Let’s Dive into Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles is a reloading tool designed to cast your own .456 caliber, 220-grain round nose bullets, specifically tailored for the Ruger Model 44 rifle. Manufactured by Lee Precision, this mold allows reloaders to create custom ammunition at a fraction of the cost of commercially manufactured rounds. It promises an accessible entry point into bullet casting, combining simplicity with the satisfaction of producing your own ammunition.
My journey to this mold began with a quest for more affordable ammunition for my Ruger Model 44. Commercial .44 Magnum rounds can be expensive, especially for frequent practice, and I was looking for a cost-effective alternative that didn’t compromise on quality or performance.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the lightweight aluminum construction of the mold. The included handles felt sturdy enough, but I admit I was initially a little skeptical about their long-term durability. The mold halves fit together snugly, and the overall design looked simple and functional.
I considered other molds, including those from Lyman and RCBS, but the Lee mold’s price point and the included handles made it the more appealing option for a first foray into casting. The Lee mold offered a significant cost advantage, making it an easier decision for an initial purchase.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to try my hand at casting, but also a little apprehensive about the learning curve involved. I knew that successful casting required careful attention to detail, and I hoped that this mold would prove to be a reliable tool for the task.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles to the Test
First Use Experience
My first casting session took place in my garage, which I’d set up with proper ventilation and safety equipment. I melted down a lead alloy and carefully poured it into the preheated mold.
The process was surprisingly straightforward, though it definitely took a few tries to get the technique dialed in. I quickly learned that consistent pouring and mold temperature were crucial for producing clean, well-formed bullets. After some initial hiccups, the mold started consistently producing good projectiles.
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles performed well under the high heat conditions required for casting. There were no issues with the mold warping or failing to release the bullets.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Lee mold has proven to be a reliable tool in my reloading process. While the aluminum is soft and requires careful handling, it has held up well to the repeated heating and cooling cycles.
I’ve cast several hundred bullets with this mold and have only experienced minor wear and tear, primarily some slight scoring on the mold faces from handling. Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick wipe down with a soft cloth after each session is usually sufficient. A bit of mold release spray helps greatly too.
Compared to my previous experience of buying pre-cast bullets, using this Lee mold has been a game-changer. Not only am I saving money, but I also have much greater control over the quality and consistency of my ammunition. It has allowed me to fine-tune my loads for my Ruger Model 44, leading to improved accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles
Specifications
- * Manufacturer: Lee Precision. Known for producing affordable reloading equipment.
- * Projectile Caliber: .456 Caliber. Optimized for .44 caliber rifles like the Ruger Model 44.
- * Fabric/Material: Aluminum w/handles. Lightweight and heats quickly, but requires careful handling.
- * Additional Features: 2-Cavity. Allows for casting two bullets simultaneously, increasing production speed.
- * Bullet Weight: 220 grain. Suitable for a variety of .44 Magnum loads.
- * Bullet Type: Round Nose (RN). A classic bullet shape known for reliable feeding.
- * Cavity Depth: 2 inches. Specifies the length of the bullet cavity within the mold.
- * Gun Model: Ruger Model 44. Designed with the Ruger Model 44 rifle in mind.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the performance and usability of the mold. The aluminum construction ensures rapid heating and cooling, but requires gentle handling to avoid damage. The two-cavity design allows for faster production, while the 220-grain round nose bullet is a versatile choice for various .44 Magnum applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles performs its job admirably, consistently producing accurate and uniform bullets when used correctly. The bullets cast from this mold have proven to be accurate in my Ruger Model 44, achieving consistent groupings at 50 yards.
The main strength of this mold lies in its simplicity and ease of use. Its straightforward design minimizes the learning curve and makes it accessible to novice casters. However, its aluminum construction makes it more susceptible to damage if mishandled, which is a potential weakness.
It meets my expectations for a budget-friendly mold. The Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles is not a premium, high-end product, but it provides excellent value for the money.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee mold’s design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic appeal. The aluminum construction makes the mold lightweight, reducing fatigue during extended casting sessions.
The mold halves align precisely, creating a tight seal that minimizes lead leakage. Some users might find the included handles a bit basic, but they are functional and comfortable enough for occasional use. There’s a slight learning curve involved in mastering the pouring technique.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles should last for many years, producing thousands of bullets. The aluminum construction, while lightweight, requires careful handling to avoid dents or scratches.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and lubricating the hinge points with a bit of oil. Proper storage in a dry place will prevent corrosion and extend the mold’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles comes with the mold itself and a pair of wooden handles. There are no other included accessories.
While the mold itself doesn’t offer much in the way of customization, the bullets it produces can be used in a variety of .44 Magnum loads, allowing for experimentation with different powders and primers. Aftermarket handles are available if the user prefers a different handle style. Also, sizing dies can be purchased to fine-tune the bullet diameter for optimal performance in specific firearms.
Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles
Pros
- Cost-effective way to produce .44 caliber bullets.
- Easy to use, making it suitable for beginners.
- Consistently produces accurate and uniform bullets.
- Lightweight aluminum construction for reduced fatigue.
- Included handles provide a complete, ready-to-use package.
Cons
- Aluminum construction is more susceptible to damage than steel.
- Requires careful handling to avoid damaging the mold faces.
- The included handles are basic and may not be as durable as aftermarket options.
Who Should Buy Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles?
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles is perfect for reloaders looking to save money on ammunition costs for their Ruger Model 44 or other .44 caliber firearms. It is also an excellent choice for those new to bullet casting, thanks to its simple design and ease of use.
This product may not be ideal for high-volume casters who require the durability and speed of a more expensive, multi-cavity mold. Similarly, those who are particularly rough on their equipment might find the aluminum construction to be too fragile.
Must-have accessories include a lead melting pot, a lead thermometer, a bullet sizing die, and a bullet lubricant. Safety glasses and gloves are also essential for safe casting.
Conclusion on Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles offers an accessible and affordable entry point into the world of bullet casting. While it may not be the most durable mold on the market, its simplicity and ease of use make it an excellent choice for beginner reloaders and those looking to save money on .44 caliber ammunition.
The price is definitely justified, especially considering that it includes handles, making it a complete package. The Lee Double Cavity Mold .44 Ruger .456-220gr W/handles will pay for itself after casting only a few hundred bullets, depending on your purchasing price of manufactured ammunition.
I would personally recommend this mold to anyone looking to get started with bullet casting for their Ruger Model 44 or other .44 caliber firearm. It’s a reliable and cost-effective tool that will provide years of service with proper care. Dive in, cast your own bullets, and experience the satisfaction of creating your own ammunition!