Let’s Dive into Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles is a game-changer for reloaders looking for efficient and consistent bullet casting. Manufactured by Lee, this mold produces .358 caliber, 158-grain semi-wadcutter bullets, perfect for .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges, without the need for gas checks. This mold’s integrated handles and double-cavity design makes it an appealing choice for both novice and experienced casters.
For years, I’ve relied on commercial ammunition for my target shooting and occasional .38 Special plinking, but the rising costs pushed me to explore reloading. I wanted a mold that was easy to use, didn’t require a lot of extra steps like gas check installation, and could produce a classic, accurate bullet profile. The Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles seemed to tick all those boxes.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the lightweight aluminum construction. It felt substantial enough to be durable, but light enough to handle for extended casting sessions. The integrated handles were a welcome sight, eliminating the need to purchase them separately. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; it looked good, but I was eager to see how it performed.
I considered the Lyman 358477 and the RCBS 82047, both excellent molds, but they required gas checks and were significantly more expensive. I chose the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles because of its affordability and the promise of a simpler casting process without gas checks. I was excited to finally cast my own bullets and reduce my ammunition costs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles was at my reloading bench in the garage. I was casting bullets for .38 Special target loads. The weather was mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and dry, perfect conditions for casting.
The mold heated up quickly and within minutes I was dropping my first bullets. The integrated handles were comfortable to grip and the mold released the bullets cleanly after a few taps. One slight issue: the mold needed a thorough cleaning with a mold prep spray to avoid initial sticking.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles has proven to be a reliable performer. The aluminum has held up well, showing no signs of warping or significant wear. Proper lubrication between casting sessions has been key.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick cleaning with a brass brush and mold release spray keeps everything running smoothly. Compared to my previous experience with a steel mold that required extensive preheating and more force to release bullets, the Lee mold is a significant improvement. It consistently casts accurate and uniform bullets, making my reloading process much more efficient.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lee. Lee is well-known for offering affordable reloading equipment.
- Caliber: .38 Special, .38 Colt NP, .357 Magnum. This versatility makes the mold applicable to several popular handgun calibers.
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum W/handles. Aluminum ensures quick heating and cooling cycles.
- Additional Features: 2-Cavity. The two-cavity design speeds up the casting process.
- Bullet Weight: 158 grain. This is a standard weight for .38 Special and .357 Magnum bullets.
- Bullet Type: Semi Wadcutter (SWC). The SWC profile is known for good accuracy and clean hole punching in paper targets.
- Cavity Depth: 2 in. A sufficient cavity depth that ensures a properly formed bullet.
These specifications translate to a mold that is efficient, versatile, and capable of producing accurate bullets for a variety of handgun cartridges. The light weight reduces fatigue, and the semi-wadcutter design is ideal for target shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles performs its job admirably. It consistently drops bullets within a tight weight range, typically +/- 0.5 grains. The bullets are uniform and the semi-wadcutter design produces clean, accurate holes in paper targets at the range.
The mold’s strengths lie in its simplicity and efficiency. The integrated handles are comfortable and the aluminum construction allows for quick heating and cooling. One potential weakness is the lack of gas check shank, limiting its use in high-velocity applications without risking leading. However, for typical .38 Special target loads, it’s more than adequate.
Design & Ergonomics
The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, reducing fatigue during extended casting sessions. The integrated handles are reasonably comfortable. One minor gripe: the handles can get warm after prolonged use, requiring gloves.
The mold is user-friendly, even for a beginner like myself. After a quick YouTube tutorial and some practice, I was casting consistent bullets with minimal effort. The Lee design is straightforward and effective.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction is durable enough for regular use. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent lead buildup and ensure smooth operation. With proper care, this mold should last for years, casting thousands of bullets.
Maintenance involves cleaning the mold faces with a brass brush to remove lead residue, followed by a light coating of mold release spray. This simple process ensures consistent bullet release and prolongs the life of the mold.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles comes ready to use with integrated handles. While there aren’t many customization options specific to the mold itself, it is compatible with standard reloading equipment, such as lead pots, dippers, and bullet lubers. Using a Lee Precision Furnace and Lee Lube and Sizing Kit alongside the mold provides a complete and efficient reloading setup.
Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles
Pros
- Affordable price makes it accessible to novice reloaders.
- Integrated handles eliminate the need for separate purchase.
- Aluminum construction allows for fast heating and cooling cycles.
- Semi-wadcutter design offers good accuracy and clean hole punching.
- Two-cavity design increases casting speed and efficiency.
Cons
- Aluminum can be less durable than steel molds.
- No gas check shank limits use in high-velocity applications.
Who Should Buy Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles?
Perfect for reloaders on a budget who want to cast accurate .38 Special or .357 Magnum bullets for target shooting or plinking. It’s also a great choice for beginners looking for an easy-to-use and affordable mold.
This product is not ideal for those who require gas checks for high-velocity loads or those who prefer the durability and precision of steel molds.
Essential accessories include a lead pot, lead thermometer, bullet lube, and a bullet sizing kit. A mold release spray is also highly recommended to prevent sticking.
Conclusion on Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles offers excellent value for money, providing a simple and efficient way to cast accurate .38 Special and .357 Magnum bullets. The price is absolutely justified.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to get started with bullet casting or those seeking an affordable and reliable mold for target loads. For its price point and ease of use, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .358-158-swc No-gc W/handles is a must-have for any serious reloader. Grab one today and start casting your own accurate and affordable ammunition!