Let’s Dive into Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 378/38-55 – #378674 2640674
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 378/38-55 – #378674 2640674 is a single-cavity mould designed for casting .378 caliber bullets, specifically tailored for the classic 38-55 Winchester cartridge. This mould from Lyman produces a hefty 335-grain bullet, perfect for black powder cartridge silhouette (B.P.C.S.) shooting and long-range applications, especially in single-shot rifles. My interest in this particular mould stems from a desire to reload accurate and powerful rounds for my vintage 38-55, offering improved performance over commercially available ammunition.
For years, I’ve been frustrated with the limitations of factory 38-55 loads. They often lacked the oomph needed for truly long-range targets and the consistent accuracy I demand. I was seeking a way to tailor my ammunition to my rifle and shooting style, maximizing its potential.
Upon receiving the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction. The mould felt substantial in my hands, a testament to Lyman’s reputation for quality. Its weight inspired confidence, hinting at the precision machining I expected.
I was initially considering moulds from Lee Precision and RCBS, but I ultimately chose the Lyman for its specific bullet design for the 38-55. The 335-grain bullet seemed ideal for my intended use in single-shot rifles. My first impression was excitement – the potential to unlock the full accuracy and power of my 38-55 was palpable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 378/38-55 – #378674 2640674 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my usual outdoor shooting range, a familiar environment for load development. I cast a batch of bullets using a lead alloy of 20:1 (lead to tin), a mix known for its good expansion and accuracy in black powder cartridges. The weather was mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze.
The mould heated up quickly and maintained a consistent temperature, allowing for smooth and consistent casting. Ejection of the bullets was relatively easy, requiring only a gentle tap. I immediately noticed the consistent fill and sharp details on the cast bullets. There were no significant problems, but I found the handles could benefit from a better ergonomic design, leading to some hand fatigue after several hours.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould has held up remarkably well. I’ve cast hundreds of bullets, and the mould continues to produce consistent results. The mould shows no signs of significant wear and tear. The sprue plate remains tight, and the alignment is still perfect.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a brass brush removes any lead residue. This is followed by a light coat of mould release. Compared to my experiences with cheaper moulds, the Lyman has proven to be far more reliable and durable. The consistency in bullet weight and dimensions is vastly superior.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 378/38-55 – #378674 2640674
Specifications
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 378/38-55 – #378674 2640674 is a single-cavity mould designed to cast .378 caliber bullets. It produces a bullet weighing approximately 335 grains, depending on the alloy used. The mould requires a Top Punch #663, essential for seating gas checks and ensuring proper alignment during bullet sizing. The single cavity design ensures a higher degree of consistency from bullet to bullet, crucial for accuracy.
The 335-grain weight is ideal for stabilizing the bullet at longer ranges, particularly in rifles with slower twist rates common in older 38-55s. The .378 caliber ensures a good fit in most 38-55 barrels, minimizing gas leakage and maximizing velocity. The use of a Top Punch is vital for consistent bullet seating and preventing deformation of the bullet’s nose.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould excels in producing accurate and consistent bullets. My testing has shown that bullets cast from this mould, when properly loaded, are capable of sub-MOA accuracy in my 38-55 rifle. The bullet design is well-suited for both black powder and smokeless powder loads. Its performance has far exceeded my expectations.
The single cavity design, while slower than multi-cavity moulds, ensures each bullet receives maximum attention. This is useful for those prioritizing accuracy above speed. One minor weakness is that the single cavity can be time-consuming when needing larger numbers of cast bullets.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman mould is constructed from high-quality iron, ensuring excellent heat retention and durability. The weight feels substantial, indicating a well-made and robust tool. However, the handles are a simple design.
The mould is relatively easy to use. A beginner might require a little practice to master the casting process. However, with some basic knowledge of bullet casting, the process is quite straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
This mould is built to last. With proper care, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould should provide decades of reliable service. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the sprue plate are essential for maintaining smooth operation.
The mould disassembles easily for thorough cleaning and maintenance. Replacement parts are readily available from Lyman, ensuring long-term usability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The mould itself doesn’t come with accessories beyond the standard handles. However, it requires a Top Punch #663 for bullet sizing, and a suitable lubricant is recommended for the sprue plate. The mould is compatible with most standard bullet casting furnaces and sizing dies.
You can tailor the bullet’s performance by selecting different lead alloys and adjusting the sizing diameter. This allows handloaders to fine-tune their ammunition for optimal accuracy in their specific rifle.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 378/38-55 – #378674 2640674
Pros
- Produces highly accurate and consistent bullets for the 38-55 cartridge.
- Durable construction ensures long-term reliability and performance.
- Bullet design is well-suited for both black powder and smokeless powder loads.
- Compatible with standard bullet casting equipment and accessories.
- Allows handloaders to tailor ammunition for optimal performance in their rifle.
Cons
- Single cavity design can be time-consuming for large-scale casting.
- Handles could benefit from a more ergonomic design.
- Requires separate purchase of Top Punch #663 for bullet sizing.
Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 378/38-55 – #378674 2640674?
This mould is perfect for experienced handloaders who prioritize accuracy and consistency in their 38-55 ammunition. It particularly benefits those shooting vintage rifles or participating in B.P.C.S. competitions. This is also for those who want to develop custom loads tailored to their specific rifle’s needs.
Beginner handloaders might find the single-cavity design tedious, or the specific application limiting. Those seeking high-volume bullet production should consider multi-cavity moulds. Essential accessories include a lead furnace, sizing die, lubricant, and the Top Punch #663.
Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 378/38-55 – #378674 2640674
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 378/38-55 – #378674 2640674 is a high-quality tool that delivers exceptional accuracy and consistency for handloaders of the 38-55 cartridge. While the single cavity design might not suit everyone, the resulting bullet quality justifies the extra time for those seeking top-tier performance. The price is justified by the durability and accuracy of this mould.
I would highly recommend this mould to any serious 38-55 handloader looking to unlock the full potential of their rifle. If you’re passionate about achieving the best possible accuracy and performance with your 38-55, invest in the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould – you won’t be disappointed.