5 Best Single Stage Reloading Press Kit and 5 Best Reloading Press Reviewed

best single reloading press kit

What is a single stage reloading press kit? Why should buy the best one and how can you select the best one out of all those press kit for you? To know all these, you should continue reading this article.

If you are new to hand-loading then you can visit this page to know all the basics about it. Single press reloading press system is a system where you perform all the tasks associated with hand loading one step at a time with individual case. Single stage reloading press kits are used for that. You’ll have to reload small batch of case at a time in this system.

Normally, hunters or shooters who wants high-precession cartridges for higher accuracy are used single stage hand loading. These presses are generally used “O” or “C” frame presses for sturdiness. 

Ammo is essential to make your shooting quite impressive. In that case, you may cost your hard-earned money to get that amusement. How amazing it can be your needs to meet in a cost-efficient way. You know what, ammo can cost you high. Here, the best single stage reloading press kit can solve your issues. With the perfect one, you will get the best reloading facility, bushing capability, and cost-efficient ammunition. Now, the most important fact is that finding the right one. 

Are you a beginner in reloading, or just merely seeking an inexpensive, utilitarian, and easy way to build your ammo? It is easy to guess that you are looking for that kind of product. So, we can help you in this regard. You know what, we have already discussed the finding the right one is the key in this matter. Here, we will put all our effort into getting that accurately. After going through extensive research work, we have brought a list of the market's best single stage reloading press kit with details. In this article, we will give the needed information regarding these. After that, you will have a vast knowledge of this product and will be confident to use even if you are a beginner.

In this article I’ve divided all the products into two separate parts. Part one will cover all the top 5 single stage reloading press kits. They come with all the necessary accessories with a reloading press.

In part 2, I will cover only the 5 top reloading presses from different brands. So, if you just want to buy the press then you would find this part more useful.   

Part 1: 5 best Single Stage Reloading Press Kits

In America, you will see that there are lots of shops selling single stage reloading press kits. These products have come with different qualities from various brands. All of them are not going to fulfill your needs. On the other hand, some of those products only get puffy names but contains fewer quality features. So, there is the probability of getting confused about buying the best one. So, here is the list of five market's best products for you. We will discuss this broadly. Besides, we will show you the positive and negative aspects of these products as well. So, you will be clear and be capable of making the right decision quickly.

Now, we'll give you a list of our 5 top single stage reloading press kits but before that, let's have a quick peek at our top suggestions for the kit-

Our top 3

LEE PRECISION Classic Turret Press Kit

  • It has Pro-auto drum
  • Time efficient
  • Fast reloading for hand gun and small rifle
  • Cheapest reloading press kit

RCBS 9354 RC Supreme Master Kit

  • Lifetime warranty
  • Easy installation process
  • Ambidextrous
  • Non-slip
  • Able to reload long cartridges

List of 5 top Single Stage Reloading Press Kits

Press Kits

Key features

Our rating

Price

LEE PRECISION Anniversary Challenger Kit II

  • Easy to use
  • Accurate scale 
  • Effective funnel 
  • Durable "O" frame press
  • Reasonable price 
  • Suitable for rifle and pistol

9.5/10

RCBS 9354 RC Supreme Master Kit

  • Lifetime warranty
  • Easy installation process
  • Able to reload long cartridges
  • Strong and durable
  • Ambidextrous
  • Accurate scale

9.5/10

LEE PRECISION Classic Turret Press Kit

  • It has Pro-auto drum
  • Time efficient
  • Fast reloading for hand gun and small rifle
  • Cheapest reloading press kit

9/10

Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press Kits

  • Durable "O" frame press
  • Unique angle to have clear visibility and access
  • Removable die bushing system
  • User friendly 

9/10

Lee Precision Load Master Reloading Rifle Kit

  • Faster reloading
  • Reasonable price
  • Accepts most of the popular dies
  • Can handle large magnum rifle cases
  • Suitable for rifle cases

8.5/10


Lee Precision is very popular among the hand loaders. The main feature of Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit II is its extraordinary challenger press. It has strong “O” frame press with larger opening angled at 30 degree to ensure maximum hand clearance.

It can perform full length sizing on even largest magnum cases. Besides, it has efficient prime catcher which you can easily clean up. This kit’s easy powder handling system will allow you to measure powder precisely.

While we were working on the market to find the best single stage reloading press kit, we see this brand has the right name. It is because they have got efficiency in making quality products at a possible cheap rate. Thus, we know this product is the best one among them. You know what; it contains the Lee Safety Scale, which is quite delicate. Besides, you will get a power chimney using which you will be capable of filling the case. On the other hand, a chamfering device cut the inside and outside of the case mouth entirely.

