This brass mold with ring-shaped handle is said to represent the "1st model" Winchester mold. These molds are unmarked as to maker, but one was included with a boxed 1874 1st model Winchester tool (see S. James Gooding, "Winchester Reloading Tools", The Canadian Journal of Arms Collecting, Volume 12, No. 4, p. 107-121), supporting the thesis that they were at least sold, if not manufactured, by Winchester. The molds are usually unmarked, although a rare example has a caliber marking which appears to be original. The insert shows a casting made from the mold; the bullet is flat-pointed and has no grease grooves. The sprue cutter is made of iron.
Here is another example of the first model brass mold with ring-shaped handle. This one is essentially identical to the one above, except it bears the caliber marking "44.W.C.F". Notice the "odd" use of periods or decimal points in the caliber designation...there is one between the "4" and the "W", but none following the "F". While this seems a little "odd" for current usage, it was not uncommon when this mold was made. Note the caliber markings reported to Tom Quigley in his survey of 3rd model brass molds.....just about every combination of decimal points, numbers and letters were seen. Here is an 1882 Winchester tool in 44 W.C.F which also did not have the "period" stamped after the "F".
