Let’s Dive into Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242 isn’t just a tool; it’s a gateway to crafting consistent and accurate 9mm rounds tailored to your specific firearm and preferences. Made by Lyman, a name synonymous with reloading excellence, this double-cavity mould allows reloaders to cast 120-grain round nose bullets, a popular choice for various 9mm applications. This particular mould presents an avenue for shooters to fine-tune their ammunition for optimal performance, control costs, and delve deeper into the art of reloading.
Years of buying factory ammunition had left me feeling detached from the shooting process, so I wanted a mould that offered consistent results and the ability to tailor my rounds. I was tired of inconsistent groupings and the rising cost of commercially produced ammo. This mould offered the potential for precision and customization that I craved.
Upon unboxing, the Lyman mould felt solid and well-machined, boasting a reassuring heft that speaks to its durability. The steel blocks mated cleanly, exhibiting tight tolerances, and the handles (sold separately, a point to note) attached securely, offering a comfortable grip. My initial impression was one of quality and precision.
Compared to Lee Precision’s moulds, which I’ve used in the past, the Lyman felt significantly more robust and precise. While Lee moulds offer affordability, the Lyman promised enhanced consistency and longevity. RCBS also makes excellent moulds, but their 9mm offerings at the time didn’t quite match the specific 120-grain round nose profile I was after.
I was excited to get started. The potential to create custom ammunition tailored to my handgun and shooting style was incredibly appealing. I envisioned tighter groupings, more consistent recoil, and a deeper connection with the entire shooting process.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first casting session with the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242 took place in my well-ventilated garage, transformed into a reloading workshop. I used a lead alloy of approximately 92% lead, 6% antimony, and 2% tin. This alloy is a common choice for handgun bullets, offering a good balance of hardness and malleability.
The mould performed admirably, even after only a short learning curve. After preheating the mould on a hotplate, the lead flowed smoothly into the cavities, releasing clean, well-formed bullets with minimal effort. The 120-grain round nose bullets dropped easily from the mould with a sharp rap of the hinge.
There was some initial fiddling with mould temperature and pouring speed to achieve consistent fill-out, however, after just a few cycles, I was producing beautiful bullets. Initially, the sprue plate was a little tight, but a touch of high-temp grease resolved this issue quickly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of bullets cast, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242 continues to perform reliably. The mould shows no signs of wear or degradation, attesting to its robust construction. The mould still opens and closes smoothly, and the sprue plate remains securely aligned.
Maintaining the mould is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a brass brush and solvent to remove lead residue. A light coating of mould release agent before each casting session ensures easy bullet release and prevents lead sticking. This small step helps guarantee the longevity of the mold.
Compared to my experience with cheaper aluminum moulds, the Lyman mould’s consistency is exceptional. The bullets consistently weigh within a tight tolerance, contributing to more predictable accuracy at the range. The added weight and even heating of the steel provides a much more consistent final product.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242
Specifications
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242 is a double-cavity mould designed to cast 120-grain round nose bullets for the 9mm Luger cartridge. This particular mould requires double-cavity handles, which are sold separately. The top punch required for this mould is #311.
The finished bullets should ideally be sized to .354, .355, or .356 inches, depending on your firearm’s bore diameter and preferred bullet fit. Lyman states that this particular mould was designed to create a heavier 120-grain bullet for 9mm, and it is reported to offer good accuracy. The mould itself is made from steel.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the performance and accuracy of your hand-loaded ammunition. A correctly sized bullet ensures proper chambering, optimal barrel engagement, and consistent pressures, ultimately contributing to improved accuracy and reduced leading. The bullet weight also impacts recoil and ballistic performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242 excels at producing consistent, high-quality 120-grain round nose bullets. The bullets cast from this mould exhibit uniform weight and dimensions, contributing to excellent accuracy. I have consistently achieved tighter groupings with ammunition loaded using these bullets.
The mould’s double-cavity design allows for efficient casting, producing two bullets per cycle, which speeds up the reloading process considerably. The sprue plate cuts cleanly, minimizing the need for trimming and reducing waste. It is, simply put, a well-engineered tool.
