Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles Review

Let’s Dive into Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles

The Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles is a seemingly simple tool, yet it’s the cornerstone of any handloading operation for those seeking consistent and accurate .309 caliber projectiles. This mold, manufactured by Lee Precision, allows reloaders to cast their own 150-grain flat nose bullets, perfectly suited for a variety of applications from plinking to hunting small game. With its included handles and double-cavity design, it promises efficiency and cost savings for the dedicated shooter.

I’ve always strived for self-reliance in my shooting endeavors. Factory ammunition costs can quickly add up, and I wanted more control over the performance of my rounds, tailoring them to specific rifles and shooting scenarios; therefore, I was seeking a reliable mold to produce quality .309 bullets.

Upon unboxing, the Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles felt solid and well-constructed, especially considering its price point. The aluminum mold blocks were clean and precisely machined, and the included handles felt comfortable in my hands, offering a good grip. Its lightweight nature was a notable advantage compared to some of the heavier iron molds I’ve handled in the past.

I considered molds from Lyman and RCBS, both respected brands, but the Lee mold’s affordability and the convenience of included handles ultimately swayed my decision. While the other molds might offer slight advantages in specific areas, the Lee mold presented the best value for my needs, especially as a starting point back into casting after years away from the hobby. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – excited to get started but also aware that casting can be finicky and require some practice to master.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles in my garage, which I’ve converted into a reloading and casting workshop. Using a propane burner and a lead pot, I melted down some lead alloy and began casting. The initial casts were a bit rough, as is typical with new molds.

After a few cycles of heating and cooling, the mold began to produce consistent and well-formed bullets. The aluminum construction of the Lee mold heated up quickly, allowing for a faster casting cadence, though it also required more frequent pauses to prevent overheating. The bullets dropped cleanly from the mold, thanks to the proper sprue plate design and mold release.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles has proven to be a reliable tool. The mold shows no signs of significant wear and tear, though the aluminum blocks have darkened slightly with oxidation. The handles remain secure and comfortable, and the sprue plate continues to operate smoothly.

Cleaning the mold is relatively simple, requiring only a wire brush and some solvent to remove lead residue. Compared to my previous experiences with iron molds, the Lee mold is much easier to handle and maintain, albeit potentially less durable long-term. It definitely outperforms in ease of use and speed, although more expensive molds made of steel might provide more precision.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles

Specifications

The Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles is specifically designed for casting .309 caliber bullets, ideal for cartridges like the .30-30 Winchester, .308 Winchester, and 300 Blackout (with appropriate sizing and load data). It casts bullets with a nominal weight of 150 grains, a popular and versatile weight for many .30 caliber applications. The bullet type is a flat nose (FN), which provides good stopping power and is suitable for hunting small to medium-sized game.

The mold features two cavities, allowing for the casting of two bullets per cycle, increasing production speed. It’s constructed from aluminum with included handles, which are permanently secured to the mold block; the aluminum allows for quick heating and cooling, speeding up the casting process. The handles are included, saving the user the additional expense and hassle of purchasing them separately. These specifications all contribute to efficient and economical bullet casting.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles performs its job admirably, consistently producing bullets within a narrow weight range when used correctly. The flat nose design creates a good wound channel for hunting, and the bullets are accurate enough for target shooting and plinking out to moderate distances. While not a precision mold for extreme long-range accuracy, it is more than adequate for general-purpose shooting.

A key strength is its ease of use. The aluminum heats up quickly, and the bullets release easily from the mold with proper technique. A minor weakness is that the aluminum can overheat if you cast too rapidly, requiring occasional pauses. It meets my expectations for a cost-effective and efficient bullet casting solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles features a straightforward and functional design. The aluminum blocks are lightweight and easy to handle, and the included handles are ergonomically shaped for a comfortable grip. The mold feels solid and well-built, although the aluminum is not as robust as steel.

The mold is very user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Even novice casters can quickly learn to produce quality bullets with this mold.

Durability & Maintenance

While the aluminum construction of the Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles is not as durable as steel, it is adequate for the intended purpose. With proper care and maintenance, the mold should last for many years of use. The mold is easy to clean, requiring only a wire brush and solvent to remove lead residue.

Regular lubrication of the sprue plate hinge is also recommended to ensure smooth operation. The included handles should not require any maintenance under normal use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles comes with its own handles, removing the need for an additional purchase. There aren’t many options for customization of the mold itself, but you can certainly customize the alloy you pour in and the lubricant you use.

The cast bullets are compatible with a wide range of sizing dies and bullet lubes, allowing for further tailoring to specific firearms and applications. Popular accessories from brands like Lee, Lyman, and RCBS can be used to prepare the cast bullets for loading.

Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Mold 309-150-f W/handles