Guys,

 

Me and a buddy are looking into making our own jigs. I know we have to buy the lead, or get it from a tire shop or something, buy a lead melter, etc., but what jig mold have you had success with? There are a bunch of options out there, so what sets one apart from the other?

 

Thanks, and I look forward to your responses.

I have an arky I'll sell.  Makes 1/4-3/8-1/2.  Its one of the most popular head designs.

Before you can buy a mold you need to know what jig head design you like to use.

Outlets like Barlows Tackle sells everything you need. My advice is buy some different plain jig designs, take a look at the various skirts, hooks, melting pots etc. remember a jig is only as good as it's hook.

Tom

Tom, thanks for the website tip, they seem to have good pricing on a wide variety of items.

 

Do you pour your own jigs, or do you buy jigs and then customize them?

 

What are the pros/cons?

 

Thanks.

I do both, design my own jig heads and purchase jigs, both plain and finished.

This BR site has 2 excellent jig makers and the only cost you have is the purchase price.

When you pour your own jigs you have the combined cost of everything needed to make the jig.

It is a lot of fun to make your jigs, it isn't cheaper!

Lee's economy melting pot that shuts off the lead at the mold is about $70

Do-it mold another $40 (brush jig mold)

Lead is about $1.60 lb.

Hooks run about .30 each in 100 qty.

Skirts, collars etc.

Before you know it $200 is spent just to get started.

Nearly everyone I know goes overboard with skirt color combinations, be aware!

Tom

making your own jigs can be rewarding, but not always cost effective. but, you know the old saying about "necessity is the poppy of invention". i have made and designed lots of stuff over the years because i wanted to make something that would work better.

bo