All of the equipment that I purchased through Dumbbells Direct were at a higher grade than at most gyms I've worked out at over the past 40 years. I was very particular about the equipment I was purchasing and Steve was very knowledgeable and quickly did the research with his suppliers to answer all of the questions that he could not answer immediately. The following is a list of all the equipment I purchased and my review of it.
1. Troy Pro Style Black Dumbbells with Rubber End Caps 5-100lbs - these are of a very high grade and are better quality and more accurate weight than most gyms I've worked out in. The rubber endplates are excellent when lifting above your head or over your face. I have had chrome chips flake off of some dumbells at gyms I have worked out at. These came completely assembled and ready to use. The finish and workmanship is excellent.
2. Troy 3 Tier 15 Pair Dumbbell Saddle Rack - very sturdy top off the line rack. We use it for 30-100 lb dumbells.
3. Troy Vertical 8 Pair Dumbbell Rack - we purchased this rack to hold the 5-25 lb dumbbells in our set. It was designed to hold 8 pairs of hex dumbbells which are smaller diameter than the circular plate dumbbells we purchased. This rack will only hold 4 sets using every other rack space so we use it to hold the 10-25 lb dumbbells. Would not recommend trying to use it for any circular plate dumbbells greater than 25 lbs.
4. Troy Commercial Adjustable FID Bench - this is the best adjustable bench I have ever used. It's sliding seat feature allows you to eliminate the gap between the seat and the back pads while using as a flat bench. This feature allows you to slide the seat forward and adjust the back in multiple increments from horizontal to vertical. It is slightly wider and taller than most benches I have used, but after getting used to it I feel more comfortable using heavy dumbbells on this bench than on any other bench I've used.
5. 2 x 25lb Gray Cast Iron Olympic Plates - these are top of the line steel plates and have been machined well to eliminate sharp edges and flashing. The have also been coated to avoid oxidation and rust.
6. Troy Olympic Super Curl Bar - this bar is very heavy duty, the gnarling is perfect and the bends are very comfortable for bicep, triceps, and forearm work. The bearings are commercial grade and I expect them to last forever.
7. Troy 48" Lat Bar Cable Attachment - this is the perfect width and bend for both front and back lat work, both wide and close grip.
Thank you Steve for helping me find exactly what I was looking for and keeping in touch with me while the equipment was being delivered to make sure everything was exactly as I requested. You're very responsive and were able to find exactly what I wanted and at the best deal I could find anywhere.
