Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 Review

My Honest Thoughts on the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673

For over a decade, I’ve been elbow-deep in gear designed to help folks thrive outdoors and navigate the complexities of tactical situations. This means I’ve seen more than my fair share of tools, gadgets, and components, each promising to be the next essential piece of kit. When I first encountered the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673, I was immediately intrigued. Lyman has a long-standing reputation in the reloading and firearms world, and a double-cavity mould designed for a classic caliber like the 6.5mm Swedish Mauser, with a substantial 150-grain projectile, certainly piqued my interest.

My personal journey into bullet casting began as a necessity born from an insatiable desire to push my precision shooting further and to gain a deeper understanding of the entire ammunition lifecycle. The rising cost of factory ammunition, especially for niche calibers, coupled with the pursuit of the perfect load for a particular rifle, drove me to invest in the tools to craft my own. I was specifically looking for a mould that could produce a heavier bullet for my cherished 6.5×55 Swede, something capable of delivering consistent accuracy at longer ranges and with sufficient sectional density for potential hunting applications.

Upon receiving the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673, the initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense craftsmanship. The mould halves fit together with satisfying precision, exhibiting minimal lateral play. The double cavity design immediately struck me as a practical choice for increasing production efficiency without adding excessive bulk or complexity. The weight felt substantial, hinting at the durable cast iron construction that is the hallmark of quality moulds. It felt like a tool built for serious work, not a delicate piece of equipment.

Before committing to this particular Lyman mould, I had considered other options, including some of the boutique mould makers. However, the established reputation of Lyman for reliable, well-engineered reloading components, combined with the specific design of this 6.5mm, 150-grain, gas-check projectile, tipped the scales. The promise of a heavy-for-caliber bullet that could be tailored with various alloys and gas checks was too tempting to ignore, especially given its intended application for cartridges like the 6.5×55. My first impression was one of quiet confidence; this felt like a mould that would perform as advertised, delivering consistent results batch after batch.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first foray into using the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 took place in my well-ventilated garage workshop, transformed into a temporary casting haven. The ambient temperature was a comfortable cool, ideal for controlling the pouring of molten alloy. I preheated the mould on my dedicated electric furnace’s mould hanger, ensuring it reached optimal operating temperature, a crucial step for achieving well-fill cavities. My alloy of choice for this initial test was a blend of clean clip-on wheel weights with a small percentage of 50/50 solder to aid in flow and hardness, carefully calculated to yield a nominal finished weight of around 150 grains per bullet, and potentially a bit more with the gas check.

The casting process itself was remarkably smooth. Once the mould was at temperature and the alloy was flowing cleanly, the cavities filled out beautifully with each pour. I observed the formation of the sprue, and it solidified quickly, allowing for rapid cycling of the casting process. The incorporation of the gas check feature was straightforward, with the small copper bases seating snugly before the molten lead was introduced. I experienced no significant issues with incomplete fills or voids; the design of the mould seemed to promote excellent metal flow and temperature stability.

After casting my first hundred projectiles, I was genuinely impressed. The nominal finished weight of 155.3 grains using my specific alloy mix was spot on, and more importantly, the consistency of weight between individual bullets was exceptional. This level of uniformity is paramount for accurate shooting, and this mould was delivering it right out of the gate. The only minor surprise was that the finished bullets were slightly heavier than the advertised 150 grains, which, as mentioned, was a welcome outcome given my alloy choice and desired performance characteristics.

Extended Use & Reliability

Months have passed since I first unwrapped the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673, and it has since become a workhorse in my reloading arsenal. It has seen countless casting sessions, producing hundreds, if not thousands, of bullets for various 6.5×55 rifles. Through all this use, the mould has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of significant wear or damage. The precision fit of the two halves remains tight, and the cavities continue to produce uniform bullets with every pour, a testament to its robust construction and quality manufacturing.

Maintenance has been minimal and straightforward. A simple cleaning with a soft brush and a degreaser after each casting session, followed by a light application of mould release agent, has kept it in prime condition. I’ve experimented with different alloys, from pure lead to harder alloys incorporating antimony and tin, and the mould consistently handles them all with aplomb. Compared to my previous experiences with older, worn moulds or those from less reputable manufacturers, this Lyman mould has proven itself to be incredibly reliable and durable, far exceeding my initial expectations for long-term performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673

Specifications

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 is a meticulously engineered piece of reloading equipment designed for the discerning handloader. Its primary specification is the 6.5mm caliber compatibility, making it ideal for a range of cartridges, most notably the venerable 6.5×55 Swedish Mauser, but also potentially adaptable to others like the 6.5 Grendel. The mould features a double cavity design, significantly speeding up the casting process compared to single-cavity variants. Each cavity is designed to cast a heavyweight bullet of approximately 150 grains, a crucial feature for achieving excellent ballistic coefficients and terminal performance.

This mould is equipped to cast gas-check bullets, a critical specification for higher velocity applications. The gas check shank integrated into the design ensures that these small copper or aluminum cups can be securely seated, preventing lead fouling at higher pressures and velocities. The mould utilizes a specific top punch, #641, which is matched to the bullet profile to ensure proper seating of the gas check and consistent nose formation. The manufacturer is Lyman, a name synonymous with quality in the reloading industry. This combination of features—double cavity, 150-grain weight, gas check compatibility, and precise top punch—translates directly into the ability to cast highly accurate, robust bullets suitable for a variety of shooting disciplines, from long-range target shooting to potential hunting scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of pure functionality, the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 absolutely excels. Its primary job is to cast accurate, consistent bullets, and it performs this task with remarkable proficiency. The double cavity design is a standout feature, dramatically increasing production output without compromising the quality of the cast bullets. This efficiency is invaluable for anyone needing to cast a significant number of rounds, saving considerable time and effort.

