Tungsten Weights

<p><em>Wolfram</em> is the German name for a fine alternative to lead. Among anglers, though, it is far better known as <em>Tungsten</em> - the English word for the metal.</p><h2>Dense, Heavy and Brilliant</h2><p><strong>Tungsten</strong> is an excellent material for fishing weights because it offers several real advantages over lead. Its density is even greater than that of lead, so a tungsten weight is heavier than a lead weight of the same size. That means it sinks faster to the bottom and, in many situations, you can go one size down. In theory, tungsten also casts further than lead because, at the same weight, it has less air resistance - though in practice you are unlikely to notice any difference in casting distance. Tungsten is also <strong>significantly harder than lead</strong>, and combined with its high density that hardness improves the feedback you get from the bottom. You will not miss a change in substrate. Tungsten is essentially inert in water and does not react with it.</p><p>Unlike rummaging through a box of corroded jig heads and lead weights, handling tungsten gives you nothing to worry about regarding your health. Tungsten does not tarnish and does not go greasy either, so your tackle box stays clean.</p><h2>Disadvantages of Tungsten Weights</h2><p>There is one drawback to tungsten that we would not want to hide from you. It is harder to work than lead and therefore noticeably more expensive as a finished product. If you fish in a serious snag zone, the cost of using tungsten may give you pause. That said, having to think about losing weights is actually a great incentive to sharpen your technique and lure control - and if cost is a real concern, there are also more affordable lead-free alternatives such as brass or steel weights.</p><p>If you are the type who tends to absentmindedly chew on jig heads when the excitement gets too much, switching to tungsten weights is clearly the right move going forward.</p>