Lee 90045 Press vs 92134 9mm Die Set: Key Differences
By Amis Thains Updated 5 min read
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On this page (7 sections)
You are comparing two Lee Precision SKUs, and the difference is not about quality, but about what is in the box. The 90045 is just the press; the 92134 is the same press bundled with a 9mm die set. This breakdown tells you exactly which one saves you the extra research and purchase.
In short: The Lee 90045 is a standalone single-stage Breech Lock Challenger press that requires you to buy dies, a shell holder, and other accessories separately.
The Lee 92134 includes that exact same press plus a complete 9mm Luger carbide 3-die set, making it a ready-to-use 9mm reloading kit.
If you only need to reload 9mm, the 92134 is the better value because it bundles the dies and shell holder you would otherwise have to buy on your own.
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Includes the press, carbide dies, and shell holder so you can start reloading 9mm immediately without buying extras.
Buy just the press now, then add specific die sets for .223, .308, or .45 ACP as your collection grows.
The differences at a glance
These two SKUs are not competing products. They are the same physical press with two different content levels. The only difference is what is included in the box. For the detail, see our notes on rcbs reloader special 5.
| Feature | Lee 90045 | Lee 92134 |
|---|---|---|
| Press Type | Single-stage Breech Lock Challenger | Single-stage Breech Lock Challenger |
| Frame | 4-inch O-frame | 4-inch O-frame |
| Dies Included | None | 9mm Luger Carbide 3-Die Set |
| Shell Holder | Not included | Included |
| Best For | Multi-caliber setups or premium die choices | Quick start for 9mm reloaders |
Both items use the identical Breech Lock system, so any die set you buy later for the 90045 will work the same way in the 92134. The 92134 is simply a bundle.
What is actually in the 92134 die set?
The 92134 adds a carbide 3-die set specifically for 9mm Luger. This changes how you approach the reloading process because carbide dies do not require case lube.
- Carbide Sizing/Depriming Die: Resizes the case and ejects the old primer. The carbide ring eliminates the need to lube each case, which removes a common error point for new reloaders.
- Powder-Through Expanding Die: Bells the case mouth to accept the bullet and allows you to charge powder without opening the case mouth further.
- Seating/Crimping Die: Seats the bullet to the correct depth and applies a taper crimp to secure it.
Because the dies come pre-mounted in Breech Lock bushings, you can install them in the press in seconds. You do not need to measure and adjust threaded dies before your first shot.
Pro tip: When setting up the 9mm die set, start with the sizing die fully backed out. Lower it just until the case contacts the die, then add 1/8 turn. Check for case wall contact before seating the first bullet.
The 92134 includes these exact dies, so you get them without a separate purchase or research step.
- The "O" frame press by design is the strongest and by far the most popular style press
- The larger than average 4" opening allows for maximum hand clearance
Why the 90045 wins for multi-caliber reloaders
If you plan to reload more than one caliber, the standalone 90045 gives you more control. You can choose specific die sets for each caliber based on your needs rather than accepting a bundled 9mm set.
For example, if you are moving into .223 or .308 rifle reloading, you will likely want a precision micrometer seating die. The 92134 bundle is optimized for handgun 9mm and does not include rifle-specific tools. Buying the 90045 alone lets you prioritize which dies you buy first. We cover reliable industrial strength in a guide of its own.
The Breech Lock system on the 90045 works with any Breech Lock-compatible die set. You can start with a basic 9mm set and later add premium rifle dies without changing the press.
The 90045 is the press you buy when you want to curate each die set yourself instead of accepting a bundle.
- Reloading Press
Shell holder and accessories: what you must buy extra
The 92134 includes a shell holder for 9mm, which means you can start loading immediately once you have brass, powder, primers, and bullets. The 90045 does not include a shell holder, so you must buy one separately.
For 9mm, the correct shell holder is typically the #19 or R9 universal holder. If you are buying the 90045 and adding a 9mm die set later, budget for that extra purchase.
- 92134 buyer: You have the press, dies, and shell holder. You only need components (brass, powder, primers, bullets) and a scale.
- 90045 buyer: You need to buy the shell holder, the die set, and any other accessories separately.
This is not a flaw in the 90045. It is a design choice that favors flexibility. You choose exactly what to add to your bench.
Pro tip: Before buying the 90045, confirm which shell holder fits your die set. Not all universal holders work with every die, especially for larger calibers like .41 Mag.
The R9 shell holder is the standard accessory for the 90045 when you add a 9mm die set later.
- For 41 Mag and similar cases
- R9 Universal shell holder used in most brands of reloading presses
Which should you buy?
- If you only reload 9mm: Get the 92134. It includes the dies and shell holder, so you start faster with fewer purchases.
- If you plan to reload multiple calibers: Get the 90045. Buy the press first, then add die sets for each caliber as your collection grows.
- If you want a second press for a specific task: Get the 900045 and pair it with a dedicated die set for that task, such as a precision rifle setup.
- If you are a beginner who wants the simplest start: Get the 92134. The carbide dies remove the need for case lube, and the bundle keeps the purchase to one transaction.
Neither option is wrong. The 92134 is a convenience bundle for 9mm shooters. The 90045 is the foundation for a growing reloading bench. Choose based on how many calibers you intend to load in the next two years. Before you buy anything, it is worth looking at lee 9mm die.
The bottom line
Most 9mm shooters should buy the Lee 92134 because it includes the press, carbide die set, and shell holder in one package. Multi-caliber reloaders should buy the Lee 90045 and add die sets as needed. If you are not sure yet, start with the 90045 and add the 9mm dies later when you are ready.
- The "O" frame press by design is the strongest and by far the most popular style press
- The larger than average 4" opening allows for maximum hand clearance
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Lee 92134 die set in a different press?
No, the 92134 dies are Breech Lock compatible, meaning they work in any press with a Breech Lock system. They will not fit a standard threaded-die press. Check your press manual to confirm it has Breech Lock bushings.
Do I need case lube with the 92134 carbide dies?
No. The carbide sizing die in the 92134 is designed to resize straight-walled cases like 9mm without lube. This is a major advantage over carbide dies for rifle cartridges, which still require lube.
Is the Lee 90045 press the same physical press in both SKUs?
Yes. The 92134 uses the identical 4-inch O-frame Breech Lock Challenger press as the 90045. The only difference is the inclusion of the 9mm die set and shell holder in the 92134 box.
What shell holder do I need for the 90045 if I add a 9mm die set later?
For 9mm Luger, you need a 9mm shell holder, typically labeled #19 or R9 universal. The Lee R9 Universal shell holder is a common choice and works with most die sets. Confirm compatibility with your specific die before buying.
Can I upgrade the 92134 later with premium rifle dies?
Yes. The 92134 press accepts any Breech Lock die set. You can add precision micrometer seating dies for rifle calibers later without replacing the press. The bundle just means you start with a complete 9mm setup.