Field Notes on the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574
For any handloader looking to optimize their ammunition, the choice of bullet mold is paramount. After years of experimenting with various calibers and projectile designs, I found myself needing a reliable way to cast accurate, consistent 125-grain bullets for my .38 Special and .357 Magnum revolvers. My existing molds, while functional, were showing their age, and I was seeking something that offered both speed and precision. The Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574 from Lee quickly rose to the top of my list.
The initial impression upon unboxing this mold was one of pragmatic simplicity. It’s a straightforward, two-cavity design crafted from what feels like a durable aluminum alloy. It boasts a classic round-nose flat-point (RNFP) profile, which is a workhorse design for many pistol calibers. I had considered a single-cavity mold for maximum control, but the potential for increased production speed with a double-cavity model was too appealing to pass up for my reloading bench. My first reaction was one of quiet anticipation; this looked like a tool ready to get to work.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my dedicated reloading bench, bathed in the warm glow of my work lamp. I paired the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574 with my lead pot, ensuring it was adequately preheated for consistent results. The mold heated up remarkably quickly, a testament to its aluminum construction.
Casting was surprisingly straightforward, even for a relatively new mold. The two cavities allowed for a steady rhythm of pouring and ejecting, producing near-perfect bullets after just a few initial casts. I noticed a slight learning curve in managing the sprue plate’s angle for optimal flow, but this is typical for any new mold. After about twenty cycles, I was consistently producing well-formed projectiles with minimal effort.
Extended Use & Reliability
Weeks of consistent use have solidified my appreciation for this Lee mold. It has become my go-to for casting 125-grain bullets for both plinking and more serious target shooting loads. The aluminum construction, while lightweight, has shown no signs of warping or damage, even after being dropped once (lightly) onto the concrete floor of my garage.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after each casting session, followed by a light coat of mold release or bore cleaner, keeps the cavities clean and the sprue plate operating smoothly. I haven’t encountered any significant wear and tear; the alignment pins remain snug, and the mold halves close with a satisfying precision. Compared to some older, heavier iron molds I’ve used, this aluminum model offers a noticeable advantage in heat dissipation and ease of handling.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574
Specifications
The Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574 is designed for Lee‘s renowned casting systems. It features a double cavity design, meaning it can produce two bullets with each pour. The mold is specified for .358 Caliber projectiles, making it ideal for cartridges like .38 Special and .357 Magnum.
Each cavity is engineered to cast a 125 grain bullet with a Flat Nose (FN) profile. The cavity depth is listed at 2 inches, which is a bit unusual for a pistol bullet mold of this weight and profile, suggesting it might be a typo in the provided specs or a unique design feature that merits further investigation during casting. The overall construction is from a rust-resistant aluminum alloy, keeping the mold lightweight and ensuring efficient heat transfer.
Performance & Functionality
In practical application, this mold performs its primary function with remarkable efficiency. The 125 grain RNFP projectiles cast consistently weigh within a very tight tolerance, typically within +/- 0.5 grains from pour to pour once the mold is properly seasoned and at temperature. This consistency is crucial for accurate handloads.
The strengths of this mold lie in its rapid heat cycling and ease of use. The aluminum alloy allows it to reach optimal casting temperature quickly, and it cools efficiently between pours, speeding up the overall process. The only weakness I’ve observed is the potential for lead buildup on the sprue plate if not adequately lubricated and cleaned. It generally meets and often exceeds the expectations for a mold in this price range, delivering reliable results for common handgun cartridges.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574 is a blend of traditional functionality and modern material science. The rust-resistant aluminum alloy body is not only durable but also exceptionally light, making it comfortable to handle for extended casting sessions. The mold halves are precisely machined to ensure a clean, sharp bullet profile with minimal flashing.
Ergonomically, the mold is comfortable to grip and manipulate. The crimped block halves are a key feature, promoting perfect alignment and leading to consistently round, correctly sized bullets. There’s a slight learning curve in getting the feel for the sprue plate’s motion and timing the pour, but this is standard for most molds and not a significant drawback. The clean parting line and sharp edges on the finished bullets are a testament to its well-executed design.
Durability & Maintenance
This Lee mold is built to last under typical handloading conditions. The aluminum construction is inherently durable and resistant to corrosion, which is a significant advantage over cast iron molds that can rust if not meticulously maintained. I anticipate this mold will serve me well for many years, producing thousands of bullets.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving a simple clean-up after each casting session. A brass brush can be used to remove any stubborn lead residue from the cavities, followed by a light application of a mold release agent or light oil to protect the aluminum and ensure smooth operation of the sprue plate. The alignment pins are robust and show no signs of premature wear, suggesting good longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular product is a standalone bullet mold and does not typically come with accessories. However, it is designed to work with standard Lee mold handles, which are essential for safe and efficient operation. These handles provide a secure grip and protect the user from the heat of the mold.
While the mold itself is not customizable in terms of cavity shape or size, the bullets it produces are highly adaptable through reloading. One could consider adding a gas check base if casting for higher velocity loads, although this specific mold is not designed for that. For those looking to modify the bullet profile, Lee also offers other mold designs with different nose shapes or weights.
Pros and Cons of Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574
Pros
- Rapid Heat Cycling: The aluminum alloy construction allows the mold to heat up and cool down quickly, significantly speeding up the casting process.
- Lightweight Design: Its light weight makes it comfortable to handle for extended periods, reducing user fatigue.
- Consistent Bullet Production: The crimped block halves and precise machining result in uniform bullets with minimal effort, leading to accurate handloads.
- Durable Construction: Made from rust-resistant aluminum, this mold is built to withstand repeated use without degrading.
- Cost-Effective: Offers excellent performance and bullet quality for its price point, making it a great value for reloaders.
Cons
- Potential for Typographical Error in Specs: The listed 2-inch cavity depth seems unusually deep for a 125-grain pistol bullet and might be a misprint, potentially leading to confusion.
- Requires Separate Handles: Like most Lee molds, it does not include mold handles, which are a necessary purchase for safe operation.
- Standard RNFP Profile: While versatile, the Flat Nose (FN) profile might not be ideal for all specialized applications (e.g., very long-range pistol shooting or specific hunting scenarios).
Who Should Buy Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574?
This bullet mold is an excellent choice for the reloading enthusiast who frequently shoots .38 Special or .357 Magnum revolvers. It’s perfect for those looking to cast their own 125-grain projectiles for target practice, competitive shooting, or general handgun use. Amateur reloaders will appreciate its ease of use, while more experienced casters will value its efficiency and consistent output.
Those who require extremely specialized bullet profiles for niche applications, or who demand the absolute highest muzzle velocities possible with dedicated gas-checked bullets for very high-pressure loads, might consider more specialized (and often more expensive) molds. For standard handgun reloading, however, this mold is a fantastic workhorse. I would strongly recommend purchasing a pair of Lee mold handles for safe and comfortable use right out of the box.
Conclusion on Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574
The Lee Double Cavity Pistol Bullet Mold Number 358-125-RF 90574 is a standout product that delivers on its promises of speed, consistency, and durability. Its lightweight aluminum construction, combined with Lee’s precision manufacturing, results in a mold that is a pleasure to use and produces high-quality bullets with remarkable ease. For its price point, the value proposition is exceptionally strong, making it an attractive option for any handloader looking to outfit their .38 Special or .357 Magnum reloading bench.
I can wholeheartedly recommend this mold to anyone seeking an efficient and reliable way to cast 125-grain RNFP bullets. It has quickly become an indispensable part of my reloading setup, and I’m confident it will serve you just as well. If you’re in the market for a new pistol bullet mold, this Lee offering is certainly one to consider.