Let’s Dive into Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 offers reloaders the ability to cast their own 250-grain .45 Colt bullets. This mould is designed by Lyman to provide consistent and accurate bullets for both pistols and rifles chambered in this classic caliber. It’s a tool designed for those who appreciate the art of reloading and seek to fine-tune their ammunition for optimal performance.
My interest in this particular mould stemmed from a growing frustration with the rising cost and inconsistent quality of commercially available .45 Colt ammunition. I wanted to regain control over my ammunition supply and tailor it specifically to my vintage revolvers and lever-action rifles. The promise of casting accurate, consistent bullets at a fraction of the cost of factory loads was extremely appealing.
Upon unboxing the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction and heft. The mould halves aligned perfectly, and the sprue plate moved smoothly. The overall impression was of a well-made, durable tool designed to last.
I considered several other moulds, including those from Lee Precision and RCBS. However, I ultimately chose the Lyman mould because of Lyman’s reputation for quality and precision. The user feedback also suggested that the Lyman mould produced bullets with exceptional accuracy.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to start casting my own bullets, but also aware that there would be a learning curve involved. The initial feel of the mould gave me confidence that this was a worthwhile investment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 took place in my well-ventilated garage, which I’ve converted into my reloading workspace. I was using a lead alloy composed of reclaimed bullet trap lead, tin, and antimony. The mould performed best when heated to the proper temperature, something I learned through some trial and error during the initial casting session.
The mould performed admirably, although I encountered some minor issues initially with bullet fill-out. Ensuring the mould was hot enough before pouring the molten lead helped significantly, as did tapping the mould lightly after pouring. After a few cycles, the bullets began dropping cleanly from the mould with minimal effort.
The initial bullets had a few minor surface imperfections, a common occurrence with new moulds. After lapping the mould lightly with a fine abrasive compound, the bullets came out much cleaner and more consistent. Overall, the first-time use was positive, although it required some patience and adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of cast bullets, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. The mould halves still align perfectly, and the sprue plate continues to operate smoothly. The bullets produced are consistently within a grain or two of the advertised 250-grain weight.
There are very minimal signs of wear and tear, even after extensive use. I make sure to clean and lubricate the mould regularly with Lyman Mould Lube to prevent lead buildup and ensure smooth operation. This simple maintenance has kept the mould in excellent condition.
Compared to my previous experience with a cheaper, aluminum mould, the Lyman mould is a significant improvement. The bullets are more consistent, the mould is more durable, and the overall casting process is much more enjoyable. It far surpasses my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664
Specifications
Caliber: .45 Colt: Designed specifically for the .45 Colt cartridge, a classic and versatile caliber. This ensures proper bullet dimensions for reliable chambering and accuracy.
Bullet Weight: 250 grains: This weight is a standard for .45 Colt, offering a good balance of power and manageable recoil. The 250-grain weight translates to solid performance in both revolvers and rifles.
Mould Type: Double Cavity (Optional Four Cavity): The double cavity allows casting two bullets at a time, balancing speed and manageability. The optional four cavity mould offers even faster production for high-volume reloaders.
Material: Steel: The steel construction ensures durability and longevity, capable of withstanding high temperatures and repeated use. This superior durability translates to a mould that will last for years.
Handle Requirement: Requires Double or Four Cavity Handles: These handles provide a secure and comfortable grip for manipulating the mould. Proper handles are essential for safe and efficient casting.
Top Punch: 649: Specifies the correct Lyman top punch for bullet sizing and seating. Using the correct top punch prevents bullet deformation during sizing.
Sizing Die: .451, .452: Indicates the appropriate sizing die diameters for achieving optimal bullet-to-bore fit. The correct sizing ensures accuracy and reduces leading in the barrel.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 performs its job exceptionally well, consistently producing accurate and uniform bullets. These bullets, when loaded properly, deliver excellent accuracy in my .45 Colt firearms. This mould allows for the production of ammunition tailored to specific firearm requirements.
The primary strength of this mould lies in its ability to produce consistent, high-quality bullets with minimal effort. The only area for possible improvement would be a slightly smoother sprue plate operation right out of the box. The product exceeds expectations significantly.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 is well-designed and ergonomically sound. Its robust steel construction gives it a reassuring heft, while the precise machining ensures perfect mould alignment. The handle (purchased separately) provides a comfortable and secure grip.
The mould is user-friendly, even for novice reloaders. The learning curve is relatively short, and the process of casting bullets becomes quite efficient with practice. The design is well-suited for long casting sessions.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction of the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 suggests that it will last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining its performance and preventing corrosion. The mould is designed for longevity.
The mould is relatively easy to maintain. A quick cleaning with a brass brush and solvent after each casting session keeps it in good condition. Lyman Mould Lube helps prevent lead buildup and ensures smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 itself doesn’t come with any accessories besides the mould block. However, several accessories are essential for using the mould. You will need Lyman Double or Four Cavity Handles, a lead melting pot, a lead thermometer, a sprue cutter, a bullet sizer, and bullet lubricant.
The mould is compatible with most standard bullet sizing dies and top punches. This allows for customization of bullet diameter and shape to suit individual firearm preferences. The most common customization involves using different lead alloys to achieve varying bullet hardness.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664
Pros
- Consistently produces accurate and uniform bullets for .45 Colt.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Relatively easy to use, even for beginner reloaders.
- Allows for significant cost savings compared to purchasing factory ammunition.
- Enables customization of bullet alloy and diameter for optimal firearm performance.
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of handles and other essential reloading equipment.
- May require initial lapping for optimal bullet release and surface finish.
Who Should Buy Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664?
This Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 is perfect for reloaders seeking to produce high-quality .45 Colt ammunition for revolvers and lever-action rifles. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the precision and control of handloading and wish to tailor their ammunition to specific firearms. It’s also a good fit for cost-conscious shooters looking to save money on ammunition.
Someone who is not willing to invest in the necessary reloading equipment or learn the proper casting techniques should skip this product. Individuals who only shoot occasionally and prioritize convenience over cost savings might also find this product unnecessary.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality lead thermometer to ensure consistent alloy temperature. Modifications are generally not required, but some users may choose to lap the mould for optimal bullet release.
Conclusion on Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 is an excellent investment for serious .45 Colt reloaders. Its durable construction, consistent performance, and user-friendly design make it a standout product in the world of bullet casting. It allows for precise control over ammunition quality and offers significant cost savings in the long run.
The price is justified by the quality and longevity of the product. Cheaper moulds may save money initially, but they often lack the precision and durability of the Lyman mould. The price reflects the value proposition.
I would personally recommend this mould to anyone looking to cast their own .45 Colt bullets. It’s a reliable, accurate, and durable tool that will provide years of enjoyable and cost-effective reloading. Start casting your own .45 Colt bullets today and experience the satisfaction of creating custom ammunition tailored to your firearms!