Lee Double Cavity Mold Tl 356-124-tx Review

Reviewing the Lee Double Cavity Mold Tl 356-124-tx: Beyond Marketing

For reloaders and casters, the Lee Double Cavity Mold Tl 356-124-tx represents a significant step in producing their own ammunition. This two-cavity mold, crafted from aluminum, promises efficient heat transfer and reduced caster fatigue due to its lightweight nature. The precision of its crimped block halves and the innovative tangential cutoff on the sprue plate aim to deliver consistent, round bullets with excellent size control.

My journey to this particular mold was driven by a desire to increase my bullet production rate for my 9mm Luger and .380 ACP handguns. While my previous Lee .38 Special mold had performed admirably, the single-cavity nature meant long casting sessions for anything more than a few dozen rounds. I considered a six-cavity mold but worried about the increased complexity and potential for lead buildup in such a high-volume tool. This aluminum double-cavity option seemed like a good compromise, balancing production speed with manageable operation.

Upon arrival, the mold felt solid, as expected from Lee Precision. The aluminum construction was immediately apparent, feeling lighter than I anticipated for a tool designed to handle molten lead. The clean machining and the precise fit of the two block halves suggested a tool built for consistency, which is paramount in bullet casting. My initial impression was one of pragmatic engineering, a tool built to do a job efficiently.

First Use Experience

My initial testing was conducted on my usual casting bench setup, out in the garage. I used a standard Lee pot set to maintain a consistent temperature, aiming for that sweet spot where the aluminum mold would cycle efficiently. I tested this mold with both traditional wheel weights and a softer alloy, focusing on consistency and ease of operation. The conditions were typical for my workshop: a slightly dusty environment, moderate ambient temperatures, and the usual background hum of my casting equipment.

The ease of use with this mold was, as expected from Lee, quite good once the correct casting temperature was achieved. It wasn’t entirely intuitive from the start, as dialing in the perfect heat for aluminum molds always takes a few casts. There was a slight learning curve to maintain that optimal temperature throughout the casting session, especially with the two cavities working in tandem.

One of the first quirks I noticed was how quickly the mold could either cool down too much or get too hot if I wasn’t diligent with my casting cadence. If the flow of bullets slowed, the temperature would drop, leading to less-than-ideal fills. Conversely, if I poured too rapidly without adequate cooling time between cycles, the mold could overheat, causing potential issues with sizing. This intensified the need to keep a steady rhythm, which is the nature of casting with aluminum molds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several casting sessions, totaling a few hundred bullets, this Lee mold has proven itself to be a workhorse. Its aluminum construction, while requiring careful temperature management, allows for rapid heat cycling, which translates directly into faster bullet production compared to cast iron. I haven’t noticed any significant wear or tear beyond the typical superficial marks that come with handling hot metal.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a brass brush after each session, followed by a light coat of mold release or a quality lubricant, keeps it in top shape. I’ve learned to be vigilant about avoiding lead buildup in the sprue plate area, as this can affect the clean cutoff. Compared to my older single-cavity mold, the increased output is a noticeable improvement, though it does require a more attentive hand to maintain peak performance.

Specifications

The Lee Double Cavity Mold Tl 356-124-tx is specifically designed for casting 124-grain projectiles. Its caliber designation is .356, making it suitable for cartridges like 9mm Luger and .380 ACP. The mold features two cavities, which significantly increases production speed over single-cavity designs.

Constructed from aluminum, this material allows for fast heat-up and cool-down times, a crucial factor in efficient casting. The manufacturer, Lee, has incorporated crimped block halves intended to ensure roundness and precise size control of the cast bullets. A key feature is the tangential cutoff, designed to eliminate nicks at the sprue plate, promoting cleaner bullet separation. The advertised cavity depth is 2 inches, though this often refers to the bullet’s overall length from base to tip, not the depth of the cavity itself in a typical sense.

Performance & Functionality

This mold excels at its primary function: producing consistent, usable bullets for reloading. The .356 diameter is ideal for many 9mm applications, and my particular mold consistently drops bullets right around .357 with a weight of approximately 125.6 grains using standard wheel weights and my alloy mix. The truncated cone (TC) design is well-formed, providing a good bearing surface and a profile that feeds reliably in semi-automatic firearms.

