Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438 Review

What You Should Know About the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438

For those of us who find immense satisfaction in the intricate art of handloading, the quest for precision and consistency is unending. My journey in the world of firearms and reloading has spanned over a decade, and through it all, one name has consistently surfaced when discussing quality casting equipment: Lyman. This is why I found myself drawn to the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438. It’s a double-cavity mould specifically designed for the venerable .22 Hornet cartridge, promising a bullet that closely mimics the shape of the classic .22 Long Rifle. The prospect of casting my own accurate projectiles for one of my favorite varmint rounds was too enticing to pass up.

The gnawing desire to achieve unparalleled accuracy with my .22 Hornet rifle, coupled with a growing dissatisfaction with the limited selection and often astronomical price of commercially cast bullets for this niche caliber, led me to this mould. I sought a way to control the entire bullet-making process, from alloy selection to final sizing, thereby fine-tuning my loads for optimal performance. The #225438 design, with its gas-check feature, immediately stood out as a potential solution for maintaining bullet integrity at the higher velocities the .22 Hornet is known for.

Upon receiving the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438, my initial impression was one of robust craftsmanship. Unlike some lighter aluminum moulds, this Lyman offering is constructed from solid steel, giving it a substantial, almost heirloom feel. It’s undeniably heavy, a characteristic that contributes to its excellent heat retention, but it also makes it slightly more cumbersome to handle than its lighter counterparts. The mould halves fit together with satisfying precision, showcasing the meticulous machining Lyman is renowned for.

When compared to other moulds I’ve handled, particularly some of the more intricate designs from brands like RCBS, this Lyman mould presented a seemingly simpler, more direct approach. While RCBS often offers a vast array of specialized designs, the Lyman #225438 felt like a workhorse, designed for practical, repeatable results. My first impression was a blend of impressed anticipation and a slight apprehension regarding its weight, knowing that extended casting sessions might require more physical effort.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438 to the Test

First Use Experience

My maiden casting session with the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438 took place in my home reloading workshop. The temperature was a comfortable room temperature, so I wasn’t testing its performance in extreme environmental conditions. The process of heating the mould, pouring the molten alloy, and allowing it to solidify was remarkably straightforward. I had to familiarize myself with the specific temperature sweet spot for the alloy I was using, a minor learning curve inherent to all casting operations.

The bullets dropped cleanly from the mould with minimal effort, and the gas checks seated perfectly. My initial surprise was how consistent the bullet dimensions were from the very first pour, a testament to the quality of the mould itself and its excellent heat distribution. No significant issues or surprises cropped up; the process was as smooth as I’ve come to expect from reputable casting equipment, though the sheer weight of the mould was noticeable after about fifty casts.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of casts with the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438, its reliability has been unwavering. The steel construction has shown absolutely no signs of pitting or degradation, even with consistent exposure to molten lead and flux. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple clean-out with a brass brush after each casting session and occasional application of mould release agent keeps it in pristine condition.

Compared to my experiences with older, cast-iron moulds that could be finicky, this Lyman mould has been a revelation in terms of consistency and ease of use. It consistently produces well-formed bullets that require very little in terms of post-casting finishing, saving valuable time and effort. Its performance has not only met but exceeded my expectations for a dedicated, high-quality bullet mould.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438

Specifications

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438 is a double-cavity mould, meaning it produces two bullets with each pour. Its primary specification is the .22 Caliber projectile, with the design intended for cartridges like the .22 Hornet. The mould is designed to cast approximately 44 grains per bullet, a weight that is ideal for many .22 Hornet applications. A crucial feature is its gas-check design, which requires the use of separate gas checks to be crimped onto the base of the bullet.

The inclusion of the gas check system is significant for cartridges like the .22 Hornet that operate at higher velocities. This feature helps to prevent bullet base erosion and leading in the bore by providing a gas-tight seal. The mould utilizes a #438 Top Punch, ensuring proper alignment and seating of the bullet during the casting process. The double cavity design is identified by the number 2660438, indicating its specific manufacturing run and configuration. The Lyman brand ensures a high standard of metallurgical precision and durability in the mould’s construction, primarily using high-grade steel. This robust build translates directly into consistent casting temperatures and longevity, which are paramount for serious handloaders.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of functionality, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438 performs exceptionally well. It consistently casts uniform bullets that are within my desired weight range of approximately 44 grains. The gas-check design works as intended, allowing me to push my .22 Hornet loads to respectable velocities without encountering significant barrel leading.

