You’re looking at two fundamental pieces of a reloading setup, but they serve completely different purposes. It’s like comparing a hammer to a box of nails. One is the tool that applies the force, and the other is the precision instrument that shapes the cartridge. Understanding this distinction is the first step to building a functional and cost-effective reloading bench for your 9mm Luger needs.
This comparison breaks down the Lee Precision 92134 die set and the RCBS Partner press on their own merits. We’ll examine their features, intended use cases, and how they might fit into your plans, whether you’re piecing together a kit or upgrading a single component. Speaking honestly, the right choice depends entirely on what you already have and what you’re trying to accomplish.
Core Components: Press vs. Dies
Every reloading process requires two main hardware categories: the press and the dies. The press is the workhorse. It’s the leveraged frame you operate to resize brass, seat bullets, and perform other tasks requiring significant force. The RCBS Partner is an example of a single stage press, perfect for one operation at a time.
Dies are the specialized tools that screw into the press. They perform the specific actions like case sizing, depriming, and bullet seating. The Lee Precision 92134 is a three-die set designed specifically for 9mm Luger. One of its key components is a carbide sizing die, which requires no lubricationa huge benefit for straight-walled pistol cases. You can’t reload without both, but knowing which to prioritize for your budget is key.
Head-to-Head: Lee Precision 92134 9mm Carbide Die Set Deep Dive
The Lee Precision 92134 isn’t just a set of dies; it’s part of the “Challenger 40th Anniversary Pack” that includes the Breech Lock Quick Change system. This system uses locking collars that allow you to change dies with a simple twist, preserving your settings. For a beginner reloading setup for 9mm, this feature is a legitimate time-saver and reduces frustration.
The set includes a carbide sizing/depriming die, a powder-through expanding die, and a bullet seating/crimping die. The inclusion of the carbide ring is the star here, streamlining the case sizing step. My honest assessment is that for the price, this die set offers exceptional value and ease of use, especially when paired with a compatible press that accepts the Breech Lock bushings.
- Carbide Sizing Die: Eliminates the need for messy case lube, speeding up the process for 9mm Luger.
- Breech Lock Quick Change: Swap dies without losing your precise adjustments.
- Three-Die Set: Covers all essential operations: sizing, expanding, and seating/crimping.
From my honest perspective, the main consideration is compatibility. You need a press that either has the Breech Lock system or standard 7/8″-14 threads (which most single-stage presses have). If your press uses standard threads, you simply use the dies without the quick-change collar.
Head-to-Head: RCBS Partner Single Stage Press Analysis
The RCBS Partner press is built for a specific user: the beginner or the reloader with limited space. Its compact, lightweight aluminum construction makes it easy to mount on a modest bench. Don’t mistake its size for fragility; it’s designed for reliable, precise, low-volume reloading tasks across a wide range of calibers.
It features a classic “C” frame design with a compound linkage system for smooth operation. The press includes a primer arm for both priming and depriming operations, which is a nice all-in-one feature for a basic press. Honestly speaking, its greatest strength is its simplicity and the backing of the RCBS lifetime warranty, which protects your investment for years.
- Compact & Lightweight: Aluminum frame is ideal for small benches or portable setups.
- Versatile Caliber Handling: Designed to handle a wide range of rifle and pistol calibers.
- Integrated Primer System: Comes with a primer arm to handle priming operations.
- Lifetime Warranty: RCBS stands behind the product’s durability.
My honest take is that the Partner is a gateway press. It gets you into the reloading process without a massive upfront cost or footprint. It’s the foundation upon which you build your reloading kit. For more detailed comparisons on Lee’s own press options, you can read our analysis of Lee precision systems.
Direct Comparison: Compatibility, Performance & Value
So, can you use Lee 92134 dies on an RCBS Partner press? Absolutely. The RCBS Partner uses the universal 7/8″-14 threaded hole. The Lee dies will thread directly in. You would forgo the Breech Lock quick-change feature unless you purchased separate Breech Lock bushings for the Partner, which is possible but an added cost. The core functionality remains perfectly intact.
their official specifications.
| Feature | Lee Precision 92134 Die Set | RCBS Partner Press |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Precision case forming & bullet seating for 9mm Luger | Applying force for all reloading operations |
| Key Material/Feature | Carbide sizing ring, Breech Lock bushings | Durable aluminum frame, compound linkage |
| Best For | Shooting high volumes of 9mm; those needing caliber-specific tooling | Beginners; low-volume reloaders; those with space constraints |
| Setup Consideration | Requires a press to function | Requires dies, shell holder, and basic tools to function |
| Warranty/Support | Lee Precision’s standard warranty | RCBS Limited Lifetime Warranty |
| Check current price on Amazon | Check current price on Amazon |
Covering the Details Others Miss
Many reviews stop at the basic features. To be completely honest, a few nuanced points matter for the long term. While the Lee dies have locking rings, specific torque isn’t usually called outsnug is typically sufficient to prevent rotation during use. For case life, the Lee carbide die is gentler than steel because it requires no lube, but always inspect brass for signs of stress.
Never operate any press or die set without consulting official reloading manuals. They are your ultimate authority for load data and safety procedures. You should always cross-reference data from an official source like Hornady or the RCBS reloading hub. For a broader perspective, the authority guide from BASC provides excellent foundational safety principles.
Final Verdict & Recommendation: Which to Buy First?
This isn’t about which product is objectively “better.” It’s about what you need to start reloading 9mm Luger safely and effectively. If you already own a functional single stage press but lack 9mm dies, the Lee Precision 92134 set is the clear and immediate next purchase. Its carbide feature and potential for quick changes make it a standout value.
If you own absolutely nothing and are starting from scratch, the press is the foundational item. You cannot use dies without one. The RCBS Partner press offers a reliable, warrantied entry point. You would then need to add a 9mm die set (like the Lee), a shell holder, a scale, calipers, and other essentials. For a look at a more complete starter kit, see our thoughts on another Lee precision package.
For the classic “beginner reloading setup 9mm Lee vs RCBS” dilemma, heres my honest recommendation:
- Buy the RCBS Partner Press First if: You have no press at all. It’s your necessary starting hardware. Budget for the dies, shell holder, and other tools immediately after.
- Buy the Lee Precision 92134 Die Set First if: You already have a compatible press but want to reload 9mm. It’s the specialized tooling that enables the specific caliber.
In my honest opinion, I believe most true beginners should plan their purchase as a kit, budgeting for both a press and caliber-specific dies simultaneously. The cost comparison of Lee 9mm die set and RCBS Partner press shows two affordable components that, when combined with the necessary accessories, create a competent starting point. Your Honest Opinion on value might differ based on your shooting volume, but this combination represents a solid, no-frills path into the craft. Start slow, prioritize safety data from manufacturers like Lee Precision and Lyman, and you’ll be producing quality 9mm rounds on a bench that works for you.