Let’s Dive into Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles
The Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles is a must-have for any serious reloader looking to produce high-quality .38 caliber semi-wadcutter bullets efficiently. This mold, from the reputable Lee brand, allows you to cast six bullets simultaneously, significantly speeding up the reloading process.
My journey into reloading started as a way to customize ammunition for specific shooting needs, and the cost savings were a welcome bonus. After years of using a single-cavity mold, I was looking for a way to dramatically increase my production volume, and this Lee mold promised exactly that.
Upon unboxing, the aluminum mold felt surprisingly lightweight yet solid. The machining appeared clean and precise, promising consistent bullet dimensions, though the lack of handles meant an immediate need to source those separately.
I considered other multi-cavity molds, including those from Lyman and RCBS, but Lee’s reputation for value and the mold’s specific profile – a 140-grain semi-wadcutter – made it the clear choice for my needs. My initial excitement was tempered only by the realization that I needed to order handles before I could get started casting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my well-ventilated garage, set up with a propane burner and lead pot. I aimed to cast bullets for my .38 Special revolver and .357 Magnum lever-action rifle. The Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles, once fitted with handles, proved relatively easy to use, though the learning curve with a six-cavity mold was steeper than with my old single-cavity.
Under consistent heat, the mold filled quickly and released bullets cleanly with a sharp rap of the hinge. Even with careful temperature control, I found that the first few casts were often rejects, requiring me to remelt them, but this is typical.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles has proven to be a reliable workhorse. Consistent casting sessions have yielded thousands of bullets.
The aluminum construction, while lightweight, shows minor signs of wear around the sprue plate, but nothing alarming. Regular cleaning with a brass brush and mold release agent has kept it functioning smoothly. Compared to my old single-cavity steel mold, this Lee mold offers significantly faster production, though it requires more careful temperature management to prevent sticking or incomplete fills.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles
Specifications
The Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles is specifically designed for casting .38 caliber bullets with a semi-wadcutter (SWC) profile. It is constructed from aluminum for rapid heating and cooling.
The mold casts six bullets simultaneously, each weighing approximately 140 grains. It is compatible with .38 Colt NP, .38 Special, and .357 Magnum cartridges. The mold does not include handles, which must be purchased separately.
These specifications are important because the SWC profile is known for its accuracy and clean hole punching in paper targets, making it ideal for target shooting and competition. The aluminum construction ensures rapid temperature cycling, increasing casting speed.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles performs admirably once the user masters the technique of temperature control and consistent sprue cutting. Accuracy is excellent, with consistent bullet weights and dimensions ensuring tight groupings at the range.
The mold’s main strength is its ability to produce a large quantity of bullets quickly. Its primary weakness is its greater sensitivity to temperature fluctuations compared to steel molds. It meets my expectations for a high-volume casting solution, though it requires a more attentive approach.
Design & Ergonomics
The aluminum construction of the Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles makes it lightweight and easy to handle. The six-cavity design, while increasing production speed, also requires a more robust sprue plate and hinge mechanism.
The mold is relatively user-friendly, though beginners may experience a learning curve due to the multiple cavities. The lack of handles means an additional purchase and assembly step.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction of the Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles means it likely won’t last as long as a steel mold under heavy use. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent sticking and maintain smooth operation.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a brass brush, mold release agent, and occasional cleaning of the sprue plate. With proper care, the mold should provide many years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles does not come with any accessories beyond the mold itself. Essential accessories include mold handles (specifically Lee handles), a lead pot, a propane burner, and bullet lubricant.
The mold is compatible with standard Lee mold handles and can be used with various bullet lubricants. While there are no direct customization options for the mold itself, the bullets it produces can be customized with different powder coatings or lubes for specific shooting applications.
Pros and Cons of Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles
Pros
- High-volume bullet production: The six-cavity design significantly increases casting speed.
- Excellent accuracy: Consistent bullet weights and dimensions promote tight groupings.
- Lightweight and easy to handle: The aluminum construction reduces fatigue during long casting sessions.
- Cost-effective: Lee molds offer excellent value compared to higher-priced competitors.
- Versatile: The 140-grain SWC profile is suitable for a wide range of .38 caliber applications.
Cons
- Handles not included: Requires an additional purchase.
- More sensitive to temperature fluctuations: Requires careful temperature management for consistent results.
- Aluminum construction: May not be as durable as steel molds under heavy use.
Who Should Buy Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles?
The Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles is perfect for reloaders who shoot .38 Special or .357 Magnum frequently and want to significantly increase their bullet production rate. It’s also a great choice for competitive shooters who need a consistent and accurate bullet profile for target shooting.
This product might not be the best choice for beginner reloaders who are just starting out. A single-cavity mold might be more forgiving for learning the basics. It’s also not ideal for those who prioritize ultimate durability over casting speed.
A must-have accessory is definitely a set of Lee mold handles. A high-quality lead thermometer is also recommended for precise temperature control.
Conclusion on Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles
The Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles is an excellent tool for reloaders seeking to increase their production of .38 caliber SWC bullets. The speed and accuracy this mold provides make it a worthwhile investment for high-volume shooters.
The price is justified by the increased efficiency and consistent bullet quality. It significantly speeds up the bullet casting process, making it more enjoyable and less time-consuming.
I would definitely recommend this mold to any experienced reloader looking to upgrade their bullet casting capabilities. If you’re ready to take your reloading to the next level, grab the Lee Six Cavity Mold .38 140gr-swc No Handles and start cranking out those rounds!