Let’s Dive into Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285
The Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 is a seemingly simple tool, yet it holds the potential to unlock a world of customization and savings for the avid reloader. From Lee Precision, a name synonymous with affordable and reliable reloading equipment, this mold promises to cast .429 diameter, 200-grain round flat nose bullets. This mold caters to those who enjoy crafting their own ammunition. It offers both control and cost-effectiveness.
My journey to this particular mold started with a quest for increased accuracy and cost reduction in my .44 Magnum and .44 Special loads. Factory ammunition, especially for these calibers, can be quite expensive, and rarely do they offer the exact bullet profile I prefer for my various revolvers and rifles. I wanted a bullet that was accurate, fed reliably in my lever-action, and wouldn’t break the bank.
Upon unboxing the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285, I was immediately struck by its simplicity and lightweight design. The aluminum construction felt robust enough for the task, although noticeably lighter than some of my iron molds. The handles, while basic, seemed comfortable enough for extended casting sessions.
I considered other molds, notably from Lyman and RCBS, but the price point of the Lee mold was simply too compelling to ignore. While those brands undoubtedly offer premium features and materials, I was looking for a solid, reliable entry point into casting this particular bullet profile. The promise of two bullets per pour, at this price, sealed the deal.
My initial excitement was tempered by a slight apprehension; I had heard mixed reviews about aluminum molds retaining heat. However, I was eager to see if the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 could live up to its potential and deliver consistent, quality bullets for my .44 caliber firearms. It was time to put it to the test and see if it could transform my reloading process.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first casting session with the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 took place in my well-ventilated garage on a crisp autumn afternoon. I was eager to see how the mold performed and if it could consistently produce quality bullets. The ambient temperature was around 55 degrees Fahrenheit, which is worth noting as it affects the mold’s warm-up time.
The Lee mold proved relatively easy to use, although it did require a bit of a learning curve to find the optimal casting rhythm. It took me about 10-15 casts to get the mold up to temperature and start producing consistently filled-out bullets. I noticed that the aluminum construction heated up quickly but also cooled down quickly, requiring a more deliberate pour than my iron molds.
A minor issue arose during the initial session: occasional sticking of bullets in the mold. This was easily remedied with a generous application of Lee Mold Release, although it highlighted the importance of proper mold preparation. Despite this, I was generally pleased with the results after the first hour. The bullets dropped cleanly from the mold after a few taps, and the round flat nose profile looked perfect for my intended applications.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of bullets cast with the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285, I can confidently assess its reliability. The mold has held up remarkably well, showing only minor cosmetic wear despite being used with molten lead. The aluminum seems more durable than I initially anticipated.
The Lee mold consistently produces bullets within a very tight weight range, typically varying by only +/- 0.2 grains. This consistency translates directly to improved accuracy and reduced load variation. Cleaning the mold is a breeze; a quick scrub with a brass brush and some solvent removes any lead residue.
Compared to my previous experience with single-cavity iron molds, the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 is a game-changer. It significantly speeds up the casting process without sacrificing quality, making it a much more enjoyable and efficient experience. The production rate increase is substantial, making longer casting sessions much more productive.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285
Specifications
- Caliber: .429 (suitable for .44 Special and .44 Magnum)
- Bullet Weight: Approximately 200 grains (depending on alloy)
- Bullet Profile: Round Flat Nose (RF)
- Construction: Aluminum mold blocks with steel alignment pins
- Cavity Type: Double Cavity
- Handle Type: Requires separate Lee Mold Handles (sold separately)
- Manufacturer: Lee Precision
- The .429 diameter ensures compatibility with most .44 caliber firearms, while the 200-grain weight offers a good balance of recoil and penetration. This makes it a versatile choice for both target shooting and hunting applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 excels at producing consistent, well-formed bullets. The round flat nose design is known for its excellent feeding characteristics in lever-action rifles and its ability to deliver significant energy transfer upon impact. The mold fills quickly and releases the bullets cleanly when properly heated and lubricated.
However, aluminum molds are known to be more sensitive to temperature fluctuations than iron molds. This means that the user needs to maintain a consistent pouring temperature to ensure proper fill-out. Despite this slight learning curve, the Lee mold performs admirably, consistently delivering high-quality bullets.
Design & Ergonomics
The aluminum construction of the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 makes it lightweight and easy to handle. The mold blocks are precisely machined and aligned with steel pins, ensuring consistent bullet dimensions. The lack of included handles is a drawback. Separate purchase is required, adding to the overall cost.
The design is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic appeal. There is a slight learning curve to effectively use this mold due to the temperature sensitivities of aluminum, but the process becomes intuitive with practice. The round flat nose design provides a consistent and easily stackable bullet.
Durability & Maintenance
While aluminum is not as wear-resistant as iron, the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 has proven to be surprisingly durable. With proper care, this mold should last for thousands of castings. Regular cleaning with a brass brush and solvent will prevent lead buildup and maintain optimal performance.
Occasional lubrication of the alignment pins will also help ensure smooth operation. Avoid using harsh abrasives, as they can damage the mold surface. With diligent maintenance, this Lee mold should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 does not come with any accessories. The required handles must be purchased separately. While there are no direct customization options for the mold itself, the user can experiment with different lead alloys to achieve varying bullet hardness and weights.
The round flat nose bullet profile is compatible with most .44 caliber reloading dies and bullet sizing tools. This allows for further customization of the bullet’s dimensions and ensures proper fit in the firearm.
Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285
Pros
- Affordable Price: One of the most cost-effective ways to cast .429 diameter bullets.
- Double Cavity Design: Significantly increases casting speed compared to single-cavity molds.
- Consistent Bullet Weight: Produces bullets with minimal weight variation, improving accuracy.
- Easy to Use: Relatively simple design makes it easy to learn and operate.
- Durable Aluminum Construction: Holds up well to repeated use with proper care.
Cons
- Handles Sold Separately: Requires additional purchase of Lee Mold Handles.
- Aluminum Temperature Sensitivity: Requires more attention to pouring temperature than iron molds.
- Basic Finish: Lacks the refined finish of higher-end molds.
Who Should Buy Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285?
The Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 is perfect for reloaders who want to save money on .44 Special and .44 Magnum ammunition while enjoying the satisfaction of crafting their own bullets. It’s a great choice for recreational shooters, lever-action enthusiasts, and hunters who appreciate a reliable and accurate bullet profile. It is also ideal for those who are new to bullet casting. It offers an affordable entry point into the hobby.
This product might not be the best choice for high-volume competitive shooters who demand the absolute highest level of precision and consistency. Those shooters might be better served by a more expensive, high-end mold with tighter tolerances and integrated features.
A must-have accessory is the Lee Mold Handles. A quality lead pot with precise temperature control is also crucial for achieving consistent results.
Conclusion on Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285
The Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285 is an excellent value for the money, offering a reliable and efficient way to cast .429 diameter bullets. Its double-cavity design significantly increases casting speed, while its simple construction makes it easy to use and maintain. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive molds, it delivers consistent, high-quality bullets that are perfect for a variety of applications.
At $57.99, the price is certainly justified, especially considering the savings achieved by casting your own bullets. I personally recommend this mold to anyone looking for an affordable and effective entry point into the world of bullet casting.
So, grab a Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 429-200-RF 90285, melt some lead, and start crafting your own ammunition today! The satisfaction of shooting your own hand-cast bullets is an experience that every reloader should enjoy.