Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 Review

Taking the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 for a Spin

The world of reloading is a deep rabbit hole, and for anyone serious about accuracy and economy, a quality bullet mould is a cornerstone. For years, I’ve gravitated towards the tried and true, and the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 caught my eye for its specific application and the reputation of its manufacturer. This isn’t just another piece of metal; it’s a tool that promises to unlock a new level of control over ammunition for a classic cartridge.

My journey to this particular mould wasn’t a sudden impulse. I’ve been working with the .32-20 Winchester cartridge for a while now, primarily in an older lever-action rifle. While factory ammunition is available, the cost and inconsistent quality can be frustrating for those who demand precision. I needed a reliable way to cast my own bullets, and a mould designed specifically for this venerable cartridge seemed like the logical next step.

Unboxing the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 was an experience in itself. The mould is delivered in a sturdy cardboard box, and upon opening, the weight and feel of the cast iron are immediately apparent. It possesses a satisfying heft, suggesting robust construction. The mould halves fit together with satisfying precision, and the alignment pins look and feel solid.

Before committing, I considered a few other options. Some generic moulds were available, but the lack of specific design for the .32-20 and the often questionable quality of their casting deterred me. I also looked at higher-end, custom moulds, but for a cartridge that isn’t my primary focus, the investment didn’t make immediate sense. The Lyman brand carries a legacy of quality and innovation in the reloading space, making this particular mould a strong contender.

My first impression was one of quiet anticipation. Holding this mould, I could visualize the countless bullets it would cast, each one a testament to careful craftsmanship. It felt like holding a piece of reloading history, ready to contribute to the future of my shooting endeavors. I was eager to get it heated up and start casting.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray into casting with the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 took place in my dedicated reloading room, a controlled environment. I meticulously heated the mould to the optimal temperature, ensuring even heat distribution. The process of pouring the molten lead was smooth, with the alloy flowing into the cavities cleanly.

The conditions were ideal – a stable temperature, good ventilation, and all my necessary tools within reach. This allowed me to focus solely on the technique of casting. I followed the recommended procedures for Lyman moulds, ensuring proper sprue cut and cooling.

Ease of use was surprisingly high, even for a first-time user with this specific mould. The handles provided good leverage, and the mould design itself guided the process effectively. The alignment pins ensured the halves remained perfectly seated during each pour, minimizing the risk of misaligned bullets.

My only minor surprise after the first session was the slight learning curve associated with achieving consistently perfect fill-out on every single bullet. This is more a testament to the art of casting than a fault of the mould itself; minor adjustments to pouring temperature and technique are always part of the initial setup. However, even with these minor refinements, the cast bullets were impressively uniform.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of dedicated casting sessions, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 has proven to be an incredibly reliable tool. It has withstood repeated heating and cooling cycles without any discernible degradation in its performance. The cast iron construction is inherently durable, and the precision machining has held up remarkably well.

There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the mould surfaces, sprue plate, or alignment pins. This speaks volumes about the quality of materials and manufacturing Lyman employs. The mould has consistently produced bullets with the same level of accuracy and uniformity as it did on day one.

Maintenance and care for this mould are straightforward. A simple cleaning with a brass brush after each casting session, followed by a light coat of mold release agent, keeps it in prime condition. I store it carefully to prevent accidental drops or damage, ensuring its longevity.

Compared to my experiences with other, less robust moulds in the past, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is in a league of its own. Its consistent performance and apparent durability make it a tool I can rely on for years to come. It has not only met my expectations but has consistently exceeded them, solidifying its place as a valuable asset in my reloading bench.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008

Specifications

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is a double-cavity mould designed for the .32-20 Winchester cartridge. It specifically casts a 115-grain bullet, identified by the mould number #311008. The mould utilizes a #8 Top Punch, which is crucial for consistent bullet formation and weight.

This mould is a double-cavity design, indicated by the part number 2660008. The manufacturer, Lyman, is renowned for its precision tooling, and this mould is no exception. The caliber it’s designed for is technically the .32-20, but the listed caliber specification on some retail sites might erroneously state .32 ACP due to similar bore diameters; however, the #311008 designation clearly points to .32-20.

