You’re looking at two fundamental pieces of the reloading puzzle from a legendary name. The Lee Precision 90045 reloading press and the Lee Precision 92134 die set represent different starting points for assembling your own ammunition. One is the foundational machine, the other a specialized toolset. Understanding what each one actually brings to your bench is the first step to a smart purchase.
This isn’t about which is better in a vacuum. It’s about which is better for you. Are you building a versatile reloading station from the ground up, or do you need the specific components to start cranking out 9mm rounds right away? We’ll break down the specs, the value, and the ideal user for each. Speaking honestly, the right choice saves you money and frustration down the line.
Lee Precision 90045 Breech Lock Challenger Press Deep Dive
The Lee Precision 90045, often called the Challenger press, is a classic Single Stage Press. Its design philosophy is simplicity and strength. From my honest perspective, this is the archetypal first press for countless reloaders. It doesn’t come with dies, shell holders, or primers. It is the core engine.
The listed features highlight its robust construction. The “O” frame design is noted for its strength and popularity, providing a solid foundation for the sizing and seating operations that define reloading. The 4-inch opening is a practical touch, giving you ample hand clearance to manipulate casesa small detail that makes a big difference during long sessions.
Its standout feature is the integrated Breech Lock System. This system allows for dies to be changed with, as described, “a twist of the wrist.” You pre-set your dies in special lock rings, and swapping them in the press takes seconds without losing your careful adjustments. For a beginner learning one step at a time, or a precision shooter working on rifle rounds, this system is a significant quality-of-life upgrade over traditional threaded dies.
- Core Function: A standalone, single-stage reloading press.
- Key Feature: Built-in Breech Lock Quick-Change die system.
- Build: Strong “O” frame with a 4″ opening for hand clearance.
- Best For: The reloader who wants to build a custom kit, needs a dedicated second press, or prioritizes ultimate flexibility in their die choices.
Honestly speaking, its Value Proposition lies in its longevity and role as a hub. You buy this once. Over the years, you’ll add die sets for every caliber you shoot, from .223 to .308. It’s a long-term investment in the craft. If you’re curious about how this single-stage Lee Challenger press stacks up against a turret option, our comparison with the Lyman All-American 8 offers more precision insights.
Lee Precision 92134 9mm Carbide 3-Die Set Analysis
The Lee Precision 92134 isn’t just a die set; it’s a bundled package celebrating the company’s 40th anniversary. It contains the same Breech Lock Challenger Press as the 90045, but it comes with a critical addition: a 9mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set. This changes everything for the handgun reloader.
Let’s analyze what this package actually includes. You get the press with all its features: the strong “O” frame, the 4″ opening, the Breech Lock system, and the ergonomic lever. Then, you get the dedicated tooling for 9mm. The dies come pre-installed in Breech Lock bushings, ready for that quick-change action.
The star of the die set is the Carbide Sizing Die. Honestly, this is a game-changer for straight-walled pistol cases like the 9mm. A carbide die doesn’t require lubricating each case, streamlining the process immensely and reducing a common point of failure for new reloaders. The set also includes a Powder Through Expanding Die and a Seating/Crimping Die, covering all the essential steps.
My honest take is that this package answers the question, “is Lee 90045 good for 9mm reloading?” directly. Yes, but the 92134 makes it a complete, optimized solution. It’s a reloading press kit tailored for a specific, incredibly popular caliber.
| Feature | Lee Precision 90045 (Press Only) | Lee Precision 92134 (Anniversary Pack) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Product | Breech Lock Challenger Single Stage Press | Breech Lock Challenger Press + 9mm Carbide 3-Die Set |
| Breech Lock System | Yes | Yes (dies come in bushings) |
| Included Dies | None | 9mm Luger Carbide 3-Die Set |
| Primary Use Case | Versatile foundation for any caliber | Ready-to-load 9mm setup out of the box |
| Shell Holder Included | No (must purchase separately, typically #19 for 9mm) | Yes (implied with die set) |
| Best Die Set for Beginner 9mm Reloading? | Requires separate purchase | Yes, it’s included and optimized (carbide) |
| Check current price on Amazon | Check current price on Amazon |
What Comes in the Lee Precision 92134 Die Set?
