Two distinct philosophies of reloading sit on the bench today. On one side, the RCBS Partner Press champions the focused, methodical approach of a single-stage press. On the other, the Lee Precision 90932 brings the adaptable rhythm of an auto-indexing turret. This isn’t just about tools; it’s about matching a machine to your mindset at the reloading bench.
Both are celebrated for their value proposition, especially for those starting out. But their paths to creating ammunition diverge significantly. One excels in teaching fundamentals and precision, while the other introduces efficient workflow. Let’s break down which press might become the cornerstone of your reloading setup.
The Contenders: RCBS Partner vs. Lee Classic Turret
The RCBS Partner is a compact, lightweight single-stage press built with a durable aluminum frame. Its O-frame design is a classic, trusted for decades by reloaders who prioritize consistency over speed. It’s explicitly marketed toward beginners and those with limited space, promising reliable performance for precise, low-volume tasks. Backed by a lifetime warranty, its a straightforward tool built to last.
The Lee Precision 90932, often called the Lee Classic Turret, is a cast aluminum 4-hole turret press. Its defining feature is the auto-indexing turret, which rotates automatically with each stroke of the handle. This bridges the gap between a single-stage and a progressive press, allowing multiple dies to remain set up and ready. Its designed for reloaders who want to increase their output without sacrificing too much hands-on control.
Detailed Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
To see how these presses stack up side-by-side, the table below lays out their core attributes based on their actual specifications.
| Feature | RCBS Partner Press | Lee Precision 90932 Turret Press |
|---|---|---|
| Press Type | Single-Stage | Auto-Indexing Turret |
| Frame Construction | Sturdy Aluminum | Cast Aluminum |
| Primary Design Goal | Precise, Low-Volume Reloading | Efficient Multi-Stage Workflow |
| Ideal User | Beginners, Limited Space | Reloaders Seeking Faster Output |
| Operation | Smooth, Minimal Effort | Auto-Indexing Turret System |
| Caliber Handling | Wide Range | Wide Range (via turret heads) |
| Warranty | RCBS Limited Lifetime | See Manufacturer |
| Check current price on Amazon | Check current price on Amazon |
Interpreting the Core Differences
The fundamental choice is between a single-stage press and a turret system. The RCBS Partner requires you to handle one operation at a time, manually changing dies for each step. This method is unparalleled for teaching the nuances of each stagesizing, priming, charging, seating. Shellholder compatibility is standard, so you can use any brand’s shell holders.
The Lees auto-indexing turret holds four dies. You perform each operation in sequence with a pull of the handle, and the turret rotates to the next die automatically. This is a significant speed advantage for producing completed rounds in batches. Speaking honestly, the turret systems real benefit is workflow continuity, not just raw speed.
Performance & User Experience Comparison
How do these presses feel on the bench? The user experience is where they truly separate.
Reloading Precision and Feel
The RCBS Partner, with its solid O-frame design, provides a very direct and consistent feel. Theres minimal flex, which translates to excellent reloading precision. Every operation is deliberate. This makes it fantastic for load development, where you’re testing tiny powder charge variations, or for precision rifle cartridges like .308 Winchester. You feel every bit of the case resizing, which is actually a good thing for a beginner learning the craft.
The Lee Turret is also robust, but the nature of the rotating turret introduces a different dynamic. The auto-indexing turret mechanism is smooth when properly adjusted. For pistol calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP, where extreme precision is slightly less critical than volume, it shines. My honest assessment is that both are capable of producing high-quality ammunition, but the Partners singular focus on one operation can foster better initial habits for reloading precision.
Ease of Use and Learning Curve
For the absolute novice asking which is better for a beginner RCBS Partner or Lee Turret, the answer involves learning style. The RCBS Partner is simpler to understand mechanically. You install one die, perform that step on 50 cases, then switch dies. This segmented process helps isolate and master each step without the distraction of a moving turret.
The Lee Turret has a steeper initial setup. You must correctly install and time multiple dies in the turret head and adjust the auto-index rod. However, once set up, the process of making rounds is more fluid. Its less about learning individual steps in isolation and more about learning an efficient sequence. From my honest perspective, a true beginner might grasp the fundamentals more deeply on a single-stage first.