This kit comes with one Breech Lock Quick Change Bushing which enables you to change dies quickly with just a snap. Also, it doesn’t require frequent die adjustment. Which means, after adjusting your die once, you won’t need to that again and again. This feature will save your time. So, you can reload cases faster.

Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit II kit allows reloading both rifle and small guns. You will need specific dies for that.

Here's a video demonstration of how to set up LEE PRECISION Anniversary Challenger Kit II 


Pros and Cons of LEE PRECISION Anniversary Challenger Kit II:

Pros


  • It is quite easy to use and capable to reload quality ammo
  • The chamfer will enable you to cut the mouth according to your needs
  • You will get a scale to measure the powder very accurately
  • It contains a funnel to fill the case of the press kit accordingly
  • Prime feeder works great
  • Reasonable price
  • Great reloading kit to start with“O” frame press, so it’s very strong

Cons


  • Powder measure scale is accurate but isn’t very efficient. You may want to get a digital one
  • You will find there is the absence of a rapid alteration of the die system
  • Case preparation too is not very efficient

Why do you want to buy this reloading press kit?

For beginners, it can be handy tools to produce ammo. It will not cost you much as well. In this way, it can be in your choice list. At that price range, I think, it’s a great tool. So, if you are new to this and want to get started into hand reloading then this one would be a great tool for you. It’s very easy to use and does it work perfectly. Also, the price is amazing.


Lee Precision and RCBS are the two most popular single stage reloading press kit in this industry. RCBS 9354 RC Supreme Master Kit is an awesome tool. If you have the budget then it should be your first choice. However, this one is the first alternative of Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit II.

 If you are looking for a product having all kinds of things in a single box, then you can choose it. This kit is familiar as the primary basis of reloading processes throughout the world. It will crack the obscurities of reloading with its potential features.

It has Rock Chucker Supreme Press which will allow loading longer cartridges. This kit is extremely strong that can withstand heavy usage. It’s suitable for beginners to expert level. The operating procedure is very easy and convenient. Also, people with either hand dominant can use this tool without facing any problem as it has ambidextrous handle.  

Plus, you will have the benefits of having an RCBS product with a vast line of add-ons to make the reloading procedure accurate. It will come with a chucker press, refilling scale, priming tool, case filling block, and many more things. So, you can get many satisfactory results using this versatile product.

Watch this video for easy set up -


Pros and Cons of RCBS 9354 RC Supreme Master Kit:

Pros


  • It comes with a lifetime warranty given by the manufacturer
  • You will no need to put much effort to install it because the installation of this product is quite easy
  • Easy to use
  • Can  reload long cartridges
  • It has used high-quality material to make it strong and durable.
  • he manufacturer has provided lots of unique accessories along with this product
  • Ambidextrous handle
  • Suitable for newbie and expert users
  • Powder measuring scale is extremely accurate

Cons


  • It has not got any mounting plate along with the accessories
  • You will also not find any filling dies or shell cases in this product
  • Powder measuring scale is time consuming

Why do you want to buy this reloading press kit?

As a user, you can consider it as the best choice for the reloading tools for the beginners. This gear will give you almost everything you need to start refilling based on your needs. It is a high quality product, suitable for all skill level. I definitely recommend it.


Here, another quality product from Lee Precision to make you satisfied. Among the different press kit from Lee Precision, Turret Press is tremendously popular among the hunter, shooter or other kind of users If you are up to start the reloading, then you will get every needed thing with this product.

It’s extremely time efficient. In case of small hand gun reloading it will allow you to reload around 250 rounds per hour.

The manufacturer has provided this kit along with a set of dies. Besides, you will get a plate system with this product to contain the ammo. You know what, the most amazing thing it has is Pro auto-drum. It enables users to measure gun powder accurately. So, it can be a perfect choice for pistol and rifle holders.

Turret presses are little different than the single presses, as you might know. In case of turret presses all the dies can be mounted simultaneously. This little advantage will allow you to change dies more efficiently. Hence, it reduces operating time as you will have to spend time for positing individual dies. 

Here's a video demonstrating the whole set up procedure-


Pros and Cons of LEE PRECISION Classic Turret Press Kit:

Pros


  • It will come with the necessary accessories to satisfy your needs
  • You will get a Pro-auto drum to use as the rise of the powder
  • This product is more durable than the previous one
  • The manufacturer has designed it correctly for the substantial body build up
  • Faster reloading – up to 250 rounds per hour
  • More suitable for small hand gun and small rifle. However, you can reload any kinds of cartilages with it
  • Require less time in changing and setting dies correctly
  • Cheapest

Cons


  • It is quite trendy to get jammed while working with this product
  • You may face issues with seating conditions with it

Why do you want to buy this reloading press kit?

