Lee Challenger Breech Lock

[PartsMan]

Does this thing look like a good idea.
Anybody try one yet.

Looks like it would be handy but is it solid.

[Blackhawk44]

In my experience, if you break it, you are doing something very, very wrong.

[LaOtto222]

I do not have one. I had to study a little to see what you were talking about. I have 2 Ithaca Model 37's that the barrel locks into the action like that. You insert, give it a 1/4 turn and it is locked in. I have shot slugs through it. I would think there should not be a problem. Like Blackhawk44 said If you break it you have done something wrong.

[stimpylu32]

The last time i saw something like that on a Lee press it was an adapter for standard die in a press that would also except the dies for the 50 BMG round . but it may be some sort of bushing like the Hornady ( loc & load ) .

But by looking at the threads on the bushing i'd say it was the 50 adapter .

stimpy

[BigJakeJ1s]

I'd spring the extra $25 for the bigger, stronger Lee Classic Cast press, and put the Hornady LNL system on it. LNL's been around a lot longer, and proven in the marketplace. Not sure how long this new system will be around (do they offer conversion kits for other presses like the LNL system has?)

If more money yet is an option, get a Forster co-ax press. The original quick change die retention system.

Andy

[Castaway]

Maybe I'm missing the point of your question, but I think it's about the interrupted threads of the die.  Looks like a good idea to me.  It would be weaker than regular screw threads, but for the amount of stress put on a die it won't matter.  It's done on breach blocks of artillery pieces and also on locking lugs on rifles.  I don't see a problem.

[PartsMan]

I was looking at getting a challenger press and then this came out.
I like the all steel handle and primmer catcher better.
The breech lock would be handy, but I only if its rugged.

[bajabill]

I went to buy a Lee Loading kit for my dad, and quickly found that the 70 dollar kit was replaced now with the Breech press and the price is now about $100.  So much for stuffing more into the box and keeping the price the same    .  I would pay 30 more for the classic cast, but I dont want this new press as my only option in a starter kit.

Luckily, I found some at a Cabelas store - not online.  70 dollars, get them while they are still available.

[PartsMan]

I agree. I was able to find some stores still had the regular challenger kit in stock.
Works great by the way. That is if you get case trimmer length gages for both calibers.

My 7mm-08 gage is still back ordered.