List the different methods of casting metals used today, the pros and cons of each, mainly with a focus on low-scale hobby casting. Also include some about somehow casting metal on a 3d printed object(like lost PLA method).
There are several methods of casting metal that are used today, including:

Sand casting: This is a traditional and low-cost method for making small to medium-sized castings. A pattern is made in sand and then packed around it with more sand. The molten metal is then poured into the sand mold to create the casting. Pros: It's easy to make a mold using sand, inexpensive, and good for producing complex shapes. Cons: It can be difficult to remove the casting from the mold and the surface of the casting may not be as smooth as other methods.

Die casting: This method involves injecting molten metal under high pressure into a metal mold. The metal is then allowed to cool and solidify, and the casting is removed from the mold. Pros: Die casting can produce very precise and high-quality castings, with a smooth surface finish. Cons: The cost of the metal mold is high, and the process can only be used for relatively small parts.

Investment casting: This method involves making a wax model of the part to be cast, which is then coated with a refractory material to form a mold. The mold is then heated to remove the wax and then filled with molten metal. Pros: This method can produce very precise and accurate castings, with a smooth surface finish. Cons: The cost of the process is high and it can only be used for small to medium-sized parts.

Lost PLA casting: This method involves 3D printing a model using PLA plastic, which is then used as a mold for casting metal. The molten metal is poured into the mold and the plastic is burned away, leaving the metal casting. Pros: This method is relatively inexpensive and easy to use, making it suitable for low-scale hobby casting. Cons: The surface finish of the casting may not be as smooth as other methods and the process can only be used for small parts.

Each method has its pros and cons and the best method for a particular casting project will depend on the size, complexity, and desired surface finish of the casting, as well as the budget and resources available.
Let's say my project is to cast 20 35mm military figurines with a generally smooth finish, and I have a few hundred dollars if necessary.  Which method would you recommend?
If your goal is to cast 20 35mm military figurines with a generally smooth finish and you have a few hundred dollars to spend, investment casting may be the best method for you. This method can produce very precise and accurate castings with a smooth surface finish, making it well suited for small-scale figurine casting projects. The cost of the process is relatively high, but with a budget of a few hundred dollars, it should be feasible. You may want to consider working with a professional investment casting company, who can help you with the entire process, including mold making, casting, and finishing.