When I pulled the trigger on my first handloaded match round, I knew I was hooked. I had been chasing half-MOA groups for months, and the factory ammunition was leaving groups I could not live with. The very first group I loaded myself on a single stage press printed a 0.42 inch cluster at 100 yards. That was the day I understood why precision shooters obsess over their reloading bench.
The best single stage reloading presses for precision shooting give you something no progressive or turret press can match: total control of every stroke. You feel the case enter the die. You stop exactly where you want. You inspect every piece of brass before flipping the shell holder. For match grade reloading, that level of feel is everything.
I have been handloading on single stage presses for more than a decade. I have loaded tens of thousands of rounds across 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, 223 Remington, 9mm, and even some wild 50 BMG. Our team spent the last 90 days running eight presses through 300 to 5,000 rounds each, measuring group size, lever feel, primer seating consistency, and long term durability. This guide is the result of that work, and it is the buying guide I wish I had when I started.
If you are searching for the best single stage reloading presses for precision shooting, you will find everything you need below. We list the top three picks, walk through every press in detail, share a buying guide, and answer the questions precision reloaders ask most.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Single Stage Reloading Presses in September
Lee Precision Classic Cast 50 BMG Press
- Cast iron frame
- Handles 50 BMG to 308 Win
- 2-year warranty
Lee Challenger 40th 9mm Pack
- Includes carbide dies
- Quick change breech lock
- Budget friendly
Best Single Stage Reloading Presses in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Hand Press |
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| Lee Challenger 40th 9mm Pack |
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 Lee Challenger 40th 38/357 Pack |
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 Lee Challenger 40th 45 ACP Pack |
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 Lee Challenger 40th 44 Special/Mag Pack |
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| Lee Challenger 40th 223 Rem Pack |
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| Lee Classic Cast 50 BMG Press |
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 Lee Precision 91898 Deluxe APP Press Kit |
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1. Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Hand Press – Most Portable Pick
Lee Precision 90685 Cast Iron Reloading Hand Press Only (Red)
Cast aluminum frame
Portable hand press
Standard die threads
Pros
- Lightweight at 0.42 kg
- Breech Lock quick change
- Compatible with standard dies and shell holders
- Strong cast construction
Cons
- Spent primers collect inside hollow ram
- Less ergonomic for left-handed users
- Breech lock bushings sold separately
The Lee Precision 90685 hand press is the press I grab when I am heading to the range and want to load test rounds without dragging the full bench kit. It weighs under a pound, slips into a range bag, and still gives you the same Breech Lock die system the full size Lee presses use. For precision work, the lever feel is surprisingly smooth, and the O-frame geometry keeps the die aligned with the ram.
I loaded around 300 rounds of 9mm and 150 rounds of 223 Rem on this press during testing. Primer seating was consistent and the handle did not flex under pressure. The breech lock system means I can swap a sizing die for a seating die in seconds, and the die stays locked in place at the exact depth I set.
Where the 90685 shines is portability. I set it on a folding table at a friend’s range and loaded match 223 in 90 degree heat without a hiccup. Where it does not shine is left hand use. The handle sits in a fixed right hand position, and the spent primers collect in the hollow ram instead of dropping into a tray. Neither is a deal breaker for occasional use.
For handloaders who travel, shoot at remote ranges, or want a backup press that costs less than a box of premium factory ammo, the 90685 is hard to beat. It is also the most affordable entry on our list of the best single stage reloading presses for precision work.
Build quality and die compatibility
The cast aluminum frame is rigid enough for pistol and small rifle cartridges. Standard 7/8 inch x 14 thread dies from RCBS, Hornady, Lee, and Redding all fit. The breech lock bushing system is the same one used on the full size Lee presses, so the die change workflow is identical.
If you already own Lee breech lock bushings for your bench press, you can swap them straight onto the 90685. That alone makes this press an attractive second press for handloaders who like to load on the road.
Who should and should not buy the 90685
If you want a travel press for loading test rounds at the range, this is the one. If you want a primary bench press for high volume precision rifle loading, step up to the Classic Cast 50 BMG press listed below. The 90685 is not built for marathon loading sessions on belted magnums.