Accessories are quite crucial for making ammo correctly. It comes with lots of accessories to make a perfect ammo production. Also, as it’s a turret press you can set your dies once in the beginning. So, it will enable you to complete your reloading faster. Another thing that it should mention here is, this kit is the cheapest reloading press kit of our list. I highly recommend it for the beginners to expert level users.


It’s another stunning single stage reloading press that ensures great precision and accuracy. This one is developed by Hornady.   Unlike the previous kits this one comes with digital scale for measuring powder. It reduces hassle and extra time. Therefore, faster reloading is possible with this Lock-N-Load press.

Single stage presses are normally suitable for the beginners. However, with this press an expert user will be very satisfied as he will have complete control over the whole reloading process. The unique angle of this press will allow the user to have clear visibility and access to the cartridges. This feature ensures higher precision and accuracy.

Also, Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press has quick change bushing system. Therefore reloading requires less time and effort.

Hornady has designed this reloading press especially for new user. So, they’ve included all the necessary accessories with this kit. Except the dies and shell holder, you will get digital scale, prime catcher, positive priming system, handled priming tool, hand book Universal Reloading Block, Chamfer & Deburr Tool etc. with it.

However, with the Lock-N-Load Classic Kit Deluxe you will also get some other necessary tools including shell holder of different popular sizes.

This video will help you to set your press easily -

Pros and Cons of Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press Kits:

Pros


  • This one is a great reloading press for the beginners
  • It has unique angle to have clear visibility and access
  • For its  “O” shape frame press is very strong and durable
  • Full length sizing is easier
  • Ensure great precision and stability
  • Removable die bushing system ensure faster loading
  • User friendly

Cons


  • Digital scale has some quality issues

Why do you want to buy this reloading press kit?

This Lock-N-Load press kit has some unique features. It’s very much user friendly. It’s strong like cannon. This press has a unique angle that allows new user to get a clear look what he’s doing. The die bushing system is also very handy to change dies faster which result faster reloading. Also, this kit comes with most of the necessary accessories that you won’t need to buy.

Finally, it’s a great tool for beginner to start with.


This reloading kit is especially made for reloading rifle cases. Hence, this kit is actually a unique one of my lists. Lee Precision Load Master Reloading Rifle Kithas a large 1 3/4-inch diameter ram with a stroke clearance. It will enable you to reload large magnum rifle cases.

Another great thing about this kit is, it can be used both as an automatic indexing progressive press or as a single stage press. If you have already owned a Lee Precision reloading kit then you can upgrade to this model for more efficiency. Faster reloading is possible with itsdetachable turret as it allows effortless removal and insertion without any adjustment.

Load Master Reloading Rifle Kit can fit most of the commonly used reloading dies with its five stations. 

Here's a nice video on Load Master-

Pros and Cons of Lee Precision Load Master Reloading Rifle Kit:

Pros


  • Faster reloading
  • Reasonable price
  • Accepts most of the popular dies
  • Can handle large magnum rifle cases
  • Can be used as a progressive press

Cons


  • Initial setup could be a hurdle. But you with the help of youtube and a little patience anyone can do it.

Why do you want to buy this reloading press kit?

If you want to reload a large number of rifle cases with short period of time and in an efficient way then you can go for this press kit. It’s undoubtedly a great reloading press kit especially for reloading rifle cases. Also, it’s very reasonably priced.


Part 2: 5 best Single Stage Reloading Press

These list only include reloading presses without any accessories. If you want associated tools with them then please consider the previous part or buy them separately.

List of top 5 to Single Stage Reloading Press 

Press

Key features

Our rating

Price

RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press

  • Fantastic strength and versatility
  •  Heavy-duty refilling, case founding, and gunshot swagging 
  • Lightweight
  • Ambidextrous handle

9.5/10

LEE PRECISION Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red)

  • Strong and durable
  • Cheap
  • Nice priming system
  • Changing dies is easy
  • Easy setup
  • Small and compact

9.5/10

RCBS Summit Single Stage Reloading Press

  • Extremely sturdy
  • Great accuracy
  • Ambidextrous handle
  • Compact and easily transportable
  • Fast and easy operation

9/10

Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press Kits

  • Strong and durable
  • Ensures highest level accuracy
  • Fast and easy operation
  • Easy setups 

9/10

Lyman 7726500 Brass Smith, Ideal C-Frame Press

  • Great accuracy
  • Maximum access during the process
  • Ambidextrous
  • Strong and durable
  • Cheap

8.5/10


It can provide the best value for money. Through our intensive research, we have found that it is one of the best hunting reloading press kits for beginners. The manufacturer has included a rock chucker press frame. In this frame, you will get a four inches ram-bearing surface for perfect support. The handle has comein the thick steel and features a contented ball-type grip. You can find its features quite surprising. On the other hand, the containing materials will increase its durability as well.

