What lead do I have ?

[Idaho Ron]

I can scratch 18 bhn lead with my thumb. The scratch test is not a test. Dropping it on concrete will tell more.

 

[colimr]

So far the hardness tester and pencil test require specific items but seem the most accurate, The easiest and cheapest are visual {color and grain structure} , scratch test, drop test (does it thud or tink) and knowing the source

 

[Nuthatch]

If it shoots to the same POI as soft lead, I'd use it. I use cast bismuth round ball for hunting here. I use a .480 mold & a thicker patch. Casts at about 140 grains vs 160 for lead. Same POI out to 50 yards & beyond. Bismuth is hard -- very hard. It will shatter before it will deform. On water jugs, neither lead nor bismuth expanded even a little. The lead just had a slightly flattened face on one side. I figure as long as I'm shooting .45 or bigger, it's pre-expanded. I guess if you're worried about it, save it for the bigger bores.

 

[nhmoose]

Lino will trade 1 linotype to two pure. try the sale forums here first to trade.

 

[glockky]

Generally type medal alloys will also cast .003-.004” larger than pure soft lead. That I’m itself can cause a lot of issues in a front stiffer.

 

[Johnny Tremain]

Have to agree with news print grade linotype.
Way too hard for round ball. Very good to mix with pure lead to make the proper mixture for centerfire fun.
Its worth more than #1 lead, so you should have no problem trading it away, unless you cast for modern, you are set then.