Frequently Asked Questions:

We know you may probably have some questions if you are new to the lead shot recovery process, so we have compiled a list of the more frequently asked questions.

How does our gun club get the reclamation process started?

Just e-mail or call us. We will respond quickly and will work up a program at no cost to you.

How is the lead shot reclaimed?

The methods we use depend on the terrain and soil type. Typically, we skim a few inches of soil from the lead shot field and process it through our machines, which separate the lead shot from the soil. The lead shot is placed in barrels for shipment to the reclamation metal foundry and the soil is replaced in the field.

How long does the process take?

The time involved depends on the size of the lead shot field and on the amount of soil that needs to be processed. A small trap or skeet club with one or two traps and a level field may only require three or four weeks to complete. Larger gun clubs with more traps and a larger lead shot field may require two months or more. Of course, the payback is greater also.

How much money will our gun or trap club make?

This, again, depends on several factors, which the Midwest Team will evaluate. We can give estimates only after reviewing how many shots are fired over the field per year, years of your trap or skeet club’s operation and the terrain. Most gun clubs keep track of the number of clay targets thrown. 100,000 clay targets equals approximately 7,000 pounds of lead shot fired. If 60% is recoverable, then that is 4,200 pounds of lead shot. These are simply rough estimates.

What is the lead shot worth?

A rough estimate is 55% of the “spot” price of new lead. If new lead brings $1.00, then the club’s reclaimed lead shot will generally bring $.55 per pound. We will be happy to show your club the foundry receipts, so that you can calculate your exact return.

What is the club’s share of the recovered lead shot?

The percentage will vary depending on the size of the club, the terrain and the soil type. We prefer to evaluate your project in order to give a fair and accurate estimate of the proceeds.

Some other companies offer a higher percentage. Why is that?

We have seen other firms offer a high percentage number and then base the price of lead shot on local metal dealer pricing. This is typically only half of what Midwest is able to get for the club’s lead shot by shipping it directly to the metal foundry. We strive to get clubs the highest possible price for their lead shot. We handle all packaging and paperwork. Midwest strives to give your club the maximum dollar payout.

We would like to keep some or all of our lead shot for reloading purposes. Is that possible?

Yes ! Some clubs retain their lead shot to sell to members and others. With new lead shot prices around $1.50/lb., many clubs sell their lead shot for $1.00/lb. This allows the club to increase their return by up to 50% and makes their members who reload very happy to get a 30% discount over the cost of new lead shot! We reload our own shells with reclaimed lead shot and have excellent results on clay targets and on doves & quail.

Can you reclaim the bullets from our handgun and rifle berms?

Yes. The yield is generally much less than trap or skeet ranges. As many of the bullets are jacketed, the foundry will generally pay about one half as much for bullets as for lead shot. It is still a good way for clubs to derive income and to reduce the chance of a glancing bullet bouncing off of other bullets in an over-filled berm.

Will our club have to cancel shoots during the recovery process?

No. We are able to work around your shooting schedules. Once we remove the shot-filled soil from the trap or skeet field, we can process it at another area on the club’s property. Then, in between shooting days, we can replace the soil back onto the field.

More questions?

Just give us a call or e-mail us. This is our only business and our aim is to do the best job possible for our fellow shooters and club members.