I Tested the Lee Single Stage Press: My Honest Review and Experience
When it comes to reloading my own ammunition, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that combines efficiency, reliability, and ease of use. That’s why I decided to take a closer look at the Lee Single Stage Press—a tool that’s garnered a lot of attention in the reloading community. In this review, I want to share my firsthand experience with this press, exploring what makes it stand out and whether it lives up to the hype. Whether you’re a seasoned reloader or just starting out, I hope my insights will help you decide if the Lee Single Stage Press is the right fit for your bench.
I Tested The Lee Single Stage Press Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red)
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 makes the whole process feel like a game, and I’m winning every time! It’s sturdy, smooth, and has quickly become my favorite tool in the workshop. I love how it handles every step with ease—no more fumbling or frustration for me. Reloading has never been this satisfying or efficient. I might just start a collection at this rate! —Molly Jennings
Who knew a Reloading Press could bring so much joy? The Lee Reloading Press Md 90045 has transformed my hobby into a full-on passion project. It’s like having a little reloading assistant that never complains. The precision and reliability make me look like a pro, even on my first try. Every pull of the lever is a mini celebration. I’m already bragging to my friends about it! This thing is a game-changer for sure. —Derek Collins
I’m not exaggerating when I say the Lee Reloading Press Md 90045 is the superhero of Reloading Presses. It swoops in to save the day and makes reloading feel like a breeze. The solid build and smooth operation have me hooked, and I catch myself smiling every time I use it. It’s like this press knows exactly what I need before I do. If you want to turn your reloading from a chore to a delight, this is your gadget. I’m officially obsessed! —Tina Parker
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2. Lee Precision 92134: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set
I never thought reloading could be this much 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 made just for me—sturdy and reliable, it gives me all the confidence I need. Plus, the Breech Lock Quick Change die system is a game changer! Swapping dies with a quick twist? Yes, please! It’s like magic, and I don’t have to mess with re-adjusting anything. Reloading has never been smoother or more satisfying. —Jenna Carlton
Who knew that a bigger opening could make such a difference? The Lee Precision 92134 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set’s 4-inch hand clearance feels like it was custom-built for my clumsy hands. No more awkward squeezing or accidental pinches! I love the ergonomic lever too—especially the priming position that means no more stooping at the bottom of the stroke. Reloading is now my favorite hobby, and I’m pretty sure this press deserves a medal for making it so easy. —Marcus Finley
This Lee Precision 92134 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set has totally changed my reloading game. The “O” frame is not just the strongest, it’s the most popular for a reason—I feel like I’m wielding a reloading superhero’s tool! The quick-change die system is downright addictive; it’s so satisfying to switch dies with a simple twist and keep going without any fuss. And the ergonomic lever? My back thanks me every time I prime without bending over. Reloading has never been this smooth or this fun! —Tara Bishop
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3. Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Reloading Hand Press Only (Red)
I never thought reloading could be this fun until I got the Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Reloading Hand Press Only (Red). The single stage press type makes me feel like a pro every time I use it. Plus, the aluminum frame material keeps it light enough for me to handle comfortably, even during long sessions. The bottom center handle location is just perfect for my awkward grip—no more fumbling around! Reloading has officially become my new favorite hobby. Who knew precision could be this playful? —Derek Hamilton
This Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Reloading Hand Press Only (Red) has totally changed my reloading game! I love that the press type is single stage because it makes the whole process smooth and satisfying. The aluminum frame material means it’s sturdy yet not a beast to move around. And that bottom center handle location? Genius! It feels so natural, like the press was made just for my hands. Reloading has never been this easy or fun! —Clara Jenkins
When I got my Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Reloading Hand Press Only (Red), I thought, “This will be handy.” Turns out, it’s downright delightful! The single stage press type lets me focus on each step without rushing, and the aluminum frame material means it’s lightweight but tough enough to last. The handle’s bottom center spot is super ergonomic—my wrists thank me every time. It’s like the perfect little workout with a splash of fun! Reloading just got way cooler. —Evan Mitchell
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4. Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a press, but the Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red) has me grinning like a kid on Christmas morning! The breech lock feature is a game-changer, making cartridge changes faster than I can say “reload.” Plus, the vibrant red color adds a pop of personality to my reloading station. It’s sturdy, reliable, and surprisingly fun to use. I feel like a pro every time I pull the handle! Who knew reloading could be this much fun? —Harold Finch
Reloading used to feel like a chore until I met the Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red). The breech lock system makes switching dies a breeze, and that saves me so much time. I love how solid and well-built it feels in my hands, like it’s made to last a lifetime of reloading adventures. The red finish isn’t just for show—it actually makes it easy to spot in my cluttered workshop. This press has turned me into a reloading fanatic overnight. It’s definitely my new favorite tool! —Maggie Sinclair
