Lee Precision is a highly respected name in the reloading world, and their bullet molds are renowned for quality and reliability. Choosing the right Lee bullet mold can significantly impact the accuracy and performance of your handloaded ammunition. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Lee bullet molds, including a helpful chart to aid in your selection process. We'll explore key features, considerations, and help you navigate the vast catalog to find the perfect mold for your needs.
Understanding Lee Bullet Mold Specifications
Before diving into the chart, let's understand the crucial specifications you'll encounter when browsing Lee bullet molds:
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Caliber: This refers to the diameter of the bullet, typically expressed in inches or millimeters (e.g., .308, 9mm). This must precisely match the bore diameter of your firearm.
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Bullet Weight: Measured in grains (gr), this is the mass of the cast bullet. Heavier bullets generally have more momentum and impact, but may require more powder. Weight impacts ballistic performance significantly.
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Bullet Style: Lee offers a wide variety of bullet styles, including round nose (RN), flat nose (FN), round point (RP), hollow point (HP), and more specialized designs. The bullet style influences its ballistic coefficient, expansion characteristics, and intended use (e.g., target shooting, hunting, self-defense).
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Mold Material: Lee molds are typically made from hardened steel for durability and consistent casting.
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Cavity Count: This indicates how many bullets the mold can cast simultaneously (single cavity or two cavity). Two-cavity molds significantly increase production speed.
Lee Bullet Mold Chart (Partial – For a complete list, consult the Lee Precision Catalog)
This chart provides a sample of popular Lee bullet molds. Remember, this is not an exhaustive list. Always refer to the official Lee Precision catalog for the most up-to-date information on available molds and their specifications.
| Caliber | Bullet Weight (gr) | Bullet Style | Cavity Count | Mold Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| .357" | 158 | RN | 2 | 90357 | Suitable for .38 Special and .357 Magnum |
| .44" | 240 | RN | 2 | 90440 | Suitable for .44 Special and .44 Magnum |
| 9mm | 124 | RN | 2 | 90901 | Popular for 9mm Parabellum |
| .45 ACP | 230 | RN | 2 | 90452 | Classic .45 ACP bullet weight |
| .308" | 150 | RN | 2 | 90308 | Suitable for .308 Winchester |
| .223" | 55 | FN | 2 | 90223 | Popular for .223 Remington |
Note: This chart is a simplified representation. Actual Lee bullet mold specifications may include additional details.
Choosing the Right Lee Bullet Mold
Selecting the appropriate Lee bullet mold involves careful consideration of several factors:
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Your firearm: Ensure the bullet diameter matches your gun's bore.
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Intended use: Different bullet styles are optimized for different applications.
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Desired bullet weight: Consider the weight's effect on ballistic performance.
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Production rate: Choose a single or two-cavity mold based on your reloading volume.
Beyond the Chart: Exploring Lee's Resources
Lee Precision provides extensive resources to aid in your mold selection:
- Their official website: This is the best source for the most up-to-date information on all their products, including bullet molds.
- Their catalog: The catalog offers detailed specifications, diagrams, and other important information for each mold.
By understanding the specifications and utilizing the resources available, you can confidently select the perfect Lee bullet mold to meet your reloading needs. Remember safety is paramount; always follow safe reloading practices. This information is for educational purposes only; always consult relevant manuals and adhere to all safety guidelines.
