For the last three years or so I’ve had a Rogue R4 power rack in my garage gym (many of you have no doubt seen my glowing review for the R4), and in that time I have had not one issue, problem, or complaint with or about the R4. It has served me well. I even purchased many accessories for it; all of which work wonderfully and get used regularly. All that being said, despite my respect for the R4, I’ve replaced it with the smaller Rogue R3 Power Rack.
Updated January 2018 – minor revisions and link/price checking.
Bye-bye R4, Hello R3
Why the change? The simple answer is because I wanted to reclaim and make better use of the limited space in my garage gym; not only to give me more space in general, but also because I wanted to add an 8’x8′ Olympic lifting platform to my gym.
The R4 is a pretty big power rack at about 4½-feet square, and it’s about twice as deep as I needed (especially since I use spotter arms.) I also anchored it down further away from the wall than I should have; pretty bad planning on my part. Anyway to make a long story short, by not only moving, but also downsizing the R4 power rack to an R3, I was able to reclaim dozens of square feet of my garage.
My old Rogue R-4 set-up. Between the gap from wall to rack, and twice the inside rack space that I actually needed, there was lots of wasted space going on here.
I didn’t even need to buy an R-3!
Thankfully Rogue racks are modular, so I only needed to buy a couple of pieces to convert my existing R-4 to an R-3. Technically, all I needed was two pairs of Rogue R-3 24″ cross-members, but since I intended to set up the R-3 as a half rack, I also purchased a couple pairs of plate horns for weight storage. I already had three different pull-up bars (the single bar & skinny/fat bar come standard with the R-4, and I bought the multi-grip bar as an add-on), so there was nothing else to buy.
On the left are the 24″ cross-members from the Bolt-Together R3. They were about $80 per pair. I also bought some plate storage horns (right) for about $50 per pair. It was a very simple transition.
R-3 Half Rack?
As you probably well know, half racks are basically squat stands with a pair of rear uprights for plate storage. Like a squat stand, you work out in front of the rack (or outside of it). Half racks offer just about all the benefits of a full-size rack like the R-6 (plate storage, pull-up, stability, accessory options), but for a lot less cash and by using a hell of a lot less space. For me, the downside of a standard half rack is that they have long, protruding legs. Since my goal was to reclaim space, I didn’t want those long legs.
I borrowed this picture from my power rack guide to show you the feet that half racks and squat stands have. You don’t have to anchor these types of racks, but I was okay with anchoring if it meant no long legs. Having said that, if I was starting from nothing (no R4), I would just have bought the HR-2 (right image.)
In order to safely “convert” the R3 into a half rack, the unit absolutely had to be anchored to the foundation in order to prevent tipping. I used three concrete anchors per rear leg, and two anchors per front leg; for a total of 10. Having plate storage on the rear uprights also contributes to the racks stability by acting as a counter-weight on the rare occasion I fail a rep and have to set a loaded bar on the front-facing spotters (although this is obviously not a suitable substitute for anchoring.)
R3 Half Rack. I already had the skinny/fat pull-up bar that comes standard with the R3 and R4 (red), but I installed it vertically for stability rather than chin and pull-ups. I use the multi-grip bar (yellow) for those.
Here is a better shot of how I installed the pull-up bars. The fat/skinny bar is vertical just like it is on the R4, only I did it this way for stabilization. With the R3, that fat/skinny bar would normally be installed where I currently have the multi-grip bar.
The Rogue R-3 Review
First of all, just about everything that I had to say about the R-4 in my that review applies to the R-3 as well. Quality of construction is the same, accessories and add-ons are the same, and both have the amazing Westside hole spacing. Both racks are awesome, and there are so many small things that Rogue does better than they probably have to; things you would not even know to look for in many cases.
For instance, holes are laser cut rather than drilled, and they always line up; the welds are clean and look professional; and sharp edges and flashing is removed from every piece of fabricated steel before powder coating is applied. I hate sounding like a Rogue fanboy, but if there is one thing they can do it’s build great, high quality racks and rigs (I’ve been around some imported knock-off racks, and you wouldn’t believe what passes for a finished product out there.)
When looking over my R-4 review, the only thing that I notice that wouldn’t really apply here would be the strong recommendation I made regarding replacing the pin-and-pipe safeties with spotter arms. I can see the pin-and-pipes being much simpler to use on a rack with 24″ between uprights instead of twice that, making that upgrade far less critical. Try the pin and pipes before you order arms; you may not feel as compelled to upgrade to arms with the R3 as you would on the R-4.
In the end, as much as I like the R4, I prefer the R3 for my situation. I have access to all the same exercises and all the same accessories, but the rack takes up half as much space as the R4 did. Not only that, I now have more plate storage, and the plates are inches from the bar instead of across the garage on a plate tree. This doesn’t change how I feel about the R4 or the R6 though; I think all three of them have their place. The entire Rogue Infinity line is by far one of best priced, best built, and most versatile power racks on the market.
If there was one thing I miss about having an R4, it’s the ability to super set without having to move things around. That is, I could set J-cups both inside the rack and outside the rack and work two exercises without having to move bars, weights, J-cups, etc. It really doesn’t come up much since most movements don’t involve a rack, but it was a nice perk the few times it did come up.
This is my 8’x8′ Olympic platform. It’s not stained yet, but it’s completely functional. If you follow that arrow about seven feet, you’d hit the front of the new R3 (just to give you an idea of layout.) Lot’s of space.
Rogue R-3 Options (there are many!)
Leave it to Rogue to have a power rack for any situation. Keep in mind, most of the same variations are also available for the R4 and R6. In other words, Rogue has a ton of racks.
Rogue R3 / R3 Shorty
The “standard” R3 is completely welded except for the fat/skinny pull-up bar. It’s 90″ high, 30″ deep (24″ between uprights front-to-back), and has a total footprint (the feet poke out for anchoring) of 53″ x 34″. The rack comes standard with a pair of J-cups, and the pin-and-pipe safety system.
You can also order the standard R3 as a “shorty” version; it’s 84″ tall versus 90″. My guess is that this option exists for those of you with basement gyms. Either version is $695 before any accessories or add-ons.
Rogue R3 Bolt-Together
The bolt-together version of the R3 has cross-members that aren’t welded. There are two benefits to the bolt-together; it’ll fit into tighter spaces (doorways, stairs, etc) for assembly, and it can be shipped to APO addresses. This version of the R3 is $725, and a slightly deeper 30″ (vs 24″) version can be had for $20 more. The bolt-together R3 is the same rack as the standard R3, and it has all the same features (safeties, J-cups, pull-up bar), but it obviously comes in more pieces so requires like five more minutes to assemble.
Rogue “Echo” RE-3
There is also the RE-3 Power Rack, which is more or less the economical 2″x2″ alternative to the R3. The size and features are mostly the same, but the price is lower by over $100. Other than the fact that it looks wimpy (it’s not really wimpy, just looks it), the biggest down-side to the RE-3 is that it lacks the Westside hole spacing in the bench region. Westside spacing is amazing to have, and it’s hard to go back once you get used to it. Also, the safeties are not included in the price, and the J-cups have no protective plastic. I don’t think this rack is worth it; stick with the Infinity line.
RML-3 and RM-3 Racks
See next section.
Infinity Racks vs Monster Lite Racks
I get asked from time-to-time about the Infinity series vs. the Monster/Monster Lite series. That is, what justification is there to own a beefy, 3″x3″ rack like the RML-3 rather than the standard 2″x3″. I am of the opinion that the 11-gauge, 2″x3″ configuration of the Infinity series is just perfect for a garage gym, and even sturdy enough to be used commercially. 3″x3″ is a little bit (a lot, really) of overkill in a home, especially when you get into the thicker 7-gauge metal. It’s a power rack, not a skyscraper.
So unless you plan on driving your truck into your power rack at 60 mph, I think you’ll be fine with 2″x3″. Having said that, Monster racks looks super cool and beefy. If you’re flush with cash, knock yourself out and buy some Monster gear. Be warned, the accessories cost more as well.
Like the Idea of a Half Rack?
I did my conversion the way I did because it was cheaper than buying a whole new rack (by a lot.) If you want a half rack, I suggest just buying a half rack, not a power rack like I did. As I previously mentioned, if I did not already own the R4 to convert, I would have probably just bought the Rogue HR-2 Half Rack and called it a day. The HR-2 is a few bucks less than the Rogue R3, and it’s even a Monster Lite (3″x3″) rather than an Infinity. It too has the Westside hole spacing and chin bar, but it also has plenty of space for plate storage horns.
