Melting Lead?

[Motor Fish]

I was weighting some plugs last night with those new "steel" split shots. What a PIA! They don't seem to have the same density as lead which means I have to add more too. It makes a mess out of the plug.

I'm sure some of you guys melt your own lead. I was curious as to what techniques or methods are used for this. Melting pots? Torches???

I'm just as interested in safety precautions while working with lead. Gloves? Respirators?

Thanks for any feedback.