Brownells 25 To 1 Bullet Casting Alloy 5Lb Ingot
The Brownells 25 To 1 Bullet Casting Alloy 5Lb Ingot is a purpose-built lead-tin mixture for handloaders who cast their own bullets. This alloy pairs 25 parts lead with 1 part tin—a ratio that delivers approximately 9 Brinell Hardness, making it well-suited for lower-velocity cartridges where a softer bullet performs best. If you're loading cowboy action rounds or traditional blackpowder calibers like the 45-70 Government, this is the composition you want.
What sets Brownells casting alloy apart is the sourcing: it's made from virgin metals, not recycled scrap. That purity matters when you're casting. You avoid the unknown impurities and inconsistencies that can creep into reclaimed material, which means more predictable casting sessions and more uniform finished bullets. Each ingot weighs approximately 5 pounds—a practical size for frequent casters and a manageable batch for those still dialing in their process.
Whether you're a Cowboy Action Shooting competitor working through brass between matches or a blackpowder rifle enthusiast who prefers to load his own, having a reliable alloy supply on hand keeps you in ammunition. Cast bullets demand the right metallurgy for the job, and the 25:1 ratio is a time-tested standard for the slower velocities and moderate pressures these cartridges see.
Key Features
- 25 parts lead, 1 part tin composition (96% lead, 4% tin)
- Approximately 9 Brinell Hardness—ideal for low-velocity, traditional cartridges
- Made from virgin metals for consistent, clean casting
- Approximately 5-pound ingot per unit
- Proven alloy for Cowboy Action Shooting and blackpowder loads
Specifications
| Composition | 96% Lead, 4% Tin (25:1 ratio) |
| Brinell Hardness | Approximately 9 |
| Ingot Weight | Approximately 5 pounds |
| Metal Source | Virgin metals (not scrap) |
| Intended Use | Bullet casting for low-velocity cartridges |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this alloy suitable for cowboy action shooting loads?
Yes. The 25:1 lead-to-tin ratio and its approximately 9 Brinell Hardness make this alloy a popular choice for Cowboy Action Shooting and standard blackpowder cartridges like the 45-70 Government.
Why is this made from virgin metals instead of scrap?
Virgin metals ensure a clean, consistent alloy free of unknown impurities that can affect casting consistency and bullet uniformity. Scrap-based alloys introduce variables you can't control.
How much casting can one 5-pound ingot support?
That depends on your bullet weight and casting volume. A 5-pound ingot is a practical batch size that works well for regular casters and for those testing their process. Ingot weights are approximate.
What cartridges is this alloy best for?
This softer composition is designed for lower-velocity applications, particularly traditional blackpowder cartridges and Cowboy Action rounds where higher bullet hardness isn't needed.