The Rogue HR-2 Half Rack – $655 before upgrades and accessories (spotters/safeties not included.)
One of the drawbacks of the HR-2 vs the full racks is that you can’t use the multi-grip pull-up bar. I’m sure that’s not a deal breaker for most people, but it’s worth mentioning. You don’t get any safety system included either; spotter arms are an add-on. There are pin/pipe safeties for the HR-2, but I can’t understand why anyone would buy a half rack and then work out inside that little bit of space rather than use those rear uprights for storage. To each his own though!
There are other half racks out there, but I don’t think I’d even stray from Rogue when it comes to power racks and squat stands. Knowing what I know about how they are made and the fact that they are modular makes them an easy front-runner. So again, if you’re in the market, take a look at the Rogue line-up before you make a decision.
HR-2 Half Rack | R3 Power Rack | Entire Infinity Line
Great review. Love the website! There’s so much useful information. Your reviews and guides are extremely helpful. Question though. I’m thinking about building an 8′ x 8′ platform like the one in your picture, but with an extra layer of plywood. So two pieces, another two on top, and then a fifth on top down the middle with stall mats on the sides. Do you think it is safe to anchor the rack to the platform? Drilling holes in my concrete garage isn’t really an option for me. Thanks!
Mine is like that, it’s just that the bottom layer is the same height as the flooring. The platform isn’t actually sitting on the flooring. Ya people anchor into platforms like that. I haven’t done it myself so I’m not sure of the hardware to use, but ya, it’ll stay put. 5 pieces of plywood + rubber is heavy.
Ah my mistake. I couldn’t tell. Cool, thanks for the help and quick response! I was actually considering the R4 for a while before reading this review, but after reading this and remeasuring the size of my garage space, I think the R3 would suit me better. However, I’ve only ever done workouts in racks the size of the R4. Is the depth of the R3 enough for squatting and benching in?
Yeah it is. It may feel small at first, but 24″ is more than enough space. There is a 30″ R3 as well in the bolt-together version if that makes you feel any better =p
Great, thanks! I’ll look at the bolt-together version, but I’ll take your word for it that it’s enough space haha. Thanks again for the help. Your website has been a godsend! It’s really helped me figure out what to do and where to look.
Thank you very much.
I think I actually found a good alternative. The RML 390F has a 30″ depth and doesn’t need to be bolted down. I don’t see any downsides to it either.
Do you think one 3/4″ stall mat is enough to prevent floor damage, if using bumper plates? I intended to build a platform to protect the floor and to also have something to bolt the rack down to. But since the 390F doesn’t need to be bolted down, I’m thinking I might not even need the platform unless a single stall mat isn’t enough to protect the concrete (there are already some cracks spread intermittently).
Yeah that is a good alternative.
If you’ve already got cracks forming I would still buffer those bumpers with some plywood. Stall mats are great to help absorb a lot of a drop because they don’t compress too easily, but they still will compress given enough weight. Think about how little surface area there is to the part of the bumper that actually connects with the ground… not very much. The more weight, the more risk. Honestly, the money you spend on some 4×8 plywood is nothing compared to what it will cost to fix a foundation; it hardly seems worth the risk. I don’t think you mentioned what you’ll be doing on the platform, but whether it’s just deadlifting or Olympic lifting, both can be bad for the already compromised foundation.
Good point, better to be safe now than damage the foundation and have to fix that up. At the moment I’m thinking about deadlifts only, but it’ll be good to have the option to do olympic lifts in the future without worrying about damaging the floor. I’m guessing one layer of 3/4″ plywood isn’t enough for a platform
It’ll help a lot. I think the reason for the two layers is to make sure it’s flat. If you don’t weigh down first and second layer as the liquid nails dry, you have a pretty good chance that the platform won’t sit flush with the ground. There’s really no way to make sure it’s flat with just one layer then the mats on top. I mean, you can get it close by doing the same thing (weight all over the platform while it dries, but I’m assuming it won’t work as well.
Oh is that the reason? Yeah definitely don’t want it to be uneven. I guess the lifting platform is still the way to go lol. Thanks again for all the help and quick responses. This probably would’ve been better as an email correspondence with the way this comment thread is going lol. I appreciate it.
It’s all good. And maybe someone else with a similar situation will stumble upon this here. Good luck with everything.
I just ordered a sml-2 but now second guessing that decision. I lift alone often, and considering the safety of the stand or half rack. With these there Is nothing to catch you from falling backwards. Although most fall forward or straight down on failed attempts, the possibility still exists. Would safety straps work? I see straps on full racks but not half racks.
Well, falling backwards in any rack is not good. That shouldn’t ever happen unless you are really overloading that bar. You should fail getting back up, not on the way down. Set those spotter arms to the right height (just an inch below the bottom of a normal squat), and if you get stuck in the bottom, just come down that inch and the bar is safely on the arms.
I’ve seen two people fail reps in a dangerous way, and both of them were teens who had no idea how much weight they could lift; maybe they thought their leg press strength translated into squat strength, I dunno. Either way, they way way way overloaded that bar, and that weight brought them down.
The SMLs are just as safe as a full rack, I wouldn’t worry about that. The feet extend as far as the arms (further actually, I believe), so you can’t tip it even if you have weight on the ends of the spotters. You need four uprights for straps though, so that’s not an option.
Thx for the quick response. I agree, overloading the bar way too much and not knowing your ability definitely leads to most catastrophic events. Not to say you can never experience a tendon going out in your knee or something else freakish that could happen. I have seen straps that hang from a single bar in a cage. So i wondered if something like this could work in a half rack as back up? But i dont think it would work…as you step back from the rack to squat. If you fail the bar will be swung forward and not caught straight down.
I agree the chances of something catastrophic happening are low… just wondering if anyone did something as an additional insurance policy to the safety arms. Great site by the way!
Yeah I don’t think there is much else you could do, or would even need to do. I think you made a good purchase, but you could always convert the unit to a half rack by getting with Rogue for the parts. I think the HR-2 only converts from the S-2 and S-3, not the SML line, but I don’t doubt for a second that it could be done anyway. Everything they make for racks and rigs is modular. But to answer your question, I have not seen anyone do any custom strap modifications.
There are plenty of guys that back squat without spotters of any kind. They have learned to ditch the bar safely just like if it was a front squat. I only even ditch a bar like that myself when Oly lifting or front squatting, but that’s just me. It doesn’t even really negate the point of having a rack since there is no effective way to get into a back squat position without stands, and most people don’t want to power clean into a front squat position just to squat.
They show a HR-2 in the ML line so i think one could convert. But i cant see myself squatting within a 16 in space haha! Im sure i will love it as it is….and will be just fine with the safeties.
I’m leaning heavily toward the R3 rack for my own garage gym, but I’m wondering if you ever considered a W4 rig? I know the rig footprint is slightly larger, and it’s less versatile. Still, it has taller uprights which are great for a taller person (I’m 6’1″ with a 79″ wingspan) on pull-ups, etc., and you could certainly add safety spotter arms for max efforts. Perhaps this could be accomplished with a half-rack, but I don’t love how far the legs would extend. Given the quality and thoroughness of your reviews, I’d love to get your perspective as I’m certain you considered things that I haven’t. Thanks!
Hey Jim, yeah I just don’t like them for their lack of versatility. Your only safety option is arms, and you have a giant footprint but no storage. They are tall, and being even taller than you I would appreciate that height, but they are too tall for most garages. Anyone with a house more than 5-10 years old probably has 8-foot ceilings, and that wouldn’t work. They don’t stop you from having to anchor, actually now you need a stringer on the wall too, so it’s not really an simpler.
Yeah I dunno, I mean they do have a couple of advantages, but I think they mostly belong in maybe a one-car garage that won’t be used for anything else but a gym, or a box setting. R3 seems better, or HR-2 if you want the storage. You can also buy those 9′ uprights for the R3 if you call the order in, but you’ll absolutely have to anchor down lol
Thanks. That was my take on it as well – the lone real advantage I could come up with was the height of the uprights (I have 120″ ceilings). It looks like I’ll be going with the R3, and of course I’ll anchor it down. Thanks again; I really appreciate your reviews.
