The first step in separating lead shot from steel shot is the manufacturing process. The raw steel
shot is fed into a machine that cuts metal from the shot. Once the metal has been cut off, the
shot goes through a cold heading process that decreases the amount of metal on the shot. It
then undergoes rough grinding, which uses abrasive compounds to remove the final layer of
steel. Afterwards, the steel shot is packaged in bags and ready for use. This product can be
reused up to three times before it needs to be replaced.
This metal has many applications outside of bullets. In some industries, lead shot is used for
weight balancing, preventing rust, and shielding atomic radiation. In other applications, lead shot
is used for shielding from radiation in nuclear reactors, as well as removing stress and defect
from metal surfaces before painting. It is also made from lead because of its high density. Its
high density makes lead a popular choice for bullets.