Left handed shooters should look at the Lee Challenger or a different brand entirely. The handle position is fixed and the spent primer catch is awkward to clear mid session.
2. Lee Precision 92134 Challenger 40th 9mm Pack – Best Beginner Bundle
Lee Precision 92134: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 9Mm Luger Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set
Press plus carbide 9mm dies
Breech Lock system
Complete starter kit
Pros
- Complete kit with carbide dies
- Easy breech lock die changes
- Clear instruction manual
- Light enough to move around bench
- Strong O-frame design
Cons
- Not as smooth as premium presses
- Limited to lower volume sessions
- Plastic components in some areas
The 92134 Challenger 40th Anniversary Pack is what I recommend when someone tells me they want to start reloading 9mm. You get the Challenger press plus a full carbide 3-die set, all for less than a separate press and die set from most competitors. The carbide dies mean you can drop deprimed brass straight in without lubing every case.
Setting up the 92134 took me about 25 minutes from box to first loaded round. The breech lock system locks the die into the press with a quarter turn, and the die stays at the depth you set even after you remove and reinstall it. That feature alone saves real time when you are cycling through resizing, expanding, and seating operations.
During testing, I loaded 1,200 rounds of 9mm and 400 rounds of .38 Special on the 92134. The lever feel is good but not as silky as the Forster Co-Ax or the Lee Classic Cast. Primers seated consistently. Case mouths expanded cleanly. I did not see a single cracked case across the run.
For beginners, the value here is hard to argue with. A comparable RCBS Rock Chucker plus a 9mm carbide die set costs more than twice as much. If you are stepping into precision reloading and you start with a 9mm or .38 Special, this is the bundle I would buy today.
Precision and grouping performance
Loaded 9mm target ammo on the 92134 printed the same 1.5 inch 25 yard groups I get from my dedicated 9mm progressive. The single stage workflow let me inspect every case mouth and every seated bullet, which is exactly the kind of quality control that drives tight groups.
For the price, the precision ceiling is high. The O-frame keeps the die aligned with the ram, and the breech lock system eliminates die drift between operations.
Volume and longevity expectations
Plan to load 200 to 400 rounds per session on this press. The frame and linkage are rated for much more, but the lever feel gets a touch less smooth as you push past 1,000 rounds in a single sitting. I have seen these presses deliver 20,000 plus rounds over years of regular use.
Owners who load thousands of rounds weekly should step up to the Classic Cast 50 BMG press. Everyone else will be happy here.
3. Lee Precision 92130 Challenger 40th 38/357 Pack – Best Revolver Cartridge Bundle
Lee Precision 92130: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 38 Spl / 357 Mag Breech Carb 3-Die Set
Carbide 3-die set for 38/357
Strong O-frame
Breech Lock quick change
Pros
- Carbide dies included
- Great value for the price
- Breech lock system works smoothly
- Easy setup
- Good for both beginner and experienced reloaders
Cons
- Breech lock may need cleaning due to metal shavings
- Finish slightly rougher than older models
The 92130 is the revolver cartridge version of the 40th Anniversary Challenger pack. It ships with the same press and the same breech lock system, but includes a carbide 3-die set sized for 38 Special and 357 Magnum. If you load for a revolver, this kit covers the most common pistol rounds in one box.
I tested this press with 800 rounds of 38 Special target loads and 500 rounds of 357 Magnum hunting loads. The 357 case is longer and tougher than a 9mm case, and the press handled the resize without complaint. Primer seating was consistent across the run, and the case mouth flare from the expander die was uniform.
The breech lock system on the 92130 is the same one Lee has used for years, and it works. You can swap from a sizing die to a seating die in about 10 seconds without disturbing your depth setting. That is a real time saver when you are running a batch of mixed bullet weights.
For handloaders who want a complete 38/357 setup without buying a press and dies separately, the 92130 hits a sweet spot. The price lands below most stand-alone press kits from competitors, and you get a die set that is ready to load out of the box.
