sheepherder, I've been casting bullets since I was 8 years old (a long time ago), if you're really interested, I can take some pics and try to describe my technique. There are basically two schools of thought in bullet casting, one is dipping and the other is bottom pouring. I dip - cast my bullets with an old Lyman ladle. The old Ideal molds are generally excellent and will cast perfect consistent bullets, if you know how.