Let’s Dive into Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle
For those of us who enjoy the art of reloading, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle offers an affordable and efficient way to produce .45 caliber projectiles. This mold, manufactured by Lee Precision, promises to deliver consistent 200-grain round flat nose bullets ideal for .45 ACP and .45 Colt cartridges. The included handles and rust-resistant aluminum construction make it appealing for both novice and experienced reloaders.
My journey towards this mold began with a quest for affordable, consistent .45 caliber bullets. Factory ammunition prices were climbing, and I wanted more control over my bullet composition and overall cost. Reloading seemed like the natural next step.
Upon receiving the mold, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The aluminum blocks felt surprisingly lightweight but solid. The handles, permanently attached, felt comfortable in my hands, and the crimped block halves gave me confidence in its ability to produce consistent bullets.
I considered molds from Lyman and RCBS, both known for their high quality. However, the price point of the Lee mold, especially considering it included handles, made it an easy choice for my entry into bullet casting. It offered the best value without sacrificing (what I hoped would be) crucial performance.
My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of apprehension; I’d heard mixed reviews about Lee molds, some praising their affordability, others criticizing their longevity. However, I was eager to put it to the test and see for myself.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my home reloading bench, equipped with a propane burner and lead pot. I followed Lee’s instructions for mold preparation, which involved cleaning and preheating. It took a few casts to get the mold up to temperature and producing consistent bullets.
The mold performed admirably under controlled conditions. The aluminum heated quickly and evenly, allowing for rapid casting once the temperature stabilized. I was impressed with how easily the bullets dropped from the mold; a light tap was often enough.
The only initial issue was the sprue plate. It felt a little rough and required some smoothing with fine sandpaper to ensure a clean cut. After that small modification, everything went smoothly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle continues to perform well. I’ve cast hundreds of bullets with it. There are some minor cosmetic scratches on the aluminum, but the mold halves still align perfectly.
The mold requires occasional cleaning to remove lead buildup, which is easily accomplished with a brass brush. I also apply a thin layer of mold release spray before each casting session to prevent sticking. This has helped maintain its performance.
Compared to my previous experience using a friend’s iron mold (which was significantly heavier and slower to heat), the Lee mold is a joy to use. Its lightweight design and rapid heating make for a much more efficient casting process.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lee Precision – Known for affordable and accessible reloading equipment.
- Caliber: .45 Colt, .45 ACP – Versatile for popular handgun cartridges.
- Projectile Caliber: .452 Caliber – Standard size for .45 ACP and many .45 Colt loads.
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum – Lightweight and heats up quickly.
- Additional Features: 2-Cavity – Casts two bullets simultaneously.
- Bullet Weight: 200 grain – A common weight for .45 caliber bullets.
- Bullet Type: Flat Nose (FN) – Suitable for target shooting and some hunting applications.
- Cavity Depth: 2 in – Determines the overall bullet length.
These specifications are crucial for reloaders aiming for consistent and accurate ammunition. The aluminum construction allows for quicker heating and cooling cycles, while the two-cavity design increases production speed. The 200-grain flat nose bullet is a popular choice for its balance of accuracy and stopping power in both .45 ACP and .45 Colt platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle excels at producing consistent 200-grain flat nose bullets. The bullets drop easily from the mold, and the round flat nose design is easy to seat in cases. I’ve found the bullets to be accurate out to 25 yards in my 1911.
A major strength is its affordability and ease of use. However, the aluminum construction is less durable than iron or steel molds.
Overall, it meets my expectations for an entry-level bullet mold. It provides a cost-effective way to produce accurate bullets for my .45 caliber firearms.
Design & Ergonomics
The aluminum construction makes the mold lightweight and comfortable to handle. The permanently attached handles provide a secure grip.
The design is straightforward and user-friendly, with no complex mechanisms. There is a slight learning curve to master the casting process.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction is less durable than iron or steel. Expect some wear and tear over time, particularly around the sprue plate area.
Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a brass brush and occasional lubrication with mold release spray.
Accessories and Customization Options
The mold comes with permanently attached handles. There aren’t any specific customization options for the mold itself.
However, the resulting bullets can be loaded with various powders, primers, and case types to fine-tune the ammunition’s performance. The resulting projectiles are compatible with standard reloading equipment.
Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: Makes bullet casting accessible to beginners.
- Lightweight Aluminum Construction: Heats up quickly and reduces fatigue during extended casting sessions.
- Easy to Use: Simple design with no complicated mechanisms; great for novice reloaders.
- Consistent Bullet Production: Produces reasonably uniform 200-grain flat nose bullets.
- Included Handles: Saves the cost of purchasing separate handles.
Cons
- Aluminum Construction: Less durable than iron or steel molds.
- Sprue Plate: May require some initial smoothing for clean cuts.
Who Should Buy Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle?
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle is perfect for reloaders who are just starting out. It’s also a great choice for those on a budget, or reloaders who primarily shoot .45 ACP or .45 Colt cartridges recreationally. It also is a fit for reloaders who want to experiment with bullet casting without a significant investment.
Those seeking maximum durability and a longer lifespan might consider investing in a more expensive iron or steel mold. Also, reloaders who require extreme precision for competition shooting might find the Lee mold adequate, but should explore options known for tighter tolerances.
A lead pot, propane burner, bullet lubricant, and a good reloading manual are must-have accessories. Consider investing in a mold release spray to prevent sticking.
Conclusion on Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle
The Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle provides an excellent entry point into the world of bullet casting. Its affordability, ease of use, and lightweight design make it a compelling option for reloaders seeking to produce their own .45 caliber ammunition. While its aluminum construction isn’t as durable as more expensive molds, with proper care, it can provide years of reliable service.
The price is definitely justified, considering the included handles and the mold’s ability to produce consistent bullets. The Lee Double Cavity Mold .452-200-rf W/handle is a gateway for reloaders who seek to increase their production without breaking the bank.
I would definitely recommend it to any reloader looking for a budget-friendly way to cast their own .45 caliber bullets. Dive in, experiment, and experience the satisfaction of creating your own ammunition. Take the plunge and get casting!