Let’s Dive into Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles
Handloading ammunition offers a level of customization and cost savings that factory loads simply can’t match. For years, I’ve relied on cast bullets for everything from target practice to hunting small game, and the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles promised to streamline my bullet casting process for my .38 Special and .357 Magnum revolvers. This mold, produced by Lee, is designed to cast two 158-grain round nose bullets simultaneously, offering a more efficient way to produce a large number of projectiles for reloading.
My primary reason for seeking out this particular mold was to upgrade from a single-cavity mold. The single-cavity mold made casting feel like an all-day affair when I needed a few hundred bullets. The promise of doubling my output with each pour was incredibly appealing.
Upon receiving the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles, I was immediately impressed by its lightweight aluminum construction. The included handles were a welcome addition, saving me the cost and hassle of purchasing them separately. The blocks felt solid enough, though admittedly not as robust as some of the iron molds I’ve used in the past.
I considered several other double-cavity molds from brands like Lyman and RCBS, but the Lee mold’s price point was a significant factor. The Lee offering was substantially more affordable, making it an easier decision for a high-volume practice load. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to see how it performed in action.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles took place in my garage, which I have set up as a casting workshop. I was preparing for a local cowboy action shooting match. I typically cast bullets in batches of 500-1000 for these matches.
The mold heated up quickly, thanks to the aluminum construction. The first few casts were a bit rough as I dialed in the temperature and rhythm, but once I found the sweet spot, the bullets began dropping easily and consistently. The mold performed well, even in the somewhat dusty environment of my garage.
The biggest surprise was how quickly I could produce usable bullets compared to my single-cavity mold. The biggest issue I encountered was the handles getting hot after extended use, even with gloves, but that’s a common issue with aluminum molds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles continues to perform admirably. The aluminum blocks have held up surprisingly well, showing only minor discoloration from the heat. The Lee mold requires regular cleaning to remove lead buildup.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick scrub with a brass brush and some mold release spray keeps everything running smoothly. Compared to my experience with iron molds, this Lee mold requires more frequent cleaning, but the lighter weight and faster heat-up time make up for it. It is still faster than using a single-cavity mold.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles
Specifications
Caliber Compatibility: The mold is designed for .38 Colt NP, .38 Special, and .357 Magnum cartridges. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for reloaders who work with multiple revolvers.
Material: Constructed from aluminum with included handles. The aluminum ensures rapid heating and cooling, speeding up the casting process, and the handles eliminate the need for a separate purchase.
Bullet Weight: Produces 158-grain bullets. This is a common and versatile weight for both .38 Special and .357 Magnum, suitable for target shooting and hunting small game.
Bullet Type: Round Nose (RN). The round nose design facilitates smooth feeding in most revolvers and is generally accurate.
Cavity: Double Cavity. Casting two bullets at once significantly increases production speed.
Additional Features: The 2-inch cavity depth provides a good balance between bullet length and stability. This depth contributes to the bullet’s ballistic coefficient and accuracy.
These specifications combine to deliver a mold that is both efficient and capable of producing consistent, usable bullets for a variety of applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles performs its primary job – casting bullets – exceptionally well. Accuracy is consistent, with bullets dropping from the mold within a few thousandths of an inch of each other in diameter and grain weight. However, the handles can get hot with prolonged use.
The main strength of this mold is its speed. Casting two bullets at a time cuts production time nearly in half compared to a single-cavity mold. One weakness, inherent in all aluminum molds, is that it requires a more careful temperature control than iron molds; overheating can lead to inconsistent results.
Overall, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles meets and even exceeds expectations, particularly considering its price point. I get consistent, high-quality bullets.
Design & Ergonomics
The aluminum build of the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles contributes to its lightweight design. This is comfortable to handle, even during long casting sessions. The included handles are reasonably ergonomic.
The mold is relatively user-friendly, even for beginners. However, some experience with bullet casting is recommended to achieve the best results.
Durability & Maintenance
While aluminum is not as durable as iron or steel, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles is holding up well after several weeks of consistent use. With proper care and maintenance, it should last for several years of regular casting. Regular cleaning with a brass brush and mold release agent is essential for maintaining optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles comes with handles, which is a significant advantage. No customization options are available directly for the mold itself, but you can use various bullet lubes and sizing dies to tailor the finished bullets to your specific needs. The mold is compatible with most standard bullet casting furnaces and lead pots.
Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles
Pros
- Affordable Price: The Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles is significantly cheaper than comparable molds from other manufacturers, making it accessible to a wider range of reloaders.
Cons
- Aluminum molds need a good temperature to avoid defects.
Double Cavity Design: Casting two bullets simultaneously drastically increases production speed.
Lightweight Aluminum Construction: The aluminum heats up and cools down quickly, speeding up the casting process, and reduces fatigue during long casting sessions.
Included Handles: The included handles save you the cost and hassle of purchasing them separately.
Consistent Bullet Weight and Diameter: The mold produces bullets with consistent weight and diameter, essential for accuracy and reliable reloading.
Aluminum Durability: Aluminum is not as durable as iron or steel, potentially reducing the mold’s lifespan.
Who Should Buy Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles?
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles is perfect for reloaders who shoot .38 Special or .357 Magnum frequently and want to produce their own bullets economically. It is well-suited for target shooters, cowboy action shooting enthusiasts, and small-game hunters.
Those who demand the absolute highest level of precision and durability may prefer to invest in a more expensive iron or steel mold. Also, beginners who are only casting small batches of bullets might find a single-cavity mold more manageable.
A must-have accessory is a good quality lead pot or furnace with precise temperature control.
Conclusion on Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles is an excellent value for the money. It offers a significant increase in production speed compared to single-cavity molds at a fraction of the cost of higher-end options.
I would definitely recommend this mold to anyone looking to cast their own .38 Special or .357 Magnum bullets on a budget. While it may not be the most durable mold on the market, its performance and affordability make it a worthwhile investment for any serious reloader.
So, if you’re ready to take control of your ammunition costs and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own bullets, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-2r W/handles is a great place to start. Get casting!