Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 Review

Discovering the Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020: My Take

For over a decade, I’ve found myself drawn to the fundamental crafts of the shooting world, particularly those involving precision and self-sufficiency. When the opportunity arose to delve into the world of casting my own ammunition, specifically for the often-overlooked 20-gauge shotgun, I knew I had to explore the options. The Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 immediately caught my eye. It promised the ability to craft reliable, non-rifled slugs, a classic design that has proven its worth in countless hunting scenarios.

My journey into casting wasn’t born out of necessity, but rather a deep-seated desire for control and a more intimate understanding of my ammunition. The idea of producing my own 345-grain slugs for my trusty 20-gauge hunting shotgun felt like a natural progression. I was looking for a mould that was robust, easy to use for a novice caster, and capable of producing consistent results without requiring specialized shotgun barrels. This particular Lyman offering seemed to tick all the right boxes, especially with its advertised hollow-base design which negates the need for rifling.

Upon receiving the mould, the immediate impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The Lyman name carries a certain weight in the reloading community, and this mould felt no different. It’s a substantial piece of machined iron, with a pleasing heft that suggests longevity. The mould halves fit together snugly, with no discernible play or misalignment. The sprue plate felt smooth in its operation, and the cooling channels looked well-designed. It’s a tool that feels built to last, a stark contrast to some flimsier alternatives I’ve encountered in the past.

Before settling on this Lyman mould, I’d considered a few other options. Some were generic, unbranded moulds with questionable material quality, while others were significantly more expensive, offering multi-cavity designs that felt like overkill for my initial foray into slug casting. What made me ultimately choose the Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 was its reputation, the specific Foster slug design, and the fact that it required double cavity handles, which I already possessed. It struck a perfect balance between quality, cost, and proven design. My first impression was one of anticipation and confidence; I was eager to get it to the casting pot and see what it could do.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial casting session took place in my home workshop, a space I’ve meticulously outfitted for reloading and casting over the years. The temperature was a cool autumn day, around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a good working environment for managing heat. I preheated the mould on my casting furnace, ensuring it was at the optimal temperature for smooth fill-out. The process of pouring molten lead into the Lyman mould was straightforward, thanks to the well-designed sprue plate and the substantial pouring channel.

The Foster slug design, with its hollow base, meant I didn’t need any special preparation for the slugs themselves beyond a quick visual inspection and perhaps a gentle tumbling later. I tested the cast slugs in my trusted 20-gauge pump-action shotgun, which sports a smoothbore barrel. The slugs fed reliably from the shotgun’s action, and the casting process itself seemed to yield consistent results from the outset.

Despite being a relatively simple process, there was a slight learning curve in dialing in the precise mould temperature and lead flow. However, the Lyman mould proved remarkably forgiving. Any minor imperfections in the first few slugs were easily attributable to my own inexperience rather than any fault of the mould. The satisfying thunk of the sprue plate opening and the clean release of a well-formed slug was immensely gratifying.

Extended Use & Reliability

After countless casting sessions and numerous boxes of reloaded ammunition, the Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 has proven itself to be an exceptionally reliable tool. It has endured hundreds, if not thousands, of melt-and-pour cycles without any discernible degradation in its performance. The machined surfaces remain clean and precise, and the sprue plate continues to operate with the same smooth action it had on day one.

Durability is not a concern with this mould. It’s constructed from a material that feels capable of withstanding decades of use. There are no signs of warping, pitting, or excessive wear, even with regular use. Maintenance is incredibly simple: a quick wipe-down after each casting session to remove any lead residue or flux, and an occasional application of mould release agent to keep things running smoothly. Compared to other moulds I’ve used, this Lyman stands out for its sheer resilience and consistent output over extended periods. It consistently delivers well-formed slugs that improve my accuracy and self-reliance in the field.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020

Specifications

The Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 is a single-cavity mould designed to cast a classic Foster-style slug for the 20-gauge shotgun.

• Manufacturer: Lyman
• Caliber: 20 Gauge
• Bullet Weight: 345 grains. This weight is substantial for a 20-gauge slug, offering good kinetic energy for hunting medium-sized game.
• Mould Type: Single Cavity, #SC20. This means each pour yields one slug, ideal for those starting out or who don’t need high-volume production.
• Design: Hollow Base Foster Slug. This is a critical feature, as the hollow base allows the slug to expand upon firing, effectively sealing the bore and eliminating the need for a rifled barrel.
• Material: Machined Iron. This robust material ensures excellent heat retention and durability, crucial for consistent casting.
• Requires: Double Cavity Handles. While the mould itself is single cavity, it is designed to interface with the standard Lyman double cavity mould handles, providing a secure grip and efficient operation.

