Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 Review

Let’s Dive into Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 is a double-cavity mould designed for casting 150-grain, gas-check bullets, primarily intended for the 6.5 x 55 Swedish Mauser. Manufactured by Lyman, this mould allows reloaders to create their own custom ammunition, tailored to their specific needs and preferences. The allure of crafting my own projectiles, specifically a heavier bullet for the 6.5 Swedish, drew me to this product.

I had been searching for a reliable way to produce accurate and consistent rounds for long-range target shooting. Factory ammunition, while adequate, often lacked the specific characteristics I desired for optimal performance in my rifle. I wanted to control the alloy, bullet weight, and overall consistency of my ammunition, which led me to explore bullet casting.

Upon unboxing the Lyman mould, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction and hefty weight. The steel blocks felt substantial and well-machined, exhibiting a robustness that inspired confidence. The handles were sturdy and comfortable to grip, even with gloved hands, an essential consideration for any serious reloading enthusiast.

I considered RCBS and Lee Precision moulds, but Lyman has a long-standing reputation for quality and precision in the reloading world. The heavier, more robust design of the Lyman mould, along with positive reviews citing consistent bullet weights, swayed my decision. I was excited to get started.


Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my reloading bench, where I set up my casting furnace and prepared my lead alloy. I followed Lyman’s instructions carefully, preheating the mould on a hot plate to ensure proper fill-out. Casting took place in a well-ventilated area with appropriate safety gear.

The mould performed exceptionally well, dropping consistently shaped bullets with minimal effort. Even under slightly humid conditions, the mould maintained its temperature and produced uniform castings. I was pleased to find the bullets released cleanly and easily from the mould cavities.

The first casting session yielded a batch of approximately 50 bullets, and the uniformity was remarkable. I encountered no significant issues or surprises, aside from the typical learning curve associated with mastering the optimal casting temperature and cadence. The bullets were consistent in weight and size, indicating a well-designed and precisely manufactured mould.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 continues to impress. It has proven to be durable and reliable, consistently producing high-quality bullets. The mould shows no signs of wear or tear, and the handles remain securely attached.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft brush and solvent to remove lead residue. The mould’s simple design allows for easy disassembly and cleaning, ensuring long-term performance. Compared to my previous experiences with other casting methods, this mould offers a significant improvement in consistency and efficiency.

This mould has helped me achieve greater accuracy and consistency in my reloads, ultimately leading to better performance at the range. It’s clear that Lyman prioritized durability and ease of use in the design, making it a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673

Specifications

  • Caliber: 6.5mm. This dictates the bore diameter for which the bullet is designed.
  • Bullet Weight: 150 grains. A heavier bullet generally offers better ballistic coefficients and stability at longer ranges.
  • Bullet #: 266673 (Gas Check). The gas check shank allows for the attachment of a gas check, which seals the base of the bullet and prevents hot gases from eroding the lead, especially at higher velocities.
  • Top Punch: 641. The top punch is used in a bullet sizing die to seat the gas check and ensure consistent bullet diameter.
  • Double Cavity #: 2660673. The double cavity design allows for casting two bullets simultaneously, increasing productivity.
  • Design: Heavy weight bullet design for the 6.5 x 55 Swedish Mauser. Tailored for the specific cartridge, ensuring proper fit and function in the firearm.

These specifications are essential for achieving optimal performance and accuracy in the 6.5 x 55 Swedish Mauser. The heavier bullet weight and gas check design are particularly beneficial for long-range shooting and higher-velocity loads. The double-cavity mould increases casting efficiency, allowing for faster production of ammunition.

Performance & Functionality

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 performs admirably, consistently producing bullets that meet my exacting standards. The bullets are uniform in weight and shape, contributing to improved accuracy and consistency at the range. The mould is exceptionally reliable, minimizing the number of rejects and maximizing the overall casting efficiency.

The main strength of this mould lies in its ability to produce consistent and accurate bullets with minimal effort. One potential area for improvement could be a slightly more aggressive sprue plate design to ensure cleaner sprue cuts, but this is a minor concern. Overall, the mould far exceeds my expectations in terms of performance and reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 features a robust and well-thought-out design. The steel blocks are precisely machined, and the handles are comfortable and ergonomic. The mould feels solid and substantial in hand, instilling confidence in its durability and longevity.

The mould is user-friendly, even for novice casters. The simple design and clear instructions make it easy to learn the proper casting techniques. The mould’s intuitive operation minimizes the learning curve and allows for quick and efficient bullet production.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 is built to last. The high-quality steel construction and sturdy handles ensure long-term durability. With proper care and maintenance, this mould should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft brush and solvent. The mould’s design allows for easy disassembly, making cleaning quick and efficient. The robust construction and easy maintenance contribute to the mould’s long-term value and reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 does not come with any included accessories beyond the standard handles and sprue plate. However, reloaders will need to acquire a suitable casting furnace, lead alloy, gas checks, and a bullet sizing die. The Lyman #641 top punch is specifically designed for use with this bullet profile.

This mould is compatible with most standard bullet casting equipment and accessories. Reloaders have ample opportunity to customize their ammunition by selecting different lead alloys, gas check types, and sizing dies to achieve their desired performance characteristics. Lyman offers a wide range of reloading equipment and accessories, ensuring compatibility and ease of use.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673

Pros

  • Produces consistent and accurate 150-grain, 6.5mm bullets.
  • Durable and robust steel construction ensures long-term reliability.
  • Double-cavity design increases casting efficiency.
  • Gas check design allows for higher velocity loads.
  • Easy to use and maintain, even for novice casters.

Cons

  • Requires additional equipment and accessories (casting furnace, lead alloy, gas checks, sizing die).
  • Sprue plate design could be improved for cleaner sprue cuts.


Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673?

This mould is perfect for reloaders who own a 6.5 x 55 Swedish Mauser and want to create their own custom ammunition. Long-range shooters, target enthusiasts, and hunters seeking a heavier bullet for improved ballistic performance will find this mould invaluable. It is also an excellent choice for reloaders who appreciate the cost savings and control over ammunition quality that bullet casting provides.

This product is not ideal for reloaders who are new to bullet casting or who do not own a 6.5 x 55 Swedish Mauser. Those looking for lighter bullet weights or different calibers should explore other mould options. A good quality lead thermometer and ventilation system are must-have additions for safety.

Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 is a high-quality and reliable tool for producing accurate and consistent 6.5mm bullets. Its durable construction, efficient design, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for serious reloaders. The price is justified by the mould’s performance, durability, and the cost savings achieved through bullet casting.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this mould to anyone looking to create their own custom ammunition for the 6.5 x 55 Swedish Mauser. If you value accuracy, consistency, and control over your ammunition, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 is a worthwhile investment. Take control of your reloading process and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own high-performance ammunition!

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