What Happened When I Tried the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-105-SWC 90316
For any reloader, especially those focused on cast lead bullets for pistol calibers, the quest for consistency and efficiency is paramount. I’ve spent over a decade in various demanding environments, from dusty workshop floors to precise laboratory setups, and I’ve learned that reliable tooling is the bedrock of any successful endeavor. This is precisely why I found myself in the market for a dedicated bullet mold, specifically for casting .38/.357 caliber projectiles. After much consideration, the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-105-SWC 90316 caught my eye.
My previous experience with casting involved a single-cavity mold, which, while functional, was incredibly time-consuming when I needed a decent quantity of bullets for a range day or a longer reloading project. I was looking for a way to significantly increase my output without sacrificing the quality of the cast bullets. This mold promised double the production with each pour, a compelling proposition for someone who values both time and precision.
Upon receiving the mold, my initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense utility. It’s a no-frills piece of equipment, but the aluminum construction felt robust, and the mating surfaces of the mold halves looked precisely machined. There were no sharp edges or obvious flaws, suggesting a good degree of manufacturing care. I had considered a few other options, including multi-cavity molds from other well-known manufacturers, but the price point and the reputation of Lee Precision for delivering functional tools at an accessible cost made this particular model stand out. My first reaction was a quiet sense of satisfaction; this felt like a tool that was built to do a job, and do it well.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-105-SWC 90316 to the Test
My testing grounds for this particular mold were my home reloading bench, which has seen everything from delicate scientific equipment calibration to heavy-duty automotive repair, and more importantly, my local outdoor shooting range. The environment is typically dry and moderately dusty, with temperature fluctuations that are common for outdoor shooting seasons. I primarily tested the mold with a standard lead alloy (95% lead, 5% tin, with a small amount of antimony) heated to temperatures ranging from 650°F to 750°F, depending on the alloy and ambient conditions.
The first use experience was surprisingly smooth. After a brief initial heating period to bring the mold up to temperature, the first few sprue cuts were clean, and the bullets dropped from the cavities with minimal effort. I did notice that achieving consistent fill required careful management of the melt temperature and the pouring technique, which is standard for any well-designed mold. The double-cavity design meant that I was essentially doubling my output with each pouring cycle compared to my old single-cavity mold, significantly speeding up the entire casting process.
After several weeks of consistent use, involving multiple casting sessions, the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-105-SWC 90316 has proven itself to be a reliable performer. The aluminum construction has held up exceptionally well, showing only minor discoloration where the sprue is cut, a testament to its durability. I haven’t observed any signs of warping, cracking, or significant wear on the cavity surfaces. Maintenance is straightforward; after each casting session, a light brushing with a brass brush and a coat of mold release agent are usually sufficient. It’s certainly easier to maintain than some of the heavier iron molds I’ve encountered, and far more productive than my previous single-cavity setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-105-SWC 90316
Specifications
The Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-105-SWC 90316 is constructed from solid aluminum, a material chosen for its excellent heat transfer properties and lighter weight compared to iron. This particular model features a two-cavity design, allowing for the simultaneous casting of two bullets with each pour. The mold casts a semi-wadcutter (SWC) style bullet weighing approximately 105 grains, designed for the .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges.
The aluminum construction is crucial because it heats up quickly and evenly, which is essential for producing consistent, well-formed bullets without excessive waiting times. The double-cavity design directly translates to higher production rates; where a single-cavity mold might yield 20-30 bullets in a casting session, this dual-cavity mold can easily produce 40-60 bullets in the same timeframe. The SWC design is known for its clean-cutting profile, making it effective for target shooting and general handgun applications, especially in revolvers.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its core function, this double-cavity mold performs admirably. It consistently produces well-formed, dimensionally accurate bullets suitable for reloading. The semi-wadcutter design with its sharp shoulder is reproduced faithfully in each cavity.
