Oldbloke wrote:Clean lead doesn't give off toxic gases unless you get it far hotter than you want it for casting bullets. Dirty alloy could give off all kinds of stuff though, regardless of temperatures.
That is a myth. And a dangerous one. Molten lead gives off lead vapour, just like hot water gives of vapours. The vapours are toxic if breathed in. It is particularly dangerous for young growing brains. (children) Always cast bullets or sinkers in an area where there is plenty of ventilation. The air movement should be moving the vapours away from your face.[/quote]
I believe even solid lead gives off particles?
As long as you don't have your nose in the pot I think any lead vapours are unlikely to be inhaled. I'm not disputing that lead is dangerous, but I feel that the potential other contaminants in dirty lead are a greater risk. Burning off the arsenic for example.
I wouldn't allow children to even handle lead fishing stinkers.