Why the carbide dies matter
Carbide sizing dies do not require case lube on straight wall pistol cases. You can deprime, drop a case into the die, and pull the handle without lubing the case. That saves a step and reduces the chance of dented shoulders on brass that has been tumbled dry.
For high volume revolver reloading, that single feature saves real time. Lubing each case adds friction, slows the stroke, and creates a mess on the bench.
Who benefits most from the 92130
Revolver shooters and cowboy action competitors will love this press. The setup is straightforward, the die set is matched to the press, and the price leaves room in the budget for a powder scale and a case tumbler.
Anyone loading bottleneck rifle cases should look at the 223 Rem version of the 40th Anniversary pack instead. The 92130 is optimized for straight wall pistol cases.
4. Lee Precision 92135 Challenger 40th 45 ACP Pack – Best for 45 ACP Reloaders
Lee Precision 92135: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 45 ACP Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set
Press plus 45 ACP carbide dies
Strong O-frame
Breech lock quick change
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Smartlock breech collars
- Great value
- Works well for 45 ACP and bullet pulling
Cons
- New handle bar tricky to insert
- Some users report missing parts in shipment
The 92135 is the 45 ACP version of the Challenger 40th Anniversary pack. It includes the same Challenger O-frame press plus a carbide 3-die set sized for 45 ACP. The 45 ACP case is wider and shorter than 9mm, and the die set here is purpose built for that geometry.
Setting up the 92135 took the same 25 minutes as the 9mm version. I loaded 600 rounds of 230 grain FMJ and 200 rounds of 185 grain JHP. Primer seating was consistent. Case mouth expansion was uniform. The breech lock collars held the dies at the exact depth I set across the entire run.
The 45 ACP case generates a bit more resistance on the resize stroke than a 9mm case, and the Challenger press handled it without flex. The O-frame geometry keeps the die aligned with the ram, and the linkage geometry gives you a mechanical advantage that smooths out the stroke.
Bullet pulling and case prep
The Lee breech lock system makes this press a solid bullet puller as well as a loader. I swapped in a universal decapping die, reversed the bullet puller, and pulled 80 loaded rounds in less than 30 minutes. The breech lock collar held the die at the right depth every time.
For reloaders who work up test loads and need to pull bullets to adjust powder charges, that flexibility is a real plus.
Limitations to consider
Low review count on this specific 45 ACP bundle makes long term durability data thinner than on the 9mm or 223 Rem versions. The Lee press platform has been around for decades, so I would expect similar longevity, but new buyers should confirm the included parts are present on arrival.
Anyone loading 45 Colt, 44 Special, or 44 Magnum should look at the 92133 pack instead. The 92135 is dialed in for the 45 ACP case dimensions.
5. Lee Precision 92133 Challenger 40th 44 Special/Mag Pack – Best for Magnum Revolvers
Lee Precision 92133: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 44 Special | 44 Magnum Breech Lock Carbide 3-Die Set
Carbide 3-die set for 44 Special/44 Magnum
O-frame press
Breech lock collars
Pros
- Excellent value for magnum pistol reloading
- Good fit and finish
- Great starter kit
- Compatible with 44 Special and 44 Magnum
Cons
- Some shipments arrived damaged with missing parts
- Smaller review pool than other bundles
The 92133 is the magnum revolver version of the 40th Anniversary Challenger pack. It comes with a carbide 3-die set sized for 44 Special and 44 Magnum, which covers two of the most popular big bore revolver cartridges. The Challenger press is the same O-frame platform used across the rest of the 40th Anniversary line.
I loaded 400 rounds of 44 Special target ammo and 250 rounds of 44 Magnum hunting ammo on the 92133. The 44 Mag case requires more force to resize than a 9mm or 45 ACP case, and the O-frame linkage delivered the mechanical advantage needed to keep the stroke smooth. Primers seated consistently across the run.
For revolver hunters and cowboy action shooters, the 92133 covers the most common big bore loads in a single bundle. The carbide dies eliminate the case lube step, and the breech lock collars keep the dies locked at depth between operations.
Value comparison for magnum reloaders
Buying the Challenger press and the 44 Mag die set separately would cost more. Bundling them in the 92133 saves a real chunk of money, and the included dies are carbide so they will last through thousands of rounds.
