Let’s Dive into Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440
The Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 is a simple, yet essential tool for the black powder enthusiast or anyone who enjoys casting their own projectiles. This mold, manufactured by Lee, allows you to create two .451 caliber round balls simultaneously, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to produce ammunition for muzzleloading firearms. Its straightforward design and included handles make it accessible to both novice and experienced casters, providing a reliable method for crafting consistent, round projectiles.
I stumbled upon this mold while searching for a more affordable way to feed my .45 caliber muzzleloader. Store-bought round balls can be expensive, and the idea of crafting my own ammunition appealed to my sense of self-sufficiency and the desire to engage more deeply with the historical aspects of black powder shooting. The Lee mold seemed like the perfect entry point into the world of casting.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the simplicity and lightweight nature of the mold. The aluminum construction felt durable enough for its intended purpose, and the wooden handles provided a comfortable grip. The mold halves aligned cleanly, and the sprue plate moved smoothly.
I considered other brands like Lyman and RCBS, which are known for their higher-end molds, but the Lee mold’s attractive price point and positive reviews ultimately swayed my decision. I was also intrigued by the double-cavity design, which promised to speed up the casting process. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of apprehension, as I had never cast projectiles before, but the Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 seemed like a good place to start.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the mold for the first time at my home casting setup, which is essentially a well-ventilated area in my garage. The weather was mild and dry, ideal for casting. I preheated the mold on a hot plate and used a bottom-pour lead melting pot.
The Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 proved to be surprisingly easy to use. After a few initial attempts to get the temperature and pouring technique right, I was able to consistently produce clean, round balls. A little mold release spray helped with clean drops.
The balls came out consistently round and close to the specified weight. I did experience some minor finning, but this was easily removed with a sprue cutter.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. The aluminum has held up well, with no noticeable wear and tear. The wooden handles are still securely attached and comfortable to grip.
Cleaning the mold is relatively simple. A quick scrub with a brass brush and some solvent removes any lead residue. I occasionally apply a thin coat of mold release to prevent sticking and ensure clean casting.
Compared to my previous experience of buying pre-cast round balls, the Lee mold has been a game-changer. It allows me to produce my own ammunition at a fraction of the cost, and I have greater control over the quality and consistency of the projectiles. The cost saving compared to buying ready made balls is significant.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440
Specifications
- The Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 casts two round balls of .451 Caliber. This is the standard diameter for many .45 caliber muzzleloading rifles and pistols.
- Each ball weighs approximately 137.71 grains, a common weight for .45 caliber round ball loads.
- The mold is constructed from aluminum, offering a good balance of heat retention and weight.
- The mold features two cavities, allowing for the simultaneous casting of two round balls.
- It comes with wooden handles, providing a comfortable and secure grip during the casting process. The “blind” sprue plate design ensures consistent roundness.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the accuracy, consistency, and ease of use of the mold. The precise caliber ensures a proper fit in the firearm’s bore, while the consistent weight contributes to predictable ballistics. The aluminum construction allows for efficient heat transfer, while the wooden handles provide a comfortable and safe grip.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 performs its job admirably, consistently producing round balls that are suitable for muzzleloading firearms. The mold heats up quickly and evenly, and the sprue plate cuts cleanly, minimizing finning. The ease of use makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced casters.
The main strength of this mold is its simplicity and affordability. The mold is also lightweight and easy to handle. The main weakness is the aluminum construction, which is not as durable as steel. The sprue plate can also become loose over time, requiring occasional tightening.
The mold meets my expectations for a budget-friendly, entry-level casting tool. It provides a reliable and consistent method for producing round balls, allowing me to enjoy my muzzleloading hobby without breaking the bank. It is an excellent value for the money.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 features a simple and functional design. The aluminum mold halves are precisely machined to create accurate round ball cavities, and the wooden handles are ergonomically shaped for a comfortable grip. The weight of the mold is well-balanced, making it easy to handle during the casting process.
The mold is very user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and no specialized tools. The only real learning curve is mastering the proper pouring technique and temperature control. Once these are mastered, the mold produces consistent results with minimal effort.
Durability & Maintenance
While the aluminum construction is not as durable as steel, the Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 is reasonably durable for its intended purpose. With proper care and maintenance, it should last for many years of use. I expect the aluminum to last for years, despite the lower price point.
Maintaining the mold is relatively simple. A quick cleaning with a brass brush and some solvent after each use will remove any lead residue and prevent corrosion. The sprue plate may need occasional tightening, and the wooden handles may benefit from a coat of linseed oil to prevent drying and cracking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 comes with the wooden handles, ready to use out of the box. There are no included accessories, but there are a few optional accessories that can enhance the casting experience. These are readily available.
Mold release spray can help prevent the round balls from sticking to the mold cavities, ensuring clean and easy removal. A sprue cutter is essential for trimming excess lead from the round balls after casting. A lead melting pot is necessary for melting and pouring the lead into the mold. These accessories are not essential but make casting easier.
Pros and Cons of Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440
Pros
- Affordable: The Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 is one of the most budget-friendly round ball molds on the market.
- Easy to Use: The simple design and included handles make it accessible to both novice and experienced casters.
- Double Cavity: The two-cavity design speeds up the casting process, allowing you to produce more round balls in less time.
- Consistent Results: When used properly, the mold consistently produces round balls that are suitable for muzzleloading firearms.
- Lightweight: The aluminum construction makes the mold lightweight and easy to handle.
Cons
- Aluminum Construction: The aluminum construction is not as durable as steel, and the mold may be more prone to wear and tear over time.
- Sprue Plate Loosening: The sprue plate can become loose over time, requiring occasional tightening.
Who Should Buy Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440?
The Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 is perfect for muzzleloading enthusiasts looking for an affordable and easy way to produce their own round ball ammunition. It’s also a great choice for beginner casters who want to learn the basics of projectile casting without investing a lot of money. This mold is perfect for recreational shooters.
Those who should skip this product are competitive shooters or those who demand the highest levels of precision and durability may want to consider a higher-end mold made from steel. Those who need extreme durability, might want to invest in a more expensive steel mold.
Must-have accessories include a lead melting pot, mold release spray, and a sprue cutter. A good pair of casting gloves is also recommended for safety.
Conclusion on Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440
The Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 is a fantastic entry-level option for anyone interested in casting their own round ball ammunition. Its affordability, ease of use, and consistent results make it a great value for the money. While it may not be as durable as higher-end steel molds, it’s more than adequate for recreational shooting and learning the basics of casting.
The price is definitely justified, considering the cost savings compared to buying pre-cast round balls. The mold pays for itself after just a few casting sessions.
I would definitely recommend the Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 to anyone looking for an affordable and easy way to get started with casting their own round ball ammunition. It’s a great product that will help you save money and enjoy your muzzleloading hobby even more. So, grab a Lee .451 Double Cavity Round Ball Mold W/Handle 90440 and start casting your own history!