Two single-stage presses from Lee Precision consistently dominate the conversation for new and experienced reloaders alike. The Classic Cast Single Stage Press (model 90045) and the Breech Lock Challenger represent distinct philosophies in reloading tool design. One prioritizes a traditional, robust foundation, while the other champions modern convenience. Deciding between them isn’t about “best” press, but the right tool for your bench, your cartridges, and your workflow.
This comparison cuts through the noise. We’ll examine their core construction, operational feel, and the tangible value each offers. Speaking honestly, the right choice can transform your reloading experience from a chore into a precise, enjoyable craft. Let’s get into the details.
Head-to-Head: Core Design & Mechanism
The fundamental difference between these presses is immediately apparent in their frames. The Lee 90045 employs a classic O-frame vs C-frame design, a one-piece cast iron construction that forms a complete, unbroken ring around the ram. This design is renowned for its inherent rigidity and resistance to flex, especially under heavy loads like resizing large rifle brass.
In contrast, the Breech Lock Challenger uses a C-shaped frame. It’s a durable design that has served reloaders for decades, offering a more open front for easier access when placing cases. The real headline for the Breech Lock, however, is its namesake feature: the Breech Lock Quick-Change System. This system uses threaded bushings that screw permanently into the press. Your dies then thread into these bushings, allowing for near-instantaneous die changes with a simple quarter-turna significant advantage for processes requiring frequent die swaps.
Construction & Durability
From my honest perspective, construction is where these presses truly diverge. The Lee 90045’s product description is succinct: “Reloading Press.” This simplicity speaks to its purpose-built, no-frills nature. Its cast iron O-frame is its defining feature, promising a lifetime of stable, consistent operation. It’s the anvil of the reloading world.
The Breech Lock Challenger’s listed features provide more detail. It boasts “all steel linkage with adjustable length lever” and is described as “durable and will last for a long time.” The adjustable lever is a thoughtful ergonomic touch, allowing you to customize the press stroke to your height and preference. Honestly speaking, while the C-frame is strong, the O-frame of the 90045 typically offers a marginal edge in perceived and actual rigidity for the most demanding tasks.
Detailed Feature Breakdown & Comparison
Let’s put the key specifications and features side-by-side. This table clarifies what each press brings to your reloading bench based on their official product data.
| Feature | Lee Precision 90045 Classic Cast | Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Design | Cast Iron O-Frame | C-Frame |
| Primary Mechanism | Traditional Threaded Die | Breech Lock Quick-Change System |
| Key Highlighted Feature | Reloading Press (Implied robust construction) | All steel linkage, adjustable lever, includes one Breech Lock bushing |
| Durability Note | N/A from provided data | Described as “durable and will last for a long time” |
| Country of Origin | N/A from provided data | United States |
| Check current price on Amazon | Check current price on Amazon |
Addressing the Unspoken Details
Competitors often gloss over a few critical entities. For warranty, Lee Precision is known for its “No B.S.” lifetime guarantee, which should cover both pressesa huge point in their favor. Regarding max cartridge length, the Breech Lock Challenger typically handles standard rifle cartridges with ease, but for very long cartridges, the open architecture of the Classic Cast Single Stage Press O-frame can sometimes offer more clearance. Always verify specific case capacity against your intended cartridges.
Spent primer management differs subtly. The Classic Cast often features a dedicated tube system that directs spent primers into a container, a cleaner solution. The Breech Lock system varies, but managing spent primers is a consideration for bench cleanliness. My honest assessment is that a robust spent primer system is a quality-of-life upgrade many reloaders appreciate after their first messy session.
Performance Analysis: Speed, Precision & Versatility
Ease of Die Change & Workflow Speed
This is the Breech Lock’s arena. If your process involves frequent die changesuch as when loading multiple small batches of different calibers or performing dedicated decapping, sizing, and priming sessionsthe quarter-turn system is a game-changer. It’s arguably the easiest Lee press to change dies on. You can pre-set your dies in separate bushings and swap them in seconds without losing your carefully adjusted settings.
