Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 Review

This is What Happened When I Used the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664

For over a decade, I’ve been hands-on with gear that’s meant to perform when the chips are down, the trail is long, or the target is critical. When it comes to reloading, the precision starts at the very foundation: the bullet mold. My search for a reliable, accurate mold for the venerable .45 Colt led me to the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664. This wasn’t just another purchase; it was an investment in consistency for a cartridge I deeply respect.

The need for a specific bullet profile for the .45 Colt had been a growing desire. While many molds exist, I was looking for something that balanced classic performance with modern feeding characteristics, especially for use in lever-action rifles and revolvers alike. The #452664 model from Lyman promised just that with its integrated crimp groove, a feature that can make all the difference in reliable feeding.

Unboxing the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 was a tactile experience. The mold felt substantial, a testament to the cast iron construction. The machining was precise, with clean parting lines and smooth cavity surfaces, indicative of Lyman’s reputation. It immediately felt like a tool built to last, a far cry from flimsier alternatives.

Before committing, I considered other options, including molds from RCBS and Lee Precision. While both offer solid products, the specific design and advertised crimp groove of the Lyman #452664 struck a chord with my need for versatility. It seemed to offer the best of both worlds for my intended applications, bridging the gap between pure handgun and rifle performance in the .45 Colt.

My initial impression was one of quiet anticipation. This wasn’t a flashy piece of gear, but rather a precision instrument. I was eager to see if the promise of accuracy and reliable feeding would translate from the mold’s design to the bullets I would cast.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial casting sessions with the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 took place in my home workshop, a controlled environment conducive to learning a new mold’s nuances. The process of heating the mold, pouring the molten alloy, and ejecting the finished bullets was, as expected with any new mold, a learning curve. Following the user’s note about a “short break-in period” was crucial; initially, the bullets weren’t quite filling out to their full diameter.

This break-in was essential. After about six to eight cycles of preheating and pouring with a good quality casting alloy, the bullets began to emerge with crisp, well-defined edges and full dimensions. The inclusion of a crimp groove on this 250-grain bullet design was immediately apparent and appreciated. It meant the bullets ejected cleanly and with consistent fill, ready for the next stage of reloading.

I was particularly impressed with how quickly the mold reached optimal casting temperature and maintained it. This thermal stability is key for consistent bullet weight and diameter. Even after extended casting sessions, the heat distribution remained remarkably even across both cavities, minimizing variables that can lead to rejects.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks turned into months, and the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 became a staple in my reloading bench. It’s seen action across countless casting sessions, producing hundreds, if not thousands, of bullets for various .45 Colt firearms. The durability of the cast iron mold is evident; there are no signs of pitting or premature wear, even with regular use and cleaning.

Maintenance is straightforward, involving a simple clean-out with a brass brush after each session and occasional application of mold release. This ease of care is critical for anyone who casts regularly, as it minimizes downtime and keeps production flowing. Compared to other molds I’ve used, the #452664 has maintained its precision remarkably well, consistently casting bullets to spec.

In terms of performance, the bullets cast from this mold have consistently outperformed my expectations. When sized to .452, they feed flawlessly through my Ruger Blackhawk and my Winchester 1873 rifle. The accuracy achieved with these hand-cast bullets, particularly when paired with appropriate powder charges, has been exceptional.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664

Specifications

The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 is a double-cavity mold designed specifically for the .45 Colt cartridge. Its core specifications include a 250-grain bullet weight, which is a classic and highly effective weight for this caliber, suitable for both hunting and target shooting. The mold is engineered for a specific bullet profile, featuring a well-defined crimp groove for positive seating and reliable feeding in a variety of firearms.

The mold requires double cavity handles, which are sold separately. This is a crucial point for prospective buyers; ensure you have compatible handles to operate the mold. The mold’s design is optimized for common sizing die diameters of .451 and .452 inches, allowing for flexibility based on your firearm’s specific groove diameter and your chosen alloy hardness.

Lyman has crafted this mold from high-quality cast iron, known for its excellent heat retention and durability. This material choice is vital for consistent bullet casting, as it allows the mold to reach and maintain a stable temperature, leading to uniform bullet dimensions and weight. The mold’s overall construction speaks to its intended purpose: producing precise, usable bullets time after time.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of pure function, the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 excels. Its primary job is to cast accurate, consistent bullets, and it does so admirably. The 250-grain weight is a sweet spot for the .45 Colt, offering a good balance of penetration and manageable recoil, making it versatile for various shooting disciplines.

The standout feature for me is the precisely located crimp groove. This groove ensures that when bullets are crimped, the mouth of the case sits snugly within it, preventing bullet setback during recoil and ensuring smooth feeding from magazines or tubular rifle magazines. This dramatically reduces the chance of feeding failures or jams, a critical consideration for any practical application.

