need help with top punch

[rmcc]

Hi ALL,

I have a Lee 90303 2 cav. that I use for my 38 and 357's. It casts a consistent 162-163 gr with 50/50 PB & WW. Lube is Orange Magic. My problem is this, I have 429 & 311 top punches that I use for 9mm. The meplat on the Lee mold is just a little wider than either top punch, leaving a ring around the bullet tip. It doesn't affect bullet performance for what I use it for but they look like ****. I use a Lyman 4500 sizer. Does anyone know the correct top punch # for this mold or should I chuck one up in the lathe and cut to match the meplat of bullet? Thanks in advance!!!


Rich

[DLCTEX]

A little JB weld will make a custom fit easily. Just lube the nose of the boolit and let the punch rest on it until it sets up.

[462]

Or, fill the cavity with JB Weld and make a multi-caliber, multi-boolit flat punch.

[bigted]

what about using a hot-glue gun n stick to fashion a tip to fit?

[462]

I've used hot melt glue numerous times, but the impression had a tendency to work loose.

[Wally]

I've used hot melt glue numerous times, but the impression had a tendency to work loose.

Same with me--I use epoxy casts now.

[LUCKYDAWG13]

just redid a punch JB WELD works

[Wally]

just redid a punch JB WELD works

Many advocate JB Weld--how long does it take to set up so that one can use it?

[462]

I wait 24-hours. The directions probably state a time, but I never read (either tense) them.

[rmcc]

Thanks to all for the advise!! JB it will be.

Rich

[a.squibload]

I pulled my JB Weld-ed top punch out tonight to check it.
JBW is machinable (says so on the label)
and my punch plug is being "machined" by the HPs I'm using it on,
BT-style swaged HPs sometimes have a sharp edge of brass at the nose.
It used to be flat, now has a groove around the edge.
Even so it has lasted a while, and gives pretty consistent seating depth / COL.
If it wears too much I'll just do it again, or JB a washer into the punch.

[theperfessor]

I make Lyman/RCBS compatible top punches designed specifically for custom fitting using JB Weld. Low price and 2-3 day service. They also have an o-ring on the shank that holds them in place w/o needing to use the little setscrew on the ram. Email me if you're interested.

[a.squibload]

Oops, the punch I mentioned is a .40 seat punch, works the same I guess.




I make Lyman/RCBS compatible top punches...

I have filled out your order form, now if I can find it I'll send it along to you!
I just bought a 357 sizer die on Swap & Sell so there's one or two more I "need".:grin:

[Ben]

rmcc :

There is a " fast set " JB Weld, don't buy that.

Buy the JB Weld that is the slow cure type. It is some good stuff.

Ben

[a.squibload]

Yep, "JB Kwik" is quicker, for places where it might run.
"JB Weld" takes longer to set but is stronger.
I think I used JB Kwik on the top punch, will change that.

Used to have a '50 Suburban, front pulley on the crankshaft was clanking,
keyway was worn almost twice as wide as it should have been.
Cleaned it good, inserted key, slopped JB Weld on it, put a heater under it overnight.
Lasted for 7 years.
Did it again.

Punched a hole in a engine side cover on a dirt bike (XR500), patched with JBW,
also lasted years. Good stuff.

[GP100man]

#495 top punch will work for alot of 38 caliber flat nose or swc styles .

[Ziptar]

I've read in a couple of places recently that the Lyman #43 top punch is the only one that fits the 358-158-RF correctly. I've not yet tried it myself.