and smooth everything up. Be sure to clamp the mold shut while drilling. Then lightly 'clean-up' the gate constriction or funnel with a sharp 45* countersinking bit. Check for any tiny burrs, and remove gently with an exacto knife. The gates will be smooth and will pour faster. Applying a dry anti-friction surface treatment, such as moly disulfide, will further reduce friction and speed-up pouring. (
ACTION MAGIC II® at Brownells Apply just part "B" to the gates and cavities with a cotton swab. A little goes a long way and lasts a long time.)
I do this with all my molds. Helps make the pours faster, more consistent, and trouble-free.
Good luck!