John: did you use rogue’s concrete anchors for your R3 or something you bought locally? Just had my R3 delivered today and realized I didn’t buy the anchors so trying to decide whether to order from rogue or just head to the hardware store. Rogue claims their anchors are superior because they can be put in and removed repeatedly just like a regular screw, whereas standard concrete anchors have to be ground off.
Curious about someone else’s experience. And thanks for the feedback on the Ohio Power Bar vs the TX power bar. Due to shipping consolidation I went with the OH bar.
Hey Josh, I used these: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Tapcon-3-8-in-x-3-in-Hex-Washer-Head-Large-Diameter-Concrete-Anchor-10-Pack-11413/203770115. I think Rogue is talking about wedge anchors when they say that; yea those don’t come out I don’t think. Double-check the sizing, but I know you can buy the exact same size at Home Depot and I’d assume Lowes, the Tapcons are just blue instead of zinc. I’ve moved my rack around and pulled these anchors. You got a big hole, but they came out no problem just like taking a screw out of anything else. Make sure that hole goes straight in, not at an angle. Seems obvious, but it takes a good eye to put it in straight… either that or I’m bad at those kind of things lol.
You happy with that bar?
Any idea what the best plate storage system/option is for the HR-2 Half Rack? I see in the picture at the bottom of the article there are eight long monster-lite plate storage arms. It looks like rogue sells them in pairs. Would I be best suited to get 4 pairs and I assume these are bolt-ons correct? I have a full set of OFW bumpers and then pairs of 2.5lb, 5lb, and 10lb troy premium iron plates to fill the smaller gaps (also purchased from fringesport). Will there be enough space between the arms to store my bumper 45s, 25s, and 10s from fringesport given that they are all the same size? For the record your website, feedback, and articles are all awesome and helpful. Thanks again for your help.
Thanks very much Rob. So do you have the 70″ rear uprights? I know you can get three full-size plate horns in under 70″, but I don’t think you’ll get the fourth horn unless only 2 of the horns hold big plates. I am not 100% on this though, you may ask Rogue to confirm. I tried to use my rack for comparison, but the R series doesn’t have that triangle shaped base-plate and I think I have more available holes because of that, so I can start lower. I’m going to guess you can’t do three large and one small because they didn’t do it that way in the picture, and I doubt many people would choose to only have two horns for large plates. Also yes, they bolt on.
John I appreciate the response. Yes, I will be ordering the 70″ rear uprights. I think what I am going to do is purchase two pairs of the long plate storage horns and one pair of the short horns and simply put three 45s on each bottom horn, one 25 & one 10 combined on the other long horn. I will then place my small collection of iron plates on the top short horns(2.5, 5, 10). I will only have three horns on either side, but that should give me enough room for plenty of weight and relative ease of access.
Any merit to buying all three long pairs so you can switch that up down the road if you need to? You can always put little plates on a long horn, but you can’t put big plates on the little horn. Just a thought.
Absolutely, they are only a few bucks more! I will try it out and see what happens. I appreciate the advice and help.
Roger that, have fun with it!
Hello John,
yesterday I ordered the AB Super Power Bar :-)
Thanks for all your commitment and patience with all my questions.
Next thing is a rack.
The Rogue Bolt-Together R-3 in 30″ I think.
Do it have important advantages to buy extra spotter arms versus the existing Pin/Pipe Safeties?
For me the “R-3 Strap Safety System” looks quite interesting and it should be “very silent in use” (neighbors)? What do you think about it?
Does it makes sense to buy plate storage or Vertical Plate Storage with a R3 or is this rack to small for it, if you squat and bench press frequently inside it?
A pair of additionally J-Cups seems to be a good investment.
Anything else?
Thanks, Mike
haha congratulations on the bar. =)
So, no there is no reason to have spotter arms unless you plan to lift outside the rack, and with a 30″ rack I don’t see any reason to do that as 30″ is plenty of inside space. If you do want to lift outside the rack, the thing needs to be anchored down good; at least two anchors per leg. If you want something with spotter arms and plate storage, go with the HR-2 if you even are offered that. You can’t really put plate pins on basic racks because the plates interfere with the bar’s path inside the rack.
Straps are probably a waste of money unless you just are used to using them and like them. You could argue they are quieter, but how often do you really expect to fail a rep? Moreover, how often do you think you’ll fail so brutally that the bar can’t be controlled down to the pipes? I’m going to say close to never.
I would use the R3 in the traditional way. Lift inside, use the pipes (they still aren’t bad for 30″. In the R4 size racks pipes suck but not so bad in R3), and get some other form of plate storage. Vertical tree, rolling plate rack, something. Extra J-cups can be okay because you may want to do press or front squats from outside the rack, and you won’t ditch a bar in the press ever, and a front squat can be safely dumped. Still, anchor down if you plan to put any load outside of the uprights.
Big supporter of the HR-2 with plate storage. Will do a video review soon! Made the purchase because of your reviews so I want to thank you John.
Yeah you got it. The HR-2 is probably what I’d own if it hadn’t been so easy for me to convert my R4 down into that R3/Half rack thingy I have now. That is to say, it was inexpensive to do so, and serves the same function.
Hello John,
I don’t understand a few things.
1. Why do you save a lot of room space with a squat stand?
The footprint is 48″ (by the way the same footprint has the “RM-390F Flat Foot”).
If one have the space for a 48″ and you look only at the footprint, you could buy the R4? (okay, it is more expensive).
2. Why do most powerlifter use racks (perhaps am wrong)?
3. The EU-Rogue-Store offers just small part of the product range compared to the US-Store :-(
This is the only HR2-option if you order in the EU-store:
http://www.rogueeurope.eu/infinity-hr2-half-rack-conversion-kit-eu
That would mean one has to buy first the S2, after that the HR-2 Half Rack Conversion Kit PLUS the spotter arms (bench press, squats) – if one wants the same safety support compared with a full rack.
Final sum for a delivery from Finland to Germany: Subtotal €797.00 (Tax €191.28, Total €988.28).
The Rogue Bolt-Together R-3 (in 30″) costs €744 (total with Tax €922).
I lack any experience – where are the advantage and disadvantages if you compare this two options (the price is one aspect, but for me not the most important)? When is the first option the better choice, when the second?
(And if you take the HR-2 solution, would you use Rogue plate storage in the case?
http://www.rogueeurope.eu/rogue-vertical-plate-storage-eu)
You know John, I do mostly Mark’s SS-exercises…
Thanks, Mike
You don’t save space with a squat stand. I actually address that up near the beginning of this article. I only suggested the HR-2 if for whatever reason you wanted to work outside the rack, or you wanted to use the rear uprights of the unit for plate storage. This is all just personal preference and budget you know. R3 is just as functional as the HR-2 in terms of the lifts, especially for Starting Strength where you only have like 2 exercises that even require spotters. The only other difference is that the racks need to be anchored, but the stands do not.
Also just to be clear, one shouldn’t use the optional pin and pipes with the HR-2. It kind of defeats the purpose of it being a half rack. Use spotter arms for the HR-2 and leave the rear uprights free for plate storage.
Hello John,
okay, thank you.
What confused me at the beginning a little bit is that you and e.g. Rob favor the HR-2.
If have unterstand it, you changed from the bigger R4 to the smaller R3 – no, to the HR-2.
Because you wanted to reclaim space. But do you realy reclaim space with the bench and spotter arms outside? Yes, if you remove the spotters. That’s the advantage in regards to space compared to the R4, right? But this is true only in your special case. If I look on your photo from the R3 with spotters, I understand it.
But if you buy the S-2 or the HR-2 (48″ footprint), you need even more space compared to the R3 (24″ or 30″ footprint) – not less?.
The only difference between the S-2 and the HR-2 is the plate storage option (with additional costs), okay.
At the end one can say the R3 has a smaller footprint, but the S-2 (HR-2) don’t need to be anchored and gives you the plate storage option in case of the HR-2.
I think I understood it now. Sorry, it needed time :-)
Perhaps I was confused first because you wrote “I was able to reclaim dozens of square feet of my garage”… (R4 footprint 43″ x 43″, S2 footprint 48″ x 48”)
After I was looking on your special R3 Half Rack-photo above again, I’ve got it.
Thanks, Mike
In addition:
If the matter is new and the information is not found in the mother tongue, sometimes I little bit difficult…
I hope I did not confuse anybody else exept me, sorry!
