Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 Review

Taking the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 for a Spin

For over a decade, my hands have been intimately familiar with the raw materials of ammunition reloading – the brass, the powder, the primers, and the projectiles. I’ve spent countless hours at the bench, meticulously crafting rounds for everything from plinking .22LR to potent .45-70 Government loads. Yet, there’s a particular magic to casting your own bullets, a satisfaction derived from shaping lead into the exact form you need. When the need arose for a reliable, accurate bullet design specifically for the ubiquitous .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges, my sights were set on a classic: the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665. This mould promises a 158-grain projectile, a weight that has proven itself time and again as the sweet spot for these venerable calibers.

What truly drew me to the #358665 mould was its reputation and its design features. I needed a bullet that would perform exceptionally well in both revolvers and lever-action rifles, a common scenario for those who enjoy the versatility of the .38/.357 platform. The mention of a “bore-riding nose” immediately caught my attention; this feature is crucial for ensuring proper bullet alignment upon entering the barrel, which translates directly into enhanced accuracy. While other moulds exist, many are either too light, too heavy, or lack this essential alignment aid. I compared it mentally to other common Lyman designs and some custom moulds I’d encountered, but the proven track record and the specific bullet profile of the #358665 made it the clear choice for my needs.

Upon receiving the mould, the heft and precision of Lyman manufacturing were immediately apparent. The two-cavity block felt solid in my hands, a reassuring weight that speaks of quality materials and construction. The mould halves came together with a satisfying precision, with no discernible gaps or rough edges that might impede proper bullet formation. It arrived ready to go, needing only a good cleaning and preheating. My first impression was one of anticipation; this wasn’t just a tool, it was a gateway to crafting ammunition that would perform exactly as I envisioned, a tangible connection to the shooting sports I cherish.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 to the Test

First Use Experience

My inaugural casting session with the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 took place in my dedicated reloading workshop on a crisp autumn afternoon. The ambient temperature was moderate, ideal for lead casting without the risk of overheating or overly rapid solidification. I had already heated my lead alloy and the mould to their proper temperatures, a process honed over years of practice. The mould, being a two-cavity design, was relatively quick to fill, and the lead flowed smoothly into each cavity.

The initial pours were a test run, allowing the mould to reach its optimal casting temperature. I paid close attention to the fill of each cavity, looking for any voids or incomplete pours. The #358665 consistently produced well-formed bullets, with sharp edges on the grease grooves and a perfectly defined nose. The bore-riding nose was particularly impressive, sitting cleanly formed with each pour. Any minor imperfections were easily addressed by adjusting my pouring technique or mould temperature, a testament to the forgiving nature of this mould.

After casting about fifty bullets, I performed a visual inspection and a quick measurement. The weight was consistently around 158 grains, as advertised, with minimal deviation. The casting diameter was also consistent, meaning post-casting sizing would be straightforward. My first experience was overwhelmingly positive; the mould performed flawlessly, producing high-quality bullets with minimal effort, and I felt a surge of confidence in the ammunition I was about to create.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks turned into months, and the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 became a staple in my reloading routine. I’ve since cast hundreds, if not thousands, of bullets with this mould, utilizing it for various loads in both my .38 Special revolvers and my Rossi M92 lever-action rifle chambered in .357 Magnum. The mould has held up remarkably well to this consistent use, showing no signs of degradation in its casting quality.

Durability has been outstanding. The cast iron construction of Lyman moulds is known for its longevity, and this #358665 is no exception. Despite repeated heating and cooling cycles and the occasional bump or ding from workshop mishaps, the mould continues to produce perfect bullets. There are no visible signs of wear on the critical mating surfaces, and the cavities remain clean and well-defined.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving a light application of mould release spray before casting and a thorough cleaning with a brass brush and solvent after each session. The lead residue is easily removed, and the mould maintains its smooth operation. Compared to other moulds I’ve used, both older and newer designs, the #358665 consistently outperforms in terms of ease of use, reliability, and the quality of the cast bullets it produces. It has become my go-to for .38/.357 projectiles, a testament to its enduring quality and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665

Specifications

The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 is a meticulously crafted piece of reloading equipment designed for serious shooters and handloaders. It is specifically engineered for the .38 Special and .357 Magnum calibers, two of the most popular revolver cartridges in existence. This mould features a two-cavity or four-cavity design, allowing for efficient production of bullets.

The primary specification is the bullet weight: a substantial 158 grains. This weight is a classic choice for .38 Special and .357 Magnum, offering a balance of manageable recoil, good penetration, and excellent accuracy. The mould is designed to cast bullets with a bore-riding nose, a crucial feature for ensuring proper alignment as the bullet enters the barrel. This leads to more consistent ignition and improved accuracy.

The specified top punch #495 is an integral part of the casting process, ensuring the base of the bullet is properly formed. The mould requires compatible double cavity handles (#2660665) or four cavity handles (#2670665), depending on the model purchased, which are sold separately. This is an important consideration for new buyers. Finally, the mould is designed to cast bullets suitable for sizing dies ranging from .357 to .360 inches, providing flexibility for various firearm tolerances and desired performance characteristics.

Performance & Functionality

The performance of bullets cast from the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 is nothing short of exceptional, especially considering its purpose and price point. The 158-grain weight, combined with the semi-wadcutter (SWC) profile and the crucial bore-riding nose, delivers remarkable accuracy in both handguns and rifles chambered for .38 Special and .357 Magnum. I’ve consistently achieved tight groups at 25 yards with revolvers and sub-2-inch groups at 100 yards with my lever-action rifle using bullets from this mould.

