Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457193 2640193 Review

Let’s Dive into Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457193 2640193

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457193 2640193 is a single-cavity mould designed to cast 405-grain, flat-nosed bullets perfect for the classic .45-70 cartridge. Lyman has been a trusted name in reloading for generations, and this mould represents their commitment to quality and tradition. This isn’t just a tool; it’s a gateway to crafting your own ammunition, achieving unparalleled accuracy, and reconnecting with the heritage of black powder shooting.

My journey to this particular mould began with the acquisition of a Sharps replica. I wanted to create authentic, period-correct loads for it. I was determined to move past commercially available ammunition and develop a deeper understanding of the entire shooting process, from melting lead to achieving consistent performance at the range.

The mould arrived well-oiled and ready for action. Its heft was immediately apparent, giving it a reassuringly solid feel. The design appeared simple, yet precise, and the mating surfaces of the mould halves were perfectly aligned.

I considered other moulds from brands like Lee and RCBS, but ultimately chose the Lyman for its reputation for producing consistently sized bullets and its historical accuracy. Lyman moulds have a legacy of quality, and I wanted to invest in a tool that would last a lifetime. My initial impression was excitement mingled with a touch of anticipation, eager to begin casting and seeing what this mould could do.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457193 2640193 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first casting session took place in my garage, carefully ventilated and equipped with all the necessary safety gear. I used a lead pot to melt down pure lead, carefully monitoring the temperature. The first few casts were a learning experience, adjusting my technique to get consistent fill-out of the bullet mould.

The mould performed admirably, even in the slightly dusty environment of my garage workshop. Once I found the right rhythm and temperature, the bullets began dropping cleanly from the mould. I needed a little time to get the hang of it, mostly adjusting to the mould’s heat retention and optimizing the pouring speed.

After the initial session, I did notice some minor imperfections, like small wrinkles on the base of some bullets. These were easily addressed with some fine-tuning of my casting process and lead temperature. I also quickly realized the importance of using the correct Lyman top punch (specifically, #191, as stated in the product description) when seating gas checks.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457193 2640193 has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. It has consistently produced accurate, well-formed bullets for my .45-70 loads. The mould shows no significant signs of wear and tear despite being used to cast hundreds of bullets.

Cleaning the mould is relatively simple. A quick scrub with a brass brush and some solvent removes any lead residue. Proper storage with a light coat of oil helps prevent rust and ensures smooth operation for future casting sessions.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, less precise moulds, the Lyman mould is a significant step up. The bullets it produces are more consistent in weight and diameter, leading to improved accuracy and reduced leading in my rifle barrel. It significantly outperforms anything else I have used.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457193 2640193

Specifications

• Caliber: .45 Caliber. This mould is specifically designed to cast bullets for firearms chambered in .45 caliber, primarily the .45-70 Government cartridge.
• Bullet Weight: 405 grain. The cast bullets will weigh approximately 405 grains depending on the alloy used.
• Bullet #: 457193. This is the unique identifying number for this specific bullet design within the Lyman catalogue.
• Top Punch #: 191. This refers to the correct Lyman top punch required for seating gas checks and lubricating the bullets.
• Single Cavity #: 2640193. This is the specific model number for the single-cavity version of the mould, which casts one bullet at a time.

These specifications are crucial for achieving consistent and accurate results. The .45 caliber and 405-grain weight are classic for the .45-70, delivering excellent ballistic performance at moderate ranges. Using the correct top punch ensures proper gas check seating, which prevents gas leakage and leading in the barrel, enhancing accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457193 2640193 performs its job exceptionally well. The mould casts consistent, well-formed bullets that are ideal for use in .45-70 rifles. It consistently produces bullets very close to the specified weight, indicating the mould’s precision.

The mould’s strength lies in its simplicity and durability. The design is straightforward, minimizing potential failure points. The only area that could be improved is the mould handle design, which could benefit from a more ergonomic shape.

It has absolutely exceeded my expectations. I can create custom loads that are superior to many commercially available options.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The mould halves are made from durable iron or steel, ensuring longevity. The weight is substantial, providing a solid and stable feel during casting.

The mould is relatively user-friendly, although some experience with casting is recommended. There is a slight learning curve to master the technique of consistently filling the mould without creating voids or wrinkles.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457193 2640193 should last for decades. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. The mould halves are robust and can withstand repeated heating and cooling cycles without warping or cracking.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and solvents. This is a mould built to last.

Accessories and Customization Options

The mould itself does not come with any accessories. The necessary accessories include a lead pot, a source of heat, lead alloy, a Lyman #191 top punch (or equivalent), gas checks, bullet lubricant, and a sizing die (if desired).

While the mould is not directly customizable, the cast bullets can be tailored to specific needs by varying the lead alloy, bullet lubricant, and sizing diameter. The Lyman #191 top punch is almost essential, especially when utilizing gas checks.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457193 2640193