On the where to get lead question-- junkyards, sure. Boeing Surplus may even have some. Lead tire weights are not pure lead, but they do melt and will give you a decent head, if somewhat brittle. Yards sales can be a source of lead or lead sheeting-- they used to use lead quite a bit in some of the flashings on roofs for vents and such.

There are so many different places to get lead that if you keep your eyes open you can find it. I used to buy lead tire weights from Les Schwabs for 10 cents a pound, but it was pretty dirty stuff.

Today, I was at Sportsman's Warehouse and saw a bunch of pyramid anchors for $15. While it's a shame to waste something like that, the cost for that lead was $1 a pound, and there are an awful lot (256) of 1/16 ounce jigs in a pound of lead.

If you're serious about pouring jigs and can pony up the $60, buy a Lee Precision pot. They have a spout on the bottom that lets you pour directly into the mold and avoids the possibility of splash.

And ventilation is a must-- the fumes are fairly toxic, but if you're outside, or in an open garage, you should be OK.

Keith