Let’s Dive into Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643 is a single-cavity mould designed for casting 400-grain .45 caliber bullets, specifically tailored for .45-70 lever-action rifles. Lyman advertises it as ideal for models like the 1886 and 1895, making it a seemingly niche, but potentially valuable tool for reloaders seeking authentic performance. As someone with over a decade of experience in outdoor and tactical gear, including a significant amount of time reloading for various calibers, I was intrigued by the specificity of this mould and its potential to improve the accuracy and consistency of my .45-70 loads.
I’ve been chasing the perfect .45-70 load for years, always looking for a way to squeeze out that extra bit of accuracy for longer ranges. Off-the-shelf bullets are fine, but casting your own offers unparalleled control.
Unboxing the Lyman mould, my initial impression was that of a well-made, albeit basic, tool. It felt solid and weighty in hand, suggesting durable construction and hinting at consistent bullet casting. I’ve used other moulds, including multi-cavity options from RCBS and Lee, but this Lyman stood apart with its focus on replicating a specific bullet profile.
Compared to a generic .45 caliber mould, this Lyman promises a profile optimized for lever-action feeding and accuracy. I chose it over a multi-cavity option because I prioritize quality over quantity when it comes to my .45-70 loads. My first impression was positive; I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype of being tailored for these classic rifles.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643 at my home reloading bench, using a lead alloy of approximately 20:1 (lead to tin). This alloy typically provides good bullet fill-out and expansion at .45-70 velocities. I preheated the mould on a hot plate to ensure consistent bullet casting from the start.
The mould performed consistently, dropping bullets within a tight weight range, even in my unheated garage during a chilly November afternoon. It did take a few casts to dial in my technique, primarily ensuring proper mould temperature for clean fill-out of the bullet. I found that a slightly hotter mould produced better results.
The mould required a bit of a learning curve compared to other designs, but it was nothing problematic. After several hours of casting, I noticed a slight buildup of lead residue, but a quick cleaning with a brass brush solved the issue. This buildup is normal for lead bullet casting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several reloading sessions spanning months, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643 continues to perform reliably. The mould shows minimal signs of wear and tear, a testament to its robust construction. I have cast hundreds of bullets with it.
The mould requires occasional cleaning to remove lead buildup. I also lightly lubricate the hinge pin to maintain smooth operation. Compared to other moulds I have used, this Lyman design seems more durable. It consistently casts bullets to the specified weight and dimensions.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643
Specifications
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643 is specifically designed for:
- Casting .45 Caliber Bullets: Meaning it’s tailored for rifles chambered in .45-70 Government and similar cartridges.
- Producing 400-Grain Projectiles: A common weight for .45-70, offering a good balance of trajectory and stopping power.
- Featuring a Single-Cavity Design: Which allows for precise and consistent bullet casting, though it’s slower than multi-cavity options.
- Utilizing a Top Punch of 191: This specifies the correct top punch needed for lubricating the cast bullets.
- Being optimized for Lever-Action Rifles: Particularly the 1886 and 1895 models, ensuring smooth feeding.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the bullet’s performance in your rifle. The 400-grain weight is a sweet spot for the .45-70, offering a good compromise between recoil and ballistic performance. The lever-action optimization ensures that the cast bullets will feed reliably in your rifle.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643 excels at producing consistent, high-quality cast bullets. I found that these bullets, when properly sized and loaded, significantly improved the accuracy of my .45-70 loads. The bullet’s shape is ideally suited for the lever-action rifles it was designed for.
The primary strength of this mould is its consistency. Every bullet casts nearly identical in weight and dimension. The only notable weakness is the single-cavity design, which slows down the casting process compared to multi-cavity options. The mould does meet expectations and delivers precise bullets for accurate loads.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman mould is constructed from high-quality steel, providing excellent heat retention and durability. Its weight is substantial, contributing to its solid feel and consistent casting performance. While it’s a basic design, the mould is comfortable to use for extended casting sessions.
The mould requires some practice to master, primarily in terms of temperature control and sprue plate operation. However, the learning curve is relatively short. After a few sessions, the process becomes intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643 is built to last for years with proper care. The steel construction resists wear and tear, even with frequent use. Maintenance involves regular cleaning to remove lead buildup and occasional lubrication of the hinge pin.
Repair is generally straightforward. Replacement parts, such as sprue plates and handles, are readily available from Lyman. This mould is designed for longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643 itself doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the mould handles (sold separately). You will need a Lyman #191 top punch for lubricating the cast bullets. Customization is limited to the type of lead alloy you use.
The mould is compatible with standard mould handles. You can also use various bullet lubes and sizing dies depending on your specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643
Pros
- Produces highly consistent and accurate 400-grain .45 caliber bullets.
- Optimized bullet profile for reliable feeding in lever-action rifles, especially 1886 and 1895 models.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Relatively easy to maintain and repair, with readily available replacement parts.
- Provides greater control over bullet alloy and characteristics compared to commercially purchased bullets.
Cons
- Single-cavity design slows down the casting process compared to multi-cavity moulds.
- Requires separate purchase of mould handles and a top punch.
Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643?
This mould is perfect for:
- .45-70 Reloaders: Specifically those seeking greater accuracy and control over their ammunition.
- Lever-Action Rifle Enthusiasts: Especially owners of 1886 and 1895 models, who value reliable feeding.
- Shooters Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity: Those willing to invest time in casting for superior bullet consistency.
This mould may not be suitable for:
- High-Volume Reloaders: Who need to produce large quantities of bullets quickly.
- Beginner Reloaders: Who might find the single-cavity process too slow and tedious.
Must-have accessories include:
- Mould Handles: Essential for operating the mould.
- Lyman #191 Top Punch: For lubricating the cast bullets.
- Lead Pot and Thermometer: For maintaining consistent lead alloy temperature.
Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643
The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 45 Caliber – #457643 2640643 is a specialized tool that delivers exceptional results for .45-70 reloaders seeking accuracy and consistency. While the single-cavity design may not appeal to high-volume casters, the quality of the resulting bullets is undeniable. At around $106, the price is justified for serious reloaders who value precision and control over their ammunition.
I would definitely recommend this mould to anyone looking to fine-tune their .45-70 loads and unlock the full potential of their lever-action rifle. Take control of your ammunition and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own high-performance bullets.