I have everything I need to start making decoy weights.





How long does it usually take for the lead to harden once it has been poured into the mold?



These will be 6oz and 8oz weights. The lead is "virgin lead" if that makes any difference.
Thanks.

Seconds. Drop it on somthing soft, or in a bucket of water if you want to harden it slightly.
Keep the water FAR away from molten metal.

Great. Thanks for the tip about the water.
 

For the something soft, I use a couple old bath towels folded on my table. That way when they sit a while I can grab the corners and pour the bullets in the 5 gal buckets by calber so I can size and lube them later.
I have a piece of 3/4" plywood bolted to my table to catch splatter and what not.
Make sure your mold is hot before you start casting. Its not as vital with weights, but prop the mold against the pot to warm it up. I like to cast on the warm side, so my bullets have sharp edges and a slightly frosty appearance.

Do not add scrap lead to a hot pot. If there is even a hint of moisture on it you will get a steam pocket and explosion.  Fil the pot and let it come up to temp.

Exactly. I cannot stress enough to keep water away from molten metal.

ETA: Also, if you use tire weights and other dirty shit, go buy some gulf wax. Adding a slice to the pot brings all the dirt to the surface and makes it easier to discard.

towards the end, mythbusters stick their fingers into molten lead
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZio0f7fP04