Let’s Dive into Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity
The Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity is a tool designed for reloading enthusiasts looking to cast their own .45-70 caliber bullets. This double cavity mold allows for the efficient production of the classic “Collar Button” bullet design, a popular choice for black powder cartridge rifles. The Lyman brand is synonymous with quality in the reloading world, known for producing reliable and consistent molds.
My journey to acquiring this mold started with a desire to increase my .45-70 ammunition supply, especially for historical shooting events. Factory ammunition for this caliber can be expensive and somewhat generic, lacking the nuanced performance that a custom-cast bullet can offer. I was looking for a reliable way to produce accurate and period-correct ammunition for my vintage rifles.
Upon receiving the Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction. The mold felt substantial in my hands, hinting at the durability I expect from Lyman products. The blocks fit together snugly, promising a clean and precise bullet casting experience.
Compared to single-cavity molds I’ve used in the past, the double cavity design significantly speeds up the casting process. I considered other mold manufacturers, but the Lyman name and reputation for quality ultimately swayed my decision. My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive; I was eager to begin casting and see how these bullets performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my reloading bench, focusing on producing a consistent batch of bullets. I used a lead alloy of approximately 20:1 (lead to tin) and a hot plate to preheat the mold for optimal casting. The mold filled easily and the bullets dropped cleanly, confirming my initial expectations.
I later tested the cast bullets at the range, using a vintage Trapdoor Springfield rifle. Performance was impressive, with tight groupings at 50 yards when loaded with black powder. The bullets held their shape well and showed no signs of leading in the barrel, even after extended shooting sessions.
The Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity was remarkably easy to use. The double cavity design allowed for faster production, and the bullets consistently dropped free without needing excessive force. There were no major issues, although I did learn to wear thicker gloves to handle the hot mold more comfortably.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity continues to perform admirably. The mold shows minimal signs of wear, a testament to its robust construction. The sprue plate still cuts cleanly, ensuring uniform bullet bases.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a lead-removing cloth and occasional lubrication of the hinge points keeps the mold in top condition. I haven’t experienced any degradation in casting quality or bullet consistency. Compared to cheaper molds I’ve used, the Lyman product offers superior durability and consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity
Specifications
The Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity is specifically designed for casting .45-70 caliber bullets. It produces a “Collar Button” style bullet, which typically weighs around 405 grains depending on the alloy used. This bullet design is well-suited for black powder cartridges and provides excellent accuracy at moderate ranges.
The mold itself is constructed from cast iron, providing excellent heat retention and durability. It is a double-cavity design, meaning it casts two bullets per pour, significantly increasing production efficiency. The mold requires Lyman mold handles (sold separately) for safe and comfortable operation.
The specifications of this mold are crucial for replicating the historical performance of the .45-70 cartridge. The bullet weight and shape are ideal for achieving consistent accuracy and terminal performance with black powder loads. The double cavity design makes it a practical choice for reloaders who need to produce a large quantity of bullets.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity excels at producing consistent and accurate bullets for the .45-70 cartridge. The bullets cast from this mold are uniform in weight and shape, leading to more predictable performance at the range. The design of the mold ensures that the bullets release cleanly, minimizing defects and waste.
The primary strength of this mold is its consistency and ease of use. It requires minimal effort to produce high-quality bullets that are suitable for both target shooting and hunting. One area for potential improvement might be the addition of a vent line to ensure complete filling of the mold cavity with every pour.
The mold consistently meets and often exceeds expectations for reloaders seeking to produce accurate and reliable .45-70 ammunition. Its ease of use and consistent output make it a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity is designed with the user in mind, featuring a robust cast iron construction that provides excellent heat retention and durability. The mold halves fit together precisely, ensuring a clean and accurate bullet casting process. The overall weight of the mold contributes to its stability during use, but it can become tiring during long casting sessions.
The design is relatively user-friendly, although new reloaders may benefit from watching instructional videos on mold preparation and casting techniques. The mold heats up quickly and maintains its temperature well, allowing for efficient casting. The mold requires mold handles for operation; these are sold separately and must be purchased to use the mold safely.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its cast iron construction, the Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining the mold’s performance and preventing corrosion.
Maintenance involves disassembling the mold after use, cleaning it with a lead-removing cloth, and applying a thin coat of oil to prevent rust. The sprue plate should also be cleaned and lubricated to ensure a smooth and clean cut. With proper maintenance, this mold should remain in excellent working condition for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity comes as a standalone mold. To use the mold safely and effectively, you will need Lyman mold handles, which are sold separately. There are no specific customization options directly related to the mold itself.
However, reloaders can customize their bullets by using different lead alloys to adjust the bullet’s hardness and weight. The mold is compatible with standard Lyman mold handles, which are widely available. Additionally, reloaders can use bullet sizing dies to fine-tune the bullet’s diameter for optimal fit in their rifles.
Pros and Cons of Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity
Pros
- Produces consistent and accurate .45-70 caliber bullets.
- Durable cast iron construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Double cavity design speeds up the bullet casting process.
- Easy to use, even for novice reloaders, with minimal practice.
- Relatively simple maintenance requirements for long-term usability.
Cons
- Requires Lyman mold handles, which are sold separately.
- Can become tiring during long casting sessions due to weight.
Who Should Buy Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity?
The Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity is perfect for .45-70 enthusiasts, black powder cartridge rifle shooters, and reloaders looking for consistent, accurate bullets. It is also ideal for historical reenactors and those seeking to replicate authentic period ammunition. Experienced reloaders who want to increase their production efficiency will also appreciate the double cavity design.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who are new to reloading or those who only occasionally shoot .45-70. A single-cavity mold or purchasing factory ammunition might be more practical for infrequent use. A bullet sizer die is a must-have accessory to ensure proper bullet diameter for specific rifles.
Conclusion on Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity
In summary, the Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity is a high-quality mold that delivers consistent and accurate results. The price is justified by the mold’s durability and efficiency. I would confidently recommend this product to any serious .45-70 reloader.
If you are looking to produce your own accurate and reliable .45-70 ammunition, especially for black powder cartridges, then this Lyman mold is an excellent investment. Don’t hesitate – add the Lyman 457130 Collar Button, 45-70in Double Cavity to your reloading bench and experience the satisfaction of casting your own bullets!