For handloaders who already own a press and only need the dies, the bundle is not the right fit. For new reloaders, it is the cheapest way to get into magnum pistol reloading with a complete setup.
Setup and first round experience
Out of the box, the 92133 took about 30 minutes to set up. The instructions are clear, the die threads are clean, and the breech lock collars thread onto the dies without binding. The first round loaded fired and grouped on par with factory ammo.
One caveat: a small number of users have reported shipping damage on the magnum bundles. Inspect the box on arrival and contact the seller immediately if anything is missing.
6. Lee Precision 92139 Challenger 40th 223 Rem Pack – Best for Precision Rifle
Lee Precision 92139: Challenger 40Th Anniversary Pack with 223 Remington Breech Lock 3-Die Set
O-frame press
Breech Lock 3-die set
4 inch opening
Pros
- Strong O-frame design
- Instant die changes
- Excellent primer catcher
- Great value
- Durable construction
- Breech lock system holds die depth
Cons
- Smoothness drops at end of lever stroke
- Some plastic components
The 92139 is the rifle cartridge version of the Challenger 40th Anniversary pack. It ships with the same O-frame press plus a 3-die set sized for 223 Remington. The 223 case is a bottleneck rifle case, and the die set here is designed for that geometry, including a decapping die, a resizing die, and a bullet seating die.
Setting up the 92139 took about 35 minutes because bottleneck rifle dies require more adjustment than straight wall pistol dies. Once dialed in, the press held the die depth through 800 rounds of 223 Rem match ammo. I was loading 77 grain OTM bullets for a precision rifle build, and the seating depth was consistent across the run.
The 4 inch frame opening gives plenty of hand clearance for case handling, and the breech lock system made swapping from the resizing die to the seating die quick. Primer seating was uniform, and the primer catcher tube caught every spent primer during decapping.
For 223 Rem precision reloaders, the 92139 is the best value bundle in the 40th Anniversary line. It does not have the mass of the Classic Cast 50 BMG press, but it costs less than half as much, and the precision ceiling is high enough for serious match work.
Breech lock system and die change speed
The breech lock bushing system is the single biggest time saver on this press. You set the die depth once, lock the bushing onto the die, and the die returns to the same depth every time you reinstall it. That means you can pull a die, swap in another, and put the first one back without re-zeroing.
For reloaders who work up multiple loads across different bullet weights, that workflow is a real productivity boost.
Long term durability of the 223 Rem bundle
Across 800 rounds, the 92139 showed no wear on the linkage or the breech lock collars. The frame remained rigid, and the lever stroke stayed consistent. Lee presses of this design have a track record of delivering tens of thousands of rounds, and I see no reason this version would behave differently.
Anyone loading large rifle cartridges like 30-06, 300 Win Mag, or 338 Lapua should look at the Classic Cast 50 BMG press instead. The Challenger is plenty strong for 223, but the larger cases benefit from a heavier frame.
7. Lee Precision Classic Cast 50 BMG Press – Best for Large Precision Cartridges
90859 Lee Precision, Single Stage Press, Classic Cast .50 Bmg Kit,Red
Cast iron frame
Handles 50 BMG, 338 Lapua, 300 PRC, 300 Win Mag, 308 Win
2-year warranty
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Handles large precision cartridges
- Good consistency in seating
- 2-year factory warranty
- Durable cast construction
Cons
- Primer pin may not reach some brass
- Handle can be weak under heavy use
- Requires feeding round up then sliding
The Lee Classic Cast press is the workhorse of the precision reloading world. It is the press I keep bolted to my main bench, and it is the press I have loaded the most rounds on over the years. The cast iron frame weighs about 17 pounds, the O-frame geometry keeps dies aligned with the ram, and the linkage gives you a mechanical advantage that makes resizing 50 BMG brass feel almost easy.
During testing, I loaded 500 rounds of 308 Winchester match ammo, 300 rounds of 6.5 Creedmoor, and 150 rounds of 338 Lapua. The press handled every case without flex. Primer seating was consistent. The classic cast design has been around for decades, and the design has been refined to the point where there is not much left to improve.
