Two distinct offerings from Lee Precision sit on many reloading benches, each promising a path to precision reloading. One is a dedicated press, the other a commemorative kit. The choice between the Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press and the Lee Precision 92139 40th Anniversary Pack isn’t just about tools; it’s about your reloading philosophy and starting point.
Honestly speaking, this comparison often gets framed as press vs. die set, which misses the bigger picture. One is a core component for building a system, while the other is a nearly complete starter solution. Let’s break down what each product actually delivers, using only their stated features, to see which aligns with your needs.
Head-to-Head Product Overview
At first glance, these are two different animals. The Breech Lock Challenger Press is a single stage press, a fundamental tool designed for a lifetime of use. The 40th Anniversary Pack is a celebration in a box, bundling a press with a specific die set. My honest assessment is that ir base components is crucial.
The Breech Lock Challenger Press is defined by its core strength and adaptability. It features an all-steel linkage with an adjustable length lever, promising durability. It includes one Breech Lock quick-change bushing, establishing the foundation for its namesake system. This is a press built in the United States, focused purely on the act of reloading.
In contrast, the 40th Anniversary Pack presents a themed, out-of-the-box experience. It contains an “O” frame press, noted for its strength and popularity, with a large 4″ opening for hand clearance. Critically, it includes the Breech Lock Quick-Change System and a .223 Remington 3-die set. The press also has an ergonomic lever with an improved priming position to reduce stooping.
| Feature | Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press | Lee Precision 92139 40th Anniversary Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Core Product | Single Stage Reloading Press | Press Kit with Die Set |
| Key Inclusion | 1 Breech Lock Bushing | Breech Lock System & .223 Remington 3-Die Set |
| Frame Design | Not Specified | “O” Frame, 4″ Opening |
| Lever | All-Steel, Adjustable Length | Ergonomic, Improved Priming Position |
| Special Attribute | Durable, Long-Lasting Build | 40th Anniversary Limited Edition Packaging |
| Check current price on Amazon | Check current price on Amazon |
Key Feature Comparison: Breech Lock vs. The Bundle
The Heart of the System: Breech Lock Quick-Change
Both products center on Lee’s Breech Lock system, which allows for instant die changes with a twist of the wrist. This addresses a classic pain point in reloadingconstantly screwing dies in and out of a standard press thread. The system’s value is in maintaining your precise die adjustments once set.
From my honest perspective, the difference is in implementation. The standalone press includes one bushing, meaning you can have one die ready to swap. To use the system fully, you’d need to purchase additional bushings for each die. The Anniversary kit integrates the system directly and pairs it with a ready-to-use die set, providing immediate utility. Its a complete functional unit from the first use.
Construction and Ergonomics
Durability is a stated hallmark of the Breech Lock Challenger Press, with its all-steel linkage. The adjustable lever is a nice touch for customizing the throw to your preference. The Anniversary press highlights its strong “O” frame design and the practical benefit of a larger opening, which is a genuine help when handling larger cases or using your hands to guide components.
The ergonomic lever with an improved priming position on the Anniversary model is a specific upgrade. Its designed to make the seating of primers less awkward, a small but meaningful quality-of-life improvement during long reloading sessions. If you want my honest opinion, for someone just starting out, these ergonomic considerations can make the learning process less physically frustrating.
Performance & User Experience Analysis
How do these products actually feel on the reloading bench? The standalone Breech Lock Press is a workhorse. Its design is straightforward, putting the emphasis on a solid, mechanical feel. You build your process around it, adding the bushings, dies, and accessories you need. Its the definition of a precision reloading tool where you control every variable.
The 40th Anniversary Pack offers a more curated experience. You unbox a themed kit and can theoretically start reloading .223 Remington almost immediately, assuming you have the other necessary components (powder, primers, cases, etc.). The on-press storage for the included die set, implied by the “Pack” nature, keeps things organized. This kit answers the common beginner question: which Lee press is better for beginners?
Speaking honestly, the limited-edition nature of the Anniversary pack adds a collectible element that the standard press lacks. For a hobbyist who appreciates Lee’s history, this has intangible value. However, the core reloading performancethe smoothness of the ram, the leverage, the precision of the die alignmentwill be very similar, as both are built on Lee’s proven Challenger press foundation. For more detailed insights on this platform, our comparison of Lee precision models dives deeper.
Target Audience & Best Use Cases
This is where the decision crystallizes. These products serve two different entry points into the reloading world.
The Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press is ideal for:
- The reloader who already owns dies and wants to upgrade to or try the Breech Lock system.
- Someone building a custom bench piece by piece, who may source dies and components from various brands.
- A shooter who values the pure, durable mechanics of a single stage press above bundled extras.
The Lee Precision 92139 40th Anniversary Pack is perfect for:
- The new reloader specifically interested in loading .223 Remington/5.56 NATO.
- Anyone who wants a commemorative, all-in-one starter kit from a legacy brand.
- Hobbyists who value convenience and having a matched set from the start.
To be completely honest, if your goal isn’t to reload .223, the Anniversary kit’s included dies lose their primary advantage. You’d be paying for a theme and a die set you might not use. Conversely, the standalone press is caliber-agnostic, making it a more flexible long-term investment. The difference between breech lock and standard press threading is a key speed advantage, but it’s a system you can adopt on either press with the right accessories.
Final Verdict & Value Recommendation
So, is the Lee Anniversary die set worth it? My honest take is that its worth is highly situational. Its value is highest for the new .223 reloader who appreciates the commemorative aspect. It solves multiple “first purchase” problems at once. For everyone else, the value proposition shifts.
The Breech Lock Challenger Press offers purer flexibility. It’s the better choice if you reload multiple calibers, already own dies, or simply want the foundational tool without the themed packaging. You invest in the press itself, then build your system around it. Its worth noting that quick-change systems are also offered by other brands like Hornady (Lock-N-Load) and RCBS (APS or standard bushing systems). For a broader view of industry standards, consulting an official source for technical data is always wise.
Heres the bottom line:
- Choose the 40th Anniversary Pack if you are a new reloader focused on .223, want an out-of-the-box solution with a collectible twist, and value the included ergonomic improvements.
- Choose the Breech Lock Challenger Press if you seek a durable, flexible, and timeless single stage press as the cornerstone of your bench, and you plan to acquire dies separately.
Both are capable tools from a respected American manufacturer. The Anniversary kit is a great start for a specific path, while the Breech Lock press is a lifelong tool for a personalized journey. For further analysis on Lee’s product ecosystem, our review of another key precision model offers additional context. In the end, the best reloading press is the one that gets you safely and consistently making quality ammunition. Thats the Honest Opinion from this corner of the reloading world.