Mould blocks must be vented.  Bullets won't fill out if they aren't.
russ

38-55, many of the early Ideal blocks that are integral with the handles were not vented. I have many molds like that. And they do cast good bullets. Venting is neccesary when the block faces are really flat and shut off well and the Sprue plate is also well done. Many early Molds have venting that was done by hand (Read filed) and in some cases where the effort was too aggressive the Mold would be ruined. Pope molds in some cases are works of art. Venting out from the cavity and also under the sprue plate and the base plate in nose pour molds he made are beautifully done. Some very early Lyman molds made just after Lyman puchased the Bridgport Gun & Implement business also were smooth faced with no venting. I believe it was due to Lyman using up the inventory of product in process when the takeover took place. After Lyman had completed the takeover and used up the inventory they then re-engineered the products and venting became a standard feature. Regards, FITZ

Both of my B&D moulds are not vented. I was doubtfull as all I have ever read said that moulds had to be vented. I tryed the mould and the bullets fill out just fine. Both the moulds are my new favotires to cast with.

40 Rod