The Lee Breech Lock Challenger press has earned a solid reputation among reloaders for its blend of affordability, durability, and versatility. This in-depth review will explore its features, benefits, drawbacks, and overall suitability for various reloading needs. Whether you're a beginner looking for a reliable entry-level press or a seasoned reloader seeking a robust backup, understanding the Challenger's capabilities is crucial.
What Makes the Lee Breech Lock Challenger Stand Out?
The Lee Breech Lock Challenger press distinguishes itself through several key features:
1. Robust Construction:
Built with a sturdy cast-iron frame, the Challenger offers impressive stability during operation. This minimizes wobble and ensures consistent shell casing alignment, leading to more accurate reloading. The heavy-duty construction contributes to its longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for long-term use.
2. Breech Lock System:
The press's namesake, the Breech Lock system, is a significant advantage. This system allows for quick and easy die changes, minimizing setup time. Simply loosen the lock ring, swap dies, and tighten—no more wrestling with cumbersome adjustments. This efficiency is highly appreciated, especially during high-volume reloading sessions.
3. Versatility and Expandability:
The Challenger is compatible with a wide range of Lee reloading dies, as well as many third-party dies with appropriate adapters. This versatility caters to diverse reloading needs, from pistol and rifle cartridges to shotshells. The ability to add accessories, such as auto indexing shell plate upgrades, further enhances its functionality and efficiency.
4. Affordability:
Compared to many other progressive or even single-stage presses on the market, the Lee Breech Lock Challenger offers exceptional value for its price. This makes it an attractive option for beginners on a budget, allowing them to enter the world of reloading without breaking the bank.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider:
While the Lee Breech Lock Challenger boasts numerous advantages, it's essential to acknowledge potential drawbacks:
1. Single-Stage Operation:
Unlike progressive presses, the Challenger operates on a single-stage basis. This means each step in the reloading process (resizing, priming, powder charging, bullet seating, and crimping) requires a separate press stroke. This can be slower than progressive presses for high-volume reloading, but it also offers greater control and precision for each step.
2. Potential for User Error:
The single-stage operation, while offering control, also increases the potential for user error. A lapse in attention during any stage can lead to misloaded ammunition, emphasizing the importance of meticulous attention to detail throughout the reloading process.
Is the Lee Breech Lock Challenger Right for You?
The suitability of the Lee Breech Lock Challenger press depends heavily on your reloading needs and experience level.
Ideal for:
- Beginners: Its affordability and straightforward operation make it an excellent starting point for new reloaders.
- Low-volume reloaders: If you reload infrequently or only for a limited number of cartridges, the single-stage operation isn't a significant disadvantage.
- Precision reloaders: The single-stage design allows for meticulous control over each step, crucial for those prioritizing accuracy.
- Those seeking a compact press: The Challenger's design is relatively compact, suitable for those with limited bench space.
Less ideal for:
- High-volume reloaders: The single-stage process can be time-consuming for those reloading hundreds or thousands of rounds.
- Those seeking automation: The Challenger requires manual operation for each step, unlike automated progressive presses.
Conclusion:
The Lee Breech Lock Challenger press is a reliable and versatile option for many reloaders. Its robust construction, user-friendly Breech Lock system, and affordability make it a compelling choice, especially for beginners and those prioritizing precision over speed. While it's not the best option for high-volume production, its overall value and ease of use make it a strong contender in the reloading press market. Carefully consider your reloading needs and preferences before making a purchase.
