Question about Lyman's Cast Bullet Handbook (4th edition).

[LRRifleman]

Hello!

I am currently using my 3rd edition copy of the Lyman Cast Bullet Handbook and the RCBS Cast Bullet Manual (Number 1) as my load reference for the bullets that I cast. I cast for the: 9mm, 38/357, 380, 41 and 45 ACP, I may add the 45LC. I don't really plan on adding different calibers.

My question is, how updated is the 4th Edition? Have new molds been added? Have powders included been either updated or changed? I am not looking to purchase an older edition that has been given a new cover and edition number!

Thanks for your advice!

[AntiqueSledMan]

Hello LRRifleman,

The 4th Edition does list some LEE Molds as well as some Saeco and some RCBS.
Personally I like it better than the 3rd Edition.

AntiqueSledMan.

[Bazoo]

Some of the newer powders are listed in the 4th. The articles are better in the 3rd edition. They are both worth having I think.

[JBinMN]

IMO, Get one. I do not think you will be disappointed.
;)

[gwpercle]

I have used #3 since 1980 , #4 has new boolit moulds by other makers and data with new powders , like accurate arms .
If you have #3 keep it and get #4 ...between the two you have a good amount of information .
I still use both and the cost of #4 is worth it .
Gary

[Burnt Fingers]

What "newer" powders are you wondering about?

The 4th came out in 2011. That pretty much means that any new data comes form 2009/2010. If the powder came out after that it's not going to be in there.

[Bazoo]

I was somewhat disappointed that more of lees bullets weren't tested in the 4th. Some of their bullets like the TC pistol bullets have quite a different seating depth then anything else compatible. So if your wanting it for lee info, you might be disappointed too. Just FYI.

[curioushooter]

I have the 4th. I find it disappointing that lyman still is using copper crushers and hasn't moved on and re-tested everything. It's nice to see a healthy amount of Lee, RCBS, and SAECO designs, but there are so many headscratchers. Like why is the Lee 358-125RF in 38 special data but not 357 mag? Also the articles are worth reading but seem focused more on Venterino's passion for BPCS than anything. Lyman also appears to have stock ownership in tin mines or somethibg because they use more than they need to. I'd get it used off eBay. I got mine for ten bucks. It's worth that.

[Guesser]

I like the 4rth edition. I was never satisfied with #2 or #3. I was learned about casting and loading from Lyman #41 and then they brought out the 1st edition of the Lyman Cast Bullet Handbook. I find that #1 and #4 are what makes my casting/loading work.

[mdi]

Yep, the 4th "updated" data. But the "Front Half" in the 3rd is much better for a newer caster (unless you are into back powder cartridge casting/shooting). For updated data, the 4th is better...