Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L Review

Let’s Dive into Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L

The Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L is a cornerstone for reloaders venturing into casting their own .22 caliber bullets. Designed by Lee Precision, this mold allows users to create consistent, flat-nosed projectiles, perfect for plinking or small game hunting. It’s an affordable entry point into the world of bullet casting, promising a blend of simplicity and reliability.

I’d grown tired of the rising costs of commercially available .22 ammunition. Casting my own bullets offered a way to control costs, tailor projectiles to my specific needs, and experience the satisfaction of creating something from scratch. The appeal of a consistent, reliable bullet mold was strong.

Upon opening the box, the Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L felt surprisingly lightweight. The aluminum blocks, while not as substantial as cast iron, seemed well-machined and ready for action. My initial impression was that this was a no-frills, functional tool designed for efficiency.

I considered the Lyman 225415 and the RCBS 22-055 RN, both respected names in bullet casting. However, the Lee mold’s lower price point and reputation for ease of use swayed my decision. I was hoping for a user-friendly experience without sacrificing quality.

I was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to melt some lead and see if I could produce consistent, accurate bullets. If the Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L could deliver on its promise of affordability and ease of use, it would be a valuable addition to my reloading setup.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L to the Test

First Use Experience

My first attempt at casting with the Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L took place in my well-ventilated garage, transforming it into a temporary casting workshop. I used a lead melting pot and followed Lee‘s recommended procedures for preparing the mold. The initial learning curve was surprisingly gentle.

The aluminum blocks heated up quickly, and the lead flowed smoothly into the cavities. I experienced minimal sticking, and the bullets released cleanly with a gentle tap. The process was far less intimidating than I had anticipated.

The mold required very little break-in time. After only a few casts, the bullets started dropping consistently and uniformly. I did notice the handles getting quite warm after a short period, so I needed to wear gloves.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L has proven to be a reliable workhorse. It consistently produces usable bullets with minimal rejects. This mold has become an indispensable tool in my reloading arsenal.

The aluminum blocks have held up remarkably well. I see no significant wear and tear, though I am careful to avoid dropping or mishandling the mold. The Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L still releases bullets just as easily as when it was new.

Cleaning is straightforward. I use a soft brush to remove any lead residue after each casting session. A light coating of Lee Mold Lube every so often keeps things running smoothly.

Compared to my experience with older, cast iron molds, the Lee mold is a significant upgrade in terms of ease of use and speed. The aluminum heats and cools more quickly, allowing me to cast more bullets in a shorter amount of time. This mold exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Lee Precision. They are known for their affordable and functional reloading equipment.
• Projectile Caliber: .22 Caliber. This makes it perfect for .22LR, .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Magnum cartridges.
• Fabric/Material: Aluminum. This makes the mold lightweight and quick to heat up.
• Bullet Weight: 55 grain. This bullet weight is suitable for a variety of .22 caliber applications.
• Bullet Type: Flat Nose (FN). The flat nose design increases the bullet’s effectiveness on small game.
• Cavity Depth: 2 in. This measurement ensures proper bullet formation.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the accuracy, consistency, and ease of use of the mold. The aluminum construction makes for faster casting sessions. The flat nose bullet provides better terminal performance on small game.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L performs its job admirably. It consistently produces bullets that are within acceptable weight tolerances. These bullets also maintain a consistent shape.

The mold’s strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use. A new reloader can use this mold with very little guidance. One weakness is the aluminum construction, which is not as durable as cast iron.

The mold meets my expectations. It provides an affordable and reliable way to cast my own .22 caliber bullets. It’s a great value for the money.

Design & Ergonomics

The aluminum blocks are lightweight and easy to handle. They help reduce fatigue during long casting sessions. The mold is comfortable to use, though the handles can get hot after extended use.

The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. There is a slight learning curve to using any bullet mold. However, this is one of the easiest molds to learn with.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L should last for many years. The aluminum blocks are reasonably durable, but they are not indestructible. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential.

The mold is easy to maintain and repair. Replacement parts are readily available from Lee Precision and other online retailers. It’s a user-serviceable tool.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L does not come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with a variety of aftermarket handles. It’s a simple tool that does not lend itself to extensive customization.

Some reloaders prefer to use a sprue plate lubricant to ensure clean cuts. Others may opt for aftermarket handles with improved ergonomics. The core functionality remains unchanged.

Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Mold C225-55-RF 90451L