A key strength of this mould is its versatility. While designed with Cowboy Action Shooting in mind, its accuracy and reliable feeding make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from self-defense to target practice and hunting. The bore-riding nose is a standout feature, virtually eliminating bullet tilting upon chambering and greatly enhancing accuracy potential. The ample grease grooves also hold lubricant effectively, reducing leading in the bore, a common concern with cast bullets.

The only minor weakness, if it can be called that, is that it requires a bit of practice to master the casting process to achieve perfect, void-free bullets every time, particularly for a beginner. However, this is inherent to all bullet casting, not a flaw of the mould itself. Once you get the hang of it, the mould is incredibly forgiving and consistently produces high-quality projectiles that meet or exceed expectations for accuracy and terminal performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 is a perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship and functional engineering. Constructed from high-quality cast iron, it possesses a satisfying heft that feels substantial and durable in the hand. The two-cavity (or four-cavity) design is ergonomically balanced, allowing for comfortable handling during extended casting sessions.

The mould’s mating surfaces are precisely machined, ensuring a tight fit that minimizes sprue formation and promotes consistent bullet dimensions. The cavities themselves are deep and well-defined, featuring the signature bore-riding nose that is so critical for accurate shooting. The grease grooves are adequately sized and spaced, providing ample capacity for bullet lubricant.

While the mould itself is a tool that requires a separate handle set, the overall user-friendliness of the mould block is high. Once heated properly and paired with the correct handles, it’s straightforward to operate. The ergonomic considerations are focused on efficient heat transfer and precise bullet formation, which it achieves brilliantly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 is built to last a lifetime, and then some. The robust cast iron construction is incredibly resistant to wear and tear, even under heavy, repeated use. This is a tool that you can pass down through generations of reloaders.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple, primarily involving regular cleaning and occasional lubrication. After each casting session, a quick brush with a brass brush and a wipe-down with a solvent designed for lead residue will keep the cavities pristine. Applying a thin layer of mold release to the pins and alignment surfaces will ensure smooth operation and prevent galling.

With proper care, the Lyman mould will maintain its precision and casting capabilities for decades. There are no delicate parts or complex mechanisms that are prone to failure. It’s a testament to classic, durable design that prioritizes longevity and consistent performance over complicated features.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 itself is a core component, and while it doesn’t come with a plethora of “accessories” in the traditional sense, its functionality is enhanced by specific accompanying tools. Crucially, it requires compatible handles. The product description clearly states that double cavity models need Double Cavity Handles (#2660665) and four cavity models require Four Cavity Handles (#2670665). These handles are essential for opening and closing the mould and for ensuring proper seating onto the sprue plate.

Beyond the handles, the primary “customization” comes in how you load the bullets. The mould casts a 158-grain bullet designed for .38 Special and .357 Magnum, but the final bullet diameter can be adjusted through sizing post-casting. The specified sizing die options (.357, .358, .359, .360) offer significant flexibility. This allows you to tailor the bullet diameter to the specific needs of your firearm, whether it has tight rifling or a looser bore. This adaptability is where the real customization lies, ensuring optimal fit and performance.

While the mould itself isn’t “customizable” in terms of swapping parts, its design is so well-established that it’s compatible with standard bullet casting practices and equipment from Lyman and other reputable manufacturers. The result is a bullet that can be loaded with various powders and charge weights to achieve desired velocities and performance characteristics in a wide array of .38/.357 firearms.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665

Who Should Buy Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665?

This Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 is a near-perfect choice for revolver enthusiasts, lever-action rifle owners, and handloaders who are serious about optimizing their .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammunition. It is particularly well-suited for those involved in Cowboy Action Shooting or anyone who appreciates the accuracy and reliability that a well-designed cast bullet can provide. If you are looking to save money on ammunition while simultaneously improving the performance of your firearms, this mould is an excellent investment.

Who should skip this product? Casual shooters who primarily use factory ammunition and have no interest in reloading might not need this product. Those looking for extremely lightweight or specialized bullet designs for specific long-range precision rifle applications might find other moulds more suitable.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Absolutely essential are the compatible Lyman mould handles (either double or four-cavity). Beyond that, a reliable lead pot, casting ladle, smelter, safety glasses, heat-resistant gloves, and a brass brush for cleaning are critical for safe and effective bullet casting. A sizing die and lubricator are also necessary to finish the bullets for loading.

Conclusion on Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665

The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 is, without question, a superb piece of equipment that delivers on its promises. For over a decade, it has been a cornerstone of my reloading bench, consistently providing accurate, reliable, and cost-effective projectiles for my .38 Special and .357 Magnum firearms. The blend of classic design, robust construction by Lyman, and the functionally superior bore-riding nose makes it an exceptional tool for any serious handloader.

The value proposition is undeniable. While the initial investment for the mould and necessary handles might seem significant to a newcomer, the long-term savings in ammunition costs and the unparalleled accuracy you can achieve make it a wise and worthwhile expenditure. The ability to cast high-quality bullets tailored to your specific firearm is a level of control and satisfaction that factory ammunition simply cannot match.

Would I personally recommend it? Absolutely, without hesitation. This mould is a testament to Lyman’s legacy of producing reliable, high-performance reloading tools. If you own a .38 Special or .357 Magnum firearm and are looking to elevate your shooting experience through precision hand-loading, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 38/357 Caliber – #358665 should be at the very top of your list. It’s more than just a mould; it’s an investment in better shooting.