Can Pewter Be Used to Make Bullets?

In recent discussions, the feasibility of melting down pewter toys to create bullets has been brought up. This article explores the pros and cons of using pewter for this purpose, alongside providing advice on how to dispose of these toys.

The Reality of Using Pewter for Bullets

While it is theoretically possible to melt down pewter toys to make bullets, practical considerations such as the alloy composition and the potential impact on the environment make this a less-than-ideal solution. Pewter, often used in decorative and collectible items, is typically composed of tin, lead, and sometimes other metals like zinc and copper. Modern pewter alloys generally contain very little lead, which raises concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the resulting projectiles.

Historical Context

There is historical precedent for melting down childhood toys for practical purposes. In the movie The Patriot, Mel Gibson is shown melting down a tin soldier to create bullets. This scene has led to curiosity about whether similar methods could be applied to pewter toys. However, modern pewter is less likely to contain the lead necessary for effective bullets, making it a suboptimal choice.

Problems with Using Pewter

The softness of pewter and its lower density compared to lead make it a poor material for bullets. Pewter is softer and less dense, which can result in less accurate and less effective projectiles. Additionally, pewter may strip the rifling in a firearm if used, leading to degraded performance and potential damage to the weapon.

In terms of manufacturing bullets, the process would involve more flux and require higher temperatures due to the softer nature of the metal. Preheating the mold and a careful casting process would be necessary to ensure a consistent and high-quality bullet. These challenges make pewter a less viable option compared to traditional lead or lead alloy bullets.

Alternative Use: Selling or Using Pewter Toys

Given the aforementioned issues, it is advisable to avoid melting down pewter toys for bullets. Instead, consider alternative uses for these collectible items. The toys can be valuable collectibles, especially to enthusiasts of tabletop role-playing games and wargaming. Selling them online on platforms like eBay can be a good option, providing both a way to monetize the items and pass them down as memorabilia.

Even if the toys are not made of genuine pewter, they still hold sentimental and possibly financial value. They are potential heirs to your brother's childhood, and passing them on can be a meaningful gesture. Alternatively, donating them to a local toy museum or garage sale can help them find new homes while avoiding potential environmental concerns associated with the casting process.

Conclusion

The feasibility of using pewter toys to make bullets is limited. These items are better suited for alternative uses such as selling or donating. While there is a romantic notion of horning the most pewter toy figurines in a post-apocalyptic world, practical considerations make alternative options more practical and sustainable.

For those with the specific need for bullet casting, it is recommended to use proper lead or lead alloy compositions. Pewter can be an enjoyable material for hobbyists and collectors, but not for practical bullet manufacturing.