Lyman "Big Dipper" 115V Electric Casting Furnace

The Lyman Big Dipper 115V electric casting furnace is built for reloaders and bullet casters who want a straightforward, dependable setup without unnecessary complexity or premium pricing. Whether you're just stepping into casting or running a regular supply of bullets for hunting and range work, this furnace handles the core job: melting lead alloys evenly and safely so you can pour consistent rounds. The 10-pound aluminum pot resists rust and is designed for blending alloys and casting in one vessel, cutting down on prep time between sessions.

Heat control matters when you're casting, and the Big Dipper delivers thermostat regulation within ±10 degrees—precise enough for repeatable results without the complexity of industrial-grade equipment. The wide mouth opening is a practical touch; it gives you safe, comfortable clearance for ladling and pouring without awkward angles or spill risk. The furnace heats up quickly, so you're not waiting around before you can start working, and the compact, non-tip design sits stable on a bench or table without tipping or wobbling during use.

The on/off temperature dial keeps operation simple: set it and let the thermostat hold your heat. There's no learning curve here—this is a tool that gets out of the way and lets you focus on casting good bullets. For handloaders building their own ammunition from the ground up, the Big Dipper pairs well with a sizing and lubricating setup, turning cast bullets into finished rounds that shoot as well as any commercial option.

Key Features

• 10-pound aluminum pot for melting and blending lead alloys
• Thermostat control holds temperature within ±10 degrees for consistent casting
• Quick heat-up time gets you casting faster
• Wide mouth opening for safe, easy ladling and pouring
• Compact, non-tip construction for stable bench or table setup
• Simple on/off temperature dial—no complex controls
• 115V electric operation

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Big Dipper suitable for someone new to bullet casting?

Yes. The furnace is designed with beginners in mind—simple controls, straightforward operation, and reliable performance without premium pricing or unnecessary features. It handles the essential job of melting and holding alloy at the right temperature so you can focus on learning the casting process.

What size batches can I cast with a 10-pound pot?

The 10-pound aluminum pot holds up to 10 pounds of lead alloy. Depending on the specific alloy and bullet weight you're casting, this translates to casting multiple rounds per heat cycle. The pot is sized for productive sessions without being so large that it takes forever to heat up or cool down between batches.

Does the furnace come ready to use out of the box?

The furnace is designed for straightforward setup on a 115V outlet. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for any initial preparation or safety steps before your first use.

What's included, and what do I need to buy separately?

The furnace includes the electric heating unit and aluminum pot. You'll need to source casting tools separately—a ladle, molds, and lead alloy—depending on your specific bullet-casting setup and caliber needs.