The mould’s ability to consistently produce 150-grain bullets with the gas check feature is another significant strength. This particular bullet weight and design are exceptionally well-suited for cartridges like the 6.5×55, offering a good balance of velocity, retained energy, and ballistic coefficient. The bullets emerge from the mould with sharp, well-defined edges and a smooth finish, minimizing the need for extensive post-casting sizing or finishing. One minor area for potential improvement, though more an observation than a fault, is that the exact finished weight can vary slightly based on the specific alloy used, but this is inherent to bullet casting and not a deficiency of the mould itself. Overall, it meets and often exceeds the expectations for precision and reliability that a handloader demands.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 is a perfect marriage of form and function, prioritizing both ease of use and robust performance. Constructed from high-quality, durable cast iron, the mould possesses a satisfying heft that communicates its solid build. The double cavity design is ergonomically sound, allowing for comfortable handling and precise manipulation during the pouring process. The alignment pins are robust and ensure perfect mating of the mould halves shot after shot, preventing flashing and ensuring uniform bullet dimensions.

The handle design (though typically sold separately or requiring standard mould handles) is also critical for good ergonomics, allowing for secure grip and easy opening/closing of the mould halves. This mould feels intuitive to use; even a novice caster can quickly grasp the process thanks to the logical design and well-executed features like the integrated sprue plate pivot and the precisely machined cavities. There’s no undue learning curve; its straightforward design allows a focus on technique rather than wrestling with the tool itself.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a cornerstone of Lyman products, and this mould is no exception. The heavy-duty cast iron construction is designed to withstand the rigors of repeated heating, cooling, and handling inherent in bullet casting. With proper care, this mould is built to last for decades, becoming a reliable heirloom piece for generations of reloaders. The critical feature here is that the iron itself is remarkably resistant to wear and deformation, ensuring that the precise dimensions of the cavities remain consistent over its lifespan.

Maintenance is blessedly simple, requiring only basic attention to prevent corrosion and ensure optimal performance. A light coat of rust preventative oil when not in use and a regular cleaning with a brass brush and solvent after casting are all that’s needed. Avoiding harsh abrasives that could scratch the delicate cavity surfaces is key. This low-maintenance requirement means more time spent casting and less time fussing over the tool, which is a win in my book.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 is a self-contained casting tool, its effectiveness is amplified by a few key accessories and the inherent customization of bullet casting itself. The mould requires standard mould handles, which are essential for safe and efficient operation, allowing for easy opening, closing, and manipulation of the hot mould. Additionally, to utilize the gas check feature, you will need a supply of 6.5mm gas checks; these are typically made of copper or aluminum and are crucial for high-velocity applications.

The true “customization” with this mould comes in the form of alloy selection and bullet finishing. You can experiment with different lead alloys, adding tin for better flow and lead-antimony for increased hardness, to achieve the ideal bullet properties for your specific firearm and intended use. Furthermore, the cast bullets can be sized to exact dimensions using a separate sizing die, ensuring perfect fit within your rifle’s bore. While this mould isn’t designed to accept aftermarket attachments like optics or grips, its compatibility with standard reloading accessories like mould handles and sizing dies makes it a versatile component in a complete handloading setup.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673

Who Should Buy Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673?

This Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 is an absolute must-have for reloaders and hand-loaders who own firearms chambered in 6.5mm calibers, particularly the 6.5×55 Swedish Mauser. It is perfect for precision riflemen and long-range shooters who demand consistency and accuracy from their hand-loaded ammunition. Furthermore, hunters looking to craft their own specialized hunting bullets with excellent sectional density and terminal performance will find this mould incredibly valuable. It’s also an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts who enjoy the process of creating their own ammunition and seek to optimize their loads for specific rifles.

Those who should likely skip this product are beginners in bullet casting who might be better served by a simpler, single-cavity mould to learn the fundamentals. It’s also not the ideal choice for shooters primarily using cartridges that do not benefit from a heavier 6.5mm bullet profile or those not interested in the gas check system. If you are looking for a mould for a cartridge that typically uses much lighter bullets or for very low-velocity plinking loads where a gas check is unnecessary, this mould might be overkill.

Must-have accessories for this mould include sturdy, well-fitting mould handles and a supply of 6.5mm gas checks. A good lead alloy tailored to your intended use, a reliable pot or furnace for melting the alloy, and a ladle for pouring are also essential components of a bullet casting setup. Don’t forget a brass brush for cleaning and a good sizing die for your specific 6.5mm caliber to ensure proper bullet fit in your firearm.

Conclusion on Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673

The Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673 is, without a doubt, a superior piece of equipment for any serious handloader working with 6.5mm calibers. It represents a fantastic investment for anyone looking to improve their shooting accuracy and gain a deeper control over their ammunition. The value proposition here is exceptionally strong; for the price, you are acquiring a tool that delivers consistent, high-quality results batch after batch, capable of producing bullets that rival or surpass many commercially available options.

I can confidently say that I would personally recommend this mould to any discerning shooter looking to craft accurate, dependable ammunition. Its robust construction, efficient design, and the ability to produce a heavy-for-caliber, gas-checked bullet make it a standout performer. The satisfaction of knowing you’ve cast and loaded your own precise ammunition, and then seeing it perform flawlessly on the range or in the field, is a reward in itself. If you’re ready to elevate your handloading game and are seeking a reliable, accurate bullet mould for your 6.5mm rifle, look no further than this Lyman Rifle Bullet Mould: 6.5 mm – #266673 2660673. It’s a tool that embodies the best of what Lyman has to offer.