Let’s Dive into Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477 is a staple for reloaders seeking to craft their own accurate and consistent ammunition. This particular mould from Lyman is designed to cast a 150-grain semi-wadcutter bullet, perfect for both .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges. It’s a classic design with a reputation for producing reliable results, making it an attractive option for both novice and experienced reloaders.
I’ve always been a proponent of self-reliance, and reloading my own ammunition is a key part of that. I was looking for a mould that could produce a versatile bullet for both target shooting and potentially self-defense in my .38/.357 revolvers.
Upon unboxing, the Lyman mould felt solid and well-made. The blocks fit together snugly, and the sprue plate moved smoothly. The weight gave me confidence in its durability, suggesting it could withstand years of casting sessions.
I considered the Lee Precision 6-Cavity Mould and the RCBS 2-Cavity Bullet Mould as alternatives. However, I chose the Lyman mould for its reputation for consistency and the classic semi-wadcutter design. I was excited to start casting and see how this mould performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first casting session with the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477 took place in my well-ventilated garage. I used a propane-fueled melting pot and followed standard safety precautions. The mould heated up evenly, and after a few initial casts to get the temperature dialed in, I was producing consistent bullets.
The semi-wadcutter design ejected cleanly from the mould. Even in the slightly humid conditions of my garage, I didn’t experience any sticking or significant issues. The bullets dropped freely, maintaining their shape.
The only minor issue was that it took a little practice to get the sprue plate cutting motion just right. Early on, I had a few instances of slightly uneven sprue cuts, but nothing significant.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Lyman mould has proven to be a reliable workhorse. It consistently produces bullets within a very tight weight range. I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear, despite casting hundreds of bullets.
Cleaning the mould is relatively straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a lead-out cloth after each casting session keeps it in good working order. A more thorough cleaning with a brass brush and solvent is occasionally needed to remove any stubborn lead residue.
Compared to some of the cheaper moulds I’ve used in the past, the Lyman mould is significantly more durable and consistent. The bullets it produces are noticeably more uniform in weight and shape.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477
Specifications
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477 is designed to cast a 150-grain semi-wadcutter bullet for use in .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges. The mould is made from high-quality iron and requires separate double or four cavity handles for operation. It utilizes a top punch number 429 and recommends sizing dies in .357, .358, .359, and .360 diameters.
The caliber compatibility allows for versatility in reloading. The bullet weight of 150 grains is a good compromise for both target shooting and self-defense applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477 performs its job admirably. The mould consistently produces bullets that are uniform in weight and shape, crucial for accurate shooting. The semi-wadcutter design is known for its clean hole-punching ability in paper targets.
A key strength is its consistent bullet production. One minor area for improvement might be the sprue plate design, as some users might prefer a slightly more robust cutting action. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a mould in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman mould is a classic design, known for its solid construction. The materials used are durable and the weight feels substantial. The mould blocks fit together precisely, ensuring a clean bullet shape.
It’s relatively user-friendly, although new reloaders might benefit from watching some instructional videos on bullet casting before getting started. A moderate learning curve is expected.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials and construction, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477 should last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts will extend its lifespan. The mould is relatively easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477 does not come with handles, which must be purchased separately. The mould is compatible with Lyman’s double and four-cavity handles. Sizing dies in various diameters (.357, .358, .359, .360) are essential for achieving the proper bullet diameter for optimal accuracy in your firearm.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477
Pros
- Consistent Bullet Weight and Shape: Essential for accurate reloading.
- Durable Construction: Made to last for years of use.
- Versatile Caliber Compatibility: Works for both .38 Special and .357 Magnum.
- Classic Semi-Wadcutter Design: Proven performance in target shooting.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple disassembly and cleaning.
Cons
- Handles Sold Separately: Adds to the overall cost.
- Sprue Plate Requires Practice: Can be slightly tricky for beginners.
Who Should Buy Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477?
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477 is perfect for reloaders who are looking for a reliable and consistent way to produce their own .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammunition. It is ideal for target shooters and those who want to create accurate rounds for practice.
Those who are unwilling to invest in separate handles or who prefer pre-made bullets should skip this product. New reloaders might also find a complete reloading kit a better starting point.
A must-have accessory is a good lubricant for the bullets to prevent leading in the barrel.
Conclusion on Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477 is a solid investment for reloaders seeking quality and consistency. The price is justified by its durability and ability to produce accurate bullets. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to reload their own .38 Special or .357 Magnum ammunition.
If you’re ready to take control of your ammunition supply and craft your own accurate rounds, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358477 is an excellent choice. Take the plunge and experience the satisfaction of reloading your own ammunition!