I have been thinking about casting ever since I started reloading for the 41 rem mag and the 454 casull I've got some old lead accumulating but I'm not real sure where to start. I mean with all the talk of leading etc. Is it worth the extra equipment? If so where should I start.

Just my opinion; Start by getting the Lyman Cast Bullet Handbook. No need to spend big bucks either . One of the older (2nd hand ) issues will give you all the start up info you'll need.
Pepe Ray

The only equipment you really have to have to cast bullets is,
a pot full of lead
a campfire to heat it
a bullet mould
and a ladle to dip the lead out of the pot and into the mould.
Did you see the movie, The Patriot? That's how Mel Gibson made musket balls.

As for leading, that's a highly overblown non-problem. Think of it in terms of, "how long can I shoot a .22 with plain lead target bullets before I have to clean it?" Cleaning lead from a barrel is a lot easier than cleaning copper fouling and the lubricated lead wears the barrel less.

-91

Not a problem!!! Just do the procedures by the book and follow instruction and you will be fine. I am also new, but i think its worth all the fun and enjoyment you get out of it. Read the book of Lyman first though.