Let’s Talk About Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles
Casting your own bullets is a deep dive into the world of reloading, offering unparalleled control over accuracy and performance. The Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles promises efficiency and consistency for reloaders targeting the versatile .358 caliber. This mold aims to streamline the casting process, delivering six bullets with each pour, making it a compelling option for high-volume reloaders.
I’d been searching for a more efficient way to produce accurate .358 caliber bullets for my .357 Magnum and .38 Special revolvers. I wanted something that could consistently produce bullets of the correct weight and shape without breaking the bank. The Lee mold seemed like the best fit for my needs and budget.
Upon unboxing, the aluminum blocks felt solid and well-machined, although lighter than steel molds I’ve used in the past. The absence of handles was expected, as it’s reflected in the price, but it meant I had to dedicate a set of handles to this mold. The initial impression was that this was a functional, no-frills tool ready to churn out projectiles.
Compared to single or dual-cavity molds, the Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles promises a significant increase in production speed. I considered a steel mold for its perceived durability, but the aluminum’s quicker heat-up time and the six-cavity design ultimately swayed my decision. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of apprehension about the learning curve associated with a multi-cavity mold.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my reloading workshop, focusing on getting the mold up to temperature and dialing in the casting process. I used a lead alloy of approximately 92% lead, 6% antimony, and 2% tin, aiming for optimal hardness and castability. The mold heated up relatively quickly, and after a few initial casts, I was producing consistently filled cavities.
I encountered a few initial challenges with temperature control and sprue cutting. However, after adjusting my technique and the temperature of the lead pot, I was able to produce good quality bullets, even when working in my unheated shop during a cold November.
The learning curve was manageable, and within an hour, I was consistently producing usable bullets. There were some initial imperfections, such as slight wrinkles, but those quickly disappeared as I refined my technique.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles has proven to be a reliable and efficient tool. The aluminum has held up well, showing no signs of significant wear. The mold is now seasoned and producing consistently accurate and well-formed bullets.
Durability has been surprisingly good, given the aluminum construction. I clean the mold after each casting session with a brass brush, and it continues to release bullets easily. The mold does require occasional lubrication of the sprue plate.
Cleaning the mold is straightforward, requiring only a few minutes with a brass brush and some solvent. This is far more efficient than cleaning multiple single cavity molds. Compared to my previous experience with single-cavity molds, this six-cavity mold significantly reduces the time spent casting.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles
Specifications
- Caliber: Designed for .358 Winchester caliber bullets, perfectly suited for .357 Magnum and .38 Special loads. This is a critical aspect, ensuring proper fit and function in my firearms.
- Bullet Weight: Produces 158-grain bullets, a popular and versatile weight for both target shooting and self-defense. This aligns perfectly with my preferred load data and provides good ballistic performance.
- Bullet Type: Features a Flat Nose (FN) design, which enhances stopping power and is suitable for various applications. The flat nose profile is also conducive to reliable feeding in lever-action rifles chambered in .357 Magnum.
- Material: Constructed from aluminum blocks, offering rapid heat-up and cool-down cycles. Aluminum keeps the weight down and allows for faster casting.
- Cavity: Six-cavity design maximizes casting efficiency, producing six bullets per cycle. This significantly increases the speed of bullet production.
- No Handles: This mold does not include handles, requiring the user to purchase them separately. This reduces the initial cost but adds an additional expense.
- Cavity Depth: The cavities are 6 inches deep. This ensures proper bullet formation and consistent weight.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles performs admirably, consistently dropping bullets within a very tight weight range. The flat nose design is well-defined, and the bullets are generally free of imperfections when the mold is properly heated and maintained. The mold’s primary strength is its ability to rapidly produce a large number of bullets.
The mold can be finicky when it comes to temperature control, requiring careful attention to maintain optimal casting conditions. Consistent alloy temperature and mold temperature are keys to success. While it excels at high-volume production, it can be less forgiving than single-cavity molds in terms of technique.
Overall, the mold exceeds my expectations for its price point. The quality of the bullets produced and the efficiency of the six-cavity design make it a worthwhile investment.
Design & Ergonomics
The aluminum construction keeps the mold relatively lightweight, which is beneficial during long casting sessions. However, the absence of handles means an additional purchase and assembly are required. The mold blocks themselves are well-machined and fit together snugly.
The mold requires a dedicated set of handles for operation, adding to the initial setup costs. The design is functional but not particularly ergonomic, lacking features such as insulated grips or advanced sprue plate mechanisms.
The aluminum mold is simple to use, but a slight learning curve is present.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction is less durable than steel but is sufficient for most reloaders. With proper care and maintenance, the mold should last for many years. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent leading and ensure smooth operation.
The mold is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. Replacing the sprue plate or other components is straightforward.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles does not come with any accessories beyond the mold blocks and sprue plate. Handles must be purchased separately. There are no specific customization options for this particular mold.
It is compatible with standard Lee mold handles. Aftermarket sprue plate lubricants can improve bullet release and mold life. The mold is also compatible with various bullet sizing dies to ensure consistent bullet diameter for optimal accuracy.
Pros and Cons of Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles
Pros
- High-volume production: Six cavities allow for rapid bullet casting, significantly reducing reloading time.
- Affordable price: The aluminum construction and lack of handles keep the cost down, making it accessible to budget-conscious reloaders.
- Consistent bullet weight: When properly used, the mold produces bullets with very consistent weight, enhancing accuracy.
- Versatile bullet design: The 158-grain flat nose bullet is suitable for a wide range of applications, including target shooting, hunting, and self-defense.
- Rapid heat-up: Aluminum heats up quickly, allowing for faster casting sessions.
Cons
- Handles not included: Requiring a separate purchase of handles adds to the overall cost.
- Aluminum durability: Aluminum is less durable than steel, potentially limiting the mold’s lifespan.
- Temperature sensitivity: Requires careful temperature control for optimal casting, potentially challenging for beginners.
Who Should Buy Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles?
The Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles is perfect for reloaders who need to produce a large volume of .358 caliber bullets quickly and affordably. It’s ideal for those who load for multiple firearms or participate in shooting sports where high round counts are common. It’s a good fit for hobbyist reloaders who cast frequently.
This product is not ideal for beginners, who may be overwhelmed by the temperature sensitivity and the need to master the casting process. Those seeking maximum durability or are willing to invest in a more expensive steel mold should skip this product.
A must-have accessory is a quality set of Lee mold handles, along with a lead thermometer for precise temperature control. Investing in a good bullet sizing die is also recommended for ensuring consistent bullet diameter and accuracy.
Conclusion on Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles
The Lee Six Cavity Mold .358 158gr-rf No Handles is a solid choice for reloaders seeking an efficient and affordable way to cast .358 caliber bullets. While it requires some technique and attention to detail, its ability to rapidly produce consistent bullets makes it a valuable tool for high-volume reloaders. The price is justified by the increased efficiency.
I would personally recommend this mold to reloaders who are comfortable with the basics of bullet casting and are looking to increase their production speed. If you need to cast a lot of .358 bullets, this is the way to go! Get yours today and start enjoying the benefits of casting your own ammunition.