Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 Review

Let’s Dive into Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is a classic tool for reloading enthusiasts, specifically designed for casting 115-grain bullets for the .32-20 cartridge. Manufactured by Lyman, a reputable name in reloading equipment, this double-cavity mould promises to deliver consistent and accurate bullets for both rifles and pistols chambered in this versatile caliber. The appeal lies in its ability to produce custom ammunition, tailored to specific firearms and shooting preferences, at a fraction of the cost of commercially manufactured rounds.

I’ve always been drawn to the idea of crafting my own ammunition, not just for cost savings, but for the sheer control it offers over performance. My need was simple: to develop a reliable and accurate load for my vintage Winchester 1873 chambered in .32-20, a rifle that deserves the best possible ammunition for both target practice and occasional small game hunting. This Lyman mould seemed like the perfect tool to achieve this.

Unboxing the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 revealed a solid, well-machined piece of equipment. The mould felt weighty and substantial, suggesting durability and precision. The handles, though requiring separate purchase, attached securely, and the overall construction inspired confidence in its ability to produce quality bullets.

I considered other moulds, including those from RCBS and Lee Precision. However, Lyman’s reputation for quality and the specific design of the #311008 bullet profile, which is known for its accuracy in .32-20 firearms, ultimately swayed my decision. The double-cavity design was also a major plus, promising faster casting compared to a single-cavity mould.

My first impression was one of excitement tempered with a touch of apprehension. While I’d cast bullets before, each mould has its own quirks, and I was eager to see how the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 would perform. It felt like embarking on a new reloading adventure, full of potential for creating the perfect .32-20 load.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 in my reloading workshop, a space equipped with a lead melting pot, casting tools, and ample ventilation. The initial casting session involved experimenting with different lead alloys and mould temperatures to achieve consistent bullet fill-out and minimal imperfections. The process was straightforward, though it took a few casts to dial in the right technique.

The mould performed admirably in the controlled environment of my workshop. Maintaining consistent temperatures was key, and I found that preheating the mould slightly before casting yielded the best results. Initially, I encountered a few bullets with slight wrinkles, but adjusting the mould temperature and pouring technique quickly resolved the issue.

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 proved to be relatively easy to use. After a brief learning curve, I was able to consistently produce well-formed bullets. One minor issue was the occasional sticking of bullets in the cavities, but a light tap on the hinge pin usually dislodged them without damaging the bullets.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the mould continues to produce consistent bullets. The handles remain securely attached, and the hinge operates smoothly.

The mould’s durability is impressive. Despite repeated heating and cooling cycles, the mould shows no signs of warping or cracking. A simple cleaning after each casting session, involving brushing out any lead residue, has been sufficient to maintain its performance.

Compared to some cheaper moulds I’ve used in the past, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is a clear step up in quality and performance. The bullets it produces are more consistent in weight and dimensions, leading to improved accuracy and reliability in my .32-20 rifle. The initial investment has definitely paid off in terms of both enjoyment and the quality of my reloads.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008

Specifications

• Bullet #: 311008 – This designation identifies the specific bullet profile the mould is designed to cast.
• Grain: 115gr – Indicates the intended weight of the cast bullet, making it suitable for typical .32-20 loads.
• Top Punch : 8 – Refers to the appropriate top punch needed for seating gas checks or lubricating the bullet.
• Double Cavity # : 2660008 – Identifies this particular mould as a double-cavity version for faster casting.
• Caliber: .32 ACP (Note: The product information states “.32 ACP”, however, the bullet is intended for .32-20, which may be a listing error). This specification may be incorrect, as the #311008 is specifically designed for .32-20, not .32 ACP.

The specifications directly impact the performance and user experience. The 115-grain weight is a standard for .32-20, offering a good balance between velocity and accuracy. The double-cavity design significantly speeds up the casting process, making it more efficient for reloading larger quantities of ammunition.

Performance & Functionality

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 excels at producing consistent and uniform bullets. This consistency translates directly into improved accuracy and reliability when reloading and shooting. The bullets cast from this mould are well-suited for both target shooting and hunting small game.

One of the strengths of this mould is its ability to create bullets that are easily sized and lubricated. A potential weakness is the learning curve involved in mastering the casting process to minimize imperfections. However, with practice and attention to detail, this can be overcome.

The mould definitely meets my expectations. It allows me to create high-quality .32-20 ammunition tailored to my specific rifle, providing a level of control and performance that is not possible with commercially manufactured rounds.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is constructed from high-quality materials, exhibiting excellent build quality. The mould feels substantial and durable, designed to withstand repeated use. The weight is balanced, and when combined with appropriate handles (sold separately), it provides a comfortable grip during casting.

The mould is relatively user-friendly, though some experience with bullet casting is recommended. The initial setup is straightforward, and the mould operates smoothly once properly heated. A small learning curve exists in mastering the correct pouring technique, but this is quickly overcome with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of repeated casting sessions.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a soft brush to remove lead residue is all that’s typically required. Occasional lubrication of the hinge pin can also help maintain smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 does not come with any accessories; handles are sold separately. Customization is limited to selecting appropriate handles and sizing/lubricating equipment.

The mould is compatible with standard sizing dies and lubricating equipment. Selecting the correct top punch (size 8, as indicated) is crucial for proper bullet lubrication and seating.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008

Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008?

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is perfect for reloading enthusiasts who own firearms chambered in .32-20 and want to create custom ammunition for target practice, small game hunting, or historical shooting events. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy the process of reloading and want to gain greater control over the performance of their ammunition.

Individuals who are new to reloading or who are not comfortable working with molten lead should probably skip this product. The process requires a degree of skill and attention to safety.

A must-have accessory is a good set of mould handles. Also, a lead melting pot, sizing die, lubricating equipment, and a top punch (size 8) are essential for completing the reloading process.

Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is a high-quality tool that offers significant benefits to .32-20 reloading enthusiasts. Its ability to produce consistent and accurate bullets, combined with its durable construction and efficient double-cavity design, makes it a worthwhile investment.

The price is justified by the quality of the mould and the long-term cost savings it provides. While handles are sold separately, the overall value proposition remains strong.

I would definitely recommend the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 to anyone looking to reload .32-20 ammunition. It’s a reliable and effective tool that will provide years of enjoyment and improved shooting performance. Take control of your ammunition and experience the satisfaction of creating your own custom loads!