It stresses me out a bit having to make a decision without having a Rack/Squat Stand/half-Rack ever seen, touched or tried. And it is here also about a lot of money.
A mind game: If you had to buy new rack (stupid assumption), would you buy a R3 (30″)?
And because of protruding legs and the space it need rather not a HR-2?
And if you had enough space for a R4 or a S2/HR-2? For what would you choose?
If my rack disappeared, I’d replace it with a half rack for sure. I don’t plan on adding a monolift attachment, and I don’t squat 900 pounds, so I don’t care about having a full cage. A half rack is more than fine for me.
If I had an abundance of space.. massive space; I’d buy an RML-690 probably. R4 is awkward. Too much footprint, not enough utility.
Okay, thank you for your patience and your tireless advice!
I would have ordered the R3 – now I doubt whether that’s the best idea.
I understand now the differences between the R3 and the HR-2.
But why is the decision so clear for you? Because the HR-2 doesn’t have to be anchored? And has the plate storage option? Weighs that for you more than the larger footprint? Or what else is better personally for you.
Ya the extra footprint of the legs is more than made up for by the on-board plate storage. I don’t much care about the anchoring as I have no issues with putting holes in the floor, but I suppose it’s nice not to have to. You know with plats loaded all up that back upright, the unit isn’t going anywhere. It becomes very heavy and very stable. Now, if you just don’t have the extra space, there is nothing wrong with the R3. It’s probably their overall most simple and effective rack; cheapest too. Even the 24″ version is more than enough space to lift in.
Hello John,
after many hours of reading and thinking I’m now between the RML-390F Flat Foot Monster Lite Rack versus the HR-2 plus Spotter Arms.
Actually I want to ask you to controll that I didn’t make a fallacy:
A few thoughts on the RML-390F Flat Foot Monster Lite Rack versus the HR-2 plus Spotter Arms:
In general:
Because I don’t know if I have to move away in the coming years I tend to buy a flat food construction – either a RML-390F or a HR-2 pus Spotter Arms.
This would enable me to use it inside the home or even in a garage or in the cellar without having to ask for permission to bolt it to the floor.
Both have nearly the same footprint. The HR-2 allows me to use various plate storage horns.
If I take a rack e.g. the RML-390F my partner or my son could train together with me at the same time (with additional J-Cups).
If I would have enough space I could put up the rack in a way that you have access to both sides.
And with additional spotter arms the other person could e.g. do bench press while I’m squating inside the rack with the Pin/ Pipe Safety System.
I know, if I use Spotter Arms I should bolt this rack to the floor (says Rogue) – must I?
In this case – can I use the “S-Base Floor Mounting Feet“ to fix a RML-390F if this setup will be necessary or desired?
If not, what do you recommend if someone someday wants to bolt the RML-390F to the floor?
Yes, it sounds a little stupid to buy a flat food rack and anchor it later – maybe I never will… But I try to find the solution with the most options related to possible future changes or needs.
A HR-2 Half Rack can’t be used from two persons at the same time. But has the advantage of space for plate storage horns…
Could I use plate storage horns at ANY (high/low) position in the RML-390F too? Or will this interfere with most exercises (for me the most important exercise inside the rack is the squat)?
Thanks,
Mike
You cant put spotter arms outside the uprights of a power rack and not anchor. You also couldnt put plate horns anywhere on a the back uprights of a normal power rack without them interfering unless you want to mount like maybe one horn all the way at the top, but that doesn’t make much sense. You can’t even do it low because of the bench press.
If you can’t bolt to the foundation at some point, you can always put a platform under the rack and mount to that. Not sure if the flat foot even has a way to anchor; I doubt it considering that’s kinda the point to not anchor.
These might work with the RML-390F:
Rogue S-Base Floor Mounting Feet –
Bolt down your S-Series Squat/Press Stands with these Floor Mounting Feet.
NOTE: These are compatible with S-Series squat stands only.
Not compatible with older SPX squat stands.
Compatible with Infinity and Monster Lite Series.
Concrete anchors are not included*
http://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-s-base-floor-mounting-feet
Hello John,
after a lot of discussions at home I’m thinking about a clever solution for two persons.
I want to buy a ROGUE product, nothing else.
I want a set-up which allows that my son and I can squat or bench press safely at the same time
(all combinations of exercises should work together at the same time – and I have two benches).
What would be the best solution from your point of view?
1) R4 with one pair of spotter arms on one side?
One person could train inside the rack, the other one outside with spotter arms…
Is there enough space in the rack for this setup?
or is better to have a
2) R3 with 2 x Spotter Arms (Spotter Arms on BOTH sides)?
or do you have a better idea?
Thanks a lot,
Mike
PS:
And yes, I will follow your proposal and put a platform under the rack and mount to that.
Neither of those will allow one person to work in while the other is out.. not comfortably anyway. Your idea of double spotter arms has been done and works, but I would suggest at least the 30″ R3 for that, if not the R4.
There are two station racks out there that basically look like HR-2s with the short uprights on either side of a tall center upright that can still be used for plate storage (http://www.legendfitness.com/products/racks_cages_platforms/racks_cages/double-sided_half_cage_3155.aspx). I don’t believe Rogue makes this, but their racks are completely modular so it would just be a matter of asking for all the right parts. I’d say it would be expensive, but a two-station unit from anyone else will cost a couple grand as well so what’s the difference.
You need a lot of space for two people to lift on either sides of the same rack, as I’m sure you’ve figured.
I asked Rogue and this is The Answer:
“For total safety, you might consider the R-4 with two sets of spotter arms.
You could also execute the conjoined HR-2 rack with no problem, as we can provide crossmembers to connect the two independent HR-2 racks.”
I’m not sure if the second proposal is a good idea …
Maybe two normal squats stands (S-2) would be the best and most adaptable solution?
That example from “legend-fitness” is a great idea and is the solution I’m looking for.
That Legend rack is probably a couple grands, so the R4 is probably the best option. The HR-2 option seems lost on whoever you got to respond to you. I don’t think joining two full units is the answer, I think using only one rear upright and then connecting the front upright to both sides of what would now be the middle upright. The problem with this is only the base. It would need to be fabricated to the right length for all three uprights. They’ll do it if you’re willing to pay for it, but does seem like the R4 is easier.
Hello John,
OK, I will wait until BLACK FRIDAY is over… Rogue Europe said, they will have some specials. I don’t expect they will offer a special price for a Rack or spotter arms :-) But imagine they would – after my order!
I trust in your experience but I don’t understand one thing:
Why can’t my son squat inside a R4 while I am benching outside with spotter arms? If the rack is located in the middle of the room with enough space in all directions, couldn’t he leave the rack without disturbing me?
Or in what way would we bother each other?
At the moment I tend strongly to buy a 30′ R3 with two pairs of spotter arms or to seperate the athletes with TWO squat stands.
One advantage is, that two squat stands could be placed in different ways – for example, next to each other…
I’m really thankful. You helped me so much during the last weeks.
(by the way – my American Barbell Super Power Bar will arrive on Monday or Tuesday :-)
Which kind of Collars do you use? Olympic Spring Collars or Flip Lock Collars?
And yesterday I ordered 150 kg (330 lbs) Hi-Temp Bumper.
With a Rack / Squat Stand everything would be fine at the moment.
The GHD has to wait…
When you bench, the bar in the J-cups is over your head below your field of vision if you look straight up. That puts both the bench and part of your head inside that rack. You don’t want your head so close to someone squatting anymore than they want to worry about sitting on you as they squat. Plus, I mean it’s just not safe if while squatting a rep has to be ditched, or even just carefully failed. At best I can see someone squatting both in and out of an R4, but that’s about it.
My favorites are muscle clamps, but I can only use those on power lifts. They don’t work 100% if the bar is being dropped a lot. I use lock jaws on the platform. Everyone is using OSO collars it seems, but I just can’t get excited about $50 collars that don’t weigh anything.
OK, I have got it.
And as you said, you think it would work without problems if I buy the R3 (30 “) with two pairs of spotter arms.
You wrote: “Your idea of double spotter arms has been done and works, but I would suggest at least the 30″ R3 for that, if not the R4.”
Why did you think the R4 could even be better compared to the R3?
Isn’t the distance of 30 ” enough if both athletes are working outside?
