Let’s Dive into Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 is a double or four cavity mould designed for casting 147-grain, 9mm bullets. Lyman is a respected name in reloading, known for producing quality tools for handloading enthusiasts. This particular mould is designed to produce a tapered, heavy-weight bullet intended for IPSC shooting and promises excellent accuracy.
My journey towards this mould started with a desire for greater control over my 9mm ammunition. Factory ammo prices were climbing, and I wanted to tailor my rounds for specific competitions and training scenarios. I was looking for a mould that would allow me to create consistent, accurate bullets, and the positive feedback surrounding the Lyman name drew me to this particular product.
Unboxing the mould revealed a solid piece of equipment. The steel felt substantial, and the cavities looked cleanly machined, indicating good build quality. It definitely felt like a tool that could withstand years of use.
Compared to aluminum moulds I’ve used in the past, the steel construction of the Lyman mould was a significant selling point. Aluminum moulds can wear more quickly, whereas steel moulds tend to hold their dimensions longer, ensuring consistent bullet casting over the long haul. The Lyman name also swayed me.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to get it seasoned and start casting bullets, but also aware that any mould requires some initial tweaking to get optimal results. The heft of the steel gave me confidence, though.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test run of the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 took place in my reloading workshop. The temperature was a comfortable 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with good ventilation. I was using a lead alloy consisting of primarily reclaimed range lead with added tin for improved casting.
Initially, I experienced some difficulty getting the mould up to temperature. However, once the mould was properly heated, bullet casting became much smoother, and the bullets released from the mould much easier. The bullets dropped with minimal sticking once I found the sweet spot temperature-wise.
The initial “mistakes” in casting were likely due to the mould not being fully seasoned, as well as my alloy mixture needing some adjustment. After a couple of hours, and a few hundred boolits, things settled in nicely. My alloy had been refined and a better workflow developed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 continues to perform admirably. The mould shows no signs of wear, and the bullets consistently drop with a uniform size and shape. Cleaning is simple, involving a quick wipe-down with a lead-removing cloth and occasional lubrication of the sprue plate pivot point.
I’ve experienced no issues with durability, despite casting several thousand bullets. The steel construction ensures it can withstand the heat and pressure of repeated use. Compared to my old aluminum mould, the Lyman is a clear winner in terms of durability and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637
Specifications
Caliber: 9mm Luger. This mould is specifically designed for casting bullets for the 9mm Luger cartridge.
Bullet Weight: 147 grain. This weight is ideal for achieving good ballistic coefficients and accuracy, particularly in competition settings.
Mould Type: Available in Double Cavity (#2660637) and Four Cavity (#2670637) options. This allows for varying casting speeds, depending on individual needs and equipment.
Top Punch: 637. This designates the specific top punch required for seating gas checks (if used) and finishing the bullet.
Sizing Die: .354, .355, .356. These are the recommended sizing die diameters to achieve optimal bullet fit in various 9mm barrels.
Requires Double or Four Cavity Handles: This is a critical point; the mould does not come with handles, and these must be purchased separately. It requires standard Lyman double or four-cavity mould handles.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 performs its primary function – casting consistent, accurate bullets – exceptionally well. Once seasoned and used with a properly adjusted alloy, it produces very few rejects. The tapered design and heavy weight of the bullet contribute to excellent accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
Its strengths lie in its solid construction, consistent bullet weight, and ease of use once the initial learning curve is overcome. One potential area for improvement would be clearer instructions regarding optimal mould temperature and alloy composition. The mould definitely meets and exceeds my expectations after some initial tweaking.
Design & Ergonomics
The steel construction of the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 gives it a robust and durable feel. While heavier than aluminum moulds, the weight is manageable. The mould halves align precisely, ensuring consistent bullet dimensions.
The mould is relatively easy to use, especially with the four-cavity option that drastically increases casting speed. The learning curve is minimal, but some experience with casting is helpful. I recommend watching some YouTube videos if you are new.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637, being made of steel, is designed for a long lifespan with proper care. With regular cleaning and lubrication of the sprue plate, it should last for years of use. The mould is relatively easy to maintain; simply remove any lead buildup with a brass brush and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 doesn’t come with many accessories, other than the requirement for double or four-cavity handles, which are sold separately. Sizing dies in the specified diameters (.354, .355, .356) are necessary for achieving optimal bullet fit. You can further customize by using different lead alloys to adjust bullet hardness.
The mould is compatible with any standard top punch designed for a 9mm bullet, allowing for various seating depths and crimping options. Lyman offers a wide range of accessories and tools for reloading, and the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 is designed to integrate seamlessly with their system.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637
Pros
- High-quality steel construction ensures durability and consistent bullet dimensions.
- Produces accurate and consistent 147-grain 9mm bullets, ideal for competition and target shooting.
- Available in double and four-cavity options for increased casting speed.
- Relatively easy to use, especially after the initial seasoning period.
- Versatile design allows for customization through alloy selection and sizing.
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of mould handles and sizing dies.
- Can take some time to heat up properly, especially in colder environments.
- Initial learning curve may be steep for novice casters.
Who Should Buy Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637?
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 is perfect for reloaders seeking to produce accurate, consistent 9mm ammunition for target shooting, competition, and training. It is also a good option for individuals wanting to save money by casting their own bullets. Experienced reloaders will appreciate the quality and durability of the steel construction.
Individuals who should skip this product are those who are completely new to reloading and lack the necessary equipment or knowledge. Those who only need to load a small number of rounds might find the investment in a mould and related equipment unnecessary. Essential accessories include mould handles, sizing dies, a lead pot, and a bullet lubricant.
Conclusion on Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 is a well-made, durable, and accurate tool for casting 147-grain 9mm bullets. While it requires some initial investment in handles and sizing dies, the consistent performance and long lifespan make it a worthwhile purchase for serious reloaders. The price is justified considering the quality of materials and the potential savings from casting your own bullets.
I would personally recommend the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 to anyone looking to improve the accuracy and consistency of their 9mm ammunition. If you’re serious about reloading, this mould is a solid investment that will pay for itself in the long run. So, grab your Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356637 today, and start casting your own high-quality bullets!