Here's a video demonstration on Rock Chucker Supreme Press-

Pros and Cons of RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press:

Pros


  • It has got fantastic strength and versatility
  • You will like it because of its heavy-duty refilling, case founding, and gunshot swaging
  • It’s very lightweight because of its perfect design and materials
  • The manufacturer has provided an ambidextrous handle to make it perfect for both the left and right-hander

Cons


  • It does not contain any auto-indexing feature with this product
  • You can produce only 60-220 rounds in a single working hour

Why do you want to buy this reloading press kit?

If you want to get the best value for your hard-earned money, then it can be the best choice for you. This kit contains all the necessary features to satisfy your needs.


This one is a great single press for beginners to semi-professionals. Especially because of the simple procedure it’s great for someone who’s new to reloading. Also, it’s incredibly durable, sturdy but low priced.  Lee Precision Breech Lock Challenger Press is a “O” frame press. It’s thestrongest and, hence the most popular frame as well. 

It has prime catcher. The objective of this catcher is to catch spent prime to dumpthem directly to trash can.But the problem is, the spent prime catcher isn’t very efficient in catching primes. Which is unfortunate. However, except that, challenger press has a good priming system. As this tool is not very expensive, it can be used as a supporting tool for de-priming or swaging brass along with an expensive progressive reloading press tool.

In addition, it has Breech Lock Quick Change die system. This system will allow you to change dies with much less efforts.

Here's a nice video on how to load with LEE PRECISION Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red)-

Pros and Cons of LEE PRECISION Breech Lock Challenger Press (Red):

Pros


  • This press is very strong and durable
  • Cheap
  • It has nice priming system
  • Changing dies is easy and effortless
  • It’s great for swaging brass
  • Easy setup
  • Small and compact

Cons


  • Not very suitable for professionals  
  • Prime catcher isn’t very useful

Why do you want to buy this reloading press kit?

This press is actually a good tool for beginners. The price is very budget friendly. Also, it doesn’t use much space. So, if you are new to this, or reload occasionally then this press is a viable option for you.


It’s a great reloading press from RCBS. It’s expensive but it worth the money. RCBS has been in this business – manufacturing precision reloading equipment since 1943 with great reputation. They do not compromise with the quality. That’s why their products are pretty popular among the hunters and other users. This single stage reloading press is made with high-quality material. It’s extremely durable and strong.

Summit press has ambidextrous handle operation with compound leverage. So, hand domination won’t be a problem. Also, it allows rapid change of dies with less movement. 

Another interesting feature, which is also unique, of this press is, it operates on top of the bench. And, unlike other press, here cases remain a stationary position while the die comes down to the cases.

Summit offers two types of handle- this one comes with standard long handle for reloading rifle cases but you can buy separately ashort handle for small arms.

This press is quick. It takes little space for its compact feature. You can also use it as a supporting tool with your more expensive progressive ones.

Watch this video for better understanding-

Pros and Cons of RCBS Summit Single Stage Reloading Press:

Pros


  • Extremely sturdy
  • Great accuracy, especially with rifle cases
  • Ambidextrous handle operation
  • Operates on top of the bench
  • Compact and easily transportable
  • Fast and easy operation

Cons


  • Sizing brass is little difficult with it as it requires excessive force
  • Expensive

Why do you want to buy this reloading press kit?

This reloading press offers high accuracy. Also, it’s very compact and portable. So, if you want a press for reloading rifle rounds for more accurate shot in your hunting then you can buy this one.


materials. This press can produce super accurate bullets for hunting rifles.

It’s most suitable for professional hunters who need a huge number of bullets regularly. However,the operation is very easy. So, it’s also awesome for beginners.

This press Uses standard 7/8"-14 thread dies and standard shell holders but it has scopes to upgrade to work with 1-1/2" 50BMG die kit.

I would happily put this press to my number one possession unless I’ve considered its price. Yes, it’s costly.