The extra 12″ or so just makes it more stable, though it won’t matter if anchored. You don’t seem to have a shortage of space, so getting a compact unit seems less important. Also, it just gives more space between lifters so you never feel on top of one another. Fact is you could go either way. I remember seeing someone with a 24″ R3 doing exactly this and it was fine. Would be weird to bench that way, but you wouldn’t be touching at least.
You wrote: “….You don’t seem to have a shortage of space…”
Yes, not at the moment – but I will move away in the next years and nobody knows how the situation will be in the future.
Finally I think the R3 (30″) is the best compromise for me. And I can use it with less space at least without spotter arms for one person. The footprint is small but with one or two pairs of Spotter Arms I have a lot of possibilities. And the setup for the second person is payable (Spotter Arms).
At the beginning I worried about anchoring but as you suggested with a platform under the rack I can always bolt to the platform – even if I move to another apartment without extra space.
30 inch depth r3 vs r4? Any experience with the differences between bolting these down vs. not? Also any opinions or experience with the r4 with stabilizer not bolted down? I’m curious about the stability of those different options. Will be looking at monster light series racks. I’d like to able to do dips with the attachment as well as dips and push ups on rings hanging from the pull up bar. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Can’t decide what set up to get.
Also… Based on recs from this site I purchased an American BB Oly training bar and OFW bumpers… Some bad ass gear! Thanks for your help!
Good combo. Someone should open a re-seller shop and sell all the top gear from each vendor! ROgue racks, AB bars, and OFW plates. Free shipping! Eh, none of them would be down with that I’m certain lol
Yeah so, I did the R4 with stabilizer not anchored at first. Hated it. Hated having the stabilizer and hated how even that wide footprint of the R4 wasn’t enough to keep the thing in place or completely on the ground with dips. The R3 would be worse just sitting there; you’d have to weigh 80 pounds and go nice and slow. You can get away without anchoring a 4 if you don’t work outside the unit as in with the dip station, and you pull-up inside the rack as close to center as you’re willing to attach the bar.
I’m of the opinion that anything other than a 6-upright king rack (like an R6) or a rack with horizontal legs (HR-2 or flat foot units) needs to be anchored. These things are heavy but they aren’t heavy enough for men to be swinging around on without moving or tipping; especially on a smooth surface like a foundation. I’ve never heard of one toppling completely, but even pulling one side a couple inches off the ground is enough to freak you out mid-rep and make things uncomfortable.
Save for the trip to Home Depot for bits and bolts, anchoring a rack takes like 30 minutes. If you can’t drill into the floor cause you rent or something, you’re better off with a rack that isn’t intended to be bolted. The best part about anchoring is losing the stabilizer btw. That thing is the worst.
What about bolting the R-3, R-4 or RML-490 into an 8X8 home made platform (2 1/2 inches thick)?
I really wanted to get an R-3, but thought they needed to be bolted into a concrete or equally solid floor. I ended up going with an RML-490 because of the stabilizer and it did not have to be bolted to the floor. I use the stabilizer and also have it olted to my 8×8 platform. It feels very solid, even with all my iron stored on it.
I also did not realize that I could have done the same thing with the R-4. I like the 2×3 clearance vs. the 3X3 RML uprights. You basically almost have to upgrade your j-cups to the sandwich j-cups if you don’t want to be knocking around every time you rack the bar. I can’t believe nobody talks about this issue with the Monster/Monster-lite racks.
All that said. Do you have any experience bolting the R-3 into a lifting platform instead of the concrete floor? I wonder if that would hold up well over time. I know very strong people have done it and are fine, but it still seems a little sketchy. The wood could get a little soft over time. I do live in California as well (earthquakes?). Any thoughts?
I think bolting an R3 to a platform that’s three layers thick would be just fine. 12 bolts going through 2.5″ of material is a lot of holding power, and it’s only a few situations that even put the rack into a potential tipping situation when not anchored anyway so I wouldn’t worry about it. Even with your RML you could probably remove that stabilize if it’s bolted into the platform, but there is no need if it’s not in your way of course.
I’ve heard the issue with the reduced clearance only come up a couple times ever. Keep in mind that those 3×3 rack dimensions are the norm for commercial racks, so the 2×3 and 2×2 racks with a couple inches of more space is a luxury of sorts – if you want to think of it that way anyway. I’d still personally take an RML over an Infinity when given the choice, though to be fair I am still to this day using the modified R3.
Thanks for the feedback jburgeson. I’ll keep all of that in mind. Even though I do think the R-series would have been a better fit, the RML is more than fine for getting the job done. First world problems. I feel it’s like driving a huge 4×4 truck to commute to a city job.
I’ve also been looking at doing the same thing you did with the R-4 and make my RML-490 30 inches in depth and then maybe adding the half rack weight storage to the back if I ever get more space. I looks like there are a tone of options.
I finally made the leap and sold my R4. Planning to pick up a new rack on Black Friday. I’ve gone round and round trying to decide what to get, but the name of the game is space-saving. I really never needed the full depth of the R4 and it just took up a bunch of needless space. I plan to buy 3 to 4 plate storage pairs for whatever I buy, so I think I’m in the same boat you were.
Looking at 3 options: HR-2, RML-390F Flat Foot, or an R3 bolted to a lifting platform. I really don’t want to drill into my slab or wall so I’ve eliminated garage rigs or folding racks.
I love the idea of the RML-390F but it looks like you can’t use outside spotters or a matador with that option which kind of defeats the purpose. The HR-2 looks great but has a few drawbacks: no option for multi-grip pull-up bar, no option for attaching vertical bar storage which I was hoping to do, and it’s not a full rack so wondering if I’ll miss that cool factor (just being honest). R3 is perfect but has to be bolted down. Thinking about the possibility of building an 8×8 lifting platform and bolting to that but not sure how that would fit into my current garage set up.
Looking for some advice regarding my options and also how you’ve laid out your lifting platform. Do you simply lay it on top of your existing mats or did you place it in the garage and then fit all your other mats around it?
Honestly I’d do the HR-2. It’s the safest scenario.
My R3 is bolted down using 10/12 max anchors and has about a thousand pounds of bumpers on the plate horns to help keep that back side securely down in case I actually did bust anchors. I haven’t had any issues, but I’d be more concerned having it bolted into a platform rather than the floor itself like what you’re talking about. Seems more precarious. I mean, you can lift outside any un-anchored rack all day using just the J-cups, but it’s the spotter arms that turn it into a potential disaster. The HR-2 gives you all that storage and safety with no bolts, and aside from the feet (or spotters if equipped) it only takes up about half the space as the R4 you just got rid of.
My platform warped and is gone now, but it was a standard 3-layer 8×8 platform with the flooring fit around the platform. The platform backed up to two different edges (one wall, and the 4″ lip in the garage) so it was an easy fit. You could lay it on top of existing flooring, but now you’re just that much closer to the ceiling, and you’ve wasted 64 square feet of mats for no reason.
i thinking I’ve eliminated the RML-390F because it really doesn’t offer me the option to work outside the rack.
The HR-2 is the safe, cheaper bet. Could probably upgrade to sandwich j cups with that option too, but no multi-grip crossmember which I really want at some point.
The RML-3 is perfect really. Add multigrip, spotters, Matador, 3-4 weight horn pairs, and maybe a 3 bar vertical bar holder to the rear crossmember (would probably have to decide between this and the multigrip). I would just have to soften my stance on anchoring. I own and have no plans to move again soon so that’s not the issue. Just worried about damaging the slab. What are the odds of that happening?
Probably <1% unless there is already something wrong with it. Can always pay an experienced and insured installer, but it's really not that hard at all.
Just curious…
Do you miss squatting/benching inside of a rack since you’ve converted things? I suppose benching is less of an issue since you have the spotter arms. Squatting seems more precarious although I have read your comment about not squatting 900 lbs.
I agree that the 43″ racks (R-4, RML-4, RM-4) is awkward by itself. I guess I am wondering why you made the jump to go from full rack to half rack, rather than just use the R-3 has a full rack and buy a plate tree? I’m not saying you’re doing it “wrong”….I’m just curious about why?
I am in somewhat of a similar situation though different. I purchased an RML-6100 rack (100″ version of the RML-690). I love it, but I am contemplating downsizing to an R-3 and a plate tree to save on space. Yes, I would be giving up many other things……rack height, rack depth, anchoring needed, less convenient, etc.