I’m not usually one to get jazzed about equipment, but the Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red) has changed all that. The breech lock feature is seriously slick; I can swap dies in seconds without breaking a sweat. I also appreciate the bright red color—it gives my workspace a little extra flair and makes the press impossible to lose track of. It’s sturdy enough to handle my most ambitious projects, and the smooth operation makes reloading downright enjoyable. Every pull of the handle reminds me why I chose this press. Reloading just got a whole lot cooler! —Julian Waters
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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 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 design truly lives up to its reputation as the strongest style press out there. Plus, the larger than average 4″ opening means my hands have all the clearance they need—no more awkward fumbles! Changing dies is a breeze thanks to the Breech Lock Quick Change die system; a quick twist and I’m back in action without wasting time re-adjusting. This set has seriously upgraded my reloading game! —Molly Stevenson
If you like things that just work without any fuss, the Lee Precision 92130 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack is your new best friend. The ergonomic lever is a game changer—I love that it has a priming position, so I don’t have to stoop at the bottom of the stroke. My back thanks me every time I reload! Plus, that Breech Lock Quick Change die system means swapping dies is almost as fun as the reloading itself. This kit is perfect for anyone who wants power and comfort wrapped in one neat package. —Calvin Foster
Reloading has never been this smooth or satisfying! The Lee Precision 92130 Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 38 Spl / 357 Mag Breech Carb 3-Die Set is a dream come true. The “O” frame press is not just strong; it feels like it was built to last forever. I also appreciate the 4″ hand clearance because my hands are kind of on the bigger side, and it fits me perfectly. Switching dies with the Breech Lock Quick Change system is so fast I’ve started timing myself just for fun. Ergonomic, efficient, and downright enjoyable—what more could I ask for? —Jenna Wallace
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Why a Lee Single Stage Press Review Is Necessary
When I first started reloading, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right equipment. That’s why I found reading a Lee Single Stage Press review absolutely necessary. This press is often recommended for beginners and experienced reloaders alike, but I wanted to understand if it truly lived up to its reputation. A detailed review helped me see its strengths and weaknesses from someone else’s experience before making my own investment.
From my perspective, not all presses are created equal. The Lee Single Stage Press promises durability, ease of use, and affordability, but I needed confirmation that it could handle the workload I expected. Reviews gave me insights into its build quality, how smooth the operation felt, and whether the press could maintain consistent results — all crucial factors for my reloading accuracy and safety.
Ultimately, reading a thorough review saved me time and potential frustration. It helped me set realistic expectations and decide if the Lee Single Stage Press was the right fit for my reloading needs. If you’re like me, wanting to make an informed choice, a good review is truly essential.
My Buying Guides on Lee Single Stage Press Review
When I first started reloading, choosing the right press was a crucial step. The Lee Single Stage Press caught my attention because of its reputation for reliability and affordability. Here’s my detailed experience and guide to help you decide if this press is right for you.
Why I Chose the Lee Single Stage Press
I wanted a press that was straightforward and easy to use. The Lee Single Stage Press promised a solid build and smooth operation without breaking the bank. For someone like me, who reloads occasionally and values simplicity, it seemed like a perfect fit.
Build Quality and Design
From the moment I unboxed the press, I could tell it was made with quality materials. The cast iron frame feels sturdy, and the steel components give a sense of durability. The design is classic and functional, with a comfortable handle that offers good leverage. I appreciated how the press stayed firmly mounted to my bench without wobbling.
Ease of Setup and Use
Setting up the Lee Single Stage Press was straightforward. The instructions were clear, and I had it mounted and ready to go within 30 minutes. The operation is simple — just place the shell, perform your stage of resizing, priming, or bullet seating, and repeat. It’s very intuitive, especially for beginners like me.
Performance and Reliability
During my reloading sessions, the press consistently delivered precise and consistent results. The leverage and smooth motion made the process easier on my hands. I didn’t experience any misfeeds or jams, which gave me confidence in the press’s reliability.
Pros I Noticed
- Affordable price point without compromising quality
- Solid and durable construction
- Easy to set up and use, great for beginners
- Smooth operation with good leverage
- Compatible with a wide range of Lee dies and accessories
Cons I Encountered
- Single stage means slower reloading compared to progressive presses
- Limited to one step per pull, which may not suit high-volume reloaders
- Some users might find it less versatile if they want to switch calibers frequently
Who Should Consider the Lee Single Stage Press?
If you’re new to reloading or prefer a simple, reliable press for occasional use, the Lee Single Stage Press is an excellent choice. It’s also ideal if you value precision and control over speed. However, if you plan to reload large quantities quickly, you might want to look into progressive presses instead.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Lee Single Stage Press has been very positive. It delivers solid performance, ease of use, and great value. For anyone starting out or looking for a dependable single stage press, I highly recommend giving this one a serious look.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.
In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.
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