Lyman-Lachmiller molds

[Joneser]

I need help identifing some molds that I have. Hope this is the right place.
Lyman 358156JS 2 cav.
Lachmiller 311175 FN 3 cav
311115 GC 3 cav
429250 GC 3 cav
I am new to reloading and I am hoping to get a better understanding of how to identify molds. Thanks for any info in advance.

Calvin

[Glen]

Lyman and Lachmiller used two different numbering schemes to identify their moulds. The Lyman system starts off with the first 3 digits indicating the nominal bullet diameter, and the second 3 digits identifying the design (or cherry) number. So your Lyman 358156 is a .358" diameter bullet (nominally) and the cherry was assigned #156. This particular bullet was designed by Thompson in the early 1950s and is a 158 grains GC-SWC, and is one of the all-time great .357 Magnum bullets.

Lachmiller also started off with the first 3 digits indicating the nominal bullet diameter, but then the second 3 digits were for the approximate bullet weight (which can vary depending on the alloy used). So your Lachmiller 311175 casts a .311" diameter bullet (i.e. is for .30 caliber rifles) and produces a flat-nosed bullet that weighs about 175 grains. This is a fine .30-30 bullet.

The Lachmiller 31115 GC is a for a .311" diameter bullet that weighs 115 grains, and is made for the .32-20.

The Lachmiller 429250 GC is for a .429" diameter bullet (i.e. .44 Magnum) that weighs 250 grains. With the gas-check this bullet can be pushed quite hard (i.e. in a .44 Magnum rifle or even the .444 Marlin).

[Joneser]

Glen, thanks so much. I aquired more reloading stuff than anyone could imagine from my Uncle. I also was given his 444 Marlin as well. Your info much appreciated. I was wondering why he has so many molds...I have 3 or more of each one plus about 6 others as well. I won't be keeping all of them, but its nice to know what I got. Thanks...Calvin