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The lead I got mostly came in large ingots that would not fit into the production pot.

Since I didn't have convenient access to convenient tools, I filled the pot close to the top with smaller pieces.

I tried knocking off some chunks with a sledge and cold chisel, but this was very slow going. I didn't want to get lead dust everywhere, so no power saws.

This let me dip a corner of the ingot into the molten lead.

After about 10 minutes on high, the whole block will be close to melting.

Then you need to grab it with channel locks and start pouring lead out of the pot into smaller ingot molds.

Note my amazing custom mold my grandmother gave me.

I bet she's glad I am using the bakeware she got me for Christmas last year.

As you lower the volume in the pot, keep the big ingot in contact and ease it into the pot to keep the level steady. You will need to rotate it around to find a corner that will fit in.

If you don't grab the ingot, it will all melt in about 2 seconds and flood the pot and splash everywhere. Pay attention.