REP fitness PR-1050 rack vs Rogue SM1 squat stand

This is a comparison between the Rep Fitness PR-1050 rack and the Rogue SM1 squat stand. Follow the links for more details.

Rogue SM1 Squat Stand

The Rogue SM1 squat stand comes in at $595 and is one of the low-range options for under $1000 from Rogue. Learn more in this review which was originally published in the Article "Which Rack to buy from Rogue for under $1000".

Overview of the SM1

The SM1 is the smallest of the Monster series Squat stands and does not include a pull-up bar. It comes in black and is manufactured in Columbus, Ohio. This stand bridges the gap between power racks and squat stands and can be built into a full rack over time if you have the funds available. It has the flat foot design, which enables you to use it without bolting it to the floor.

The SM1 is 73'' high and has a footprint of 50''x54''. The steel notes are 3x3'' 11 gauge steel. Based on this the SM1 is fully compatible with Rogues' Monster series and accessories. The delivery includes J Cups and has a weight capacity up to 1000LB.

If you want a simple squat stand which is built like a tank, this is the option for you.

Pros of the SM1

The SM1 is made from the most sturdy design you can get in the market. This stand won't break on you and is built like a rack. If you want the best from the lowest price range of Rogue, this is the one to go for.

Cons of the SM1

Squat stands are great for weightlifting. When it comes to powerlifting buying one might be false economy thinking. For the bench press, you will need spotter arms to train by yourself. Adding these to the price tag brings the squat stand price including the arms in the range of a rack. Then you might as well get a rack and save yourself the hassle.

Alternatives to the SM1

Alternatives to the SM1 are:

The SM2 and SM3 are variations of the Monster squat stand which come with a pull-up bar. The SM2 has a height of 103'' while the SM3 is around 108''. Depending on your needs these might be a better option to cover all the exercises you want to do.

The RML3WC is a foldable rack at roughly the same price as the SM1 which can be bolted to the wall. As a nice extra, it also can be folded in. This way you have more options to transform small spaces based on your needs.

Overview and review of the REP fitness PR-1050 rack

This is an overview of the REP fitness PR-1050 rack including the pros, cons, and alternatives. This article was originally posted in which rack to buy from REP Fitness. Follow the links for more information.

Overview of the REP PR-1050 Rack $269

The REP PR-1050 is a short version of the REP PR-1000. I am a big fan of the design of the REP PR-1000 for a small budget as it takes care of a pull up bar, plate storage, and safeties including a rack for under $300. The same goes for the PR-1050. Some of the specifications of the PR-1050 are:

72"(height) x 48"(width) x 48"(depth) - 58" wide at rear bottom brace
26" depth inside to inside, 44" wide inside to inside
2x2" steel
Plastic lined j-cups to protect bar knurl
2" hole spacing throughout working area
1.25" and 2" Pull up bars
Numbered uprights every 5th hole
Extra bar holders on the front of safeties, great for pressing outside the rack
2 Weight horns on rear base for storage and added stability
700lb weight capacity
400lb pull up bar capacity
400lb dip attachment capacity (dip attachment available as an optional upgrade)

This is a good beginner rack or something for the occasional lifter which is compact, easy to purchase, and easy on the budget. If you are serious about your home gym you might feel that this is a little flimsy and cheap in the long run.

Pros of the REP PR-1050 Rack

The pros of the REP PR-1050 are:

All in one design
Price
Short design

If you are looking for something simple and somewhat solid look no further. The PR-1050 gives you everything you need in a good package for a reasonable price. If you are a beginner or low-weight lifter this rack might as well be everything you need.

Cons of the REP PR-1050 Rack

The cons of the REP PR-1050 are:

700lbs capacity limit
Limited upgrade options
Not ideal for the west side method
Imported

This rack is not for powerlifting pros and anyone who works with bands and chains in the range of 400lbs or more. You cannot bolt it to the ground and it does not weigh a lot. So if you are a seasoned strength athlete that weighs more than 100kg, this becomes a toy even if it can take 700lbs. For this scenario go for the Omni rack or PR-5000.

Alternatives to the REP PR-1050 Rack

The alternatives to the REP PR-1050 rack are:

The REP PR 1000 is a taller version of the PR-1050 which allows you to have more freedom for overhead presses and pull-ups of the height of your ceiling lats along. The PR-1100 give you choice of color and a multi-grip pull-up bar but strips the plate storage at the back for the same price.

The Rogue HR2 is a solid half-rack from Rogue Fitness that is based on the Monster Lite series and very popular on Marathon-Crossfit.com . One of the biggest advantages of this rack is that it provides a lot of plate storage. It also makes you part of the Rogue Monster lite ecosystem which might be a better investment long term than the low level REP fitness ranges.

The TITAN T2 rack is the low price range of a low price competitor. If maximum savings is what you are after than this the right rack at the cost of the risk of minor quality issues.

Conclusion for the REP PR-1050 Rack

If you think that the PR-1000 is a great idea but you are worried about it fitting into your basement or attic, than this is a great option. If you have the space, go for the PR-1000 instead.