beeman said:
For the .44, the Lyman 429421 is supposed to be the original Keith. As an aside note, NEI was purchased I believe, and is still going to making moulds. Also, if you happen to aquire a .45, the 454424 Lyman mould is also the original Keith, although in the 45 I much prefer the RCBS 45-270SAA, throw a 282 grain bullets from wheelweights.
Dave Beeman
Just a quick comment. The Lyman 429421 is NOT the original Keith bullet. His 429421 was first marketed in molds marked "Ideal" NOT Ideal-Lyman or Lyman. Lyman has truely and completely **** the Keith design. I have 19 different 44 molds and the original Ideal 429421 has the so-called square lubricant groove and the original style crimp groove which does not look like the current crimp groove. If I was an artist I could draw it but I am not so I will try and explain the difference:
The current crimp groove bevels in at an angle until it meets the underside of the front driving band. OK?
The original crimp groove bevels in at an angle until it meets what would be called a reduced shank diameter. That shank diameter then extends forward (upward) until it meets the underside of the front driving band. OK?
Plausible reason was less case neck crimp intrusion into the bullet? But, for whatever reason, that crimp design was eliminated for the current design.
There are a number of 44 Keith designed molds available, e.g., H&G (not sure if they are still available-used to be made in Oregon), LBT (if you can get one), Lachmiller, NEI (again I don't know if they are still available), older style Lyman molds, and the RCBS 44-250-K (my current favorite 44 mold).
By the way, I knew Elmer and am thankful for his willingness to share his VAST knowledge and experience and provide me with very profound insights regarding firearms, ammunition and hunting and I appreciate the fact that he considered me a good friend. His kind is not to be found again.
Be Safe and Responsible,
md bullet