Hey Ya'll,

I just started pouring lead jigging spoons and am having some trouble.  I am using lead purchased from a local battery shop.  It has always done fine for jig heads and dropshot weights but it sets up too fast for a 1 to 1.5 oz mold.  Any recommendations?  Second problem.  How do you paint a large jig.  I use the powder paint for jig heads but am trying to airbrush the spoons.  I cannot get the paint to set up on the lead.   Last but not least can you airbrush a clear coat or does it need to be brushed on?  Thanks in advance for the help.  It's been a little frustrating so far.

Hey Ya'll,

I just started pouring lead jigging spoons and am having some trouble. I am using lead purchased from a local battery shop. It has always done fine for jig heads and dropshot weights but it sets up too fast for a 1 to 1.5 oz mold. Any recommendations?

I have been pouring for several years but have never used battery lead, however, when pouring the larger lead baits, you may have to turn the heat up some. I use a Lee Production Pot IV, and a setting of around 7 to 7 ½ should do it. Always check and make sure the melted lead is flowing out the bottom correctly, if not clean the hole with a piece of wire. Another problem is you may need to smoke the mold better using a candle. Over the years and many problems I have been faced with, there is usually 3 things that cause a bad pour. Insufficient heat, not smoking the mold properly, bottom pour hole restricted and not letting the melted lead flow into the mold fast enough.

Second problem. How do you paint a large jig. I use the powder paint for jig heads but am trying to airbrush the spoons. I cannot get the paint to set up on the lead. Last but not least can you airbrush a clear coat or does it need to be brushed on? Thanks in advance for the help. It's been a little frustrating so far.

Like I said, I have never used battery lead and am not sure if your paint is having a reaction to this type of lead which has been exposed to sulfuric acid. I do not like using the powder paint because of having to clean the eyes. I like a jig that's ready to fish when I pick it up so I prefer to brush my paint, even clears when needed. A lot of my jigs have fiber guards and I hand paint them. Don't know what type of paint you are using or what type of jig you are making, however, I am using automotive paint adding the reducer and hardner. Some jigs don't require much detail so an airbrush is not needed. You may want to airbrush spoons for better detail. Just make sure the surface is free of any oils before painting. You can use a solvent or a rag and plain alcohol. If all fails, I would try another type of lead. I go to the scrap metal yard and buy lead pipe. Good luck , I hope this helps.