Let’s Dive into Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 is a tool designed for reloaders who demand consistent and accurate bullets for their .30 caliber rifles. Lyman, a trusted name in reloading equipment, offers this mould as a means to cast your own 160-grain gas check bullets. This particular mould promises to deliver a classic bullet profile suitable for a variety of .30 caliber cartridges, particularly those used in silhouette shooting at higher velocities.
I’ve spent years tweaking loads for my .30-06, always searching for that perfect balance of accuracy and knockdown power. The rising cost of commercial ammunition, combined with my desire for ultimate control over bullet design, led me down the path of casting my own. I was looking for a mould that would produce a bullet weight around 160 grains, with a proven design, and that had a gas check shank.
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould arrived in a sturdy cardboard box, well-protected and coated in a rust-preventative oil. The mould halves were perfectly aligned, showing good craftsmanship from the start, and the weight of the mould felt substantial and robust. My initial impression was of a well-made tool, built to last and capable of producing high-quality bullets.
I considered several other moulds from Lyman and RCBS. I ultimately chose the Lyman #311672 because of its classic design, reputation for accuracy, and suitability for gas checks. This seemed the best option for achieving the performance I wanted in my .30-06 and other .30 caliber rifles.
My first impression was excitement. I couldn’t wait to melt some lead, cast some bullets, and see what this mould could do to improve my shooting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first casting session with the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould took place in my well-ventilated garage, set up with my casting furnace and necessary safety equipment. I was using a lead alloy of mostly reclaimed range lead with a touch of tin added to improve flow. I tested the mould using my .30-06 rifle at the range.
The casting process was smooth and relatively easy, even for a novice like myself. The mould heated up quickly and filled completely, producing consistent bullets with sharp edges. I experienced no sticking or excessive flashing.
The bullets dropped from the mould easily after a few moments of cooling. I did note that the sprue plate was a bit stiff initially, requiring a bit of force to cut the sprue. This loosened up with use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent casting, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould continues to perform admirably. The mould halves maintain their alignment, and the bullets are consistently sized. This reliability ensures my reloads are as consistent as possible.
I’ve cast hundreds of bullets with this mould, and there is minimal wear. Proper cleaning and lubrication after each use have been key to maintaining its performance. The mould requires minimal maintenance other than cleaning the lead residue from the sprue plate and lubricating the pivot points.
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould has exceeded my expectations. The mould is easy to use and produces high-quality bullets that perform well in my rifles. The consistency and accuracy I’ve achieved with these cast bullets rival some of my favorite commercial loads.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672
Specifications
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 is specifically designed for casting .30 caliber bullets. The mould casts a 160-grain bullet, ideal for .30-30, .308, .30-06, and similar cartridges.
- Bullet Weight: 160 grains. This is a versatile weight for various .30 caliber applications.
- Caliber: .30 Caliber. This dictates the bullet’s diameter for correct chamber fit.
- Bullet Design: #311672, a gas check design. The design aids in high-velocity accuracy, especially in rifles.
- Mould Type: Double Cavity. This allows for casting two bullets at a time, increasing production efficiency.
- Top Punch: #644. This specifies the appropriate top punch for seating gas checks.
These specifications are important because they ensure that the bullets cast are consistent in weight and size, critical for accuracy and reliability. The gas check design allows the bullet to be driven at higher velocities without leading the bore, a common issue with cast bullets.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould performs exceptionally well in producing accurate and consistent bullets. Its gas check design is particularly beneficial for achieving higher velocities without compromising accuracy. The bullets cast from this mould have shown excellent accuracy in my .30-06, particularly at longer ranges.
The primary strength is its ability to cast consistent, accurate bullets with minimal effort. The mould fills easily, releases cleanly, and holds its temperature well. One minor weakness is the initial stiffness of the sprue plate, but that improves with use.
This Lyman mould far exceeds my expectations. My handloads now rival factory loads in accuracy, and the process is much more rewarding and economical.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould features a classic clamshell design, constructed from durable cast iron. The mould is heavy enough to retain heat effectively, yet manageable for extended casting sessions.
The mould is relatively easy to use, even for a beginner. There’s a slight learning curve in mastering the casting process, but the mould itself is straightforward to operate. Proper preparation and technique are key to achieving optimal results.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould should last for years, potentially decades. Its robust construction and simple design minimize the risk of failure.
Maintaining the mould is simple: clean it after each use with a soft brush and lubricate the pivot points with a high-temperature grease. This ensures smooth operation and prevents rust.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould itself doesn’t come with a wide range of accessories. The essential companion is the Lyman #644 top punch for seating gas checks.
A good quality lead furnace, lead thermometer, and ingot mould are essential for the casting process. Sizing dies and a bullet sizer are also necessary for ensuring the bullets are the correct diameter for your firearm. The mould is compatible with Lyman handles and other standard casting equipment.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672
Pros
- Produces accurate and consistent 160-grain .30 caliber bullets.
- Gas check design allows for higher velocities without leading.
- Durable cast iron construction ensures longevity.
- Double cavity design increases casting efficiency.
- Relatively easy to use, even for beginners.
Cons
- Sprue plate may be stiff initially.
- Requires additional equipment (furnace, sizing die, etc.) for complete bullet casting.
Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672?
This Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould is perfect for reloaders who want to cast their own accurate .30 caliber bullets. It’s also great for target shooters and hunters seeking consistent performance. Anyone looking to reduce ammunition costs and have greater control over their bullet design will find this mould invaluable.
This product might not be suitable for those who only shoot occasionally or are not interested in the reloading process. It’s also not ideal for those who prefer lighter or heavier bullet weights in .30 caliber.
Must-have accessories include gas checks, a lead furnace, a lead thermometer, a sizing die, and a bullet sizer.
Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 is an excellent tool for reloaders seeking to produce accurate and consistent .30 caliber bullets. Its durable construction, easy-to-use design, and gas check compatibility make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters.
The price of $106.59 is justified by the quality of the mould and the potential savings in ammunition costs over time. I would highly recommend this mould to anyone interested in casting their own bullets for .30 caliber rifles.
If you’re ready to take control of your ammunition and achieve superior accuracy, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould is a fantastic choice. Start casting today and experience the satisfaction of hand-loading your own precision bullets!