Noise, Vibration, and Missing Features
A practical note often missing from discussions is noise and vibration. The Partners solid frame tends to transmit more of the “crunch” of resizing directly into the bench, which can be louder. The Lee turret head can sometimes have a slight metallic “clack” as it indexes. Neither is excessive, but its a subtle difference in bench feel.
Notably, the provided data doesn’t detail the case priming system or a primer catcher for either press. Most single-stage presses like the Partner use a separate hand-priming tool or an on-press arm, which is a separate operation. The Lee Turret can accommodate a Safety Prime system, but it’s often an add-on. This is a key area to research in user reviews for each model. Press durability is high for both, thanks to aluminum construction, but the RCBS lifetime warranty is a tangible confidence booster.
Price, Value & Long-Term Cost Analysis
The initial reloading press cost is just the entry fee. The long-term investment in your reloading setup is what matters.
Initial Investment and What You Get
Typically, the Lee Precision 90932 has a higher initial price than the RCBS Partner. Youre paying for the more complex auto-indexing mechanism. However, you also get a press that can significantly outpace a single-stage in rounds-per-hour once youre fluent.
The RCBS Partners lower price point makes it an incredibly accessible gateway. You can spend the difference on high-quality components like a scale, calipers, and a good manual. The cost difference between RCBS and Lee reloading press often allows a beginner to allocate funds to other critical tools. Honestly speaking, a bare-bones setup on a great press is less effective than a well-rounded setup on a good press.
Long-Term Value and Flexibility
Long-term value isn’t just about press durability. It’s about how the press fits your evolving needs. The RCBS Partner, while simple, never becomes obsolete. Even experienced reloaders keep a single-stage for specific tasks like bullet swaging, decapping, or precision rifle loading. Its value proposition as a dedicated, precise tool is lifelong.
The Lee Turret offers a different kind of value: it can be your primary workhorse for years. You can buy additional turret heads (often called “turret disks”) for different calibers, keeping your dies pre-set and saving massive setup time. This is a huge efficiency boost. Compatibility with other brand dies (like Hornady or Redding) is excellentstandard 7/8″-14 threads are universal. For high-volume pistol shooting or even .223 Remington plinking ammo, this efficiency translates directly to value.
When considering press accessories, both benefit from aftermarket support. Companies like Inline Fabrication offer mounting kits and ergonomic upgrades that enhance either press. My honest take is that the Lee might benefit more from these upgrades due to its faster pace, where ergonomics become more critical over a long session.
Final Verdict & Recommendation
So, which press deserves a spot on your bench? Its not about which is objectively better, but which is better for you.
Choose the RCBS Partner Press If:
- You are a complete beginner wanting to master each reloading step thoroughly.
- Your primary focus is on precision rifle ammunition or meticulous load development.
- You have severe space constraints or a very limited initial budget.
- You value the ultimate simplicity and the backing of a lifetime warranty.
- You don’t mind a slower, more meditative process at the bench.
I honestly believe the Partner is the superior teaching tool. It builds foundational skills that translate to any press later.
Choose the Lee Precision 90932 Turret Press If:
- You understand the basics and want to increase your output without going full progressive.
- You reload a mix of pistol and rifle but prioritize handgun calibers or higher-volume rifle rounds.
- You appreciate the convenience of pre-set die heads for quick caliber changes.
- You have a bit more budget upfront for the press and additional turret heads.
- Your goal is an efficient workflow for producing quality range ammunition.
To be completely honest, the Lee Turret is a fantastic “second press” or a great first press for someone who is mechanically inclined and has done their homework. Its ability to balance speed with control is its greatest strength.
The Honest Bottom Line
There is no loser . The RCBS Partner is the dedicated precision instrument. The Lee Classic Turret is the efficient workshop assistant. Your shooting habits dictate the choice.
For the precision rifle shooter loading 50 .308 rounds for a match, the Partners focused approach is ideal. For the pistol enthusiast who goes through 300 rounds of 9mm a month, the Lees workflow is a game-changer. Both will serve you reliably for decades with proper care.
Before deciding, consult an official source for reloading data and always follow safety manuals. And for more detailed precision press comparisons, like how other turrets stack up, explore our other guides. We also have a great breakdown on another popular model in our precision turret face-off.
Ultimately, the best press is the one you’ll use safely and consistently. At the end of the day, thats the only Honest Opinion that truly matters. Start with clear goals, invest in good fundamentals, and either of these presses will help you craft excellent ammunition.