Setting up a reloading bench in 2026 means navigating a sea of options. Two standout offerings from Lee Precision consistently spark debate: the comprehensive Challenger Kit II and the specialized 40th Anniversary Die set. One is a full starter kit, the other a premium press and die combo. The choice fundamentally shapes your initial reloading experience and long-term workflow.
This isn’t about which is universally “better.” It’s about which solution aligns with your immediate needs and future goals. We’re cutting through the marketing to examine what each product actually delivers, feature by feature. My honest assessment is that both represent significant value, but for distinctly different reloaders.
Lee Precision Challenger Kit II vs 40th Anniversary Die: A Head-to-Head Look
Before diving into the nuances, a direct comparison of the core offerings clarifies the fundamental difference between these products. One is a system, the other a focused upgrade.
| Feature | Lee Precision Challenger Kit II | Lee Precision 92139 40th Anniversary Die Set |
|---|---|---|
| Core Product | Complete reloading kit | Press with dedicated die set |
| Press Included | Challenger single stage press | 40th Anniversary single stage press with Breech Lock |
| Key Press Feature | Standard “O” frame design | Breech Lock Quick-Change system, ergonomic lever |
| Dies Included | None (kit focuses on tools) | .223 Remington 3-Die Breech Lock Set |
| Essential Tools | Safety Scale, powder funnel, chamfer tool | None (press and dies only) |
| Best For | New reloaders needing everything | Those upgrading a press or starting with a specific caliber |
| Check current price on Amazon | Check current price on Amazon |
Breaking Down the Lee Challenger Kit II
The Challenger Kit II is designed as a one-stop shop. It answers the question, “What do I absolutely need to start reloading besides components?” Honestly speaking, its value lies in bundling essential peripherals with a proven press.
What You Actually Get
The kit revolves around the classic Challenger press, known for its strong “O” frame design. But the supporting cast is crucial:
- Lee Safety Scale: Described as very sensitive, this beam scale is critical for consistent powder charges. It’s the heart of safe reloading.
- Powder Funnel: A simple but vital tool for transferring powder from the scale pan to the case without spilling.
- Chamfer Tool: This manually chamfers the inside and outside of the case mouth, a necessary step after trimming to ensure smooth bullet seating.
From my honest perspective, this kit is about getting you to the starting line. You’ll still need to purchase a die set for your specific caliber, a shell holder, case lube, and a priming tool. It covers the universal basics. For a deeper look at the press itself, our review of the breech lock version explores a key variant.
Ideal User Profile
This kit is perfect for the meticulous beginner who doesn’t own any gear. It’s for someone who values understanding each step intimately on a single stage press. The process may be slower, but it builds foundational skills. You’ll learn the feel of case sizing and bullet seating from the ground up.
the 40th Anniversary Die Set Package
The Lee Precision 92139 package takes a different approach. It pairs a commemorative edition press with a ready-to-go die set for .223 Remington. This isn’t a general starter kit; it’s a targeted solution.
Press and Die Synergy
The 40th Anniversary press includes several notable enhancements over the basic Challenger:
- Breech Lock Quick Change Die System: This is the headline feature. You lock a die into a bushing once. After that, changing dies is a simple twist of the wrist with no readjustment. It dramatically speeds up workflow on a single-stage press.
- Ergonomic lever with an improved priming position eliminates stooping at the bottom of the stroke.
- The larger 4″ opening provides maximum hand clearance for bigger cases.
Paired with it is the .223 Remington 3-Die Breech Lock Set. This typically includes a full-length sizing die, a powder-through expanding die, and a bullet seating die. Speaking honestly, if .223 is your primary caliber, this package is incredibly efficient. You mount the press, screw in the bushings, and you’re nearly ready to load.
Who Should Consider This Package?
This package shines for a few specific users. First, the reloader looking to upgrade their basic press to the Breech Lock system for convenience. Second, the shooter who primarily needs to load .223 and wants a optimized, dedicated setup right out of the box. It assumes you either already have the ancillary tools (scale, funnel, etc.) or are willing to purchase them separately. For comparisons on other press options, our analysis of precision press models is useful.
Critical Factors Beyond the Box
To make a truly informed decision between the Lee Challenger Kit II or 40th Anniversary die package, you must consider the unseen requirements. These are the “” often overlooked in basic comparisons.
Additional Gear You’ll Need
Neither product is truly “complete.” Heres whats not in the box:
- Case Preparation Tools: Both require case lube for sizing. You’ll need a case trimmer, a tumbler for cleaning, and calipers. The Kit II’s chamfer tool is just one part of this process.
- Priming System: While the 40th Anniversary press has an improved priming arm, you still need to handle primers. Many reloaders eventually opt for a hand priming tool for better feel and control.
- Shell Holders: The Kit II needs one for your caliber. The 40th Anniversary set includes one for .223, but you’ll need additional holders for any other caliber.
- Case Length Gauge & Comparator: For consistent and safe precision reloading, tools to measure case length and headspace are essential investments not included in either package.
Workflow and Long-Term Value
The Kit II offers breadth. It gives you the core tools to perform all reloading steps, albeit at a slower, more manual pace. The 40th Anniversary package offers depth and speed for a specific caliber. Its Breech Lock system future-proofs your press for faster die changes across all your calibers, though each new die set requires the purchase of additional bushings.
My honest take is that the Kit II has a lower immediate additional cost (just add dies and shell holder), but the 40th Anniversary system offers a more modern, efficient press that will save time forever. It’s a classic value vs. convenience trade-off.
Final Verdict: Matching the Product to Your Bench
So, which is better: the Lee Challenger Kit II or the 40th Anniversary die set? The answer lives in your goals and your bench.
Choose the Lee Precision Challenger Kit II if:
- You are a first-time reloader with no existing tools.
- You want to learn the fundamentals on a simple, proven press.
- Your budget requires spreading out purchases (buy kit now, dies later).
- You reload multiple, diverse calibers and don’t mind slower die changes.
Choose the Lee Precision 92139 40th Anniversary Package if:
- .223 Remington is a primary caliber you shoot.
- You already own a scale, calipers, and case prep tools.
- You value workflow speed and want the Breech Lock convenience from day one.
- You’re upgrading from an older press and want a smoother, more ergonomic lever action.
Honest to goodness, there’s no wrong choice hereonly a right choice for your situation. The Kit II is the comprehensive textbook. The 40th Anniversary package is the specialized workshop. For a broader view of the reloading landscape, always consult an official source for load data and safety information.
Your journey into precision reloading starts with a clear understanding of what you’re buying. The Challenger Kit II builds a foundation. The 40th Anniversary Die set optimizes a process. Assess what’s already on your shelf, define your most-pressed caliber, and let that guide you. At the end of the day, the best setup is the one you’ll use consistently and safely to feed your firearms. That’s the only Honest Opinion that truly matters.