Let’s Dive into Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332 is a crucial tool for any serious reloader looking to craft their own .30 caliber projectiles. This double cavity mould, manufactured by Lyman, allows you to cast two 180-grain gas check bullets at a time, providing a cost-effective and customizable solution for ammunition production.
As a lifelong shooter and reloader, I’ve always been drawn to the idea of crafting ammunition tailored precisely to my needs. I needed a reliable mould to produce consistent and accurate .30 caliber bullets for my vintage 30-40 Krag rifle.
The Lyman mould arrived in a simple cardboard box, well-protected. Upon opening, the mould felt solid and substantial in hand. The design looked clean, with smooth surfaces and tight tolerances.
I considered other moulds, including offerings from RCBS and Lee Precision. Ultimately, I chose the Lyman for its reputation for quality, durability, and the specific bullet design (311332) known for its good accuracy in 30-40 Krag and .30-06 rifles. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to melt some lead and see if it lived up to its name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332 in my reloading workshop, focusing on producing bullets for my 30-40 Krag rifle. The first casting session took place on a cool evening, with ambient temperatures around 65°F. I used a lead alloy of approximately 95% lead, 2.5% tin, and 2.5% antimony, melted in a bottom-pour casting furnace.
Initially, the mould required a bit of a learning curve. The first few casts produced bullets with slight wrinkles, indicating the mould wasn’t quite up to temperature. After a few more attempts, preheating the mould on a hot plate, and adjusting the pouring temperature, the bullets began to drop flawlessly.
I noticed that the mould handles got warm quickly. This required the use of thick gloves for safe handling. The sprue plate cut cleanly, leaving minimal excess lead. There were no major issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332 has proven to be a reliable tool. The mould consistently produces bullets within a very tight weight range (around +/- 0.5 grains). There are no signs of excessive wear and tear.
The mould requires minimal maintenance. A quick cleaning with a lead-removing cloth and a bit of mould release spray keeps it running smoothly. Compared to a cheaper aluminum mould I used previously, the Lyman stands head and shoulders above it in terms of durability and consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332
Specifications
- The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332 is designed for casting .30 caliber bullets. It produces a bullet known as the 311332, a popular design for .30-40 Krag and .30-06 rifles.
- This mould casts a bullet weighing approximately 180 grains. This is an ideal weight for general-purpose .30 caliber loads.
- The 311332 bullet design requires a gas check. Gas checks are small copper or aluminum cups that attach to the base of the bullet, preventing hot gases from melting the base of the bullet as it travels down the barrel.
- It features a double cavity. This allows you to cast two bullets with each pour.
- The recommended Top Punch for this bullet is 413. Top punches are used with bullet sizing dies to ensure proper bullet diameter for your firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332 performs its job admirably. It consistently casts bullets that are uniform in size and weight. This is essential for accurate and reliable ammunition.
The design of the sprue plate allows for clean cuts, reducing the amount of time spent cleaning up the cast bullets. One potential area for improvement would be the handles; they can get hot during extended casting sessions, necessitating the use of thick gloves or handle wraps. The bullet design itself (311332) is well-regarded for its accuracy potential, especially in older rifles like the 30-40 Krag. It meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The mould is constructed from cast iron. It feels solid and durable in the hand. The weight is significant, suggesting a robust build quality.
The handle design is simple and functional, but they do get hot quickly. There’s a slight learning curve in terms of getting the mould up to the optimal temperature and mastering the pouring technique. However, once you’ve cast a few bullets, the process becomes smooth and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its cast iron construction, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332 should last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent lead buildup and ensure smooth operation. The mould is relatively easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332 itself doesn’t come with many accessories. You’ll need to purchase a sprue plate lubricant, mould release spray, and gas checks separately. The Top Punch number is important to match when sizing the bullets. The 311332 bullet design is relatively standard, and gas checks are readily available from various manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332
Pros
- Consistently casts accurate and uniform bullets.
- Durable cast iron construction ensures long life.
- The 311332 bullet design is proven for .30-40 Krag and .30-06 rifles.
- Double cavity design speeds up the casting process.
- A reputable Lyman brand name means quality and reliability.
Cons
- The handles can get hot, requiring gloves.
- Requires the additional purchase of gas checks.
Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332?
- Perfect for reloaders who own .30-40 Krag or .30-06 rifles and seek to produce accurate and cost-effective ammunition.
- Ideal for shooters who enjoy the process of casting their own bullets and customizing their loads for specific rifles or shooting conditions.
This product isn’t suitable for casual shooters who only fire a few rounds a year or who are not interested in the reloading process.
Must-have accessories include a good quality lead casting furnace, a Top Punch die (specifically #413), gas checks, and a bullet sizer.
Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311332 2660332 is a well-made and reliable tool for any reloader looking to cast their own .30 caliber bullets. The price is justified by the mould’s durability, consistency, and the accuracy potential of the 311332 bullet design.
I would personally recommend this mould to anyone serious about reloading for their .30-40 Krag or .30-06 rifle. If you’re looking to take control of your ammunition production and achieve the ultimate in accuracy and consistency, this is a worthwhile investment. Start casting today and experience the satisfaction of shooting ammunition you crafted yourself!