Lead Bullets Turning Red

[kbm6893]

I got into reloading back in 2013. It was during the components drought. Only bullets I could find were lead round nose 150 grain bullets from a local gunshop. Homemade cast, no brand names. I loaded and fired maybe 150 and when better bullets came along I went to those. I figure load them up now and I take them out.

They're getting a reddish cast. I can scrape of the ****. I guess rust. Are they safe to load and shoot or into the garbage they go?

[BC38]

Unless they are being stored in a steel container that is rusting, the red can't be rust - lead doesn't rust. Only iron/steel rust.
Other than that the only idea I can come up with is that whatever lube was put on them is discoloring and turning red.

[chief38]

They have either picked up rust dust from a container they are stored in or it could be Wax which often comes in red,

[kbm6893]

Originally Posted by chief38

They have either picked up rust dust from a container they are stored in or it could be Wax which often comes in red,

They're stored in a cardboard box. I was thinking maybe wax or the lube, too.

[LoboGunLeather]

Load them up and shoot them up.

[Bakebfr480]

"Better bullets"? About all I shoot are my own cast bullets! I would suspect they were tumble lubed and are picking up dust. Pics would be helpful to say the least!

[fredj338]

Gotta be the libe. If coated with alox, they could be kinda redish??