[DesmoDucRob]

I've decided to set up a bench at the house and would appreciate a little comparative oppinion. I can't decide on the Lee B.L. Challenger or the RCBS RS-5. I want a single-stage press that will not ever have to be replaced. I understand that these presses may not exactly be comaprable, but for the price, the Challenger is hard to ignore. In contrast, I have used an RCBS RS-2 and that thing was built like a tank so i'm sure the RS-5 will last forever. Any thoughts?

By the way I plan on using the press to load both pistol and rifle cartridges, basically everything from .32 auto and .357 to 444 marlin and .375 H&H.

I don't know what I love more, saving money, or having nice things. Any help is much appreciated. Look for my bench on the "show us your bench setup" thread soon.

Thanks guys, i'm new here, but have been taking all of your advice silently for a long time now.

[DesmoDucRob]

I just realized that lee makes a cast iron press for $80. That will probably be my answer. Anyone have experience with the Lee Classic Cast press? I know it's rock solid, but is it as "smooth" as the RCBS?

[lgbloader]

I have the Lee Classic Cast press and I have to say it's my favorite press on my bench. I use it for anything and everything and it is strong as you'd expect from cast Iron and smooth as my Redding T7.

I have 3 blue progressives, an older model Rockchucker, a Redding T7, and a Lee Challenger (without breechlocks) and the Lee Classic Cast is my main work horse. I absolutely love it.

LGB

[jmundy]

I'm not a hundred percent sure, but I think the RCBS RS-5 is made from an alloy of some sort, similar in composition to their Partner press. I think it is comparable the Lee Challenger. For not much difference in price, the RCBS Rockchucker is beefier and I think still made from cast iron. I know the last one I bought was.

[ranger335v]

"I just realized that lee makes a cast iron press for $80. That will probably be my answer. Anyone have experience with the Lee Classic Cast press? I know it's rock solid, but is it as "smooth" as the RCBS?"

Understand that smooth operation of any press is achieved by use. My 20 year old RC II is smooth as a babies butt NOW, but when it was new it felt like there was sand in the ram.

The current RC presses have Chinese castings. The Lee Classic Cast is all USA made, it's as strong and precise as any and will break in to be as slick as any. And it sells for a lot less money too, if money means anything to anyone. And it's primer catcher system works! I would like that...a lot!

[DesmoDucRob]

Thanks guys, you've solidified my decision, and Ranger, I suspect that I'll get to the "smooth operation from use" point eventually, since this will hopefully be the last press (single-stage) I ever have to buy. ...or maybe i'll get lucky and wear it out.:D

[DesmoDucRob]

I know this thread's a bit old, but i've finally finished the operation. Check out the pics in the "show us your setup" thread. Thanks LGB, Jmundy and Ranger for the help.:D