Let’s Dive into Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles offers reloaders a chance to cast their own 9x18mm Makarov bullets. This mold produces a 95-grain round nose projectile and comes complete with handles, making it a convenient and affordable entry into bullet casting. For those looking to save money on ammunition or tailor their loads for specific applications, this mold is a compelling option.
Years of purchasing factory ammunition can be expensive. I was particularly interested in finding ways to make my 9x18mm Makarov more affordable to shoot. This mold seemed like a straightforward way to achieve that goal.
Upon unboxing, the aluminum mold blocks felt surprisingly lightweight. The handles were sturdy and seemed well-attached. The overall construction appeared simple, functional, and ready for use.
I considered a mold from Lyman and one from NOE, both reputable manufacturers. However, the Lee mold’s lower price point and included handles made it the more attractive option for my budget and beginner status. The others required purchasing handles separately, increasing the overall cost.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed simple enough. I was eager to melt some lead and see what it could produce.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my garage, which I’d converted into a reloading space. I was using a propane burner as a heat source. I quickly learned that proper ventilation is essential when working with molten lead.
The mold heated up quickly, and the first few casts were messy, resulting in wrinkled bullets. After preheating the mold on a hotplate and adjusting my pouring technique, the bullets started to fill out completely. It took roughly an hour to get consistent results.
The aluminum blocks cool down fast, which allowed me to maintain a decent casting rate. It’s a testament to the design of the mold. However, I noticed some slight imperfections on the bullets if the mold temperature wasn’t just right.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles has proven to be reasonably durable. I’ve cast several hundred bullets. I have noticed the mold blocks require occasional cleaning to remove lead buildup.
The aluminum seems to be holding up well. The handles remain firmly attached. Proper storage is key to preventing rust, especially on the handles.
Compared to friends using steel molds, the Lee mold requires more attention to temperature control. This is needed to achieve consistently good castings. However, the lighter weight and faster cooling are definite advantages.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles
Specifications
- * Manufacturer: Lee – Known for producing affordable reloading equipment. This makes casting accessible to more people.
- Caliber: 9x18mm Makarov – Designed specifically for this somewhat less common caliber. The mold meets a niche need.
- Projectile Caliber: .365 Caliber – Ensures correct bullet diameter for proper fit in the 9x18mm Makarov barrel. Accuracy relies on this.
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum – Lightweight and heats/cools quickly. The material choice allows for faster casting cycles.
- Additional Features: 2-Cavity – Produces two bullets per casting cycle. This provides a good balance between speed and manageability.
- Bullet Weight: 95 grain – A standard weight for the 9x18mm Makarov. This facilitates predictable recoil and trajectory.
- Bullet Type: Round Nose (RN) – Offers reliable feeding in most pistols. Round nose bullets are a good general-purpose shape.
- Cavity Depth: 2 in – This dimension determines the length of the bullet. The cavity depth contributes to the overall bullet shape.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the type of bullet produced. The diameter, weight, and shape all influence accuracy, feeding reliability, and terminal performance. The aluminum construction directly affects casting speed and user fatigue.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles performs adequately, producing usable bullets for practice and plinking. Accuracy is acceptable at typical pistol ranges. However, it requires some skill to master the casting process to eliminate inconsistencies.
The mold’s strengths lie in its affordability and simplicity. However, the need for precise temperature control and the occasional imperfections are weaknesses. While it meets my basic need for cheaper 9x18mm Makarov ammunition, it doesn’t exceed my expectations in terms of consistent perfection.
Design & Ergonomics
The aluminum blocks are lightweight, making them comfortable to handle for extended casting sessions. The provided handles offer a decent grip. However, some users might prefer aftermarket handles with better ergonomics.
The design is simple and functional, but there’s a learning curve to achieving consistent bullet quality. The mold requires careful attention and technique to avoid wrinkles or incomplete fills.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles should last for a reasonable amount of time. The aluminum is prone to wear, so avoid excessive force when opening and closing the mold. Regular cleaning with a lead-removing solvent will prolong its life.
The mold is relatively easy to maintain. Periodic cleaning is crucial. The handles might require occasional tightening.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles comes ready to use with handles included, which is a significant advantage. There aren’t many customization options. However, users can experiment with different lead alloys to alter bullet hardness and weight slightly.
It is compatible with Lee‘s sizing kits. These allow for precise bullet sizing after casting. Aftermarket handles from other manufacturers might fit.
Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles
Pros
- Affordable entry into bullet casting for 9x18mm Makarov.
- Lightweight aluminum construction reduces fatigue.
- Includes handles, making it ready to use out of the box.
- 2-cavity design provides a decent casting rate.
- Produces usable bullets for practice and plinking.
Cons
- Requires precise temperature control for consistent results.
- Aluminum is less durable than steel molds.
- May produce bullets with minor imperfections if technique is not perfect.
Who Should Buy Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles?
This mold is perfect for reloaders on a budget who want to cast their own 9x18mm Makarov bullets for practice and plinking. It’s also good for those who enjoy experimenting with different bullet designs and lead alloys. New reloaders looking to gain casting experience will find it useful as well.
Those seeking perfectly consistent, match-grade bullets should skip this product and invest in a higher-end steel mold. Reloaders who prioritize speed over precision might also find the 2-cavity design limiting.
A lead thermometer, a hot plate for preheating, and Lee‘s bullet sizing kit are must-have accessories. Consider investing in a good lead pot and ingot mold too.
Conclusion on Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .365-95-1r W/handles offers an affordable entry point into bullet casting for the 9x18mm Makarov. While it requires some skill and attention to detail to produce consistently good bullets, the low price and included handles make it a worthwhile investment for budget-conscious reloaders.
The value proposition is strong for those willing to put in the time and effort to master the casting process. The Lee mold is a decent starting point, but not the end-all-be-all casting solution.
I would recommend this product to reloaders looking to save money on 9x18mm Makarov ammunition and enjoy the process of crafting their own bullets. If you are new to reloading, this can be a good place to start. Start casting today!