The Bismuth that I bought was certified at 99.9% pure bismuth. For extra they had it all the way up to 99.9999%. I guess for chemical reactions you need the much higher grade. But it was not worth the extra price to me. Tin is easy to buy in a similar pure form so unless you can not do the math I think that 97% bismuth and a 3% tin mix should be easy to make.
As I understand it you can make shot, but not sell shot and be safe under the patent. Personal use verse commercial use is a major difference. Next time I am going to try using liquid soap instead of the antifreeze type solution that the patent calls for. I have read that others use liquid soap with good results and it will be easier to clean off the product when finished. Since I will not be using a key component of the patent I suspect that I will be safe.
The patent is written so broadly that it may be very hard for them to enforce it a court. Plus the fact that they are "out of business" should mean that they have no real interest in enforcing the patent unless someone is interested in making the shot under the patent for commercial use. Which I would gladly like them to do so I do not have to.
I am surprised that a major ammo company like Remington has not made a serious attempt to take over Bismuth Shot Company. With non-tox regulations on the horizon in more areas a non steel substitute for lead should be a major addition to their line. How about a line of non steel non-tox shells in all the Walmarts for less than a buck a shell for a change.
