Olive & Torpedo Lead Molds

An olive is a traditional elongated fishing weight used in many freshwater rigs. Depending on its construction, it may have an inline passage, a separate attachment eye or another mounting arrangement. This category includes classic olive sinkers as well as torpedo-shaped and other elongated designs with different proportions and intended uses.

An inline olive and a swivel-mounted olive are not the same product. An inline design guides the line or a specified insert through the weight, while a swivel-mounted olive uses a separate attachment point. Choose the required rigging method before deciding on casting weight.

An elongated olive body may be useful in compact rigs and, depending on its actual profile, may behave differently in the water or during casting. However, not all olives have the same weight distribution. A longer torpedo design may have a different centre of gravity and casting characteristics from a short, compact olive.

Choose olive weight according to depth, current, fishing distance and presentation. A lighter sinker may be sufficient in calm water, while deeper locations or stronger current can require more weight. An unnecessarily heavy sinker may change the sensitivity and action of the rig.

Inline olives are used in rigs where the line passes through the weight. Depending on the design, the sinker may slide freely or work with additional components that control its movement. The safety and operation of the complete rig depend on more than the opening in the metal body.

With swivel olives, the attachment point must match the clip, swivel or other connector being used. The metal eye must be securely anchored and free from edges that could damage leader material.

Olives can be suitable for various bottom-fishing methods and other applications requiring compact weights. The intended use must still match the dimensions, attachment system and loading capacity of the complete setup.

SAF offers, for example, F62 for olives weighing 4–30 g, F99 for swivel olives weighing 15–40 g and F79 for inline olives weighing 40–100 g. These ranges show the difference between lighter and medium-weight sinkers as well as different mounting methods.

The range also includes torpedo molds, such as F109 at 40–80 g and F136 at 100–160 g. Torpedo bodies have different proportions and may behave differently during casting or in flowing water. Do not treat all elongated sinkers as interchangeable.

For inline molds, the dimensions of the guide tube or other component forming the internal passage are essential. The insert must match the exact mold and allow smooth line movement without damage after casting.

Swivel molds may use stainless steel loops, wire eyes or other metal inserts depending on construction. Do not transfer the specified dimensions automatically between different weights or shapes. Follow the individual product details.

Before casting, position all specified components in the dry mold and verify complete closure. With inline olives, the guide must be correctly centred. With swivel weights, the eye must remain securely positioned. Never force the mold shut around an unsuitable insert.

After cooling, trim excess lead and inspect the casting. An inline passage must be clear and free from sharp edges. For swivel designs, check the anchoring and accessibility of the attachment eye.

When using inline olives in carp rigs, make sure the complete setup behaves safely in the event of line breakage. An inline design does not automatically guarantee that a fish can release the weight.

Finished sinkers can be coated using suitable rubberised or other coatings designed for fishing weights. The inline passage or attachment eye must not become blocked during painting, and the coating must be cured correctly.

When working with molten lead, wear safety glasses, heat-resistant gloves, long clothing and closed footwear. Use effective ventilation and a stable, heat-resistant work surface. The mold, guides and all other metal parts must be clean and completely dry.

Never pour molten metal into a damp mold. Do not eat, drink or smoke while casting. Keep water away from the work area, separate lead-working equipment from household utensils and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.

If you need a sinker with a passage through its body, select an inline olive and the matching guide system. For a swivel-mounted rig, choose the correct attachment design. More running sinker shapes are available in the dedicated inline mold category.

Frequently asked questions – olive lead molds

What is an olive fishing sinker?

An olive is an elongated fishing weight that may use inline or swivel-mounted construction. It is used in different freshwater rigs.

What is the difference between inline and swivel olives?

An inline olive contains a passage or insert for the line. A swivel olive uses a separate attachment point.

Is an olive the same as a torpedo sinker?

Not automatically. Both can be elongated, but their proportions, weight distribution and attachment methods may differ.

Which olive weight should I choose?

Consider depth, current, fishing distance and presentation. Choose a weight appropriate for the complete rig.

Which olive molds does SAF offer?

Examples include F62 at 4–30 g, F99 swivel olives at 15–40 g and F79 inline olives at 40–100 g. Other products cover heavier weights.

Do I need a guide tube for an inline olive?

It depends on the mold design. Some models require a specified insert or guide to create the passage.

Can I use the same metal loop in every olive mold?

No. The type and dimensions of the attachment must match the individual mold.

How do I inspect a finished olive sinker?

Check its surface, removal of excess lead, passage clearance or secure anchoring of the attachment eye, depending on the design.

How can I cast olive weights safely?

Use protective equipment and effective ventilation. The mold and all inserts must be completely dry. Follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.

→ Browse more running sinker designs in our inline fishing molds category.

→ Choose olive molds according to weight and the intended line passage or attachment.