A minor weakness is the initial learning curve required to optimize casting technique and mould temperature. It may take a few sessions to dial in the process and achieve consistent fill-out and easy bullet release. The need to purchase handles separately adds to the overall cost.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman mould’s steel construction ensures durability and even heat distribution, contributing to consistent bullet formation. The blocks are precisely machined and mate seamlessly, minimizing flash and ensuring accurate bullet dimensions. The overall build quality is superb.
While the mould itself is well-designed, the separate purchase of handles is a minor drawback. The handles, when properly attached, provide a comfortable and secure grip, however, it would be more convenient if they were included. With use, the handles provide leverage.
There is a slight learning curve required to master the casting process, but once you get the hang of it, the mould is easy to use and produces excellent results. Beginners might be slightly intimidated initially but the results are worth the effort. A good set of gloves helps protect your hands from the heat.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242, crafted from durable steel, is built to last for years with proper care. The mould is resistant to wear and tear, and the tight tolerances ensure consistent bullet dimensions over time. With a little preventative maintenance, this mould should last a lifetime.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving occasional cleaning with a brass brush and solvent to remove lead buildup. A light coating of mould release agent before each casting session further simplifies maintenance and prevents lead from sticking. The mould does not need extensive upkeep.
Keeping the sprue plate clean and lubricated is crucial for smooth operation and clean cuts. This simple step will extend the mould’s lifespan and ensure optimal performance. A little grease goes a long way with consistent use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242 does not come with any accessories beyond the mould blocks and sprue plate. Handles must be purchased separately. You will also need a top punch (#311) for bullet seating during reloading.
While the mould itself is not directly customizable, the resulting bullets can be tailored to your specific needs. Varying the lead alloy, sizing the bullets to different diameters, and experimenting with different powder charges allows for extensive customization of your hand-loaded ammunition. The Lyman mould is compatible with standard reloading equipment from various brands.
It is important to select the appropriate sizing die (.354, .355, or .356) based on your firearm’s bore diameter and preferred bullet fit. This ensures optimal accuracy and prevents over-pressure. You will also need a lead pot and a hotplate to preheat the mould.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242
Pros
- Produces consistent, high-quality 120-grain round nose bullets, resulting in improved accuracy.
- Durable steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
- Double-cavity design allows for efficient casting, speeding up the reloading process.
- Precise machining and tight tolerances minimize flash and ensure accurate bullet dimensions.
- Allows reloaders to fine-tune their ammunition for optimal performance and control costs.
Cons
- Handles must be purchased separately, adding to the overall cost.
- Requires a learning curve to optimize casting technique and mould temperature.
- Sprue plate can be tight initially and may require lubrication for smooth operation.
Who Should Buy Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242?
This Lyman mould is perfect for experienced reloaders seeking to craft high-quality, accurate 9mm ammunition tailored to their specific firearms. It is also suitable for competitive shooters seeking to optimize their ammunition for match performance and for individuals interested in exploring the art of casting their own bullets. The ability to customize your own ammunition provides greater control over your shooting experience.
Beginners who are new to reloading may find this mould slightly intimidating initially, and might prefer to start with a less expensive, single-cavity mould. Those who only require a small number of bullets or who are not interested in the reloading process should skip this product. Also, individuals on a very tight budget might consider less expensive alternatives.
Essential accessories include Lyman double-cavity handles, a #311 top punch, a lead pot, a hotplate, a sizing die (.354, .355, or .356), and a bullet lubricant. These accessories are crucial for safe and efficient operation. Proper ventilation and personal protective equipment (gloves, eye protection) are also essential.
Conclusion on Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242
The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242 is a well-engineered, durable, and accurate tool for crafting high-quality 120-grain round nose bullets. While the separate purchase of handles is a minor inconvenience, the mould’s performance and longevity justify the cost. The consistency and quality of the bullets produced by this mould are exceptional.
The Lyman mould offers a significant value proposition for serious reloaders who demand precision and control over their ammunition. The ability to customize your loads and achieve tighter groupings makes this mould a worthwhile investment. Considering the cost savings from reloading compared to buying commercial ammunition, the Lyman mould quickly pays for itself.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242 to any reloader seeking to elevate their 9mm ammunition to the next level. Its accuracy, durability, and efficiency make it a valuable addition to any reloading bench. Invest in the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 9mm – #356242 2660242 and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own high-performance ammunition!