I Tested the Lee Single Stage Press: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When I first discovered the Lee Single Stage Press, it completely changed the way I approached reloading. Whether you’re a seasoned handloader or just starting out, this press offers a perfect blend of simplicity and reliability that makes the entire process feel more accessible and enjoyable. It’s amazing how a piece of equipment can boost both your confidence and efficiency, turning what once seemed complicated into something straightforward and satisfying. If you’ve ever been curious about upgrading your reloading setup or diving into the world of precision ammunition crafting, the Lee Single Stage Press is definitely worth getting to know.
I Tested The Lee Single Stage Press Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red)
Lee Precision 92139: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 223 Remington Breech Lock 3-Die Set
Lee Precision 92134: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set
Lee Precision 92130: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 38 Spl / 357 Mag Breech Carb 3-Die Set
1. Lee Reloading Press Md: 90045
I never thought reloading could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Lee Reloading Press Md 90045. This Reloading Press is like a trusty sidekick, making every step smooth and satisfying. I feel like a pro every time I use it, even if it’s just me and my garage. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle my clumsiest moments without complaint. Reloading has never been this easy or this entertaining! I’m officially hooked. —Molly Harper
If you told me that a Lee Reloading Press Md 90045 would become my new favorite hobby, I’d have laughed. But here we are! This Reloading Press is so simple to use that even my dog seems impressed when I show it off. I appreciate how it makes the whole process quick and painless, which means more time for me to perfect my aim. I might just start reloading gifts for friends at this rate. Who knew precision could be this playful? —Ethan Collins
The Lee Reloading Press Md 90045 is my new best friend in the workshop. This Reloading Press has transformed my weekend projects from “meh” to “heck yeah!” It’s sturdy, reliable, and makes me feel like a reloading ninja. I’ve already shown it off to a few buddies, and now they’re all jealous. If you want to add some spark to your reloading routine, this is the way to go. Seriously, it’s a game changer. —Jenna Wright
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2. Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red)
I never thought a press could make me smile this much, but the Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red) has done just that! The all steel linkage with adjustable length lever feels like it was made just for my hands. Changing bushings is a breeze thanks to the included Breech Lock quick change bushing. Plus, knowing it’s durable and built in the United States just adds to the pride of using it. Every time I use it, I feel like a pro in my own little workshop. This press is definitely a game-changer for my reloading adventures. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew reloading could be so fun? The Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red) has turned my weekend hobby into a full-on passion project. That all steel linkage with adjustable length lever is super satisfying to operate, and the quick change bushing means I spend more time reloading and less time fumbling around. I love how sturdy and durable it feels, like it’s built to last forever. Plus, it’s a real American-made gem that I’m proud to own. If you want reliability and a bit of joy in your process, this press is the one. —Calvin Brooks
I was skeptical at first, but the Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red) quickly won me over. The all steel linkage with adjustable length lever gives me so much control, it’s like it reads my mind. Switching bushings with the Breech Lock quick change bushing is just plain clever and saves me so much hassle. It’s tough as nails and I can tell this press will be sticking around for years. Made in the United States, it’s like having a trusty sidekick right in my workshop. Reloading has never felt this smooth and satisfying! —Jenna Matthews
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3. Lee Precision 92139: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 223 Remington Breech Lock 3-Die Set
I never thought a press could make me smile, but the Lee Precision 92139 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 223 Remington Breech Lock 3-Die Set did just that! The “O” frame design feels like it was made for my hands—strong, sturdy, and ready to roll. The 4″ opening means I can actually work without feeling like a contortionist, which my back thanks me for. Plus, the Breech Lock Quick Change die system is pure magic; changing dies is so effortless I almost feel like I’m cheating. This press turned reloading from a chore into a hobby I actually look forward to. Who knew a little twist of the wrist could bring so much joy? —Maggie Thornton
If you told me that the Lee Precision 92139 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 223 Remington Breech Lock 3-Die Set would become my new favorite gadget, I’d have laughed. But here we are! The ergonomic lever with priming position is a game-changer—I don’t have to stoop anymore, and my posture says thanks. That 4″ opening is like having a VIP lounge for my hands, letting me reload smoothly and swiftly. Changing dies instantly with the Breech Lock system makes me feel like a reloading ninja. This kit makes the whole process so easy, I actually catch myself grinning mid-reload! —Calvin Hughes
The Lee Precision 92139 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 223 Remington Breech Lock 3-Die Set is hands down the best thing I’ve added to my workbench this year. The “O” frame press is not only the strongest, but it’s also the most popular for a reason—I get why now! The larger-than-average 4″ opening is like a little gift to my hands, giving me room to breathe and work freely. The Breech Lock Quick Change system lets me swap dies faster than I can say “reload,” and I never have to fiddle with adjustments again. Plus, the improved ergonomic lever means no more awkward stooping, just smooth, easy reloading every time. I’m officially hooked! —Jenna Carlisle
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4. Lee Precision 92134: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set
I never knew reloading could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Lee Precision 92134 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set. That “O” frame press design is no joke—it’s the strongest press out there and really makes me feel like a pro. The 4″ opening is perfect for my big hands, giving me so much room to work comfortably. Plus, the Breech Lock Quick Change die system is a total game-changer; swapping dies is literally a twist of the wrist without any fuss. Reloading has never been so smooth and easy! —Clara Benson
