Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 Review

Uncovering the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359: Real Review

For decades, Lyman has been a name synonymous with quality and precision in the reloading and shooting community. When I first saw the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359, a particular need immediately sprang to mind. For years, I’ve been delving into cast bullet reloading, seeking that perfect blend of affordability and performance for my collection of .30 caliber firearms, particularly those that might run on the lighter side of the spectrum. This mould promised a lighter, 115-grain bullet, explicitly designed with the M1 Carbine and 7.62×39 in mind, which are often under-served by heavier, more common designs.

My journey to this particular mould wasn’t a spontaneous one. I’d been experimenting with various cast bullet weights and designs for my M1 Carbine, and even some of my AK variants chambered in 7.62×39, always chasing that elusive sweet spot for plinking and light target work. The standard 150-grain bullets, while effective, can be a bit much for the intended application of these platforms, leading to excessive recoil and potential fouling issues at higher volumes. I needed a bullet that would fly true, maintain decent ballistic properties at moderate ranges, and not break the bank to cast in volume.

Upon receiving the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359, my initial impressions were those of classic Lyman quality. The mould itself is substantial, crafted from what feels like a high-grade iron alloy, providing that familiar heft and promising excellent heat retention for consistent pouring. The double cavity design immediately struck me as efficient; two bullets at a time means faster production without compromising the painstaking process of casting. The mould halves fit together with satisfying precision, a testament to Lyman’s manufacturing standards.

I had considered other options, of course. Some custom mould makers offer intricate designs, and other manufacturers produce simpler, single-cavity moulds. However, the specific bullet profile and weight offered by the #311359, coupled with Lyman’s reputation for consistent quality and the readily available sizing dies and accessories that typically accompany their moulds, made this my clear choice. The promise of a well-designed 115-grain bullet, capable of serving both the iconic M1 Carbine and the ubiquitous 7.62×39, was too tempting to pass up. My excitement was palpable; I could almost feel the satisfying thunk of newly cast bullets hitting the bottom of my casting pot.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real experience with the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 took place in my well-ventilated garage casting area, followed by a trip to the local outdoor range. The initial casting session was straightforward, as expected with a Lyman mould. After a proper preheating of the mould block and ensuring my alloy was at the optimal temperature, the molten lead began to flow beautifully into the two cavities. The bullets dropped from the mould with a clean separation, requiring minimal trimming or work to achieve a near-perfect appearance. The 115gr weight specified felt accurate, and the resulting bullets possessed a pleasing, classic shape.

The true test, however, came on the firing line. I loaded these freshly cast, gas-checked bullets into my trusty M1 Carbine, pairing them with a moderate charge of Accurate Arms #9 powder, a propellant I’ve found to be very forgiving and effective with lighter cast bullets. The conditions were near-perfect: a crisp autumn day, minimal wind, and the satisfying crack of muzzle reports echoing across the range. Shooting from a stable bench rest at 100 yards, the results were immediately promising. The bullets cycled the action of the M1 Carbine without a hitch, and the recoil was notably softer than with heavier cast bullets, making follow-up shots quicker and more comfortable. The accuracy was more than adequate for the intended purpose; I was achieving consistent groups that easily fit within a 4-inch circle, which for a carbine at 100 yards is excellent for casual target shooting and plinking.

I encountered no significant issues or surprises during this initial outing. The gas check design proved its worth, keeping fouling manageable even with a relatively fast powder. The mould performed exactly as Lyman intended, producing consistent, usable bullets straight from the block with minimal fuss.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks turned into months, and the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 became a staple in my casting schedule. I’ve since cast hundreds, if not thousands, of these 115-grain projectiles. They’ve seen action not only in my M1 Carbine but also in a variety of AK-pattern rifles chambered in 7.62×39, both with and without gas checks, depending on the intended range and velocity. In every instance, the bullets have performed reliably, demonstrating excellent consistency in both casting and shooting.

The durability of the mould itself has been exceptional. Despite repeated heating and cooling cycles, and the inevitable minor nicks and dings that come with heavy use in a casting setup, the mould halves still mate perfectly. There are no signs of pitting or warping, which speaks volumes about the quality of the Lyman iron. Maintenance is as simple as it gets: a light wipe-down with a soft cloth after it cools, a touch of 2-4-C oil to prevent rust, and it’s ready for the next session. I’ve found that the bullets from this mould, when properly sized and lubricated, require very little cleaning of the firearm itself. This is a significant advantage for any shooter looking to extend the time between deep cleans.

Compared to my earlier casting experiences with less reputable moulds, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 has consistently outperformed expectations. It consistently produces bullets that are not only accurate but also reliable, proving its worth as a tool for cost-effective and enjoyable shooting.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359

Specifications

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 is a double-cavity mould designed for casting rifle bullets. Its primary specification is its ability to produce a 115gr projectile. The mould is designed for a .308 Caliber projectile, making it suitable for firearms chambered in .30 Carbine and 7.62x39mm. It is a gas check mould, meaning it is designed to accept and securely seat standard gas checks onto the base of the bullet, which is crucial for higher velocities and reduced barrel leading. The Double Cavity # is 2660359, and the associated Top Punch # is 359, indicating the correct size punch for seating the bullet base into the mould.

