Modify Lee handles for Lyman 4 hole mold?

[randyrat]

As I read, one needs to modify Lee mold handles to fit Lyman 4 holes molds..

Holes need to to be reamed out to 7/32" (problem)
Arms of the mold need to be .249" for thickness (no problem)

My problem is the holes, the holes are soooo close to the edge already and I don't want to ruin the handles..How do you expand the holes without ruining the handles? do you use a small round file?

[Walter Laich]

that would be my choice
you can put pressure on the 'fat' side of the handle without touching the thin side

hole could end up off center though

[toallmy]

I have used a chainsaw file on a couple occasions when fitting lee handles on saeco molds .

[mold maker]

It will help if you scribe a center line before filing. Keeping the holes oriented will be lots easier.

[randyrat]

Scribe a center line. I never thought of that
All good ideas Thanks

[tbobbo]

I just did this......just used a drill. I have no idea how long it will last. 2 casting sessions so far. I used a grinder to flaten them out.

[JonB_in_Glencoe]

4 years ago, I did that.
I used a grinder to make them thinner.
I used a drill press to ream out the holes, the holes did end up extremely close to the inner edge, I've used them many times with Lyman 4 cav molds, no problem so far.

[NoZombies]

Belt grinder and a drill press worked for me on several sets. Now I use a milling machine, they look better, but work the same.

[toallmy]

I just noticed yesterday that the new lee 6 cavity handles are now coming with the wood part of the handle tapered quite a bit from the hinge back .

[mold maker]

Once upon a time, long long ago, during the LEE group buy era, Midway had them LEE 6c handles for $11. ea and free shipping. I bought a doz pair and still have 3 unused. I've made them fit every mold I have except one. At $28 to $40 a pair for brand name handles, I saved enough to buy a couple molds.

[Grmps]

I have some Lyman 2 cavity mold handles that the inside has been enlarged so much that the holes are open to the inside. I've never had any failures of handles that were like that (yet).