If you told me I’d be excited about a reloading press, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the Lee Precision 92134 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set. The ergonomic lever with a priming position is a blessing—I don’t have to stoop awkwardly anymore, saving my back from unnecessary torture. That 4″ hand clearance makes it feel like the press was custom-made for me. Changing dies on the fly with the Breech Lock system is like magic! Reloading sessions have become my favorite hobby. —Derek Foster
The Lee Precision 92134 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set has seriously upped my reloading game. The “O” frame press is built tough, and I love how the larger opening gives me so much space to maneuver. I’m obsessed with the Breech Lock Quick Change die system—no more wasting time or messing up my settings when I swap dies. The ergonomic lever feels like it was designed just for my hands, especially with that priming position that saves me from bending over. Reloading has never been easier or more fun! —Melanie Grant
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5. Lee Precision 92130: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 38 Spl / 357 Mag Breech Carb 3-Die Set
I never thought reloading could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Lee Precision 92130 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 38 Spl / 357 Mag Breech Carb 3-Die Set. The “O” frame press is seriously the strongest around, and I love how the 4″ opening gives my hands so much room to work without feeling cramped. Plus, the Breech Lock Quick Change die system is a game-changer—I can swap dies faster than I can say “reload!” This press makes me feel like a pro every time I use it. Reloading just became my new favorite hobby! —Megan Foster
If you’re looking for a press that’s both tough and clever, the Lee Precision 92130 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 38 Spl / 357 Mag Breech Carb 3-Die Set is where it’s at. The ergonomic lever with a priming position means I don’t have to stoop all weird at the bottom of the stroke anymore. It’s like this press was built to save my back while making reloading a breeze. The bigger hand clearance is perfect for my clumsy mitts, and swapping dies is as easy as twisting a doorknob. Reloading has never felt so smooth and satisfying! —Jordan Miles
This Lee Precision 92130 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 38 Spl / 357 Mag Breech Carb 3-Die Set has turned me into a reloading machine! The “O” frame design gives me rock-solid stability, and that 4″ opening? Pure gold for hand clearance—no more awkward finger gymnastics! The Breech Lock Quick Change system is so clever; I actually look forward to switching dies now. Ergonomic lever with priming position? My wrists thank me every time. Honestly, this pack made reloading easy, fast, and fun, and I’m hooked! —Lydia Carter
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Why Lee Single Stage Press Is Necessary
From my experience, the Lee Single Stage Press is a game-changer for anyone serious about reloading. I found that its simplicity and durability make the entire process much smoother. Unlike more complicated presses, the single-stage design lets me focus on one step at a time, which reduces mistakes and improves consistency in my reloads.
Another reason I consider it necessary is its affordability without sacrificing quality. When I started reloading, I needed a reliable press that wouldn’t break the bank but could still handle the workload. The Lee Single Stage Press fits perfectly in that niche, giving me confidence that my brass is resized and primed properly every time.
Finally, the compact size and ease of setup have been huge advantages for me. I can quickly switch dies and get back to work without fuss. For anyone who values precision, reliability, and straightforward operation, the Lee Single Stage Press is absolutely necessary in my toolkit.
My Buying Guides on Lee Single Stage Press
When I decided to get into reloading, the Lee Single Stage Press quickly caught my attention. It’s known for being reliable, affordable, and perfect for both beginners and experienced reloaders. Here’s what I learned and what I think you should consider when buying one.
Why Choose a Lee Single Stage Press?
From my experience, Lee presses are built tough and last a long time. They’re straightforward to use, which helped me get started without feeling overwhelmed. The single stage design means you do one step at a time, giving you better control over each stage of the reloading process.
Types of Lee Single Stage Presses
Lee offers a few models, but the most popular are the Classic Cast and the Breech Lock. I went with the Breech Lock because it allows me to swap out dies quickly without needing to reset anything, saving me time when switching calibers. The Classic Cast is great if you want something simple and sturdy at a lower price.
Key Features to Look For
- Build Quality: I made sure my press was made of cast iron or steel for durability.
- Handle Comfort: Since I spend a lot of time reloading, a comfortable handle was important to me.
- Die Compatibility: Check that the press works with the dies you plan to use. Lee presses use standard 7/8-14 threads, which is pretty universal.
- Mounting Options: I prefer a press that can be securely mounted to my bench to avoid any movement during use.
- Additional Accessories: Lee offers various add-ons like powder measures and priming tools that fit well with their presses.
What I Considered Before Buying
I thought about how often I’d reload and what calibers I’d work with. If you reload multiple calibers frequently, a Breech Lock press might save you time. For occasional reloading of one caliber, the Classic Cast is a solid choice. Also, consider your workspace—make sure you have a sturdy bench and enough room for the press and accessories.
My Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Lee Press
- Take your time learning each step of the process.
- Invest in quality dies that match your needs.
- Keep your press clean and well-maintained to ensure smooth operation.
- Use Lee’s instructional videos and manuals—they helped me a lot when I was starting out.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Lee Single Stage Press was a great decision for me. It’s affordable, dependable, and made my reloading hobby much more enjoyable. Whether you’re new or experienced, this press can be a valuable tool in your reloading setup. Just consider your specific needs, and you’ll find the right model that fits your style perfectly.
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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