In the end, I suppose there are never any right or wrong ways to do it. Just preference. I may strip off two uprights and use my rack as an R-3 for a while to see if I like it before selling it off. Maybe something that is swaying me is that I find plate storage to be cool for sure, but not that big of deal. A plate tree would’ve totally sufficed (and been cheaper in the process). Another thing….a 100″ rack is freaking tall. I am 6’2”, and I can hang without my feet touching. This is awesome, but after measuring I know that the 90″ version would’ve been fine (minimal bending of legs to not touch ground). I suppose it is easier to lower the pull up bar than it is to make a rack taller. Shouldn’t be complaining….just one of those things that I made a big deal out of that didn’t turn out to be a big deal.
What to do…what to do…
I wanted an HR-2 to replace the giant waste of space R4, but it just seemed wasteful to me to replace all these perfectly good rack components that I had – so I just bought the 24″ cross-members and reused everything else. I had no issue with having to anchor it, and I knew that I’d have a ton of weight pinning the backside down as well so I wasn’t concerned with any tipping or anything like that. I don’t miss being inside the rack at all. I don’t feel less safe with spotters, and I certainly don’t miss pin/pipe safeties.
I did already have a plate tree at the time, but I kinda have more weights lying around than most people (from reviews and such). The tree wasn’t enough storage, and I didn’t want another tree. Getting the weights on a rack was ideal for me.
In almost all cases (even maybe my own) it’s probably best to sell the over-sized rack for 80% or more of retail and then just buy whatever replacement fits your new needs. I probably should have done it that way, but it’s worked out in the sense that I actually have more on-board storage than the HR-2. But again, that’s me – I don’t think most people need as much storage.
You can try doing the RML-490 set-up by stripping off the rear uprights, but I think that if space is a concern now, it will still be with the 490. All you can do is try though and see how you like having a 490 and a tree versus a 690 and no tree. Also I wish I could have 100″ uprights haha. Jealous.
Does that answer anything or did I just ramble?
Ha! Thanks for the response! What you did makes a lot of sense. Your other suggestion of just selling it and buying the smaller set-up works just as well. That’s the route I’m trying to go.
I am *really* leaning towards getting an R-3 and being done with it. My test for a smaller rack would be to use the back four uprights (the 24″ section) and ditching the storage posts and front uprights (43″ section). That would work perfectly (to give me an idea of whether or not I’d be happy with the small 24″ depth) if it weren’t for the safety straps I have….there would be a lot of slop in 24″ section with 43″ safeties. I have the ML spotter arms, but they are 24″ in length so they won’t fit inside. I suppose I could buy the pin/pipe safeties at some point if I am unsure about selling the RML-6100.
I didn’t talk much about the storage on the rack. I love that. It is obviously the best option. Maybe I would miss that. Just considering that I could get basically all of my work done on an 8×8 platform. As of right now, I don’t have a place to deadlift. Using bumper plates on horse stall mats (I’m also not lifting THAT much weight yet that its a problem). But…I’d like a better long term solution. At some point soon, I will be needing more iron 45’s to deadlift with and would like to have easy access.
That’s another issue. Setting up a separate deadlift area away from my rack means that moving plates (a lot of them) back and forth isn’t going to be fun. I guess the options are to go small (R3, plate tree, and an 8×8 platform), or stick with the RML-6100 and build a separate deadlift platform off to the side and likely spring for a separate plate tree to put nearby.
Funny stuff. None of these are real problems, but it sure is easy to idealize things, huh? Is the grass going to be greener over there? LOL
Yeah that’s a lot of first-world problems right here lol. If you don’t mind the size of an R3, it’s more than enough rack for everything. Will feel weird to you for a minute I’m sure cause it’s like 1/3 the size of your 6, but it’s just as effective for actual lifting. Hell can even put an R3 on an 8×8 platform and still have a 5½x8′ section for pulls. Put your tree where ever.
Exactly!
Yeah, there is plenty of room to deadlift with an R-3 on an 8×8.
So, lets see….I’ll be losing:
1. 19″ depth (43″ vs. 24″)
2. storage on rack (8 posts)
3. 10 inches height for pull-ups (and subsequently, pressing inside the rack)
4. no bolting needed
I suppose it sounds like a lot, but they aren’t that critical. At the end of the day, I am going to let my Craigslist ad roll and see if it sells. If it does (at my asking price), then I will be happy to walk away). If it doesn’t, then I’ll make other arrangements for deadlifting and holding some extra iron nearby.
Thanks for your insights! I’ll let you know how it shakes out.
I think I actually saw your ad haha. Can never get over how big the 6’s are. Any bites?
Haha, yeah I had it up for a while. Pulled the ad down. Just going to hang on to it. Part of my reasoning for selling it was to get a few other things I want sooner. But…that’s not the best reason to do that. I need to remind myself that I went from 0-60 pretty fast. Wanting to be at 100 is great, but my lifting needs are still at (or below) 60. Haha. Need to remind myself that this is a lifelong thing, not a “I need it all now!” situation. : )
I had a few bites, but no one with cash in hand ready to buy. Its just one of those big, expensive things that most people on Craigslist *probably* aren’t looking for.
Yeah it looks like you weren’t too bad on space. I’d keep something like that if possible. Plus you’re right – CL is generally tough for getting a good price on stuff. I move things there from time-to-time in order to recycle gear and I find it to be a nightmare and a half. I’ve never sold a handful of things and said to myself “that was easy!”. haha
Space in the garage is better than average. I use an entire side, and my wife parks on the other; however, I pull her car outside when I am training.
I still have my SML-1 with spotter arms (currently listed for sale) near the garage door. I had an Abrams 2.0 GHD that I parked inside the SML-1, but recently sold it (actually got full asking price of $600!).
Since the likelihood of keeping the RML-6100 is high, I am raising funds from the GHD and SML-1 for more “needs.” Mostly, I am getting about 800 lbs of Troy PO plates, either a Castro bar or SS Ohio, Plate Tree 2.0, full deadlift jack, adjustable monolifts, etc. Will need to keep a few bucks around for the deadlift platform (though I already have stall mats covering my entire floor). Fun stuff.
Why Troy, if you don’t mind my asking?
Sure. I think Troy (commercial line) is a good bang for the buck on plates. The HO/PO plates are fully machined and are within 2% tolerance. That’s not the best, I know. But…I am able to get them for $1.15/ lb. Between 6 pairs of 45’s, I feel like I should be able to
match them up fairly close. Also getting more than one pair of al other plates to do the same. 2 pairs of 25’s. 4 pairs of 10’s and 5’s and 2 pairs of 2.5’s. I’m getting 770 pounds which is more than enough for me right now. I am told by several sources that the fit on the barbell is snug. Not as tight as Rogue’s calibrated (or new machined plates), or Ivankos OM, etc. Between a reasonably snug fit and the deep dish, the plates should stand up fairly well on the ground (deadlifts mostly).
I have leaned heavily towards the Rogue calibrated 459 kg set for quite a while (~$2/ lb), but frankly its more money than I want to spend on plates at my current lifting level (novice). The thin design, fit, accuracy and looks are all winners. Just not sure I’m there yet. Maybe I’ll treat myself to them after I pull 500+ lbs. Another reason or two (though not good ones!) is the fact that 1). The paint on those beauties likely won’t stay that way, and 2). Doing 50kg / 110lb jumps on the deadlift is a bit intimidating. In fact, I would not even be putting 3 plates on yet (375 lbs). I am still doing my linear profession (3×5’s), so I am not doing that much weight for reps yet. Kind of a funny thing…they’re just numbers than can be worked around. Just a mental thing, I suppose. Rogues new machined plates look awesome, but they aren’t much less per pound than the calibrated plates. Ditto for Ivankos OM plates. The Rogue calibrated set seems like a better deal all around.
I don’t know what to do, honestly. I’m just doing powerlifting primarily (with power cleans and snatches). Have bumpers for those lifts.
I have an old CAP 255lb set that fits super loose, but does the job nonetheless. In fact, they are machined. I’d say the are all within about .1-.4 lbs of the stated weight, so it’s easy to match them up. I may just take the plunge on a few pairs of the kg/lb calibrated 45’s/55’s for deadlifting. If I like them I could fill in the set later.
Any thoughts? I’ve got a lot of random ones. Haha!
