Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 Review

True Results from the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654

For over a decade, my hands have been intimately familiar with the weight, balance, and raw functionality of gear designed for the unforgiving outdoors and tactical scenarios. When it comes to handloading, precision and reliability aren’t just desirable; they’re paramount. That’s precisely why the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 caught my eye. This isn’t just another piece of equipment; it’s an invitation to craft ammunition that meets rigorous personal standards for two of the most popular pistol calibers available today.

My journey to this specific mould began with a desire to gain greater control over my ammunition costs and, more importantly, to tailor bullet performance to specific firearms and shooting disciplines. The proliferation of firearms chambered in .40 S&W and 10mm Auto in my personal collection, combined with an ever-increasing demand for high-quality, custom-cast bullets, made investing in a reputable mould a logical next step. I was tired of settling for off-the-shelf options that didn’t quite hit the mark for accuracy or terminal performance in certain applications.

Upon receiving the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654, the initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The mould, weighing in at a satisfying heft, immediately communicated its robust construction. Its machined surfaces felt smooth, and the alignment pins were precisely fitted. This immediately set it apart from some of the lighter, less precisely machined moulds I’ve encountered in the past. Lyman, a name synonymous with reloading for generations, seemed to have delivered on their reputation for quality.

While there are certainly other manufacturers producing pistol bullet moulds, my decision to go with Lyman was driven by their long-standing history and the specific design of this particular mould. I considered some single-cavity moulds for their simplicity, but the promise of increased production speed with a double-cavity mould was too appealing to pass up, especially for calibers I shoot frequently. The specific design for a 150-grain, relatively lightweight bullet for both .40 S&W and 10mm Auto offered a versatility that few other moulds could match within a single unit.

My first impression was one of eager anticipation. The thought of casting my own match-grade bullets for my favorite .40 S&W and 10mm handguns was genuinely exciting. The mould felt substantial in hand, promising longevity and consistent performance. I was particularly keen to see how this mould’s design would translate into actual bullet accuracy on the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 to the Test

First Use Experience

My inaugural casting session with the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 took place in my dedicated reloading shop, a controlled environment that mimics a tactical workshop’s focus on precision. The mould itself requires Double Cavity Handles, which I already possessed, a crucial point for anyone considering this unit. After preheating the mould to the optimal temperature – a critical step for any mould casting – I began pouring.

The process was remarkably smooth. The melt poured cleanly into the 2660654 cavities, filling them out completely with minimal effort. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the mould cycled, allowing me to cast a respectable number of bullets in a short period. The resulting bullets, once dropped and cooled, exhibited excellent fill-out and uniformity, a testament to the mould’s precise machining.

No significant issues arose during the initial use, which is a rarity in my experience with new casting equipment. The only minor surprise was how quickly the mould retained heat; it’s efficient, which is good, but it does require careful management of the pouring temperature to avoid overheating. This is a minor learning curve inherent to well-designed, heat-retaining moulds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After weeks of consistent use, casting hundreds, if not thousands, of bullets with the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654, its reliability has become evident. The mould continues to produce incredibly uniform bullets, batch after batch. There are no signs of galling or pitting on the cavity surfaces, a testament to the leaded-steel construction and the heat-treated blue finish.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick clean with a brass brush and a light application of mould release or mineral oil after each significant casting session keeps it in peak condition. The hardened steel alignment pins have shown no play or wear, ensuring that the mould halves continue to mate perfectly, which is crucial for consistent bullet diameter and weight.

Compared to some of my older moulds, this Lyman unit has significantly reduced the time spent on post-casting finishing. The bullets drop with very few, if any, imperfections, meaning less time spent trimming sprue or dealing with minor defects. It has genuinely improved my casting efficiency and the quality of the finished product.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654

Specifications

This Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 is engineered with specific ballistic goals in mind. The calibre compatibility is clearly stated as .40 S&W and 10mm Auto, offering a dual-purpose utility that appeals to reloaders with firearms in both popular cartridges. The bullet weight is a consistent 150 grain, which is an interesting choice for both calibers; it leans towards a lighter, faster bullet profile for the 10mm, and a mid-weight, accurate option for the .40 S&W.

The mould features a Double Cavity # 2660654, meaning it has two identical cavities for casting two bullets simultaneously. This significantly increases production speed compared to single-cavity moulds. It utilizes a Top Punch # 43, an integral part of the bullet-forming process, ensuring the nose profile is consistent. Lyman specifies that this mould Requires Double Cavity Handles, which is a critical piece of information for potential buyers as these are sold separately.

For post-casting processing, the bullets cast from this mould are well-suited for Sizing Die dimensions of .400 and .401, providing flexibility depending on the specific firearm’s chamber and bore dimensions. This range allows for proper sizing to ensure a tight fit and optimal accuracy. The overall construction material is specified as leaded-steel, known for its excellent heat retention and durability.

