6 Cavity Mold TL 401-175-SWC (Tongs Not Included)
LEE Cast Mold with 6 Cavities for .40 S&W Caliber
This precision-engineered LEE mold features six identical cavities designed specifically for casting .40 S&W caliber bullets with a diameter of .401 inches. Each cavity produces a 175-grain Semi-Wadcutter (SWC) projectile, optimized for consistent weight and shape, ideal for both target shooting and self-defense applications.
Compatible exclusively with .40 S&W cartridges, this mold ensures high repeatability and uniformity in bullet dimensions, essential for maintaining accuracy and reliable ballistic performance in semi-metallic and metallic reloading processes.
Ballistic Coefficient (BC): 0.141, providing a balanced trajectory and effective terminal ballistics for handgun calibers.
Engineered for high-volume bullet casting, this mold supports efficient production runs of lead projectiles, making it suitable for reloaders seeking to maximize output without sacrificing quality.
Constructed from durable aluminum alloy blocks reinforced with steel bushings, the mold incorporates precision alignment pins to guarantee perfect cavity alignment during casting. The aluminum base offers superior corrosion resistance, extending mold lifespan under rigorous use.
Compared to traditional iron molds, aluminum molds heat up and cool down significantly faster, allowing reloaders to achieve optimal casting temperatures more rapidly. This thermal efficiency reduces cycle times and enhances throughput during extended casting sessions.
Additionally, the aluminum construction results in a mold that is approximately one-third lighter than equivalent iron molds, reducing operator fatigue during prolonged use and improving handling ergonomics.
The two aluminum blocks are securely clamped using specialized mold handles (not included), preventing any movement or misalignment when pouring molten lead into the cavities. This stability is critical for producing defect-free bullets with consistent dimensions.
The mold features an anodized, extra-hard sprue plate integrated with a pour basin and cutter. This design ensures a clean, precise cut of the sprue, minimizing post-casting cleanup and enhancing bullet uniformity.
Note that bullet weights may vary slightly depending on the specific lead alloy composition used during casting, as alloy density and shrinkage rates influence final projectile mass.
Mold handles for opening and closing the casting blocks are sold separately under reference number 90005.
For optimal performance, it is strongly recommended to thoroughly degrease the mold before initial use. Additionally, seasoning the mold by applying a recommended mold release agent or fumigating it with smoke helps prevent lead adhesion and facilitates bullet release.
Never lubricate the interior cavities of the mold, as this can adversely affect bullet surface finish and dimensional accuracy.
Lightly lubricate the sprue plate retaining screw to ensure smooth operation and prevent seizing during repeated use.