Ha!…linear profession (progression). Love auto correct.
haha no, I mean you’ve worked through it. ~$1/pound is better than $2/pound when you’re looking to get in excess of 700 lbs of plates. Accuracy levels for the various machined plates are generally about the same – not quite calibrated, but better than cast iron. I was just curious because I tend to forget about Troy (admittedly I tend to judge companies based on their barbell quality).
Thanks, I try. Haha.
Agreed, their barbells would never find their way into my garage unless it was free. Then I’d only use it for land mines. : P
Keep the great reviews coming!
And, yes, I find Craigslist to be an interesting place. I have a lot of experience buying and selling thru Craigslist (mostly musical equipment), and like it overall. As you mentioned, it can be a nightmare once ina while. Prepare yourself for poor communication/follow thru and excessive junk emails. I tame it with excellent ads with very clear and detailed info (regarding condition and selling price), and so pretty well.
Definitely NOT looking to be a buyer/seller of Rogue stuff. I love what I have mostly, and am patient enough to wait for Black Friday sales once a year to curb the shipping and full prices (on many items).
So I was set on getting the HR-2 rack but now wants the option of allowing my wife to workout (starting strength) with me. We don’t need to do the exercises at the same time. I just like the convenience of not having to move the J cups after every set. I’m 5’8″ and she’s 5’3″. I read the above comment about using an R-3 30″ when two people wants to workout at the same time.
So other than the R-3 30″, can I accomplish the above with the regular R-3 with safety arms outside the rack (pins or safety arms inside). We like to save as much space as possible. I’ve already built a 8×11 platform (2 layers plywoods on then a third layer of 3/4″ wood/rubber on top).
Finally can I still be able to store plates on the racks with the above setup. I was loving the idea of storing racks on the 70″ upright with the HR-2 but obviously this changes everything.
As always thank you for all your wonderful comments and suggestions.
You’d have to set up the rack in a location where you can get to both the front and back of the rack – cups on both side. That’s how people typically make smaller racks into a two-station unit and share it.
Problem is that it would be unwise to have spotter arms coming out of both sides of this narrow rack. The only reason it works in my situation is because it’s hella anchored, and I have 700-pounds of weights on 8 horns counterbalancing any potential load on the spotters. You’ll have zero storage on a 2-station R3 no matter which size you get or how you set up the stations.
So really, best case is to place the R3 in the middle of your area, anchor it down, and only use cups – no spotters. It’s a legit 2-station rack, but no safeties. If you need safeties, go back to one-person for the time being and work inside the rack with the pin/pipes.
All that said, my advise is stick with your original plan and either work out separately, or choose your exercises in such a matter where one is on the rack, one is off (deadlifts, chins, cleans, rows, etc.) You would have your storage, no safety issues, and no rack in the middle of your space (which will make your garage feel much smaller). Just seems better. But hey that’s just advice, your wife may disagree – in which case I’m wrong =p
You’re a very wise man. I’m going to stick with your advice and keep my original setup. I think what you said makes a lot of sense. Too many compromises and there’s no guarantee that she’ll stick with it lol. Thanks again.
I used to think Rogue was too expensive and perhaps even overpriced, but I soon learned that it is actually reasonably priced. Aside from the inherent ‘pride of ownership’ that comes from purchasing something forged of American metal and created in Ohio, Rogue’s Infinity & Monster Lite series power & half racks, in particular, are like commercial grade at pro-sumer prices.
Thanks to your website, I am presently hell bent on adding either a Rogue SML-2, HR-2, converting a SML-2 to a HR-2 over time or some other Monster Lite series power rack (personal preference) to my garage gym. I’m so glad that I did not prematurely pull the trigger on a used, thin gauge, all-in-one, weight lifting solution before visiting your website and getting up to speed on garage gym gear.
That said, does anyone know who Dick’s is using to build their heavy gauge Ethos power rack? I saw a red-colored power rack in a local Dick’s store the other day that looked very beefy for a box store product – it caught me off-guard, to be honest. Granted, it lacked westside holes, etc., etc. Just curious…
I have some grandiose plans that involve starting with a Rogue SML-2C squat stand and then through a series of carefully-planned upgrades, end-up with a custom RML-690C, only with a slightly smaller footprint (72.5″ deep vs. RML-690C’s 76” depth) and also have it use a U-shaped, flat foot-style, base (no bolting to garage floor required!)
NOTE: the aforementioned 72.5″ deep dimension is derived from combining my proposed overall power rack design’s dimension of 50″ with an additional 22.5″ of “mounting foot rail” extending beyond the front edge of the uprights (see details further below.)
Versus the RML-690 design, you gain additional stability and recoup almost 2 feet of space (when no optional accessories, like spotter arms, are attached to the front uprights.) This could be the difference of a car door opening or not in some garages.
____________
To get a clearer vision of what I’m talking about,
take a RML-390F, but w/ 24” depth option, like the RML-390BT.
Then add the 17″ deep, ML-series HR-2 Kit (90” Height option)
tacked-on the back (for added stability & plate storage purposes)
Then add a flat-footed type base – essentially, this is the base that
the SML-2 squat stand employs, only with longer ‘rails,’ while still
using the same connecting piece that comes with a SML-2 or HR-2.
The result should resemble the look of a RML-690C,
but instead, will only be 50” deep, 49” wide, & 90” tall,
have 22.5″ protruding front legs (like the SML-2C or HR-2 stands)
allowing for safe use of Spotter Arms, ML-series Lever Arms, etc.
(yes, I do realize that with a power rack design, that spotter arms
are unnecessary, but I like options!)
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I am still running the figures to see how this would compare vs. ordering a normal RML-690C, price-wise. I came up with this multi-stage design late one evening and for some reason, I seem to think this custom approach could potentially end-up being cheaper, even if assembled over time (through multiple purchases), while gaining the benefit of not having to be bolted-down, and with a smaller footprint.
Granted, there is a threshold where getting everything at once
may result in a smaller one-time shipping fee. We’ll see!
Being completely honest, a Rogue SML-2C with spotter arms is more than adequate for my needs, but it’s good to have a expansion plan, right?
Yikes. They have so many racks and you want to build your own! I mean it is all modular and if it saves space while giving you access to everything you want then yeah, go for it. The biggest hurdle is what you said – potential price. Rogue components are generally priced the same whether they are part of a bigger unit, or sold alone, but that’s not true 100% of the time, and yes you will pay for shipping each time you order more components. I guess so long as every stage is still functional then it’s okay. I sure wouldn’t want to build something out over time if it meant I couldn’t use it.
The only thing I’m not seeing here though is where to get the longer rail to accommodate the add-on and 22.5″ front extension. You plan to acquire this yourself, or ask Rogue to cut one custom for you?
I would first ask Rogue if it was an option.
As a backup plan, I figured I could take a rail from the SML-2C to a local fabricator.
I just took some measurements in my garage after I posted this “grand-plan.”
I do have enough room to pull it off, but it would be quite large, of course, and real close to ‘missing the point,’ if you know what I mean.
The Rogue HR-2 half rack configuration is really sweet.
Super practical, small footprint. Heck, you even stated if you were to do it all over again, you would have went with the HR-2 from the get-go, right?
However, I still feel the need to customize. I think it is in our DNA.
From what I can gather, the Rogue HR-2 half rack (or HR-2 kit) does not use a normal,
Rogue 24″ crossmember, but instead, uses a 17″ connecting piece w/ Rogue logo.
I believe that this has been asked on your site before (24″ vs. 30″ squat area depth)
but would someone 5′ 10″ even be able to squat inside the HR-2’s 17” cage?
I’m guessing that while 24″ is possible, 17″ is pushing it. And if the rear uprights are being used to hold plates, those could possibly encroach on your squating space in either case, as you have mentioned earlier.
That said, perhaps I should investigate a creating a ‘slightly customized variation’ of the HR-2 kit for the SML-2C. Here’s what I mean –
It does not appear that the Rogue website allows you to order the XML-30, 30″ ML series crossmember, but they do offer a XML-24, 24″ ML series crossmember pair for $92.00.
I’d also want two, 90″ height 3×3 ML series uprights and the related HR-2 conversion kit hardware (minus the 17″ Rogue logo’d connecting pieces, if possible.)
This way, I could eventually update the SML-2C and have a HR-2 Half Rack that has a 24″ squat area depth and four, 90” uprights (92″ once placed on top of a custom length, longer foot rail, of course.)