Performance & Functionality

The performance of the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 is best described as highly efficient and accurate. The primary function, casting uniform bullets, is executed flawlessly. The 150-grain weight is a versatile option. When cast with a suitable alloy and loaded to appropriate velocities for the .40 S&W, these bullets offer excellent accuracy and manageable recoil, making them ideal for range use and self-defense.

In 10mm Auto applications, the 150-grain bullet moves at higher velocities, offering a flatter trajectory and potentially faster expansion on impact, though terminal ballistics are always dependent on the alloy and bullet design specifics. The mould’s ability to consistently produce these bullets makes it a valuable tool for handloaders looking for a specific performance envelope. The heat-treated nature of the mould contributes to its longevity and ability to maintain consistent casting temperatures, directly impacting bullet quality.

A significant strength is the double-cavity design, which dramatically speeds up the casting process. This is particularly beneficial when stocking up for extensive shooting sessions or for those who reload in larger quantities. A minor drawback, if one could even call it that, is the inherent need to manage mould temperature carefully to achieve the best results. However, this is standard practice for any serious caster, not a failing of the mould itself.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 is functional and purpose-driven, typical of Lyman equipment. The leaded-steel construction provides a substantial weight that feels reassuringly robust, contributing to excellent heat retention, which is vital for consistent casting. The machining is precise, with smooth cavity surfaces that allow bullets to drop cleanly.

The mould requires Double Cavity Handles, which, when properly fitted, provide a good grip and leverage for pouring. The handles are not included with the mould itself, which is a common practice but worth noting for new buyers. The overall ergonomics are geared towards efficient casting rather than intricate handling, which is appropriate for its intended purpose. The hardened steel alignment pins are a key design feature, ensuring perfect alignment between the two halves of the mould with every closure, leading to precise bullet dimensions.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a significant selling point for this Lyman mould. The leaded-steel construction, coupled with the heat-treated blue finish, is designed to withstand thousands of casting cycles without degradation. This type of mould is an investment meant to last for many years, even decades, with proper care.

Maintenance is relatively simple, primarily involving cleaning out any residual lead or mould release agent after casting. A soft brass brush and a little elbow grease are usually sufficient. It’s important to keep the mould well-seasoned and free from rust, especially if stored in humid environments. The precision of the hardened steel alignment pins means that maintaining proper closure is key to its long-term durability and consistent performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 comes as a standalone mould block. The essential accessory required for its operation is a set of Double Cavity Handles, such as Lyman’s own Mould Handles (e.g., #9833001), which are sold separately. These handles are crucial for safely holding and manipulating the hot mould during the casting process.

Beyond the necessary handles, the primary form of “customization” with this mould lies in the alloy selection and loading process. By varying the alloy hardness (using different proportions of lead, tin, and antimony) and employing appropriate sizing diameters (.400 or .401), reloaders can fine-tune the bullet’s performance for specific firearms. This mould is not designed for interchangeable inserts or complex modifications; its strength lies in its consistent, reliable output of a specific bullet profile. It is compatible with standard sizing dies and reloading presses from all major manufacturers.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654

Who Should Buy Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654?

This mould is a fantastic option for recreational shooters and handloaders who frequently shoot firearms chambered in both .40 S&W and 10mm Auto. It is particularly well-suited for those looking to save money on ammunition by casting their own bullets for range practice, competitive shooting, or even personal defense. The 150-grain bullet weight is a solid all-around choice for many .40 S&W applications requiring accuracy and moderate velocity, and for 10mm shooters looking for a lighter, faster projectile.

Those who should consider skipping this product might be reloaders who exclusively use very heavy or very light bullets for their specific calibers, or those who are brand new to casting and may prefer a simpler, single-cavity mould to start with, to reduce the initial investment and learning curve. It’s also not ideal for someone who only owns a .40 S&W or 10mm and has no plans to use the other caliber.

Must-have accessories for this mould are a good set of Double Cavity Handles. Beyond that, a quality lead pot, casting ladle, bullet sizing die and sizer, and appropriate lead alloy are essential for the casting and reloading process.

Conclusion on Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654

The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 stands out as a highly effective and durable piece of reloading equipment. Its dual-caliber capability, combined with its efficient double-cavity design, makes it an excellent value proposition for serious handloaders. The consistent 150-grain bullets it produces are accurate and reliable, providing a tangible benefit for both .40 S&W and 10mm shooters looking to control costs and enhance their ammunition’s performance.

Considering its robust leaded-steel construction, precise machining, and the proven reliability of the Lyman brand, the price point of $107.99 (as listed) is more than justified for the quality and longevity it offers. This mould is not a disposable tool; it’s a long-term investment that will pay for itself many times over in saved ammunition costs and the satisfaction of crafting superior bullets.

I would personally and without reservation recommend the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 40 S&W / 10mm – #401654 2660654 to any handloader looking to delve into casting for their .40 S&W or 10mm firearms. It simplifies the process while delivering high-quality results that are sure to impress on the range. Invest in this mould, along with the necessary handles and basic casting setup, and you’ll be well on your way to producing exceptional ammunition tailored to your specific needs.