Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles Review

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Let’s Dive into Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles

The Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles is a reloading component designed for casting .312 diameter bullets, specifically a 155-grain round nose. Made by Lee Precision, this mold allows reloaders to create their own ammunition for calibers like 7.62x39mm and potentially .300 Blackout. This particular mold stands out due to its double cavity design, which allows for the casting of two bullets at once, and the inclusion of handles, making it ready to use right out of the box.

My foray into bullet casting started when I began experimenting with .300 Blackout subsonic loads. Factory ammunition was expensive, and the performance was inconsistent, so I sought a way to tailor my rounds for optimal accuracy and cost-effectiveness. The Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles seemed like a budget-friendly entry point.

Unboxing revealed a simple, yet functional design. The aluminum mold halves felt lightweight, and the included handles, while basic, seemed sturdy enough for the task. The mold halves aligned reasonably well, and the hinge operated smoothly, giving me a preliminary sense of adequate build quality for the price.

I considered molds from Lyman and RCBS, both reputable brands, but their initial cost was significantly higher. I also looked at single-cavity Lee molds, but opted for the double cavity for increased production speed. Ultimately, the affordability and simplicity of the Lee mold won me over as a starting point.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the mold didn’t exude the premium feel of higher-end options, it seemed like a potentially viable tool for casting usable bullets. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could deliver consistent results.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place in my garage, set up with a portable propane burner and lead pot. I followed Lee’s instructions for mold preparation, including cleaning and lightly smoking the cavities with a candle flame. This step is crucial for easy bullet release.

The mold heated up quickly due to its aluminum construction. I found that maintaining a consistent lead temperature was critical for filling the cavities properly. The first few casts were imperfect, with some bullets showing wrinkles or incomplete fill, but after adjusting the lead temperature and pouring technique, I started producing acceptable bullets.

The mold required a bit of a learning curve. Proper alignment and a steady pouring hand were essential to minimize flashing and ensure consistent bullet weights. I experienced some sticking initially, but the candle-smoking trick worked well after reapplication.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles has proven reasonably reliable, though not without its quirks. The mold continues to produce usable bullets, but requires constant attention to lead temperature and mold cleanliness. The aluminum is soft and easily damaged.

I’ve noticed some wear and tear on the mold faces, particularly around the sprue plate. This is common with aluminum molds and requires careful handling to avoid excessive wear. The handles remain functional, but I anticipate needing to replace them eventually with more robust aftermarket options.

Cleaning is relatively straightforward; I use a lead-removing cloth to wipe down the mold after each casting session. Maintaining a light coating of mold release is also crucial. Compared to my experience with steel molds, the Lee requires more frequent cleaning and care to prevent lead buildup and sticking.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles

Specifications

The Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles features a .312 Caliber projectile diameter, ideally suited for cartridges like 7.62x39mm and certain .30 caliber rifles. It casts a 155 grain bullet, a weight suitable for subsonic loads in .300 Blackout and general-purpose use in 7.62x39mm. The mold is constructed from aluminum, making it lightweight and allowing for quick heating and cooling.

This mold creates a Round Nose (RN) bullet profile, known for reliable feeding in semi-automatic firearms. It is a 2-Cavity mold, allowing for the simultaneous casting of two bullets, increasing production rate compared to single-cavity molds. The mold also comes with pre-attached handles, removing the need to purchase them separately, making it a ready-to-use package.

These specifications matter because they dictate the compatibility of the mold with specific firearms and intended uses. The .312 diameter ensures a proper fit in barrels designed for that size, while the 155-grain weight influences bullet stability and trajectory. The round nose profile promotes smooth feeding in semi-automatic actions.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles performs adequately for its price point. The accuracy of the resulting bullets is sufficient for plinking and casual target shooting, but may not meet the demands of precision reloading. Its reliability is dependent on consistent technique and proper maintenance.

The mold’s strength lies in its affordability and ease of use for beginners. Its weakness is its relatively delicate construction and susceptibility to wear and tear. The Lee mold meets basic expectations for bullet casting, but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is basic, reflecting the Lee’s budget-friendly approach. The aluminum mold is lightweight, which can be an advantage for extended casting sessions, but it also feels less robust than steel alternatives. The included handles are functional, but the ergonomics could be improved with aftermarket options.

The mold is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and providing a relatively straightforward casting process. There is a slight learning curve to mastering consistent pouring and sprue cutting, but it’s manageable for most reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

The lifespan of the Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles is largely dependent on the user’s care and maintenance. The soft aluminum is prone to damage from mishandling or aggressive sprue cutting. Regular cleaning and proper storage are crucial to prevent corrosion and extend its useful life.

Maintenance is relatively simple, involving cleaning with a lead-removing cloth and applying mold release. Repairs are generally not feasible due to the mold’s construction and the cost of replacement parts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles includes pre-attached handles, eliminating the immediate need for additional accessories. While there aren’t specific customization options for the mold itself, users can enhance the casting process with accessories like:

Lead thermometer: To ensure consistent lead temperature.
Mold release spray: To facilitate bullet release.
Sprue plate lubricant: To ensure smooth sprue plate operation.
Aftermarket handles: For improved ergonomics and durability.

The mold is compatible with standard reloading equipment like lead pots and sprue cutters from various brands.

Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles

Pros

Affordable entry point for bullet casting.
Lightweight and easy to handle. The aluminum construction makes it easy to manage for longer casting sessions.
Double cavity design increases production speed compared to single cavity molds. This makes it more efficient to cast larger quantities of bullets.
Includes handles, making it ready to use out of the box.
Produces acceptable bullets for plinking and general-purpose reloading. This is a great way to save money compared to buying commercial bullets.

Cons

Aluminum construction is less durable than steel molds. The aluminum is softer and can be damaged if not handled carefully.
Requires consistent technique and careful maintenance for optimal results.
May not produce bullets with the precision required for match-grade accuracy.

Who Should Buy Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles?

Perfect for: Budget-conscious reloaders, beginners looking to get into bullet casting, and hobbyists who want to produce ammunition for plinking and casual target shooting. It’s an excellent starting point for experimenting with different bullet designs and calibers.

Who should skip this product? High-volume reloaders who need maximum durability and precision, competitive shooters requiring match-grade bullets, and those who prefer the robustness of steel molds. If you plan on casting thousands of bullets, investing in a higher-end mold might be a better long-term solution.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A reliable lead thermometer is essential for maintaining consistent lead temperature. Mold release spray helps prevent sticking, and aftermarket handles can improve ergonomics and comfort.

Conclusion on Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles

The Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles is a decent entry-level option for reloaders seeking an affordable way to cast their own .312 diameter bullets. While it lacks the durability and precision of higher-end molds, it provides a functional and relatively user-friendly experience for beginners. It offers a cost-effective entry point to casting.

The price is certainly justified for what you get, offering a way to save money on ammunition in the long run. However, don’t expect match-grade performance or exceptional longevity. The Lee mold is what it is – a budget-friendly tool for hobbyist reloaders.

I would recommend it to those starting their bullet casting journey or reloaders on a tight budget who want to experiment with different bullet weights and profiles. Just be prepared to invest time in learning the proper technique and maintaining the mold. Consider the Lee Double Cavity Mold .312-155-2r W/handles your gateway to custom ammunition!