Let’s Dive into Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 is a cornerstone for any serious reloader looking to craft accurate and reliable .45 ACP ammunition. Crafted by Lyman, a name synonymous with quality reloading equipment, this mould promises to deliver consistent bullet weights and dimensions, crucial for both target shooting and self-defense rounds. For over a decade, I’ve relied on cast bullets for both their cost-effectiveness and superior accuracy in my .45 ACP pistols, and a quality mould is the foundation of this process.
I’d been experiencing inconsistent results with a cheaper, aluminum mould, leading to flyers and unreliable cycling in my 1911. I wanted to consistently produce accurate rounds and eliminate the frustration of sorting through piles of rejects. This led me to the Lyman mould, hoping for a significant upgrade in consistency and bullet quality.
Upon unboxing, the Lyman mould immediately impressed with its robust, steel construction and precise machining. It felt solid and well-balanced in hand, inspiring confidence in its durability and longevity. The weight was reassuring, suggesting a mould designed to withstand repeated use and maintain its critical dimensions.
Compared to my previous aluminum mould (a Lee Precision 6-cavity) and a friend’s NOE (Night Owl Enterprises) mould, the Lyman offered a different feel. While the Lee was lighter and faster to cast with, the bullets weren’t as consistent, and the NOE was very high-end and expensive, the Lyman seemed to strike a balance between quality and affordability. The choice came down to wanting that consistent casting without a huge investment.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation. Could this mould finally solve my inconsistency issues and elevate my .45 ACP reloading game? Only real-world testing would tell, but the initial signs were promising.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 took place at my local shooting range, an outdoor facility with both covered and open-air lanes. I brought a variety of lead alloys (mostly reclaimed range lead and wheel weights) and my trusty RCBS Pro-Melt furnace. My goal was to cast a large batch of bullets for an upcoming IPSC match.
The mould heated up quickly on my hot plate, and after a few initial casts to get it up to temperature, it began dropping beautiful, consistent bullets. Even on a cool autumn day, the mould maintained its temperature well, thanks to its steel construction. The bullets dropped freely from the mould with a gentle tap, exhibiting sharp edges and minimal flashing.
The initial casts were very easy to eject. There were no sticking problems.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 has proven its worth. The mould has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear or deformation. I’ve cast thousands of bullets with it, and the quality remains consistently high.
Durability has been outstanding, with no issues related to warping, sticking, or difficulty in opening and closing the mold. Regular cleaning with a brass brush and mould release agent keeps it performing like new. Compared to my previous experiences with aluminum moulds, the Lyman mould requires less maintenance and holds its dimensions far better over time.
The durability of a steel mould is far superior to aluminum. The Lyman exceeds my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374
Specifications
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 is designed to cast a 225-grain round nose bullet, specifically for the .45 ACP cartridge. It’s available in both double-cavity (#2660374) and four-cavity (#2670374) versions. The mould requires standard Lyman double or four-cavity handles, sold separately.
The mould casts bullets at approximately .452″ diameter, suitable for most .45 ACP barrels, and sizing dies are available in .450, .451, and .452″ to fine-tune the fit. The round nose (RN) profile is designed for reliable feeding in 1911-style pistols and other .45 ACP firearms. The bullet’s round nose profile is the best for reliable feeding.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the accuracy, reliability, and consistency of the ammunition. A consistent bullet weight and diameter, combined with a reliable feeding profile, are essential for achieving tight groups and reliable cycling in a .45 ACP pistol.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. I have cast thousands of bullets with it, and they consistently weigh within +/- 0.5 grains of the advertised 225-grain weight. The round nose profile ensures smooth feeding in my 1911s, and the bullets exhibit excellent accuracy when properly sized and loaded.
The primary strength of this mould is its consistency and reliability. The only area for potential improvement would be offering a version with more cavities for faster casting, although the current options are adequate for most reloaders. Overall, the Lyman mould meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-quality bullet casting mould.
This is a high quality bullet mould from Lyman with a great track record. It is hard to beat.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 is constructed from high-quality steel, which provides excellent heat retention and durability. The mould is well-balanced and comfortable to handle, even during extended casting sessions. Its weight feels solid and reassuring.
The design is user-friendly, with clearly marked cavity numbers and a smooth opening and closing action. There’s a slight learning curve to mastering the casting process, but the mould itself is straightforward to use. The mould is easily used for long casting sessions.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 should last for many years. The steel construction is highly resistant to wear and deformation, and the mould is easily cleaned with a brass brush and mould release agent.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily consisting of cleaning and occasional lubrication of the sprue plate pivot. This minimal maintenance makes it easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 does not come with any accessories, as it’s a standalone mould. However, it is compatible with standard Lyman double or four-cavity handles.
Customization options are limited to selecting the appropriate sizing die for your specific .45 ACP barrel. Other than that, the mould is designed to cast a specific bullet profile and weight. There is no other customization needed with this mould.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374
Pros
- Exceptional consistency in bullet weight and dimensions.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Reliable round nose profile for smooth feeding in .45 ACP pistols.
- Easy to use and maintain, even for beginner reloaders.
- Affordable price compared to other high-quality moulds.
Cons
- Mould handles are sold separately.
- Limited customization options beyond bullet sizing.
Who Should Buy Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374?
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 is perfect for reloaders who are serious about producing accurate and reliable .45 ACP ammunition. It’s ideal for competitive shooters, target shooters, and anyone who relies on their .45 ACP pistol for self-defense.
Those who are only interested in occasional plinking or who prioritize speed over accuracy might find a cheaper, aluminum mould sufficient. Those who want to test various bullet designs should consider the high-end, customizable molds available on the market today. A must-have accessory is a quality set of mould handles.
Conclusion on Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374
In summary, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 is a fantastic tool for any reloader seeking to produce consistent, accurate .45 ACP ammunition. Its durability, ease of use, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for both novice and experienced casters.
The price of $106.59 is justified by the mould’s quality and long-term value. I would wholeheartedly recommend this mould to anyone looking to upgrade their .45 ACP reloading setup. If you’re tired of inconsistent bullets and unreliable performance, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Auto – #452374 is the solution you’ve been waiting for.