The main strength of this mould lies in its ability to produce accurate projectiles. The bullet’s design, closely resembling the .22 Long Rifle shape, lends itself to good aerodynamic stability. Its primary weakness, as noted, is the substantial weight of the steel mould, which can lead to fatigue during long casting sessions, especially when compared to lighter aluminum alternatives. However, this weight is also directly responsible for its excellent heat retention, a critical factor for consistent casting. It undeniably meets and often exceeds the expectations for a dedicated rifle bullet mould of this caliber.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438 is a product of functional design principles. The steel construction not only contributes to its weight but also to its durability and thermal mass. While its heft is a drawback ergonomically, it’s a trade-off for superior heat retention.

The mould halves close with a satisfyingly tight fit, which is crucial for producing dimensionally accurate bullets. The sprue plate is well-machined and moves freely, and the handles (which are sold separately, a point of contention for some) are robust. There is a slight learning curve associated with any new mould, primarily in determining the optimal alloy and mould temperatures for perfect fill-out, but the overall design is intuitive for anyone with basic casting experience.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from high-grade steel, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438 is built to last for generations. With proper care, it should withstand thousands upon thousands of casting cycles without significant wear. Maintenance is straightforward, involving basic cleaning with a brass brush to remove any residual lead or flux after each casting session.

Occasional application of a specialized mould release agent helps ensure the bullets drop cleanly and prolongs the life of the mould cavities. The mould’s heavy-duty nature means it’s less prone to warping or damage compared to softer materials. This level of durability is a significant advantage for a handloader who invests considerable time and resources into their hobby.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438 itself is a core component, and its primary accessory requirement is a set of Lyman Mould Handles. These handles are sold separately and are essential for safely manipulating the hot mould. The user feedback highlighted that these handles can be somewhat large and expensive, which is a valid point to consider.

Beyond the handles, the critical accessory is the gas check itself, which must be purchased separately and is specific to .22 caliber bullets. While the mould is designed for a specific bullet profile, there isn’t extensive customization in terms of the mould itself. However, the true “customization” comes in the handloading process that follows casting. You can select your preferred alloy, heat treatment, and powder charge to tailor the performance of these cast bullets to your specific firearm and shooting needs. The mould is designed to work seamlessly with standard gas checks and casting alloys.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438

Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438?

This mould is an absolute godsend for handloaders specializing in the .22 Hornet cartridge. If you are a meticulous varmint hunter who demands pinpoint accuracy and wants to control every aspect of your ammunition, this mould is for you. It’s also an excellent choice for precision rifle shooters who use firearms chambered in .22 Hornet and want to develop custom loads.

Those who prioritize durability and consistent performance over lighter weight will find this mould an outstanding investment. However, if you are new to bullet casting and are looking for the absolute lightest option, or if you have significant physical limitations, you might want to consider an aluminum mould initially. Serious handloaders might also want to invest in a dedicated set of Lyman mould handles, as the larger size can be beneficial for heat dissipation and grip during long casting runs.

Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 22 Caliber – #225438 2660438 is a superb piece of equipment for any serious handloader focused on the .22 Hornet or similar cartridges. Its steel construction offers exceptional durability and heat retention, leading to consistently cast, accurate bullets. While the weight and the separate purchase of handles are minor drawbacks, they are far outweighed by the mould’s superior performance and the inherent quality of the Lyman brand.

For the price of $109.99, you are investing in a tool that will provide reliable service for decades, allowing you to produce high-quality ammunition tailored precisely to your needs. I wholeheartedly recommend this mould to any dedicated handloader looking to elevate their casting game and achieve exceptional accuracy with their .22 caliber firearms. If you’re serious about the .22 Hornet, this mould is a must-have addition to your reloading bench.