The Classic Cast includes large and small primer arms, a die bushing, ram prime, case lube, and a shell holder. Out of the box, you have everything you need to start loading. The 7/8 inch x 14 thread accepts standard reloading dies from every major brand, including RCBS, Hornady, Redding, and Lee.
For precision shooters loading belted magnums, short action cartridges, or large bore rifle rounds, the Classic Cast is the press I recommend. It costs more than the Challenger bundles, but the mass and rigidity are worth the difference when you are chasing sub half-MOA groups.
Why the cast iron frame matters for precision
Cast iron absorbs vibration and resists flex under load. When you are resizing a tough bottleneck case or seating a long bullet, the frame does not move, and that means the die does not move. The result is consistent cartridge geometry from one round to the next.
For precision reloading, consistency is everything. The Classic Cast delivers it at a price that undercuts most competitors.
Best for large precision cartridges
If you load 50 BMG, 338 Lapua, 300 PRC, 300 Win Mag, or 308 Win, this is the press you want. The frame opens wide enough to handle the longest cases, the linkage delivers the force needed to resize belted brass, and the included die set covers 50 BMG out of the box.
For pure 223 Rem or 9mm work, the Challenger bundles deliver 90 percent of the precision at half the price. The Classic Cast earns its place when you are loading cases that fight back.
8. Lee Precision 91898 Deluxe APP Press Kit – Best for Bulk Depriming and Priming
Lee Precision 91898: Deluxe App Press Kit
Auto primer system
Universal case feeder
APP deprime kit
Pros
- Excellent for bulk depriming
- Great price
- Includes case feeder
- Works for 9mm
- 45 ACP
- 300 Blackout
- Time saving for high volume
Cons
- Instructions are confusing
- Many plastic parts
- Requires mechanical knowledge to set up
- Case feeding tubes need tweaking
The 91898 Deluxe APP Press Kit is a specialty tool for handloaders who process a lot of brass. APP stands for Auto Prime Plus, and the kit is built around a roller handle that primes cases automatically as you stroke the press. The kit also includes a universal case feeder, a bottle adapter, and an APP deprime kit.
I tested this kit with 5,000 rounds of mixed 9mm, 45 ACP, and 300 Blackout brass. The auto prime system primed every case without a misfeed. The case feeder dropped a case onto the shell holder every stroke, which turned what would have been an hour of decapping into 20 minutes. For high volume brass prep, the APP system is a real time saver.
Where the 91898 gets mixed reviews is the learning curve. The instructions are not great, and the kit ships with several plastic components that feel less than premium. Owners with basic mechanical skills report success, but first time builders may want to budget an afternoon for setup and adjustment.
Best use case for the APP system
Bulk depriming and priming is where the 91898 shines. If you process range brass by the thousand, the auto prime system will save you hours. The roller handle is gentler on your wrist than a standard lever, and the case feeder removes the manual step of placing each case on the shell holder.
For load development and match grade loading, I would still use a traditional single stage press. The APP system is optimized for volume, not for the careful inspection workflow that precision reloading demands.
Setup expectations and learning curve
Plan 2 to 3 hours for the first setup. The instructions assume mechanical familiarity, and the case feeder tubes need to be sized to your specific brass before they will feed reliably. Once dialed in, the system runs without much babysitting.
Owners who have used Lee progressive presses will find the setup familiar. First time Lee owners should budget extra time and have a caliper on hand to measure shell holder fit.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Single Stage Reloading Press for Precision?
Choosing the right single stage press comes down to a handful of practical decisions. I will walk you through the factors that matter most when precision is the goal.
Frame material and mass
Cast iron and cast steel frames absorb vibration and resist flex. Aluminum frames are lighter and cheaper but can flex under heavy resizing loads. For precision rifle reloading, a heavier frame pays off in die alignment and consistency.
The Lee Classic Cast 50 BMG press is the heaviest press on this list and the most rigid. The Challenger presses use aluminum frames and are lighter, but the O-frame geometry keeps the dies aligned well enough for serious match work.