While the mold consistently produces bullets that measure up to its advertised specifications, there’s always a minor learning curve with any mold. As noted, the initial break-in period is essential for achieving optimal fill and detail. However, once this is achieved, the mold performs reliably and predictably, churning out high-quality projectiles.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 is purely functional, prioritizing performance over aesthetics. The double-cavity configuration is efficient for mid-range casting volumes, offering a good balance between speed and manageable heat. The machined surfaces are smooth, ensuring that bullets release cleanly without sticking.

The weight of the cast iron mold, when paired with appropriate handles, feels substantial and stable in hand during the casting process. This heft contributes to its excellent heat retention, a vital factor for consistent casting. While the mold itself isn’t something you’ll be holding for extended periods of “use” in the traditional sense, its design facilitates a smooth and efficient casting operation.

The integration of the crimp groove is a prime example of thoughtful design for this particular bullet profile. It’s not just about casting a projectile; it’s about casting a projectile that is designed to function flawlessly in a firearm. This attention to detail sets Lyman molds apart for serious reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a hallmark of well-made cast iron molds, and the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 is no exception. Cast iron is inherently tough and resistant to wear, especially when treated with care. With proper maintenance, this mold is designed to last a lifetime, producing thousands upon thousands of bullets without degradation in performance.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick brush-out with a brass wire brush to remove any lead residue after casting, followed by a light application of mold release agent or a graphite lubricant, keeps the cavities clean and ready for the next pour. Occasional checks for any slag buildup and ensuring clean parting lines are the extent of its needs.

This simplicity in maintenance means more time spent casting and less time fussing over equipment. For someone who relies on cast bullets for their shooting needs, this reliability and ease of upkeep are invaluable. It’s a tool that works when you need it to, without demanding excessive attention.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 is available in configurations that require specific handles: Double Cavity # 2660664 which requires Double Cavity Handles, and the Four Cavity # 2670664 which requires Four Cavity Handles. These handles are essential accessories and are not included with the mold itself. Buyers must purchase these separately, ensuring they select the correct type for their chosen mold configuration.

Beyond the essential handles, the primary “customization” involves the alloy used and the subsequent sizing of the cast bullets. Lyman is known for providing molds that work well with a range of alloys, from pure lead to harder alloys, allowing reloaders to tailor bullet hardness to their specific firearm and load. The mold is designed to be compatible with standard .451 and .452 sizing dies, giving reloaders the flexibility to achieve the perfect fit for their specific .45 Colt firearms.

While the mold itself is a fixed design, its compatibility with standard reloading equipment makes it a highly customizable component within the reloading process. The ability to pair it with different alloys and sizing dies offers significant flexibility.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664

Who Should Buy Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664?

The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 is an absolute must-have for any serious reloader who shoots the .45 Colt cartridge. It is perfect for shooters who own revolvers and lever-action rifles chambered in .45 Colt and desire consistent, accurate hand-cast bullets. Hunters looking for a reliable projectile for medium-game from their .45 Colt rifles or handguns will also find this mold invaluable.

Casual plinkers who want to save money and gain control over their ammunition will also benefit immensely from this mold. It’s for those who appreciate the craftsmanship of traditional reloading and want to achieve the best possible performance from their .45 Colt firearms. This mold bridges the gap for anyone seeking a do-it-all bullet for this classic cartridge.

Anyone looking for an easy, “plug-and-play” experience without understanding the nuances of casting might find the initial break-in and handle purchase slightly off-putting. However, the payoff in bullet quality and performance far outweighs these minor considerations. A good casting flux and a reliable source of lead alloy are must-have accessories for maximizing the potential of this mold.

Conclusion on Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664

The Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664 is more than just a piece of reloading equipment; it’s a gateway to a higher echelon of accuracy and reliability for the .45 Colt cartridge. Its robust construction, thoughtful design, and exceptional performance make it an indispensable tool for anyone serious about casting their own ammunition. The inclusion of a well-placed crimp groove is a significant advantage, ensuring that the bullets you cast will function flawlessly in your firearms.

At $109.99 (plus the cost of handles), the value proposition is exceptionally strong. Considering the lifespan of a quality cast iron mold and the cost savings of casting your own bullets over time, this price is more than justified. It’s an investment that pays dividends in accuracy, consistency, and the sheer satisfaction of crafting your own ammunition.

Without hesitation, I personally recommend the Lyman Pistol Bullet Mould: 45 Colt – #452664. It embodies the spirit of traditional reloading while incorporating modern design elements that enhance functionality. If you shoot .45 Colt, this mold should be at the top of your reloading bench. It’s a testament to Lyman’s dedication to providing shooters with tools that perform when it matters most.