Let’s Dive into Lyman 380681 Double Cavity Mould 38-55 Cal 250 Grains, 2660681
The Lyman 380681 Double Cavity Mould 38-55 Cal 250 Grains, 2660681 represents a classic approach to bullet casting for a cartridge steeped in history. The .38-55 Winchester, a darling of single-shot rifles and lever-action enthusiasts alike, demands a specific kind of attention, and this mould aims to deliver just that. Lyman, a trusted name in reloading, offers this double cavity mould to those seeking to craft their own ammunition for this iconic caliber.
My foray into casting .38-55 bullets started with a desire for ultimate control over my ammunition. Factory loads can be expensive and often don’t deliver the accuracy potential I knew my vintage Winchester Model 1885 possessed. I wanted to tailor my bullets to the rifle’s specific needs, optimizing for both accuracy and the unique characteristics of black powder or smokeless powder loads.
Upon unboxing, the Lyman mould felt solid and well-made, a reassuring sign of quality. The weight was substantial, indicative of the steel construction and precise machining one expects from a Lyman product. The mould halves aligned perfectly, promising clean and consistent bullet casting.
I considered moulds from RCBS and Lee, but ultimately chose the Lyman for its reputation for durability and its double-cavity design. The double cavity allows for faster casting sessions without sacrificing quality. My first impression was excitement – the prospect of crafting accurate and affordable .38-55 ammunition was now within reach.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman 380681 Double Cavity Mould 38-55 Cal 250 Grains, 2660681 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my reloading room, transforming into a makeshift casting workshop. Using a lead melting pot and proper safety equipment (eye protection, gloves, and ventilation), I began casting bullets with the Lyman 380681. The mould heated up quickly and retained heat well, essential for consistent casting.
The mould performed admirably, producing clean and well-formed bullets with minimal effort. Even after the mould was hot, the wooden handles of the Lyman 380681 allowed for a comfortable and safe casting session. The only initial issue was a slight learning curve in getting the right cadence for pouring and cutting the sprue, but this was quickly overcome with a few practice runs.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lyman 380681 has proven to be a reliable tool in my reloading arsenal. The mould shows no signs of wear and tear, testament to its robust construction. Regular cleaning with a mould cleaner and a light coating of mould release agent ensures smooth operation and prevents lead buildup.
Compared to previous bullet casting experiences with other less robust moulds, the Lyman has been a significant upgrade. The consistency of the bullets produced by the Lyman 380681 is far superior, leading to greater accuracy at the range. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman 380681 Double Cavity Mould 38-55 Cal 250 Grains, 2660681
Specifications
- The Lyman 380681 Double Cavity Mould casts bullets in the .38-55 Winchester caliber. This ensures compatibility with rifles chambered for this specific cartridge.
- It produces bullets weighing approximately 250 grains. This weight is a standard for .38-55, offering a good balance of velocity and ballistic coefficient.
- The mould is a double-cavity design. This allows for the casting of two bullets simultaneously, increasing production speed.
- It is constructed of steel for durability and heat retention. The steel construction ensures that the mould can withstand repeated use without deformation.
- The mould has wooden handles. The wooden handles provide a comfortable and secure grip, while also insulating the user from the heat of the mould.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman 380681 performs exceptionally well, consistently producing bullets that are uniform in size and weight. This uniformity translates directly into improved accuracy and consistency when shooting. The sprue plate cuts cleanly, leaving minimal excess lead to trim.
The mould’s primary strength lies in its ability to consistently cast high-quality bullets. One area for potential improvement could be the inclusion of a mould release agent with the initial purchase. The Lyman 380681 meets and even exceeds my expectations, considering its price point and purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman 380681 boasts a simple yet effective design, optimized for ease of use and comfortable handling. The mould’s weight feels substantial, indicative of its quality construction. The wooden handles provide a comfortable grip, even during extended casting sessions.
The mould is user-friendly, even for those relatively new to bullet casting. A short learning curve is present, but once mastered, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lyman 380681 is built to last, constructed of durable steel that can withstand the rigors of repeated use. With proper care and maintenance, this mould should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a mould cleaner and a brush.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman 380681 itself doesn’t come with accessories, but requires a lead melting pot, ladle, and sprue cutter for operation. These are essential tools for any bullet casting setup. While there are no direct “customization” options for the mould itself, the user can experiment with different lead alloys to tailor bullet hardness and performance. The mould is compatible with standard mould handles.
Pros and Cons of Lyman 380681 Double Cavity Mould 38-55 Cal 250 Grains, 2660681
Pros
- Consistently produces high-quality, uniform bullets.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Double-cavity design speeds up casting sessions.
- Wooden handles provide a comfortable and secure grip.
- Affordable price point for a Lyman quality mould.
Cons
- Requires additional equipment (lead pot, ladle, sprue cutter) for operation.
- A slight learning curve for beginners.
Who Should Buy Lyman 380681 Double Cavity Mould 38-55 Cal 250 Grains, 2660681?
This mould is perfect for reloaders who own rifles chambered in .38-55 Winchester and are looking to create custom ammunition. It is also ideal for enthusiasts of vintage firearms seeking to replicate original loads. Those seeking cost savings through reloading and ultimate control over bullet design will also benefit greatly.
Those who prefer factory-loaded ammunition or are not interested in the process of bullet casting should skip this product. Those who are extremely budget-conscious may find cheaper single-cavity molds suitable, though they will sacrifice casting speed.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality lead melting pot with precise temperature control. Also, a good set of mould handles is essential for safe and comfortable operation.
Conclusion on Lyman 380681 Double Cavity Mould 38-55 Cal 250 Grains, 2660681
The Lyman 380681 Double Cavity Mould 38-55 Cal 250 Grains, 2660681 is a solid investment for reloaders seeking to craft their own high-quality .38-55 ammunition. The price is justified by the mould’s durability, consistent performance, and the cost savings achieved through reloading.
I would personally recommend this mould to anyone serious about reloading for the .38-55 Winchester cartridge. The Lyman 380681 offers a blend of quality, affordability, and performance that is hard to beat. If you’re ready to take control of your ammunition and unlock the full potential of your .38-55 rifle, give the Lyman 380681 a try – you won’t be disappointed!