The main strength of this mold is undoubtedly its speed. Being a double-cavity design, it allows for nearly double the output of a single-cavity mold in the same amount of time, once the optimal casting temperature is reached. The aluminum construction contributes to this by facilitating quick heat transfer, which is essential for maintaining a consistent casting cycle. The primary weakness, however, lies in the delicate balance of temperature management required for aluminum molds. If not kept at the proper heat, the bullets may not fill out completely, leading to rejects.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lee Double Cavity Mold Tl 356-124-tx is functional and purpose-driven. The aluminum construction makes it surprisingly lightweight, which reduces caster fatigue over extended casting sessions. The two cavities are precisely machined, and the crimped block halves create a snug fit, minimizing sprue flashing.

The ergonomics are focused on efficient operation. While it requires careful handling due to the molten lead, the handles (sold separately but often included in kits) provide a decent grip. The tangential cutoff on the sprue plate is a subtle but effective design element that helps ensure a clean break of the sprue from the bullet. There’s no significant learning curve beyond understanding the nuances of aluminum mold temperature control.

Durability & Maintenance

For a tool designed to handle molten lead at high temperatures, this aluminum mold appears quite durable. It’s built to last for thousands of casts if properly cared for. The primary concern for longevity isn’t necessarily wear and tear on the aluminum itself, but rather potential damage from dropping or mishandling. Consistent lubrication and cleaning are key to maintaining the sprue plate’s integrity and the mold’s overall precision.

Maintenance is relatively simple. A brass brush is sufficient for cleaning lead residue from the cavities and sprue plate. A light application of mold release agent or a quality lubricant after each casting session prevents lead buildup and ensures smooth operation. I haven’t encountered any significant failure points, but I always recommend keeping an eye on the sprue plate’s alignment and ensuring the block halves close tightly.

Accessories and Customization Options

This mold typically comes as the block itself, and often includes a sprue cutter. However, the handles are frequently a separate purchase, which is a minor point of contention for some users. Lee offers various handle styles, and selecting a comfortable and robust set is important for long casting sessions.

There isn’t extensive customization for the mold block itself, as it’s a fixed design. However, its purpose is to cast a specific bullet profile, the 124-grain truncated cone. The projectile caliber of .356 is also fixed. Compatibility with other Lee casting accessories, such as their sizing dies and powder-through expander dies, is excellent, allowing for a seamless reloading process.

Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Mold Tl 356-124-tx

Who Should Buy Lee Double Cavity Mold Tl 356-124-tx?

This mold is ideal for the reloader who is looking to significantly increase their bullet production rate without jumping to a much larger, more complex mold. Home casters who primarily load for 9mm Luger or .380 ACP and want a reliable source of 124-grain projectiles will find this mold a valuable addition. It’s perfect for those who have outgrown their single-cavity molds but aren’t yet ready for the commitment of a 6-cavity setup.

Those who require absolute sterile conditions or extremely high-volume production for competitive shooting might consider larger molds or commercial bullet sources. However, for the average handloader seeking efficiency and cost savings, this mold hits a sweet spot. I’d highly recommend pairing it with a good quality Lee lead pot, accurate thermometer, and a sturdy set of mold handles for the best experience.

Conclusion on Lee Double Cavity Mold Tl 356-124-tx

The Lee Double Cavity Mold Tl 356-124-tx is a solid performer that delivers on its promise of increased bullet production speed and consistent results. Its aluminum construction and two-cavity design make it an efficient tool for any reloader looking to cast their own 124-grain, .356-inch bullets for 9mm Luger and .380 ACP. While it requires a slightly more attentive hand with temperature control compared to cast iron molds, the payoff in output is well worth the minimal extra effort.

At its price point, this mold offers exceptional value, providing a significant upgrade in casting efficiency without breaking the bank. I would confidently recommend it to any handloader who is ready to step up their casting game. If you’re seeking a balance between speed, quality, and affordability, this Lee mold is an excellent choice that will serve you well for years to come.