TITAN T2 and dip vs Rogue SM1 Squat stand [Article, Video]
This is a comparison between the TITAN T2 power 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"
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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 T2 and dip
The TITAN T2 and dip will put you back about $300 - $350. TITAN is well known for their very good prices compared to their competition and will get you started on your home gym. This review was originally posted in “which Titan rack to buy for under $500”
Overview of the T2 and dip
The T2 comes with 2x2 steel tubes and distinguished itself from the X2 line by having fewer extras straight out of the box. You will have fewer pull-up bars and less convenience on the uprights. The money saved for this can be put towards a bench as in this package. This version also includes a dip installment at the front. The features and specifics of this package are:
Rack details:
- Capacity: 700 lbs
- 1" round steel j-hooks
- T-2 Series (2"x2" steel tubes)
- Package includes 1 pair of dip bars
- Chin up bar: 1 1/4" diameter
- Installation instructions
- Weight: 107 lb
- Height: 83"
- Height of pull up bar: 80"
- Opening: 44"
- Depth: 48"
- Inside front to back bar: 26"
- Floor space: 48" x 48"
- Material: Steel
The main difference to most other is the included dip bars.
Pros of the T2 dip bar
The price of the T2 is one of its main pros. You will be hard-pressed to find as much metal for a rack including a dip bar for the same price in the market. Especially if it is new.
Cons of the T2 dip bar
The dip bar can obstruct access to the rack itself. You will also not be able to use the front to have two athletes squat in parallel on the same rack. This might not be ideal, especially in high school and college setups strapped for cash.
Alternatives to the T2 dip bar
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X2 and incline combo
The T3 uses a folding concept but with 2x3 steel tubes to be stored against the wall when you don’t use it.
The X2 is one of the cheapest series in the TITAN line up. With its 2x2 steel tubes, it uses the least material to build a rack. If you want to downsize on all ends to fit a bench and rack into $500 budget comfortably, this is for you.
Summary of the T2 dip bar
If you care about a dip bar, this is the rack. Otherwise, you might as well save the money for more plates or a bench.
