View Full Version : Lyman-Lachmiller molds
Joneser
02-10-2010, 01:34 AM
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
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
02-10-2010, 02:01 AM
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
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