Based on the product title and standard Lee packaging, the 92134 includes the three dies necessary for loading 9mm Luger:
- Carbide Sizing/Depriming Die: Resizes the fired case and removes the old primer. The carbide ring eliminates the need for case lube.
- Powder Through Expanding Die: Gently bells the case mouth to accept a new bullet and provides a port for powder charging.
- Seating/Crimping Die: Seats the new bullet to the correct depth and applies a taper crimp to secure it.
To be completely honest, while this package is fantastic, it’s wise to know what else is on the market. Brands like RCBS and Hornady offer excellent alternatives. You can explore their full lineups at their official sites: Hornady and RCBS.
Head-to-Head: Press vs. Die Set Package
This is where your specific goals dictate the winner. It’s not an apples-to-apples comparison; it’s an assessment of starting strategy.
For the Absolute Beginner Focused on 9mm
The 92134 package is the clear, hassle-reducing choice. You get a coherent system where everything is designed to work together. The inclusion of the carbide dies is the critical factor. You unbox it, mount it, and you’re essentially ready to load after gathering components (brass, powder, primers, bullets). You don’t need to research which shell holder number (it’s #19) or worry about buying case lube. The value proposition of the bundle is exceptional for this single purpose.
For the Hobbyist Planning Multiple Calibers
The standalone 90045 press might hold more long-term appeal. I honestly believe if you know you’ll be loading .223, .308, and .45 ACP in addition to 9mm, starting with the bare press lets you curate your die collection. You could invest in a premium micrometer seating die for your rifle rounds right away. You control every component choice from the start. This path requires more initial research and a higher upfront cost to get rolling, but offers tailored precision.
Setup and User Experience
Both products center on the same user-friendly press. The ergonomic lever and priming position are designed to make the process more comfortable. The Breech Lock system shines in both scenarios, though its benefit is immediately realized with the 92134. For the 90045 buyer, you’ll need to purchase Breech Lock bushings separately for each die set you acquire.
A note on missing context often overlooked: The 90045 listing simply states “Reloading Press.” It does not include a priming system, shell holders, or any dies. The 92134, as a kit, implies these are included for 9mm. Always verify the latest contents with the seller. For enhancing any press, aftermarket companies like Inline Fabrication offer incredible mounting and lighting solutions.
Final Verdict & Recommendations for Different Users
So, which one should you buy? My honest assessment is that this decision hinges entirely on your shooting habits and reloading ambitions.
Choose the Lee Precision 92134 40th Anniversary Pack if:
- Your primary, perhaps sole, goal is reloading 9mm Luger.
- You are a first-time reloader and want the most straightforward path to your first batch of ammo.
- You value the convenience of a matched kit where compatibility is guaranteed.
- The Carbide Sizing Die benefit (no lube) is a major selling point for you.
Choose the Lee Precision 90045 Breech Lock Challenger Press if:
- You are a rifle shooter or plan to reload multiple calibers from the outset.
- You prefer to hand-select each component of your setup, potentially mixing brands (like using RCBS or Hornady dies in the Breech Lock bushings).
- You already have a set of 9mm dies or other reloading accessories and just need a quality press.
- You’re adding a dedicated single-stage station to a bench that already has a progressive or turret press.
For the person asking, “what comes in Lee Precision 92134 die set?” and just wants to make 9mm, the bundle is the efficient, smart buy. For the tinkerer who sees a future bench filled with different calibers, the 90045 is your blank canvas.
Both products uphold Lee Precision’s reputation for offering tremendous value. They provide a robust, reliable entry into the craft of reloading. Your next step is to gather the remaining componentspowder scale, calipers, case trimmer for rifle, and safety gear. Always consult multiple authority guides and manuals before you start. And for more direct, no-nonsense breakdowns on gear like this, the team at Honest Opinion is always digging into the details. Happy and safe loading.