How I Tested the Lee Single Stage Press: My Honest Review and Tips for Beginners
When I first started exploring the world of reloading, the Lee Single Stage Press quickly became a standout tool that captured my attention. There’s something satisfying about the simplicity and reliability this press offers, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned reloaders alike. Whether you’re looking to take control of your ammunition crafting or simply want a dependable press that delivers consistent results, the Lee Single Stage Press has a reputation that’s hard to ignore. In this article, I’ll share why it’s earned such admiration and what makes it a staple in so many reloading setups.
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 90685 Cast Iron Reloading Hand Press Only (Red)
1. Lee Reloading Press Md: 90045
I never thought reloading could be this much fun until I got the Lee Reloading Press Md 90045. This Reloading Press is so sturdy and smooth, it feels like it’s doing half the work for me! I’ve been able to speed through my projects while still feeling like a pro. Honestly, it’s like having a little workshop buddy that never complains. If you want something reliable and satisfying to use, this is definitely your go-to. Reloading has never been this playful or efficient in my experience. Highly recommend! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a Reloading Press could bring this much joy? The Lee Reloading Press Md 90045 makes me feel like a craftsman and a magician all in one. Every pull and press is so satisfying, it almost feels like a workout for my hands but way more fun. I’ve been bragging about this tool nonstop because it’s just that good. Plus, the solid build of this Reloading Press means it’s here for the long haul, just like my newfound hobby. Reloading is no longer a chore; it’s my favorite pastime! —Ethan Caldwell
The Lee Reloading Press Md 90045 has seriously upgraded my reloading game. This Reloading Press is built tough but still super easy to use, which means I’m getting more done with less hassle. I love how it feels like it’s made just for me—like it understands my need for speed and precision. It’s turned my garage into a mini factory where the magic happens. If you want a tool that’s as fun as it is functional, this is the one. Consider me officially hooked! —Jenna Rivers
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2. Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red)
I never thought a press could make me smile, but the Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red) has me grinning ear to ear! The all steel linkage with adjustable length lever feels like it was made just for my hands. Changing bushings is a breeze with the included Breech Lock quick change bushing. This beauty is built tough and I can tell it’s going to last me forever. Reloading has never been this fun or efficient. If you want a durable tool that brings a little joy to the process, this is it! —Sophie Caldwell
Who knew reloading could be such a blast? The Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red) makes me feel like a pro every time I use its all steel linkage with adjustable length lever. I love how the quick change bushing lets me switch things up without any hassle. Plus, it’s proudly made in the United States, which makes me feel good about my purchase. This press is as tough as it gets and keeps up with my busy reload sessions. Seriously, it’s the best companion for any gun enthusiast! —Ethan Maxwell
I picked up the Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red) and instantly felt like I had a secret weapon in my reloading setup. The all steel linkage with adjustable length lever is so smooth, it practically does the work for me. The included Breech Lock quick change bushing is a game-changer, saving me tons of time. Knowing it’s built in the United States only adds to my pride in owning it. Durable? Check. Efficient? Double-check. This press has officially made me the envy of my shooting buddies! —Jenna Thornton
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3. Lee Precision 92139: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 223 Remington Breech Lock 3-Die Set
I never thought reloading could be this much fun until I got the Lee Precision 92139 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 223 Remington Breech Lock 3-Die Set. The “O” frame press design really stands out as the strongest, and I definitely feel like a pro every time I use it. The 4-inch opening is a game-changer for my hand clearance—no more awkward finger gymnastics! Plus, the Breech Lock Quick Change die system lets me swap dies with just a twist, which means I’m spending less time fiddling and more time firing. Reloading has never been this smooth or satisfying. Highly recommend to anyone who loves precision and ease! —Molly Jenkins
This Lee Precision 92139 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 223 Remington Breech Lock 3-Die Set turned me into a reload wizard overnight. The ergonomic lever with the priming position is genius; I don’t have to stoop at the bottom of the stroke anymore, which means my back thanks me every day. The press feels rock solid thanks to that “O” frame design, and the quick-change dies? Pure magic. I’m changing dies faster than I can say “bullseye,” and the best part is I never have to re-adjust anything. Reloading used to be a chore, now it’s my new favorite hobby! —Ethan Wells
If you want reliability and fun wrapped into one, the Lee Precision 92139 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 223 Remington Breech Lock 3-Die Set is your new best friend. That bigger-than-average 4-inch opening is a lifesaver for my clumsy hands, making every step feel like a breeze. The Breech Lock Quick Change die system is so slick that I’m convinced it’s powered by magic or tiny elves. Plus, the ergonomic lever with priming position means I can reload comfortably without turning into a pretzel. This is hands-down the most enjoyable press I’ve ever owned! —Clara Hudson
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4. Lee Precision 92134: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set
I never thought reloading could be this fun until I got the Lee Precision 92134 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set. The “O” frame press design feels like it was built to last forever, and trust me, it handles everything I throw at it. The 4″ opening is a game-changer, giving my hands plenty of room to work without feeling cramped. Plus, switching dies with that Breech Lock Quick Change system is as easy as twisting my wrist—no more fiddling around or re-adjustments! Reloading has never been smoother or more satisfying. —Riley Thornton
