Let’s Dive into Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit
Reloading ammunition has always been a fascination of mine, a way to truly understand and control the entire shooting process. For years, I resisted, intimidated by the perceived complexity and cost. The Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit presented a seemingly accessible entry point, promising a comprehensive setup without breaking the bank. I was intrigued.
Rising ammunition costs and inconsistent availability finally pushed me to explore reloading. I needed a reliable system that was easy to learn and wouldn’t require a second mortgage. I’d heard Lee was the budget-friendly option, but I was skeptical if it could deliver on quality.
Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised by the apparent completeness of the kit. The red cast aluminum of the Breech Lock Challenger Press looked solid, and the included components seemed well-organized. The weight of the press itself gave an initial impression of durability, though I reserved final judgment until after some use.
I considered the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit and the Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Kit, but the price point of the Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit was the deciding factor. These other kits are known for their robust construction, but as a beginner, the value proposition of the Lee kit was too good to ignore. I hoped I wasn’t sacrificing too much in terms of quality and longevity.
Initially, I felt a mixture of excitement and trepidation. Could this kit really deliver a satisfying reloading experience, or would I be quickly regretting my decision to go the budget route? Time would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit was at my home workbench, a dedicated space for gun maintenance and now, hopefully, reloading. I focused on loading .45 ACP rounds, a caliber I shoot frequently. The initial setup was relatively straightforward, thanks to Lee’s comprehensive instructions, though I quickly supplemented them with online videos for visual guidance.
The kit performed adequately, but I immediately noticed some quirks. The hand priming tool felt a little awkward, and it took some practice to get consistent primer seating depth. The powder measure was surprisingly accurate once dialed in, but the initial adjustments were finicky.
The biggest surprise was how much time it took to produce a relatively small batch of ammunition. Reloading is definitely not a quick process, and the single-stage nature of the Challenger Press further emphasized this.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit has proven to be a capable, though not flawless, reloading system. The cast aluminum press shows no signs of significant wear and tear, though the paint has chipped in a few spots. Cleaning the powder measure requires occasional disassembly, but it’s a relatively simple process.
The hand priming tool remains my biggest gripe. I’ve found myself wishing I had invested in a bench-mounted priming system for improved speed and consistency. Compared to my previous experience of buying factory ammunition, this requires a much more hands-on approach.
Overall, the kit has performed as expected for its price point. It’s not the smoothest or fastest reloading setup, but it gets the job done reliably and allows me to produce consistent, accurate ammunition.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit
Specifications
The Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit is designed to be an entry-level reloading kit. It features a cast aluminum Breech Lock Challenger Press with a single Breech Lock Quick Change Bushing. The kit includes the New Auto Prime hand priming tool, three Auto-Prime Shell Holders (sizes 2, 4, and 19), the Perfect Powder Measure, and the Lee Safety Scale.
It also features the Value Trim Case Trimmer (requires separate Quick Trim Die), Cutter and Lock Stud, Chamfer Tool, Sizing Lube, and small and large Primer Pocket-cleaning Tools. The press weighs 6.05 lbs and is finished in red. These specifications are important because they dictate the types of cartridges you can reload and the overall speed and efficiency of the reloading process.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit performs adequately for a single-stage reloading system. It allows for precise control over each step of the reloading process, resulting in consistent and accurate ammunition. The powder measure is surprisingly accurate once properly adjusted.
However, the hand priming tool is a weak point. The Perfect Powder Measure is a great feature and provides users repeatable powder drops. The single-stage press also limits the speed of reloading, making it more suitable for smaller batches of ammunition.
Overall, the kit meets expectations for its price point. It is a functional and reliable reloading system, but it requires patience and attention to detail.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit is designed with simplicity and affordability in mind. The cast aluminum press is relatively lightweight and easy to mount to a workbench. The included tools are functional, though not particularly ergonomic.
The hand priming tool, in particular, can be uncomfortable to use for extended periods. A progressive press provides a more user-friendly reloading experience but comes at a premium. The overall design is functional and straightforward, but it prioritizes affordability over ergonomics.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit appears to be reasonably durable for its price point. The cast aluminum press is sturdy, and the included tools are made from decent-quality materials. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining the kit’s performance.
The powder measure requires occasional disassembly for thorough cleaning. With proper care, the kit should last for many years of reloading.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit comes with a basic set of accessories to get started with reloading. Additional accessories, such as cartridge-specific Quick Trim Dies, are available separately. The Breech Lock Quick Change Bushing allows for easy die changes, which can speed up the reloading process.
The press is compatible with most standard reloading dies from other brands. While customization options are limited, the kit provides a solid foundation for building a complete reloading setup.
Pros and Cons of Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it an excellent entry-level option for beginners.
- Complete kit includes almost everything needed to start reloading (dies sold separately).
- Accurate powder measure allows for consistent and reliable powder charges.
- Breech Lock Quick Change Bushing facilitates quick and easy die changes.
- Durable cast aluminum press provides a stable and reliable platform for reloading.
Cons
- Hand priming tool can be awkward and inconsistent.
- Single-stage press is slower than progressive presses.
Who Should Buy Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit?
The Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit is perfect for: reloaders who are new to the hobby and want an affordable way to get started. It is great for shooters who load smaller batches of ammunition and prioritize precision over speed. Also, it’s a great kit for hobbyists looking to get more involved in the shooting sports.
Who should skip this product? High-volume shooters who need to reload large quantities of ammunition quickly should look at a progressive press. People who are recoil sensitive or find manual tasks difficult might also want to consider a more automated system.
Must-have accessories or modifications include: a cartridge-specific die set, a reliable reloading manual, and a bench-mounted priming tool.
Conclusion on Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit
The Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit provides a solid foundation for anyone interested in getting into reloading. It’s not the fastest or most ergonomic system, but it offers excellent value for the price. The kit is a complete and affordable setup that allows reloaders to produce consistent and accurate ammunition.
The value proposition is strong, considering the completeness of the kit and its relatively low cost compared to other reloading systems. Yes, I would personally recommend the Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit to anyone looking to get started with reloading on a budget.
If you’re curious about reloading and want to take control of your ammunition supply, the Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit is a great place to start. Invest in the Lee Breech Lock Challenger Kit and start your reloading journey today!