These specifications are critical for the reloader. The 115-grain weight is a common and effective weight for the .32-20, offering a good balance of velocity and ballistic performance. The specific mould number ensures compatibility with various sizing dies and seating stems. The double-cavity design significantly increases production speed compared to single-cavity moulds, which is a major advantage for any serious caster.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is to cast accurate and consistent bullets, and it excels at this. Once heated properly, it consistently produces bullets with excellent fill-out and minimal defects. The resulting bullets, when sized and seated correctly, contribute to remarkably accurate ammunition.

Its greatest strength lies in its precision and the consistency of its output. Every bullet cast from this mould exhibits a uniform shape and weight, which is paramount for predictable ballistic performance. A slight weakness, common to all casting, is the reliance on the caster’s skill and the quality of the alloy used.

Ultimately, this mould not only meets but significantly exceeds the expectations one would have for a Lyman product. It delivers the precision and reliability that serious reloaders demand.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is constructed from high-quality, dense cast iron. This material provides excellent heat retention, which is vital for consistent bullet casting. The mould halves are precisely machined and fit together snugly, ensuring clean bullet edges.

The mould handles are ergonomically designed, offering a comfortable and secure grip during the pouring process. Their weight is balanced, reducing fatigue during extended casting sessions. The overall design is user-friendly, with clear alignment pins and a well-designed sprue plate that operates smoothly.

There is a slight learning curve for absolute beginners to master the art of casting, but the mould itself is not the source of complexity. Once the basic principles of lead pouring and temperature control are understood, this mould becomes an intuitive extension of the caster’s intent.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is built to last a lifetime, and likely generations beyond. The inherent durability of cast iron, combined with Lyman‘s precision engineering, means it can withstand thousands upon thousands of casting cycles. The design is simple, with no complex moving parts prone to failure.

Maintaining this mould is a straightforward process. Regular cleaning with a brass brush to remove lead residue and a light application of a quality mould release agent or even a graphite lubricant after each use is sufficient. Storing it in a dry environment, free from moisture, will prevent any potential corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 comes as a standalone mould block. It is designed to be used with a compatible Lyman top punch (#8 in this case) and handle system, which are typically sold separately but are often bundled in more comprehensive mould kits. The critical accessory here is a high-quality sprue cutter, which is integral to the mould’s function.

While the mould itself is not customizable in terms of its physical dimensions, its output is customizable through the reloading process. The cast bullets can be sized to various diameters depending on the specific firearm’s needs. Furthermore, the alloy composition used for casting can be altered to achieve different hardness levels, impacting performance. This mould is compatible with standard reloading dies and bullet sizers from most major manufacturers.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008

Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008?

This mould is a perfect fit for reloaders who specifically shoot and load for the .32-20 Winchester cartridge. It’s ideal for hunters who use this caliber for small game and appreciate the cost savings and accuracy improvements from casting their own ammunition. Competitive shooters who demand consistent performance from their .32-20 firearms will also find significant value here.

Serious hobbyists who enjoy the craft of bullet casting and want to achieve the utmost precision in their reloads should strongly consider this mould. It’s also a fantastic choice for those inheriting or restoring older firearms chambered in .32-20, looking to produce authentic and accurate ammunition.

Anyone looking for a mould for a different caliber, or who is entirely new to bullet casting and not yet invested in the necessary ancillary equipment (like a pot, handles, and top punch), might want to start with a more comprehensive kit. While excellent, this mould is a specialized tool for a specific cartridge. Potential buyers will also need to ensure they have a properly sized sizing die for their .32-20 firearms.

Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 is, without question, an outstanding piece of equipment for any handloader invested in the .32-20 Winchester cartridge. It embodies the quality and precision that the Lyman brand is known for, delivering consistently accurate and reliable cast bullets that are essential for optimal firearm performance. The 115-grain weight is well-suited for the cartridge’s intended uses, and the double-cavity design dramatically improves casting efficiency.

At a price point of $106.59 (as of my last check), the value proposition is exceptional. When you consider the cost of factory ammunition for this caliber, the ability to cast your own with this mould quickly pays for itself. The longevity and durability of the cast iron construction mean this mould will be a trusted companion for countless reloading sessions over many years, further enhancing its value.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 32/20 – #311008 2660008 to any serious reloader who focuses on the .32-20. It’s a tool that doesn’t just cast bullets; it casts confidence, accuracy, and economy into every round you load. If you’re looking to elevate your .32-20 reloading game, this mould is an investment you won’t regret.