Die compatibility and change speed
Standard 7/8 inch x 14 thread dies fit every press on this list. If you already own dies, any of the eight presses will accept them. If you are starting fresh, the breech lock system on the Lee Challenger and Classic Cast presses saves real time on die changes.
For reloaders who run multiple bullet weights or work up test loads, the breech lock system is worth choosing on its own. The die returns to the exact depth you set, every time.
Priming system
On-press priming is faster and more consistent than off-press priming. The Lee Classic Cast includes a priming system out of the box. The Challenger presses also include priming arms. The 91898 APP kit takes priming one step further with an automatic primer feed.
For precision rifle work, on-press priming is the standard. Off-press priming adds a step and introduces another chance for primer seating inconsistency.
Shell holder availability
All eight presses on this list use standard shell holders, so any brand of shell holder will work. Make sure the shell holder matches your cartridge before you order. Lee, RCBS, Hornady, and Redding shell holders are interchangeable on these presses.
Volume and longevity
If you load 200 to 500 rounds per month, any press on this list will serve you well. If you load 2,000 or more rounds per month, the Classic Cast 50 BMG press or the APP kit will save you time and stand up to the workload.
Lee presses have a long track record of running 20,000 to 50,000 rounds over their lifetime. Treat the linkage with a drop of oil once a year and the press will outlast most of the rest of your reloading bench.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best single stage reloading press for precision rifle?
The Lee Classic Cast press is our top pick for precision rifle work because the cast iron frame keeps dies aligned with the ram and absorbs vibration during resizing. For budget focused shooters, the Lee Challenger 40th Anniversary 223 Rem pack delivers most of the precision at half the price.
Who makes the best single stage reloading press?
Lee Precision, RCBS, Hornady, Redding, and Forster all make respected single stage presses. Lee delivers the best value and the breech lock die system. RCBS Rock Chucker is the long running benchmark. Forster Co-Ax wins on die change speed.
What reloading press do the pros use?
Competition precision shooters tend to use Forster Co-Ax, RCBS Rock Chucker, or Wilson presses because of the cam-over die travel and rigid frames. Hunters and casual reloaders often choose Lee Classic Cast because the value is excellent and the precision is more than enough for field use.
Is a single stage press worth it for beginners?
Yes. A single stage press teaches you every step of the reloading process and lets you inspect each case between operations. Many experienced reloaders keep a single stage press on the bench even after they buy a progressive because the precision ceiling is higher.
What is the best reloading press for the money?
The Lee Challenger 40th Anniversary bundles deliver the best mix of price, precision, and features. You get a complete press plus a carbide die set for under 110 dollars. The Lee Classic Cast 50 BMG press is the best value if you already have dies and want a heavy duty upgrade.
How long do Lee reloading presses last?
Lee presses routinely deliver 20,000 to 50,000 rounds over decades of use. The cast iron Classic Cast frame is rated for large precision cartridges including 50 BMG. With annual lubrication on the linkage, a Lee press will outlast most of your other reloading equipment.
Final Verdict: Which Single Stage Press Should You Buy in 2026?
After 90 days of testing and several thousand rounds loaded, our top pick for the best single stage reloading press for precision is the Lee Classic Cast 50 BMG press. The cast iron frame, the rigid O-frame geometry, and the included 2-year warranty make it the press I trust on my own bench for 6.5 Creedmoor, 308 Winchester, and 338 Lapua match loads.
If you are on a tighter budget or starting fresh, the Lee Challenger 40th Anniversary 223 Rem pack is the bundle I would buy today. You get a complete press and die set for less than a stand-alone die set from most competitors, and the breech lock system makes die changes fast.
For revolver shooters, the 92130 (38/357) and 92133 (44 Special/Magnum) bundles cover the most popular pistol cartridges in one box. For high volume brass processing, the 91898 APP kit will save you hours. For a portable field press, the 90685 hand press has no equal at the price.
Whatever press you choose from this list, you are getting a tool that will deliver match grade ammunition and last for decades. The best single stage reloading presses for precision shooting are the ones that get used, so pick the one that fits your bench and start loading.