Pros and Cons of RCBS Ammomaster 88703 2 Single Stage Press Cast Aluminum:

Pros


  • Solid construction
  • Strong and durable
  • Ensures highest level accuracy
  • Fast and easy operation
  • Easy setups

Cons


  • Comparatively expensive

Why do you want to buy this reloading press kit?

It’s one of the best single stage reloading press you may find in the market. If you want to reload a lot of bullets with tremendous accuracy and with highest efficiency then just go for it. Oh! You may need to increase your budget for that.


It’s a different brand at last- other than a Lee Precision or RBCS! Layman Ideal C-Frame press is a nice compact single stage press. It’s built with cast iron frame. So, it’s very durable and strong.

This press is mostly suitable for beginners who are just planning to start reloading their empty cases. Seasonal pros will also love it.

As it’s very compact it only takes a little bench space. So, professionals may use it as a supporting tool with their more advanced and expensive reloading tools in the same bench. It can be used for any dedicated task like de-priming or swaging brass.

It has ambidextrous handle operation. So, little movement will be required to work with it.

It has 1" diameter ram, and a 3-7/8" press opening which can handle all pistol calibers and rifle cartridges with a loaded length of up to 3.700". This press accepts all 7/8x14 thread dies and standard shell holders.

The Ideal press is a “C” frame press that ensures maximum access during reloading operation.

Here's a nice video demonstration on Lyman 7726500 Brass Smith.

Pros and Cons of Lyman 7726500 Brass Smith, Ideal C-Frame Press:

Pros


  • Offers great accuracy
  • Maximum access during the process
  • Ambidextrous
  • Strong and durable
  • Cheap

Cons


  • It’s not very suitable for professions. But they can use it as a supporting tool

Why do you want to buy this reloading press kit?

It provides tremendous value for the money you pay for it. With such low price you can’t a better one than that. Ideal Press is your number one choice if you’re new to this field and buy a press to start.    


Buying Guide: How to Buy the Most Suitable Single Press Reloading Press

Features are the key to make things perfect for users. In this regard, you may find lots of products on the market. But it is not an easy task to find the right one. If you want to have the best products, you should consider the following facts before buying the best single stage reloading press kit.

Construction

You must analyze the development of the kit. Because, well, constructive kits can play a vital role in making ammo. The design should be sturdy, workable, and durable. On the other hand, you should be sure if the product is easy to operate or not. These things depend on the construction of the kits.

Materials

The cast iron is the best material to make the perfect kits. On the other hand, some manufacturers use carbon to build this. But these are not durable us like solid iron or steel. It may cost you much but will provide long term service.

Accessories

A best one always comes with lots of accessories like chucker press, refilling scale, priming tool, case filling block, and many more things. So, you should choose the product having these fittings.

Die Changing System

The quicker you can alter the dies, the more bullets you'll be able to refill. So, you should get the quicker one for your work.

Price

At last, you must consider the cost of a particular product. You know what price should match with the value it provides and your budget. In this way, you will get the best products to serve your needs perfectly. 


FAQ

1. What is anadvanced press?

Anadvanced press is a kit that employs all the dies on every pulling of the handle.

2. Is cased aluminum ammunition terrible for a gun? 

With heavy pressure, aluminum casings may become unstable.

3. Does Brassworks well than aluminum?

Yes, Brass has got more working capacity than aluminum. 

4. Is RBCS press made in the U.S.A.?

Yes

5. What are the categories of single presses?

They are normally categorized with the letter they most resemble i.e. like “O”, “C’, “H”

6. Which one the sturdiest?

Normally “O” frame presses are considered as the sturdiest among all.

7. Why are the reloading press useful?

Heavy shooters would find them useful as they can make their bullet at less cost. Also, veteran hunters wants to have more accurate bullets. So, they some time like to make their own bullets with their preferred size and weight for more accurate shoots.  They normally prepare their own bullets for serious hunting i.e. deer hunting, antler hunting etc. 


Final Verdict

Through this article, you have got sufficient information to decide which will be best for you. According to our research, we have found that LEE PRECISION Anniversary Challenger Kit II is the best among all the press kits. It can provide the best value for any money. The price of it is meager in comparison with others. Besides, it contains the most useful features which can satisfy your needs perfectly.  However, LEE PRECISION Classic Turret Press Kitcan an alternative choice. It’s also a great tool as it will reduce operating time and effort.

In case of only single stage press you can go for for RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press its tremendous quality. For a beginner it could be your firs choice. Professionals may also use it as anauxiliary tool with dedicated tasks like de-priming. That can make their main pressing operation more efficient. 

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