Why are weights so expensive?

[prunefoot]

I don't understand it, but even if you go to buy buckshot for reloading shotgun shells it is usually $2 plus per pound. And it isn't in a mesh pouch.

I am actually considering getting some mesh pouches and dumping shotgun shot into them, then stitching them up, since I have a good bit of old shells I can use.

 

[prunefoot]

It's my understanding that some dive weights are an alloy, so the market price of lead is only one factor. If you need a LOT of weights, you can buy lead in bulk, molds, and a melting pot and cast your own. But if, like most of us, you only need a few weights for personal use, the cost is what it is at the dive shop.

I need weights for 3 people so I have thought about that... but I would need a burner and iron melting bowl.

 

[snowdog61]

If it goes on, over, or under the water, it's expensive. Welcome to your new hobby!

 

[tursiops]

Thanks, I will check it out... but I'm landlocked so I don't have much hope

You might be surprised.....and also get the best prices that way!

 

[prunefoot]

If it goes on, over, or under the water, it's expensive. Welcome to your new hobby!

Diving and guns.... keeping me broke!

 

[dlofting]

Buy some molds, buy lead at the best price you can find it and make your own weights. You just need a Coleman stove, a suitable mask(respirator) and an old saucepan.

 

[BRT]

Buy some molds, buy lead at the best price you can find it and make your own weights. You just need a Coleman stove, a suitable mask(respirator) and an old saucepan.

And really good gloves and safety glasses, and something to skim the dross and a ladle and you should study what happens if you dump some wet lead into your melting pot. I've poured well over 1000 lb of lead and if I needed only 60 lb I'd have probably just bought it. Pouring it is simple and fun and dangerous.

 

[Marie13]

@prunefoot there's a Scuba Swap & Shop group on FB. I'm always seeing weights in it. You can fit a lot of weight in a USPS flat rate box. I'd suggest you look over there if you're on FB.

SCUBA gear Swap & Shop

 

[tarponchik]

I had to buy a 2-pounder in Florida and I paid something like 5 bucks for a shiny new piece, which is not much, and I paid around $20 for a coated 5-pounder in Maryland. But in Hawaii they asked more than $40 for a "naked" 5-pounder ($42.50, if memory serves). So it depends where you buy it.

Lead is actually cheaper than copper.

 

[NAM001]

Where can yo get mesh bags. I have some large weights 6-10# that i wold likt to put in smaller mesh bags in usable weight sizes