Finding the right bullet mould is crucial for accurate and reliable reloading of .45 ACP ammunition. This guide dives deep into the world of 45 ACP bullet moulds, covering everything from choosing the right mould to proper care and maintenance. Whether you're a seasoned reloader or just starting out, this guide will help you make informed decisions.
Understanding 45 ACP Bullet Mould Types
The .45 ACP cartridge offers flexibility in bullet design, leading to a wide variety of bullet mould options. Understanding the different types is essential for selecting the best mould for your needs.
1. Round Nose (RN) Bullet Moulds
- Characteristics: These moulds produce bullets with a rounded tip, offering good accuracy and penetration. They're a popular choice for target shooting and self-defense.
- Advantages: Relatively inexpensive, easy to cast, accurate.
- Disadvantages: Lower ballistic coefficient compared to some other designs, leading to less downrange performance.
2. Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP) Bullet Moulds
- Characteristics: A flat point on a round nose. They offer a good balance of accuracy, penetration, and expansion.
- Advantages: Better accuracy and penetration than RN, less prone to keyholing.
- Disadvantages: Can be slightly more difficult to cast consistently than RN.
3. Flat Point (FP) Bullet Moulds
- Characteristics: These bullets have a flat tip, designed for greater expansion. Commonly used for hunting or self-defense applications.
- Advantages: Excellent expansion characteristics.
- Disadvantages: Can be less accurate than RN or RNFP bullets at longer ranges.
4. Hollow Point (HP) Bullet Moulds
- Characteristics: Feature a hollow cavity in the tip. This hollow point increases the likelihood of expansion upon impact, resulting in higher stopping power.
- Advantages: High expansion, increased stopping power.
- Disadvantages: Can be more complex to cast and require more careful alloy selection to avoid issues during casting or upon firing.
5. Wadcutter (WC) Bullet Moulds
- Characteristics: These have a flat, cylindrical shape designed for clean cuts in paper targets. Typically used in target shooting competitions.
- Advantages: Produce very clean target holes, ideal for precise scoring.
- Disadvantages: Limited use outside of target shooting, often less accurate at longer ranges than other designs.
Choosing the Right 45 ACP Bullet Mould: Key Factors
Selecting a 45 ACP bullet mould requires careful consideration. Here are some key factors:
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Bullet Weight: Bullet weight influences factors like recoil, velocity, and penetration. Common weights for .45 ACP include 200 grains, 230 grains, and 250 grains. The mould's description will specify the bullet weight it produces.
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Bullet Diameter: A crucial factor in ensuring proper chambering and feeding. .45 ACP generally calls for bullets with a diameter of .452 inches or .454 inches.
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Mould Material: Moulds are typically made from hardened steel or aluminum. Steel moulds are durable and last longer but are more expensive. Aluminum moulds are lighter but may wear out faster.
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Number of Cavities: Moulds typically come with one or two cavities. Two-cavity moulds cast two bullets per pour, increasing efficiency.
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Mould Maker Reputation: Choose reputable manufacturers with a history of producing high-quality moulds. Read reviews before making a purchase.
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Cost: The price varies according to material, number of cavities, and design. Balance the budget with your needs and expected use.
Care and Maintenance of Your 45 ACP Bullet Mould
Proper care ensures the longevity and accuracy of your bullet mould.
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Cleaning: After each casting session, clean the mould with a stiff brush and appropriate solvent to remove any lead residue.
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Lubrication: Regular lubrication with a suitable mould release agent helps prevent lead build-up and ensures smooth bullet ejection.
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Storage: Store your mould in a clean, dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.
Case Study: Comparing Two Popular 45 ACP Bullet Moulds
Let's compare two hypothetical moulds:
| Feature | Lee 452-230-RF (RN) | Accurate Molds 45-200-TC (RNFP) |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Style | Round Nose (RN) | Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP) |
| Bullet Weight | 230 Grains | 200 Grains |
| Number of Cavities | 1 | 2 |
| Material | Steel | Steel |
| Approximate Cost | $40 - $60 | $70 - $90 |
This comparison illustrates how bullet style, weight, and mould characteristics influence price and suitability for different reloading tasks.
Conclusion
Choosing and maintaining the right 45 ACP bullet mould is vital for successful reloading. Carefully considering the factors discussed above – bullet type, weight, diameter, mould material, and manufacturer reputation – will allow you to make an informed decision that meets your individual needs and ensures safe and accurate ammunition reloading. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow all relevant safety procedures when handling firearms and reloading components.