Let’s Dive into Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 isn’t just a piece of metal; it’s a gateway to personalized ammunition, offering reloaders the ability to craft projectiles tailored to their specific firearms and shooting needs. This particular mould, designed by Lyman, promises to deliver consistent 150-grain bullets perfect for both .40 S&W and 10mm Auto cartridges, two popular choices for self-defense and target shooting. The double-cavity design speeds up production, making it an attractive option for those looking to build a sizable stockpile.
As someone with over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, reloading has always been a fascinating aspect. The need arose when I was looking for a specific load for my 10mm that I couldn’t find commercially. The allure of crafting custom loads that perfectly match the characteristics of my pistols drew me to this Lyman mould.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of solid build quality. The leaded-steel construction felt substantial in hand, and the blue heat-treated finish hints at durability. Its weight, while not excessive, speaks to the robustness of the mould, and the machined surfaces exude precision.
I considered moulds from Lee Precision and RCBS, but ultimately chose the Lyman due to its reputation for consistent bullet dimensions and overall quality. The double-cavity design was also a significant factor, promising quicker casting sessions compared to single-cavity options. My initial excitement was tempered with a touch of apprehension, hoping that the mould would live up to Lyman’s reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first casting session took place in my garage, equipped with a propane burner, lead pot, and all the necessary safety gear. I wanted to start by checking the mold’s weight accuracy. The mould heated up relatively quickly, and after a few initial “rejects,” I started producing consistent bullets.
I was immediately impressed by how easily the bullets dropped from the mould with a sharp rap on the hinge. The first few casts yielded bullets that were consistent in weight. There were some slight imperfections due to my inexperience with this new mold and alloy but nothing to concern me.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of cast bullets, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould has proven to be a reliable performer. The mould maintains its temperature well, resulting in consistent bullet weights and dimensions. There has been minimal wear and tear on the mould itself, a testament to its quality construction.
Cleaning is a simple affair, requiring just a quick wipe down with a lead removal cloth after each casting session. This mold outperforms other molds I’ve used and has a higher quality build. I was able to use this mold to make my own 40 S&W bullets with ease.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654
Specifications
- The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 is designed for casting 150-grain bullets suitable for both .40 S&W and 10mm Auto cartridges. This dual caliber compatibility adds versatility for reloaders who work with both cartridges.
- It’s a double-cavity mould, allowing for the production of two bullets per casting cycle. This significantly speeds up the reloading process compared to single-cavity moulds.
- The mould requires double-cavity handles, which are sold separately. This is a crucial point to note, as the mould is useless without compatible handles.
- Lyman recommends sizing dies of .400 or .401 inches for these bullets. This ensures proper fit and function within the firearm’s barrel.
- The recommended top punch is #43. Using the correct top punch during sizing prevents deformation of the bullet’s nose.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould excels at producing consistent, accurate bullets. The bullets drop easily from the mould, and the weight consistency is remarkable. This leads to more predictable ballistics and improved accuracy downrange.
The only minor drawback is the potential for slight variations in bullet weight due to lead alloy inconsistencies. However, this is common to all lead casting and can be mitigated with careful alloy preparation. Overall, the Lyman mould far exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman mould is constructed from solid leaded-steel, providing excellent heat retention and durability. The heat-treated blue finish adds a layer of corrosion resistance and gives the mould a professional look. The mould feels comfortable in hand, even during extended casting sessions.
The only potential improvement would be slightly larger sprue plate lever for easier operation, but that is more of a preference than a necessity. There is no learning curve with this mold as I was able to cast the bullets right away.
Durability & Maintenance
The leaded-steel construction and heat-treated finish of the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould suggest a long lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, this mould should last for years, producing thousands of bullets. Regular cleaning and light lubrication of the hinge and sprue plate will ensure smooth operation.
This mold is very easy to maintain as it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. It’s important to keep it clean and in good condition so that your bullets come out right every time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould itself doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the basic mould halves. However, it’s designed to be used with standard reloading equipment, such as a lead pot, sizing die, and top punch. The user can also select different lead alloys to fine-tune bullet hardness and performance.
Lyman and other manufacturers offer a wide variety of top punches and sizing dies compatible with this mould. This allows reloaders to customize their bullets to perfectly match their specific firearms and shooting needs.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654
Pros
- Consistent Bullet Dimensions: Produces remarkably consistent bullet weights and diameters.
- Double-Cavity Design: Speeds up the casting process, increasing production.
- Durable Construction: Solid leaded-steel and heat-treated finish ensure longevity.
- .40 S&W/10mm Versatility: Suitable for casting bullets for two popular calibers.
- Ease of Use: Bullets drop easily from the mould with minimal effort.
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of double-cavity handles.
- Potential for slight bullet weight variations due to lead alloy inconsistencies (common to all lead casting).
Who Should Buy Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654?
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould is perfect for reloaders who want to craft their own .40 S&W or 10mm Auto bullets for target shooting, practice, or competition. It’s also a great choice for individuals looking to develop custom loads tailored to their specific firearms. This mold is a must-have for anyone who likes to create their own bullets.
Those who prefer to buy commercially manufactured ammunition or who are new to reloading might find this product unnecessary. If you are fine with buying commercial bullets and do not want to create your own then you can skip this product.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality lead pot with precise temperature control for consistent casting. A good sizing die is crucial for ensuring proper bullet diameter.
Conclusion on Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654
In summary, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 is a well-built, reliable tool that delivers consistent results. The dual-caliber versatility and double-cavity design make it a compelling option for reloaders seeking to produce high-quality .40 S&W or 10mm Auto bullets.
At $107.99, the price is justified by the mould’s durability and performance, particularly for those who reload frequently. This is a must-have for any serious reloader.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould to anyone looking to delve into the world of custom bullet casting. Take the plunge, get casting, and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own ammunition!