Let’s Dive into Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 40 Caliber/406 Diameter – #403169 2660169
For reloaders seeking to craft accurate and reliable ammunition for their vintage or modern .40 caliber rifles, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 40 Caliber/406 Diameter – #403169 2660169 presents a compelling option. This double-cavity mould, designed by Lyman, casts a 240-grain bullet, replicating the classic Winchester bullet profile used in historical cartridges such as the 40-65, 40-82, and 40-110. It allows shooters to tailor their loads for optimal performance and accuracy, breathing new life into these classic rifles.
My journey to this particular mould began when I acquired a beautifully preserved Winchester 1885 in 40-65. Factory ammunition was scarce and expensive, so I resolved to embark on the path of reloading to feed my new love. I wanted a mould that would replicate the original bullet design to ensure historical accuracy and optimal performance.
Upon unboxing, the Lyman mould felt solid and well-made. The steel was nicely finished, and the two cavities lined up perfectly. It had a reassuring heft that spoke to its durability.
I also considered a mould from RCBS and one from Lee Precision. However, I chose the Lyman due to their reputation for quality and the historical accuracy of this particular bullet design. My first impression was very positive, and I was excited to get started casting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 40 Caliber/406 Diameter – #403169 2660169 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test was conducted at my home reloading bench and later at a local outdoor shooting range. The mould heated up quickly on my hot plate, and casting was relatively smooth. The bullets dropped from the mould cleanly with minimal sticking, but there was some learning curve with mould temperature to ensure clean casts.
I tested the cast bullets in varying weather conditions. The bullets cast without problems regardless of humidity. The mould was a little slower to heat up in colder conditions.
The Lyman mould took a few tries to get used to. Getting the mould temperature just right was critical for consistent results. After a few casting sessions, I got the hang of it, and the process became much smoother.
I had one minor issue initially where a small fin of lead formed on the bullet base. This was quickly resolved by adjusting the mould temperature slightly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould has proven to be a reliable tool. There are no signs of wear and tear on the mould itself, and it continues to produce consistent bullets. The mould halves still align perfectly, and the sprue plate operates smoothly.
Cleaning and maintaining the Lyman mould is a breeze. A quick wipe-down with a lead-removing cloth and a touch of mould release before each use keeps it in top condition. The design is simple and straightforward, with no intricate parts to worry about.
Compared to my previous experiences with other brands, the Lyman mould stands out in terms of durability and accuracy. Some cheaper moulds I’ve used in the past wore out quickly or produced bullets that were undersized. This Lyman mould consistently delivers high-quality bullets that meet my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 40 Caliber/406 Diameter – #403169 2660169
Specifications
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 40 Caliber/406 Diameter – #403169 2660169 is a double-cavity mould designed to cast bullets for .40 caliber rifles. The bullet diameter as cast is .406 inches, and it throws a 240-grain bullet. It is specifically designed to replicate the Winchester bullet profile used in the 40-65, 40-82, and 40-110 cartridges.
The mould requires a Top Punch #43 for bullet sizing. It is constructed from durable steel for long-lasting use. The double-cavity design allows for faster casting, producing two bullets at a time.
These specifications are crucial for reloaders because they determine the bullet’s compatibility with specific rifles and cartridges. The .406 diameter ensures proper fit in .40 caliber barrels, while the 240-grain weight is ideal for achieving accurate and consistent performance in the 40-65 and similar cartridges. The double cavity allows for a faster reload session and the steel construction adds years of use and service.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould performs its job admirably, consistently casting accurate and uniform bullets. Its design ensures that the bullets drop easily from the mould, minimizing deformation. The bullets consistently weigh within a narrow range, typically +/- 0.5 grains.
The mould’s main strengths are its accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. The only weakness is the initial learning curve to dial in the correct mould temperature.
The Lyman mould meets and exceeds my expectations. The bullets I cast from this mould have proven to be extremely accurate in my Winchester 1885, producing tight groups at 100 yards.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould features a classic design with a comfortable handle. The weight feels balanced, making it easy to manipulate during casting. The steel construction feels robust and durable, inspiring confidence in its longevity.
The mould is user-friendly overall, but it does require some experience with casting to achieve optimal results. A beginner might need to watch some instructional videos or consult a reloading manual.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould is built to last for many years with proper care. The steel construction resists wear and tear, and the simple design minimizes potential failure points. With regular cleaning and lubrication, it should provide decades of reliable service.
Maintaining the mould is straightforward. I clean it after each use with a soft cloth and a dedicated mould cleaner. I also apply a light coat of mould release to prevent lead from sticking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould comes with the basic components needed for casting: the mould blocks, sprue plate, and handles. It does not include a top punch, which is required for sizing the bullets. As mentioned earlier, Top Punch #43 is needed to complete this function.
The mould is compatible with standard Lyman mould handles. There are no other readily available customization options beyond using different lead alloys to adjust bullet hardness and weight.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 40 Caliber/406 Diameter – #403169 2660169
Pros
- Produces accurate and consistent bullets.
- Durable steel construction ensures long life.
- Replicates a historically accurate bullet design.
- Double cavity allows for faster casting.
- Easy to maintain and clean.
Cons
- Requires a Top Punch #43 for sizing, which is sold separately.
- Some initial learning curve to dial in the correct mould temperature.
Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 40 Caliber/406 Diameter – #403169 2660169?
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould is perfect for reloaders who own .40 caliber rifles, particularly those chambered in 40-65, 40-82, or 40-110. It’s also great for those who appreciate historical accuracy and want to replicate the performance of original cartridges. This is perfect for vintage rifle competition.
Those who should skip this product are those who do not reload, or those who already have an adequate mould in this caliber. Reloaders looking for modern, high-velocity bullet designs should also look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory for this mould is the Lyman Top Punch #43. A lead thermometer will also help to dial in the correct lead temperature for consistent casts.
Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 40 Caliber/406 Diameter – #403169 2660169
Overall, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 40 Caliber/406 Diameter – #403169 2660169 is an excellent investment for reloaders looking to produce accurate and reliable ammunition for their .40 caliber rifles. The price of $107.99 is justified by its quality construction and consistent performance. It represents a significant value for vintage rifle shooters who like to reload.
I would personally recommend this mould to any reloader who owns a rifle in 40-65, 40-82, or 40-110, and wants to experience the satisfaction of shooting hand-crafted ammunition. If you want to bring these old rifles back to life, grab a Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould and start casting today!