The 90045 uses the traditional threaded method. It’s perfectly reliable but slower. You must thread the die in each time, re-check your adjustment, and secure the lock ring. For a single-stage press used primarily for one cartridge or for a beginner learning the fundamentals, this is a non-issue. But for versatility across many calibers, speed leans toward the Breech Lock.
Precision & Feel
For pure, unwavering precision, the nod often goes to the 90045. The massive cast iron O-frame minimizes flex, providing a supremely solid feel throughout the press stroke. This consistent, rigid platform can contribute to more uniform ammunition, especially when performing critical operations like bullet seating or full-length resizing of stout rifle brass. If you’re asking which Lee press is better for precision reloading, the Classic Cast is frequently the answer.
The Breech Lock Challenger is no slouch. Its all-steel linkage and solid construction yield excellent results. However, under extreme pressure, a C-frame can exhibit minute flex compared to an O-frame. For the vast majority of pistol and standard rifle cartridges, this difference is academic. But for the reloader seeking the absolute most rigid single stage reloading press platform, the 90045 holds an edge.
Versatility for Rifle Cartridges
The debate of Lee Breech Lock vs Classic Cast for rifle cartridges is nuanced. Both can handle them. The Breech Lock, with its convenient system, is excellent for a hunter who loads a few different rifle calibers in moderate volumes. The quick-change capability is a major benefit here.
However, for the dedicated rifle shooter who performs heavy-duty resizing on large volumes of brassthink .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfieldthe unyielding frame of the 90045 can make the strenuous operation feel smoother and more controlled. It’s the press you’d choose for a dedicated, high-precision rifle bench. You can find more on precision-focused comparisons in our look at the Lee vs Lyman matchup.
Verdict: Who Should Buy Which Press?
So, is the Lee 90045 worth the extra money? It depends entirely on your profile as a reloader.
Choose the Lee Precision 90045 Classic Cast If:
- You prioritize ultimate frame rigidity and a rock-solid feel above all else.
- Your primary focus is precision rifle reloading or high-volume brass processing.
- You prefer a traditional, minimalist design and don’t mind slower die changes.
- You view your press as a lifetime investment and want the most robust foundation possible.
Honest to goodness, this press is a bedrock. It’s the one you buy once.
Choose the Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger If:
- You value operational speed and convenience, especially quick die changes.
- You load multiple calibers (pistol and rifle) and switch between them frequently.
- You’re a beginner seeking a user-friendly reloading kit core that simplifies the learning process.
- You want excellent performance with the modern convenience of a quick-change system at a compelling price.
I honestly believe the Breech Lock is the best Lee press for beginners and versatile hobbyists. Its adjustable lever and quick-change system lower the barrier to entry and enhance the experience. For case preparation that pairs perfectly with either press, consider the efficiency of a tool like the Hornady case trimmer.
The Final Honest Opinion
There is no loser in this Lee 90045 vs Breech Lock comparison. You’re choosing between two excellent tools with different strengths. The Classic Cast Single Stage Press is the unwavering specialist, built for a lifetime of consistent, precise operation. The Breech Lock Challenger is the adaptable workhorse, designed to make your reloading sessions faster and more flexible.
My honest take is this: if your reloading is methodical, cartridge-specific, and driven by the pursuit of tiny groups, the 90045’s rigidity is worth the investment. If your reloading is diverse, experimental, and you appreciate tools that save time, the Breech Lock’s innovative system will delight you every time you use it. Both exemplify the tremendous value Lee Precision brings to the reloading community. For more authoritative information on techniques and safety, always consult an authority guide from established organizations.
Your perfect press is the one that aligns with your goals and makes the process enjoyable. That’s the Honest Opinion from this corner of the reloading world. Now, get to the bench and make some ammo.