[jaci]

There is not much difference in the presses to say one is the best... But you have options.
Depending on the presses you already have the investment can be different. Additionally there are a few different kinds of lentils. In addition to varying sizes, you can get a strait sided lentil (ssl) the slim lentil, and each will differ in sizes by vendor. Cattwalk presses require a base, you can get away without one, sometimes. This would be an additional investment. Zoozii presses have pins built in to align the layers. Check put both websites. Every press they have has example beads.

There are other options as well. If you can find them there are tongs. IMO they make a thicker lentil, and have a different learning curve. There are other companies that make presses as well, perlnpress, eXpress press and more. Optionally someone make a graphite paddle to help shape lentils also.

I believe there was a lentil press in the garage sale recently. It may still be there if you are looking for a deal.