Another crossmember (XML-43, X-43) or another pull-up bar (X-431, X-432, X-433) could be used to connect the 2 rear uprights to provide a suitable mounting point for a DIY, Spud-style, pulley set-up that would generally remain “out of the way” when not in use.
Having the 24″ pair of crossmembers (and four equal height uprights) could also allow for a X-43M Multi-Grip Crossmember to connect the 24″ crossmember pairs, I believe.
NEWSFLASH –
I must need sleep.
I’ve been down this road before, as I just recalled that the SML-2C can also be upgraded to the RML-390F and that upgrade kit includes –
– (2) Monster Lite 90″ Uprights
– (1) XML-30″ Crossmember Pair
– (1) 30″ Pin/ Pipe Safety System
– All additional hardware required
All I would need then is two custom (longer length) foot ‘rails’ to get the desired, custom HR-2 Half Rack configuration (using the SML-2C as a starting point) with the added bonus of now obtaining the seemingly ‘Rogue-website elusive’ XML-30, 30” crossmember pair that’s included with the RML-390F kit. The custom (longer length) foot rails should allow safe use of safety spotter arms.
I wonder if the RML-390F Conversion Kit can be ordered in a custom color…
(since I plan on ordering the SML-2C to begin with)
Too funny!
The slightly customized ‘half rack’ configuration
(that I just arrived at in my previous comment) –
SML-2C Squat Rack + RML-390F Conversion Kit
plus custom (longer length) foot ‘rails’ is merely a
30″ deep, non-bolt-down, Monster Lite version
of your most recent Rogue rack configuration!
(a 24″ deep, bolted-down, Infinity series R3 half rack)
Zzzzzzzzzz…..
Yeah I would have done the HR-2.
You can squat within the HR-2, but only if you don’t use the rear uprights for anything at all. It’s pointless to own an HR-2 if you want to squat inside of it really. Even with the R3 at 24″ deep, if you were to load up one side with storage you’d make the rack practically useless. You just don’t want to restrict your ability to move by having stored weights consuming a pretty large portion of the available space.
So any part you can find on that site can be ordered, but in a lot of cases you have to call in that order. That site would be unmanageable with every component listed as product.
A few thoughts from someone you didn’t ask, but someone who has considered a lot of alternative options as well….
I have seen a modified HR-2 with an extra set of uprights on the front, turning the squat stand into a full rack (still with the storage on back).
I would say you could also order a custom RML-690 with either two 24″ depths or one 30″ depth and one 24″ depth, and have a much smaller footprint than the RML-690. Also, with the storage on back, you would certainly not need to bolt it down (and it would be very stable).
I am a former SML-1 owner, and now own a 100″ tall RML-690. It’s great. Not sure that I’d ever want for anything else; however, there are days that I wish I would’ve just bought an R-3, bolted it down to a platform or the concrete, and then picked up a plate tree. King racks are awesome for different reasons, but if space is a premium in your garage, I think over time you may come to regret skipping over the simpler options (ie. R-3, HR-2, etc.).
YMMV!
jordan
I think it is worth saying that between an R-3 and HR-2, I’d take the R-3 every day. Yes, you will need to bolt it down. But, there are some many other advantages (can be used as full or half rack with storage, multiple options for pull up bars, comes with safeties already, basically the same price, etc.).
I am a classic example of someone starting with a simple squat stand that wanted to grow from there (soon after getting it). My advice is to skip squat stands in general unless space is completely compromised. A full rack with give you many more advantages in the long run. People get hung up on bolting racks down, but its really not a big deal. You’re talking about a few 3/8″ holes in the ground, that’s it. Or use a platform…that works too.
I could talk racks all day long. Ha!
To reiterate, I would give the humble R-3 a long look. If you need more room, get the bolt-on version with a 30″ depth. And buy a plate tree for storage. If you HAVE to have on board storage, go with a custom length RML-690 (ie. 2 24″ depths, or one 30″, one 24″ depth). Try not to piece meal things together from an SML-2. It won’t be worth it in the end.
Short version: Sold my RML-6100 rack. Getting the plain jane R3.
There is a longer version available, but its not important. I think for my needs, the R3 will deliver perfectly.
One thing worth pointing out in your section regarding the Infinity vs. Monster Lite series is the difference between the width of the racks. For instance, the Monster Lite (being 3×3) takes away an extra inch on each side between the barbell collars and the outside edge of the j-cups. This isn’t a knockout punch….the sandwich j-cups are available (eliminating this problem); however, it is another added expense to the already more expensive Monster Lite line. Again, not a deal breaker; however, I have come to the conclusion that the humble Infinity line gets a lot of things “right” without having to accommodate for these kinds of issues.
I see a lot of racks not selling so that’s very good you moved yours. Congratulations. And you’re right, it’s tighter, but there’s a ton of space on the Infinity units. Like 2-3″ per side between outside of J-cups and barbell collar.
Thanks! Me too. To be frank, I was able to recoup 95% of what I paid for everything. I attribute that to having a non-standard rack (it was a Black Friday special with a few custom features), and saving a bunch of money on shipping, sales, etc. on Black Friday.
Probably going to wait for Black Friday again before doing another big order. I have enough stuff at home to keep me going until then. Will probably get an R-3, Matador, B&R 2.0 bar, Plate tree, Butcher/Prowler, and a few bands.
As an aside, do you have the SS Lat Pulldown bar? Any thoughts? I am thinking of adding a lat pulldown setup as well. Or other brands, options?
I have American Barbell’s aluminum lat bar, and it almost never gets used. Rogue’s is super nice, and if it had been out at the time that I got the AB I might have gone that route. I do use the parallel row handle and tricep attachments, just not the wide pull-down stuff.
Just got an R3 rack. How far from the wall should it be mounted. I only want to bolt it to the floor once. Thank you.
Technically it only needs to be far enough away from the wall for the plates on the bar while it’s in the J-cups to not hit the wall. If you ever intend to put a storage horn anywhere on that rear upright you’ll have to account for that change in plate distance as well – which should only be about another 1.5 or 2″. You can come further away still if you feel like you’re going to knock your head against the wall getting under the bar for squats.
Hi I been thinking too much if I should replace my x-2 tall rack with dip station, pulley system, multi grip pull up bar and hamstring attachment for a wall mount foldable rack, r3 or hr2? The one that I have serves me well for what me and son do, iand he lifts heavy. ts a little wobbly cause I did not bolt it down right but it works good. Iam rearanging things in my 3 car garage so thats why I been thinking about upgrading to a new rack since iam gonna unbolt it from concrete. The only thing I don’t like is that pulley cables get in the way sometimes and also have to use this attachment to load plates to do lat pull downs..
Even though I have the space I would like something that is a space saver. I like my space:)
Thats why I was thinking about a foldable rack but rogue told me spotter arms are not recomended for wall racks, does not have pegs to add band workouts:( or can’t do rack pulls. They look really cool but I don’t know??
My son likes the foldable rack cause its open. He hates the one we have right now cause have to take barbell at an angle everytime. I been looking at the hr2 cause is open and eventhough it has the same footprint as my x-2 it looks like there is more space with the HR2, maybe cause it open and the uprigjts sit way back on the feet?. I Don’t need the storage since I already have the pegs that go on wall. I can always sell them though.
If I get r3 my son told me we will be downgrading cauese we will be loosing the lat down pulley system which we use all the time for some of the workouts we do.
I know u can’t compare x-2 quality to rogue but he does has a point. So if I upgrade from x-2 rack I want something nice that does not take a lot of space, with pegs for bands and also do rack pulls if possible. I will be buying a compact lat pull down machine on the side. I like powertec.
I’m a huge fan of half racks… the HR-2, Monster Collegiate, or even Rep’s HR-5000. You get the spotters, the storage (so easy to load/unload weight from onboard storage posts), band pegs on most of them, and still not a lot of space. Honestly if you have a 3-car garage and a half rack seems like it’s taking up too much space, you may just be overly particular about your space. Though having said that, another alternative is a slim, wall-mounted rack (as opposed to folding). It attaches to your wall and floor and can handle spotters. You won’t have band pegs or multi-grip bars, but they take up just barely more space than a folding rack (I think Vulcan has a slim rack with different crossmember length options; maybe even in stock.)
I’d kill for another bay in my garage lol. Commit just one full bay of the three you have to the gym and you don’t have to worry about trying to squeeze everything into a single piece. Get an independent lat/row station and park that bad boy next to your rack and forget all that plate-loaded cable bull =p