Lee Precision II Anniversary Challenger Kit Worth It?

[IntoForever]

I also forgot to mention that the turret presses I have come with a primer seating arm and works extremely well. Only Lee component I really don't like is the hand primer with the .223 holder. If there is any issue with the primer pocket, you're going to waste some time getting that SOB apart.

[Bill Steele]

On the Lee scale, I found it to be extremely accurate, using it many times to finally determine it was time to throw away my latest "great deal" digital scale. It is much tougher to operate than say a Dillon Eliminator or RCBS 505, but if you are patient and learn to use it, it can work for you for the rest of your loading days, albeit at a slightly reduced pace than the aforementioned.

On the powder drop, if it is the Lee Auto Disk, then yes, an upgrade will make a big difference. You can upgrade a regular Auto Disk, to the Auto Disk Pro for like $25 dollar (they sell a kit that specifically does that). The Lee Auto Disk Pro upgrade kit comes with a better hopper that has an elastomer seal, it will transform your Auto Disk into the most accurate pistol powder drop you can own. The kit also comes with the adjustable charge bar so you can develop loads that fall between the disk cavity sizes.

If the kit you are considering comes with the Lee Perfect Powder Measure (not the "auto disk", mainly for rifle loading, it is separate powder drop that mounts to the bench), I have two and prefer them over my more expensive all metal powder drops from more "quality" manufacturers, although some have reported a few problems.

Good luck, have fun.

[NorCal Steve]

I have the Lee Classic Turret press with the Auto Disk Pro powder measure with the adjustable charge bar and have found this system works great for my pistol loads. For rifle loads, I take the auto advance bar out of the press and use it like a single stage press. I use the Lee Perfect Powder Measure for my rifle loads. After running some graphite through it when I first got it, it throws consistent loads. For scales I use the Lee and the Hornady GS-1500 digital scale.
At my production levels of a couple of hundreds of rounds a month, I am very happy with everything...

[dirty_530]

Tons of great info I really appreciate it

[Low Light]

But then figuring out that tenth, that doesn't compute. Maybe they should buy a .0001" reading micrometer at HB. That has a vernier scale on the barrel that might make it easier to get the brain wrapped around it.

Probably easier to count individual flakes at that point, no?

I'll qualify my statements about the scale by saying that with more experience it will probably be easier to trust, but there is a little too much variance in the tenth of a grain poise window for me too be comfortable with, for a beginner at least. I'm just more comfortable with my 502 as a back-up to a digital scale.

Mind you I haven't gotten rid of it and I'll probably break it out again and use it once I get more comfortable with charges, but for the time being, in-the-box it sits.

[cycle61]

I'm selling one, upgraded to a turret press. Includes pro auto disc and the reloading book and everything. The scale is definitely finicky, but very accurate when used carefully. Check my other thread.

Yes, it's a good kit. There are things you will want to upgrade eventually. But it will make high quality, accurate ammo with patience and attention to detail.

[xbimmers]

+1....

Lot's of handgun calibers there, and relatively small rifle cases, so the challenger press should hold up OK in that role.

My recommendation though, would be to step up slightly and find a Lee Classic Cast turret press kit. Most of the components in the kit will be the same, but the press will allow you to turn out about three times as much handgun ammo per hour as the Challenger. The "Classic" part is important, not the deluxe turret.

Good luck, have fun.

PS - below is one, although I think you can find kits for less, this kit does include one die set, which is a plus:

https://kempfgunshop.com//index.php?...mart&Itemid=41