These specifications are vital for the reloader. The 115gr weight is specifically chosen to optimize performance in firearms that may not be suited for heavier bullets, such as the M1 Carbine, offering a balance of ballistic performance and reduced recoil. The .308 Caliber ensures a proper fit and seal within the bore of most .30 caliber firearms. The gas check feature is a significant advantage, allowing for higher velocities and improved accuracy by preventing hot gas blow-by and reducing barrel fouling. The precise Top Punch # ensures that the base of the bullet is properly formed and ready for the gas check.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of performance, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 excels at its intended purpose. The bullets cast from this mould are consistently sized and shaped, which translates directly to improved accuracy. When properly sized and gas-checked, these 115-grain projectiles prove to be remarkably accurate, especially in firearms like the M1 Carbine. I’ve found them to be very reliable in terms of feeding and cycling in semi-automatic platforms, provided the loaded ammunition is within the firearm’s operating parameters.

The primary strength of this mould lies in its ability to produce a light, fast bullet that is ideal for plinking, informal target shooting, and even some light hunting applications where energy requirements are not extreme. Its performance is particularly notable in older firearms designed for lighter projectiles. A potential weakness, though not inherent to the mould itself but rather to cast bullet use, is the need for proper sizing and lubrication to prevent leading at higher velocities. If not gas-checked or if pushed too hard without adequate lubrication, some barrel leading can occur, though this mould’s design mitigates this significantly with the gas check. It generally meets and often exceeds the expectations set by its specifications, offering a cost-effective way to shoot common calibers.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 is a classic Lyman configuration: a sturdy, two-piece iron mould block. The weight of the mould, while not insignificant, is well-balanced for heat retention, which is crucial for consistent casting. The handles, typically purchased separately, provide a good grip and allow for safe manipulation of the hot mould. The interior surfaces of the cavities are precisely machined, ensuring that ejected bullets are uniform in size and shape.

This mould is highly user-friendly for anyone with basic casting experience. The mould blocks open and close smoothly, and the sprue plate operates with a satisfying click. The inclusion of alignment pins ensures that the two halves seat perfectly every time, producing consistent bullet bases. There is virtually no learning curve for experienced casters; for newcomers, the learning involves understanding alloy temperatures, mould preheating, and pouring techniques, which are standard for any casting operation.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of Lyman iron moulds is legendary, and this 30 M1/7.62×39 model is no exception. Crafted from high-quality iron, it is built to withstand years, even decades, of consistent use. The iron alloy offers excellent heat retention and resistance to wear and tear. With proper care, this mould will likely outlast many of the firearms it is used to supply ammunition for.

Maintenance is exceptionally simple. After each casting session, allow the mould to cool completely. Then, wipe down the cavities and sprue plate with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any residual lead or flux. A light application of a rust inhibitor, such as 2-4-C oil or Lee Liquid Alox, applied to the exterior surfaces and the sprue plate pivot, will prevent corrosion. Never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool on the mould cavities, as this can damage the delicate surface finish and affect bullet quality.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the mould itself is the core product, its functionality is enhanced by specific accessories. The most critical accessory is the top punch, designated as #359. This punch is used with a sizing die to ensure the bullet is correctly sized for your firearm’s bore and to properly seat the gas check. Lyman offers a wide range of sizing dies in various calibers and diameters, and a .308 or .309 sizing die would be ideal for this mould, depending on your specific firearm’s bore dimensions. The gas checks themselves are another essential consumable accessory; brands like Hornady, Lee, and of course, Lyman offer reliable gas checks.

Customization with this mould primarily comes down to the choice of alloy, lubricant, and sizing die diameter. For instance, a harder alloy with a higher tin content might be preferred for higher velocities, while a softer alloy would be suitable for lower velocity loads where obturation is more critical. The selection of the correct top punch and the precise diameter of the sizing die are also crucial for achieving optimal accuracy and fit in different firearms. While this mould is designed for specific calibers, its compatibility with standard reloading tools and accessories from other reputable brands like RCBS and Lee is excellent, making it a versatile addition to any casting setup.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359

Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359?

This Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 is absolutely perfect for: recreational shooters and reloaders who own M1 Carbines or firearms chambered in 7.62×39. It’s a godsend for those who enjoy plinking and informal target shooting, as it drastically reduces ammunition costs. Survivalists and preppers who rely on these calibers will also find immense value in being able to produce their own ammunition in volume. Furthermore, new reloaders looking for a robust and forgiving mould to start their casting journey with will appreciate the quality and consistency Lyman offers.

Those who should likely skip this product are competitive shooters who require bullets with very specific aerodynamic profiles or weights for extreme long-range precision, or individuals who primarily shoot firearms that are designed for heavier bullets and prefer that ballistic profile. If your primary firearm is a .30-06 or .300 Winchester Magnum, this mould, while technically usable with adaptation, is not its intended or most efficient application.

Must-have accessories for this mould include Lyman or equivalent mould handles, a #359 top punch, a .308 or .309 sizing die, a bullet lubricant and sizing die machine (like a Lyman #55 or Lee), a casting pot, quality casting alloy, and a supply of gas checks.

Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 is, without question, an outstanding piece of reloading equipment. It delivers precisely what it promises: a reliable, accurate, and cost-effective way to produce 115-grain, gas-checked bullets for popular .30 caliber carbines and rifles. The build quality is top-notch, the casting process is straightforward, and the resulting bullets perform admirably in their intended applications.

At a price point of $106.59, the value proposition is incredibly strong. When you consider the longevity of the mould and the significant savings realized by casting your own ammunition, the initial investment is quickly recouped. This mould empowers shooters to keep their firearms well-fed without breaking the bank.

I would personally and unequivocally recommend the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 30 M1/7.62×39 – #311359 2660359 to any reloader who owns an M1 Carbine or a 7.62×39 firearm and wishes to explore the rewarding world of cast bullet reloading. It’s a tool that combines Lyman’s heritage of quality with practical design, making it an indispensable addition to any serious caster’s toolkit. Invest in this mould, and you invest in years of affordable, enjoyable shooting.