Let’s Dive into Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311291 2660291
For the handloading enthusiast, few things are as satisfying as crafting your own ammunition. The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311291 2660291 offers the opportunity to cast your own 170-grain, .30 caliber projectiles, specifically designed for classic cartridges like the .30-30 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield. This mould, a double-cavity design, promises to increase casting efficiency while delivering consistent bullet weights and dimensions.
My journey into casting began with a desire for greater control over my ammunition’s performance and a way to tailor loads to specific rifles. Factory ammunition, while convenient, often lacks the precision required for serious target shooting or hunting specific game. The appeal of the Lyman mould was its promise of consistency and its compatibility with common .30 caliber rifles that are mainstays in my collection.
Upon receiving the mould, I was immediately impressed with its heft and the apparent quality of the machining. The mould halves aligned precisely, and the handles felt robust and comfortable in hand. Compared to some cheaper moulds I had seen, this one inspired confidence from the get-go.
I had considered other options, including single-cavity moulds and those from other manufacturers. The Lyman mould was chosen due to its reputation for producing accurate bullets and its double-cavity design, which I hoped would speed up the casting process. My initial impression was one of excitement; I couldn’t wait to fire up the lead pot and start creating my own ammunition.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311291 2660291 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my reloading workshop, transforming it into a makeshift casting foundry. The first session was dedicated to familiarizing myself with the mould and dialing in the optimal lead temperature. I focused on consistently producing good castings.
The mould performed well under heat. I did, however, note that it took a few “warm-up” casts to get the mould to temperature for perfectly filled bullets.
The ease of use was commendable. After a few practice runs, I developed a rhythm and began producing consistent bullets. There were no significant issues or surprises, only the satisfaction of watching molten lead transform into usable projectiles.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould has proven its durability and reliability. The mould halves continue to align perfectly, and the handles remain secure and comfortable. Minor surface discoloration from the heat is the only sign of wear.
Maintenance is straightforward; a simple cleaning with a lead remover cloth keeps the mould in top condition. Compared to other moulds I’ve used, this one seems exceptionally well-made and designed to last. It significantly outperforms the cheaper single-cavity mould I started with.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311291 2660291
Specifications
- The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould casts a .30 caliber bullet. It is ideal for rifles chambered in cartridges like .30-30 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield.
- It produces a 170-grain bullet designed for gas checks. The bullets’ design stabilizes them at higher velocities and reduces leading in the barrel.
- It’s a double-cavity mould. The double-cavity design allows for casting two bullets simultaneously.
- It utilizes a Top Punch with number 465. The use of a specified top punch ensures proper seating of the gas check and consistent bullet dimensions.
- The mould is designated #311291 with a Double Cavity # of 2660291. The reference numbers are for easy identification and ordering.
These specifications directly influence the bullet’s performance and suitability for specific applications. The 170-grain weight is ideal for medium-sized game, while the gas check design is crucial for achieving higher velocities without leading the barrel. The double-cavity design increases casting speed, making it a practical choice for serious reloaders.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould excels at producing consistent, accurate bullets. Once the mould is up to temperature and the casting process is dialed in, I consistently achieve bullets within a very tight weight range. I can then create very accurate ammunition.
The mould’s design ensures that each bullet is uniform in shape and dimension, contributing to consistent ballistic performance. There are no glaring weaknesses, although the mould does require a bit of a learning curve to master the casting technique fully. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a quality bullet mould.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould is impressive. The mould halves are precisely machined from durable iron, ensuring a tight seal and consistent bullet dimensions. The handles are comfortable and provide a secure grip, even when working with hot lead.
The mould is user-friendly. The mould’s design is relatively simple, but it requires some practice to master the technique. The double-cavity design speeds up the casting process, but also requires more precise temperature control.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a lead remover cloth after each casting session is usually sufficient.
The mould’s robust construction minimizes the risk of damage or wear and tear. It’s designed for long-term use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould itself doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the handles. However, it requires the use of a compatible top punch for seating gas checks and sizing the bullets. The Top Punch is number 465.
It is compatible with standard bullet sizing dies and gas checks available from Lyman and other manufacturers. This allows for further customization of the bullet’s dimensions and performance characteristics.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311291 2660291
Pros
- Produces Consistent Bullets: The mould is engineered to create bullets with uniform weight and dimensions, essential for accurate reloading.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality iron and sturdy handles ensure long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Double-Cavity Design: The double-cavity design increases casting efficiency, allowing for faster production of bullets.
- Suitable for Popular Calibers: The .30 caliber bullets are compatible with widely used cartridges like .30-30 and .30-06.
- Gas Check Design: The design facilitates the use of gas checks, improving bullet stability and reducing leading in the barrel, especially at higher velocities.
Cons
- Requires a Learning Curve: Mastering the casting technique requires practice and attention to detail.
- Additional Equipment Required: Requires additional equipment such as a lead pot, sizing die, and gas checks, which adds to the initial investment.
Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311291 2660291?
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould is perfect for experienced reloaders. It is ideal for those who want greater control over their ammunition’s performance and are willing to invest the time and effort required for casting their own bullets. This is a good choice for target shooters, hunters, and anyone who enjoys the handloading process.
This product is not ideal for novice reloaders. Those who are new to reloading or who prefer the convenience of factory ammunition should skip this product. They should focus on purchasing pre-made bullets from reputable manufacturers.
Must-have accessories include a lead pot, sizing die, gas checks, and a bullet lubricant.
Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311291 2660291
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311291 2660291 is a quality tool. It allows experienced reloaders to craft consistent, accurate bullets for their .30 caliber rifles. The price is justified by the mould’s durability, precision, and the increased control it offers over ammunition performance.
I would personally recommend this mould to anyone serious about handloading and seeking to optimize their .30 caliber ammunition. Dive into the world of bullet casting and experience the satisfaction of creating your own high-performance projectiles.