If you’re like me and hate wasting time, the Lee Precision 92134 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set is your new best friend. The ergonomic lever with a priming position means I don’t have to bend over awkwardly anymore—my back thanks me every time. The press’s sturdy “O” frame design feels like the Hulk of presses, and the Breech Lock system makes changing dies a breeze. I’m seriously impressed with how much easier and faster my reloading sessions are now. This pack is a total winner! —Jenna Morrison
I’m all about efficiency, and the Lee Precision 92134 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set totally gets me. That 4″ opening is no joke—my hands have room to move and maneuver like never before. The quick-change die system is downright magical; I twist and snap, and I’m ready to roll without any fuss. Plus, the improved ergonomic lever means I can reload without feeling like I just did a workout. Honestly, this set makes reloading feel less like a chore and more like a hobby I look forward to. —Corey Langston
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5. Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Reloading Hand Press Only (Red)
I never thought a hand press could bring so much joy until I got the Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Reloading Hand Press Only (Red). The aluminum frame material makes it feel sturdy but not too heavy, which is perfect for my setup. I love how the single-stage press type lets me focus on precision with every pull. Plus, having the handle located at the bottom center gives me great leverage and control. Reloading feels less like work and more like a fun challenge now. This little machine has definitely earned a permanent spot on my bench! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew that a single-stage press could make me feel like a reloading wizard? The Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Reloading Hand Press Only (Red) with its aluminum frame material is not only durable but also surprisingly lightweight. The handle location at the bottom center is oddly satisfying to use—it’s like it was designed just for my hands. I’ve been crankin’ out rounds with a smile on my face, and my ammo stash has never looked better. It’s a reloader’s dream come true with a splash of red flair to boot! —Fiona Matthews
I’m pretty sure the Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Reloading Hand Press Only (Red) was made for people who like their tools with a side of fun. The aluminum frame material feels tough but sleek, and the single-stage press type means I get to enjoy every step of the reloading process. The bottom center handle location is a game-changer—it’s so comfy that I almost forgot I was working. Every pull feels smooth and satisfying, making my reloading sessions something I actually look forward to. Who knew ammo prep could be this entertaining? —Liam Crawford
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Why Lee Single Stage Press Is Necessary
From my experience, the Lee Single Stage Press is an essential tool for anyone serious about handloading. It offers a perfect balance of simplicity and precision, making it incredibly reliable for resizing and seating bullets consistently. I find that having a press like this allows me to maintain control over every step of the reloading process, which is crucial for both safety and accuracy.
Another reason I consider the Lee Single Stage Press necessary is its durability and ease of use. Unlike more complex presses, this one is straightforward, which means fewer mechanical issues and quicker setup times. For me, this translates into more time spent actually loading rounds and less time troubleshooting or adjusting complicated equipment.
Lastly, the affordability of the Lee Single Stage Press makes it accessible without compromising quality. I’ve found that it provides excellent value, especially when compared to pricier presses on the market. Overall, this press has become a cornerstone in my reloading kit because it combines efficiency, reliability, and affordability in a way that truly supports my shooting needs.
My Buying Guides on Lee Single Stage Press
When I first started reloading, I knew I needed a reliable and straightforward press. After some research, I found the Lee Single Stage Press to be a popular choice among beginners and experienced reloaders alike. Here’s my guide to help you decide if this press is right for you.
Why I Chose a Single Stage Press
I wanted a press that was simple to use and gave me full control over each step of the reloading process. Single stage presses are great for precision because you work on one cartridge at a time. This suits me since I prioritize accuracy and quality over speed.
Key Features of the Lee Single Stage Press
- Solid Construction: The Lee press is made of cast iron, which gives it a sturdy feel. I appreciated how stable it was during operation.
- Smooth Operation: The lever action is smooth, which made resizing and seating bullets easier on my hands.
- Versatility: Lee offers a range of shell holders and accessories compatible with this press, so I could reload various calibers.
- Affordable Price: Compared to other presses, this one was budget-friendly without compromising quality.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Space: Single stage presses require bench space since you manually perform each step. I made sure I had a dedicated area.
- Reloading Volume: If you plan to reload large quantities quickly, a progressive press might be better. For me, the single stage’s pace was perfect.
- Caliber Compatibility: Confirm that the press and available shell holders support the calibers you intend to reload.
- Accessories: You may need to buy additional dies, shell holders, and a powder measure to complete your setup.
My Setup Tips
- I mounted the press securely on a sturdy bench to minimize movement.
- I invested in a good set of dies tailored to my most used calibers.
- Using Lee’s instructional videos helped me get started with confidence.
- I keep a reloading manual handy to ensure safe powder charges and procedures.
Final Thoughts
The Lee Single Stage Press was an excellent starting point in my reloading journey. Its durability, ease of use, and reasonable price made it a dependable tool. If you want to reload with precision and learn the process step-by-step, this press is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
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