Mold TL358-148-WC for Hunting, Shooting, and Reloading Ammunition
LEE TL 2-Cavity Bullet Mold specifically engineered for .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and .38 Colt New Police calibers, offering precision casting for metallic and semi-metallic projectiles.
Featuring a diameter of .358 inches and producing 148-grain wide cavity (WC) bullets, this mold is optimized for high-performance handgun cartridges such as the .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and .38 Colt New Police, ensuring consistent weight and dimensional accuracy critical for ballistic efficiency.
With a ballistic coefficient (BC) of .072, these bullets provide reliable external ballistics suitable for target shooting, self-defense, and hunting applications where precision and terminal performance are paramount.
The molds incorporate a finely engineered micro-groove lubrication system, enhancing bullet lubrication retention during firing and reducing barrel leading, which is essential for maintaining accuracy and prolonging barrel life in firearms chambered for these calibers.
LEEs 2-cavity molds represent an excellent balance between quality and affordability for reloaders and ballistic enthusiasts seeking durable, high-precision bullet molds without compromising on performance or budget.
Constructed from corrosion-resistant aluminum blocks, these molds offer superior thermal conductivity compared to traditional iron or steel molds, allowing for faster heat-up and cool-down cycles during the casting process, which improves production efficiency and bullet consistency.
Aluminums lightweight propertiesapproximately one-third the weight of iron or steel moldsreduce operator fatigue during extended casting sessions, making it ideal for reloaders who require high-volume bullet production with minimal physical strain.
The two halves of the mold are securely clamped together using wooden-handled tongs, ensuring zero movement during the molten lead or alloy pouring phase, which is critical to achieving uniform bullet shape and preventing casting defects such as flash or misalignment.
Note that bullet weights may vary slightly depending on the specific lead or alloy composition used, which can affect density and casting characteristics.
The mold set includes wooden-handled tongs for safe and comfortable handling, enhancing user safety and control throughout the casting process.
An integrated sprue cutter blade efficiently severs the molten lead feed, facilitating easy release of the finished projectiles and minimizing post-casting cleanup time.
For optimal mold longevity and bullet quality, it is highly recommended to thoroughly degrease the mold before initial use and periodically apply recommended mold treatments such as smoke seasoning or specialized mold lubricants to prevent lead adhesion and corrosion.
Never apply grease or lubricant to the interior cavity surfaces, as this can cause defects in bullet formation and compromise ballistic performance.
Lightly lubricate the sprue cutter screw to maintain smooth operation and prevent seizing during repeated use, ensuring consistent sprue trimming and mold maintenance.