Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 Review

Is the Hype Real? Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 Reviewed

For those of us who have spent a decade or more knee-deep in reloading components and casting media, the name Lyman is practically synonymous with quality and reliability. So, when I got my hands on the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672, a specific double-cavity mould designed for .30 caliber projectiles, my anticipation was palpable. This isn’t just another piece of kit; it’s a tool that promises to deliver consistency and precision to the handloader looking to push their ballistic boundaries.

The siren song of casting your own bullets is a powerful one, promising economy, customization, and a deeply satisfying connection to the shooting sports. My journey into casting wasn’t born out of a single problem, but rather a growing desire for greater control over my ammunition. The ability to tailor bullet weight, alloy, and shape to specific firearms and shooting disciplines is a pursuit that never ends, and this Lyman mould seemed like a critical piece of that puzzle, specifically for my cherished .30 caliber rifles.

Upon receiving the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672, the initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The mould, housed in its protective packaging, felt substantial in hand. The precision machining of the double cavity was immediately apparent, hinting at the quality of bullets it would produce. It’s a tool that exudes confidence, promising many years of faithful service.

In the realm of bullet casting, there are myriad options. I’d previously experimented with some off-brand moulds, and while they served a purpose, they lacked the consistent dimensions and smooth casting characteristics I’d come to expect from reputable manufacturers. The appeal of this specific Lyman mould lay in its proven design and its reputation for producing a 160-grain gas check projectile, a weight that hits a sweet spot for many .30 caliber applications.

My first impression was undeniably positive. This wasn’t a flimsy, mass-produced item; it was a precision instrument. The weight felt right, the iron construction exuded durability, and the cleanly cut cavities promised an ease of use that I was eager to experience. I was genuinely excited to see if this mould could deliver on the promise of consistent, high-quality bullets.

Real-World Testing: Putting **Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672** to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 took place on a brisk autumn afternoon at my home reloading bench, which I’ve painstakingly set up to mimic an ideal casting environment. The process was straightforward, aided by the mould’s excellent heat distribution characteristics. I was pouring pure lead mixed with a touch of tin, aiming for a soft but durable alloy.

The mould heated evenly, and the first few sprue cuts revealed beautifully formed bullets. The 160-grain weight was remarkably consistent from cavity to cavity, a testament to the mould’s precision. I experienced no issues with fill-out, even with the relatively simple design, which is a hallmark of well-engineered casting tools.

The only surprise, and it was a pleasant one, was how quickly the mould reached optimal casting temperature and how consistently it maintained it. This is crucial for preventing sprue drips and ensuring that each bullet is fully formed. The double cavity design significantly sped up the casting process compared to single-cavity moulds I’ve used in the past.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several casting sessions, spanning weeks of reloading for various .30 caliber platforms, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 has proven to be an absolute workhorse. The cast iron construction shows no signs of significant wear, and the cavities remain as sharp and precise as they were on day one. This mould is built to endure the heat and demands of regular casting.

Maintenance has been minimal. A simple wipe-down with a soft cloth after each session and the occasional light application of mould release wax are all that’s needed. The sprue plate mechanism is robust and has remained perfectly aligned, preventing lead from seeping where it shouldn’t.

Compared to my previous experiences with other moulds, this Lyman product stands head and shoulders above. The consistency in bullet diameter and weight is exceptional, which translates directly to more accurate and predictable ammunition downrange. It has certainly outperformed my expectations for a mould in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of **Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672**

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Lyman
• Projectile Caliber: .30 Caliber
• Bullet Weight: 160 grain
• Cavity Type: Double Cavity
• Mould Material: Cast Iron
• Bullet Design: Gas Check (requires separate gas checks)
• Top Punch: #644 (This is a specific tool for seating the bullet in the mould for pouring, and its design influences the bullet’s nose shape.)
• Model Number: #311672 (This number designates the specific bullet design).
• Double Cavity Number: 2660672 (This number often refers to the specific mould block configuration).

These specifications are critical for any handloader. The .30 Caliber designation tells you precisely which rifle cartridges this mould is intended for, such as .30-30 Winchester, .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, and many others. The 160-grain weight is a versatile choice; it offers a good balance between penetration and expansion for hunting applications, while also being heavy enough for good ballistic performance at moderate ranges.

The Cast Iron construction is a significant advantage. It offers excellent heat retention and distribution, which is vital for achieving consistent bullet fill and preventing uneven cooling. This leads to more uniform bullet dimensions and weight. The Gas Check design is a key feature for higher velocity applications. It allows for increased velocity without the risk of bullet base erosion, ensuring cleaner burning and better accuracy at higher pressures. The specific Top Punch #644 will impart a particular nose shape, which can influence feeding characteristics and aerodynamic stability.