The primary strength of this mold is its efficiency. The ability to cast two bullets at once dramatically reduces the time spent at the casting pot. A minor weakness, if one can call it that, is the typical learning curve associated with any new mold; dialing in the perfect melt temperature and pour rate takes a few cycles. Overall, this mold meets and often exceeds expectations for a budget-friendly, high-production casting tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the mold is purely functional, prioritizing efficient heat transfer and ease of use. The solid aluminum construction feels durable and is surprisingly light, which makes handling it for extended periods less fatiguing.
The ergonomics are straightforward: two solid handles provide a secure grip for opening, closing, and manipulating the mold. The cavity surfaces are precisely machined, ensuring that the bullets released have well-defined edges and features. There are no complex mechanisms or unnecessary additions, keeping the focus on the primary task of casting bullets.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its aluminum construction and solid design, this mold is built for longevity under typical reloading conditions. It’s resilient to moderate heat cycles and normal handling.
Maintenance is minimal and involves cleaning the cavities after each casting session with a brass brush and applying a light coat of mold release. The aluminum is relatively soft, so avoiding abrasive metal tools that could scratch the cavities is advisable. There are no obvious failure points; the hinges and handles are robust for the stresses they endure.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular mold is a standalone piece of equipment. It does not come with any additional accessories, such as sprue cutters or alignment pins, as these are typically part of a complete mold assembly kit or purchased separately.
However, it is designed to work seamlessly with standard bullet casting equipment. This includes compatible lead alloy melts, ladles, and alignment guides. The mold itself does not offer customization options, but the bullets it produces can be further processed with sizing dies, lubricants, and other reloading components.
Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-105-SWC 90316
Pros
- High Production Output: The double-cavity design significantly speeds up the casting process, allowing for more bullets in less time.
- Excellent Value: This mold offers impressive efficiency and quality for its accessible price point.
- Good Heat Transfer: Aluminum heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly, leading to consistent bullet casting.
- Durable Construction: Made from solid aluminum, it’s built to withstand repeated use and heat cycles.
- Clean Bullet Design: Produces well-defined semi-wadcutter (SWC) bullets, ideal for many handgun applications.
Cons
- Requires Proper Technique: Like all molds, it demands attention to melt temperature and pouring technique for optimal results.
- No Included Accessories: Buyers will need to ensure they have a sprue cutter and alignment tools separately.
- Aluminum Wear: While durable, aluminum is softer than iron and can be scratched if abrasive methods are used for cleaning.
Who Should Buy Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-105-SWC 90316?
This mold is an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced handloaders who cast their own bullets for pistol calibers, particularly those focused on .38 Special and .357 Magnum. It’s ideal for individuals who cast in moderate volumes and want to increase their efficiency without a substantial investment. Anyone who appreciates the semi-wadcutter design for its cutting ability and feeding characteristics in revolvers will find this mold very useful.
Those who should probably skip this mold are absolute beginners to bullet casting, as mastering melt temperature and pouring with a double-cavity mold can be slightly more challenging than with a single-cavity version. Also, serious competitive shooters demanding extremely tight tolerances might opt for more expensive, precision-machined molds with tighter cavity tolerances or specialized designs, though this mold offers excellent performance for its cost. Essential accessories to complement this mold would include a high-quality lead alloy melt pot, a lead ladle, a brass bullet sprue cutter, and possibly a mold alignment guide.
Conclusion on Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-105-SWC 90316
The Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-105-SWC 90316 stands out as a remarkably effective and efficient tool for any reloader looking to cast their own bullets. It delivers on its promise of increased production with its dual-cavity design, while maintaining the quality and consistency needed for reliable ammunition. The solid aluminum construction ensures durability, and its accessible price point makes it a fantastic value proposition.
For the price, the performance and output this mold offers are hard to beat. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade from a single-cavity mold or those seeking a dependable way to cast a good volume of semi-wadcutter bullets for their .38/.357 handguns. It’s a practical, no-nonsense piece of equipment that will serve most cast-bullet shooters exceptionally well for years to come.