These specifications are not just numbers; they translate directly into practical performance. The 345gr weight is well-balanced for the 20-gauge platform, delivering power without excessive recoil. The hollow-base design is a game-changer for shooters with smoothbore shotguns, making this mould incredibly versatile. The single-cavity nature, while slower for mass production, is perfect for learning the casting craft and ensuring quality control for each individual slug. The reliance on standard Lyman handles means compatibility with existing reloading setups.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of performance, the Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 excels at its intended purpose: casting accurate and effective Foster slugs. When properly cast and loaded, these slugs perform exceptionally well in smoothbore barrels. I’ve achieved consistent accuracy out to 50 yards, with groups that would surprise many who dismiss slug accuracy. The slugs reliably expand to seal the bore, resulting in a predictable trajectory and good energy transfer upon impact.

The primary strength of this mould is its ability to produce a functional slug for a wide range of 20-gauge shotguns, particularly those without rifling. The hollow base design is the key to its success here. Its main limitation, inherent to its design as a single-cavity mould, is the slower rate of production. While I can cast a slug every minute or two, producing hundreds of slugs for a long hunting trip would require significant time investment. However, for consistent, quality slug production without specialized equipment, it more than meets expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 is purely functional, a testament to decades of refinement. It’s a solid, no-frills piece of equipment. The iron construction gives it a satisfying heft, making it feel substantial and well-made. When paired with Lyman’s double cavity handles, the ergonomics are excellent. The handles provide a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for easy manipulation of the sprue plate and mould halves during the casting process.

There’s a minimal learning curve associated with using any mould, but this Lyman design is particularly user-friendly. The well-defined cavities and the generous pouring channel make alignment and filling straightforward. The parting lines are precise, ensuring clean slug separation with minimal flashing. It’s a tool that feels intuitive and requires little fumbling, allowing the user to focus on the art of casting.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 is built for a lifetime of use. The thick iron construction is incredibly resistant to wear and tear. The machined surfaces are precisely engineered to withstand repeated cycles of heating and cooling without deforming. I anticipate this mould will outlast me, likely becoming a cherished heirloom for the next generation of casters.

Maintenance is blessedly simple. After each casting session, I allow the mould to cool and then gently brush out any lead residue or flux with a brass brush. A light application of mould release or even mineral oil can prevent lead build-up and keep the cavities pristine. There are no complex parts to worry about; it’s a simple, robust tool that requires only basic care to maintain its optimal performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 itself doesn’t have many customization options as it is a mould for creating the projectile. However, it requires the use of Lyman double cavity mould handles, which are sold separately but are a standard component for most Lyman moulds. These handles are well-designed and comfortable to use. Beyond the handles, the customization comes in how you choose to load the cast slugs.

The cast slugs themselves can be sized to match your shotgun’s bore diameter. While this mould casts them at a specific diameter, a sizing die and press can further refine them for optimal fit and accuracy. Common reloading components like primers, powders, and wads are all crucial for loading the cast slugs into functional cartridges. The mould is designed to be compatible with standard reloading presses and dies, making it a seamless integration into an existing reloading setup.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020

Who Should Buy Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020?

This Lyman mould is a fantastic choice for hunters who utilize 20-gauge shotguns with smoothbore barrels and wish to craft their own powerful hunting ammunition. It’s also ideal for reloading enthusiasts and self-sufficiency advocates who want greater control over their ammunition and enjoy the satisfaction of producing their own rounds. If you’re a beginner caster looking for a reliable and forgiving mould to start with, this is an excellent option.

However, those who primarily shoot rifled shotgun barrels might find dedicated sabot slugs more suitable for their needs. Shooters who require extremely high volumes of slugs in a short period might also want to consider multi-cavity moulds.

For those serious about slug casting, essential accessories include a reliable casting furnace, a good supply of clean lead alloy, appropriate safety gear (gloves, eye protection, apron), a sprue cutter or knife, and Lyman double cavity mould handles. A sizing die and press are also highly recommended for optimizing the cast slugs for your specific shotgun.

Conclusion on Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020

The Lyman Shotgun Bullet Mould: 20 Gauge Hollow Base – Foster Slug (shotgun slug) – #SC20 2654020 is, in my professional opinion, an outstanding piece of equipment for any 20-gauge shotgunner looking to delve into casting their own slugs. It embodies the Lyman commitment to quality, durability, and functionality. For its price point, the value it offers in terms of enabling self-sufficiency and cost savings on ammunition is exceptional.

It’s more than just a mould; it’s an investment in a skill and a pathway to a deeper understanding of your firearm. The ability to produce reliable, effective slugs for smoothbore barrels is a significant advantage for hunters and reloaders alike. I would wholeheartedly recommend this mould to anyone looking to enhance their 20-gauge shooting experience through home-casting. If you’re ready to take the plunge into creating your own ammunition, this Lyman mould is a solid foundation upon which to build.