Performance & Functionality

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 performs exceptionally well at its intended task: casting consistent 160-grain gas check bullets for .30 caliber rifles. The mould heats evenly, and with a properly prepared alloy and adequate preheating, it consistently produces bullets that are fully formed and dimensionally accurate. The double cavity design significantly increases casting throughput, making it a practical choice for those who cast in volume.

The primary strength of this mould is its consistency. Each bullet emerges with a very similar weight and diameter, which is the cornerstone of accurate handloaded ammunition. This consistency reduces the variables that can plague handloaders, allowing for more predictable results. The only minor weakness, and it’s more a characteristic of the design than a flaw, is that gas check bullets inherently require an extra step in the loading process (installing the gas check) and may not feed as reliably in certain semi-automatic actions as traditional plain-based bullets.

Overall, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 not only meets but exceeds expectations for a mould of its type and price point. Its reliability and the quality of the projectiles it produces are undeniable.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Lyman mould is classic and functional, emphasizing practicality over aesthetics. The cast iron construction provides a substantial feel, which is reassuring in a tool subjected to high temperatures. The handles (often sold separately or requiring the user to attach their own) are typically designed for easy grip and maneuverability, allowing for efficient opening and closing of the sprue plate.

While not “ergonomic” in the sense of a modern tool with rubber grips, the design is inherently user-friendly for anyone familiar with bullet casting. The substantial weight and heat distribution contribute to a stable casting process. There is a minimal learning curve, primarily related to achieving the correct mould temperature and pouring technique, which is true for any bullet mould.

Durability & Maintenance

This Lyman mould is built for longevity. The cast iron material is inherently durable and resistant to wear, provided it is cared for properly. With consistent maintenance, which involves keeping it clean, dry, and lightly seasoned, this mould should last a lifetime, producing thousands of bullets.

Maintenance is straightforward. After casting, allow the mould to cool completely. Then, remove any lead residue with a soft brush or a wooden dowel. A light coat of mould release wax or even a thin film of high-temperature lubricant on the sprue plate and alignment pins will keep everything running smoothly. It is easy to maintain and requires no complex repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 comes as the mould block itself. It typically requires separate purchase of handles and a sprue plate cutter, which are standard accessories for most Lyman moulds. You will also need a top punch that matches the bullet design and a base-pin system if your mould uses one.

For this specific mould, the essential accessory is the #644 Top Punch. Additionally, you will need appropriate gas checks for your chosen .30 caliber bullets, which are a separate purchase. While the mould itself is not “customizable” in terms of changing its core design, the bullets it produces can be further customized through alloy selection, heat treating (if applicable to the alloy), and sizing diameters using a sizing die, which is a separate reloading component. The mould’s compatibility with standard Lyman handles and punches ensures it integrates seamlessly into most casting setups.

Pros and Cons of **Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672**

Who Should Buy **Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672**?

This mould is perfect for reloaders and cast bullet enthusiasts who own .30 caliber rifles and are looking for a reliable and consistent source of 160-grain gas check bullets. It’s particularly well-suited for those who:

• Hunt with .30 caliber rifles and need bullets capable of withstanding higher velocities.
• Engage in long-range shooting where bullet consistency is paramount.
• Are looking to cast their own ammunition for economy and customization.
• Have a need for a robust, durable casting tool that will last for decades.

Those who should skip this product are primarily:

• Beginners in bullet casting who may be better served by a simpler, plain-based bullet mould without the added complexity of gas checks.
• Individuals who exclusively shoot very low-velocity loads where gas checks are unnecessary.
• Shooters who own .30 caliber firearms with extremely tight throats or feeding mechanisms that might be finicky with gas-checked bullets.

Must-have accessories or modifications for this mould include Lyman brand mould handles, a sprue plate cutter (if not included with handles), the correct #644 Top Punch, and, of course, the appropriate gas checks for your chosen .30 caliber bullets. A good quality sizing die will also be essential for resizing the cast bullets to the correct diameter for your specific firearm.

Conclusion on **Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672**

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 is a testament to Lyman’s enduring legacy in the reloading and ammunition crafting world. It’s a precision tool that delivers on its promise of consistent, high-quality 160-grain gas check bullets for a wide array of .30 caliber firearms. For anyone serious about cast bullet accuracy and performance, especially at higher velocities, this mould represents an outstanding investment.

The value proposition here is clear: for a reasonable price, you get a mould that will produce bullets capable of rivaling much more expensive options, and it will do so reliably for a lifetime. Its durability, ease of use (once you’re accustomed to casting), and the sheer consistency of the projectiles it yields make it an indispensable addition to any serious handloader’s arsenal.

I would personally and unequivocally recommend this mould to anyone who fits the target demographic. Its performance in the field and on the bench speaks for itself. If you’re looking to elevate your .30 caliber handloads, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 Caliber – #311672 2660672 is a stellar choice that will undoubtedly enhance your shooting experience.