The Right Rack - Rogue Monster Half Rack

This video we take a look at our last rack under consideration, the Rogue Monster Half Rack. I think this is the route most people think I would go, knowing how much I liked my old Rogue rack, but after hearing my thoughts on it, do you still think it's the one I pick?
What to Look For:
• The Right Rack - What ...
Rep Fitness HR-5000:
• The Right Rack - Rep F...
Sorinex XL Half Rack:
• The Right Rack - Sorin...
Rogue Monster Half Rack:
• The Right Rack - Rogue...
The Rack I Picked:
• The Right Rack - The D... The Rack Has Arrived:
Check Out My Rack:
• The Right Rack - Check...
Social Links:
Instagram: / basementbrandon
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#gym #powerlifting #homegym #garagegym

[@marcperry18]

Love your videos. Thanks for all the insight

[@BasementBrandon]

I appreciate that!

[@RZFitnessTV]

Thanks for posting this during my recovery ⏰🤕🙂

[@BasementBrandon]

Hope you can see it. Get well soon dude

[@tony72tony72]

So, you went with Elitefts. Wise choice.

[@bmstylee]

The shipping is less than Sorinex.

[@BasementBrandon]

Didn't have anything that met my search criteria!

[@tony72tony72]

Really, even with a custom set up?

[@railfan8895]

I know Rogue says 10-14 days lead time on their racks. I ordered one, in custom colors, on a Sunday night. It shipped the next day. It took less than a week to get to me in California.

[@BasementBrandon]

awesome!

[@kirktitgen6395]

We are screwed. He bought Titan. :(

[@BasementBrandon]

If the Titan rack (the 1" hole version came in shorter than 100" I might have!

[@michaelwoodruff7867]

Both Rogue and Sorinex half racks have gone up almost $300 to $400 since these videos were released. Rep fitness has stayed the same.

[@BasementBrandon]

Looks like I got a better deal then!

[@fko1]

From watching all your home gym videos and some other review videos, if I did a home gym build, I would go with a Rogue ML rack with safety straps, a Rogue boneyard Ohio Power Bar, a set of Strong Arm Sport calibrated plates, the Rogue adjustable bench and a self built DL platform and those power block dumbbells

[@patrickmurphy8008]

I definitely would not get calibrated plates unless you plan to compete, much more expensive. I'd go with machined steel plates from someone like rogue. Within 2% accuracy, pretty, relatively cheap. Also the plates you're talking about arent IPF approved which makes calibrated a less trustworthy claim.

[@fko1]

Patrick Murphy I do compete in the USAPL

[@patrickmurphy8008]

@@fko1 ah. Makes more sense then, but calibrated plates by a small company that arent ipf approved is sketchy imho.

[@strawberryyogurt0]

@Patrick Murphy .... from Strongarmsport’s website: "StrongArm plates are not on the IPF approved list (not yet at least), but only because we did not want to pay the enormous fees the IPF wants for this. They ARE made to IPF specifications for calibrated weight, dimensions and colors (by the same factory as a well known brand that is IPF approved)."

[@BasementBrandon]

ah they are literally the same plate just instead of where it says rogue, it says strongarmsport. They don't have the IPF stickers obviously, but otherwise identical!

[@flyzipper]

I know your old rack was a custom colour, but that feature (to use your term) is a push overall (pro for your enjoyment, but potential con for resale... black is widely appealing).

[@BasementBrandon]

Hmm that's an interesting take!

[@Pler1978]

My rogue monster half rack being delivered tomorrow. Ordered extra set of weight storage pins, the utility seat, spotter arms, rotating Chin bar, no rogue dip bars as black widow is making two piece knurled dip bars with uhmw for my rack, landmine, forgot rest of attachments.

[@BasementBrandon]

I know this has already happened, but still awesome!

[@666dram]

I know you already purchased the rack. I have a Rogue Monster RM-4 Fortis. Also Free shipping. It is 90" tall and 43" deep. Welded panels and comes with pin and pipe safety. I added an extension to the back for storage 30" deep. Best way to save some cash.

[@BasementBrandon]

I considered the Fortis RM3 but convinced myself it was worth it not to get welded panels, not sure if it'll pan out, but they're def contenders.

[@terrydavis3542]

If you have the room at the back of the rack, put your plate storage facing the rear, freeing up the space inside the rack.

[@BasementBrandon]

That might work, but you'd still hit the plates

[@ImSpearzy]

He went sorinex cause its obvious that he isnt shy with his money and went through the trouble of having a rep do up his invoice and had it all put together!

[@BasementBrandon]

You'll find out shortly!

[@jayceanderson3331]

Was wondering what Upgrade I should go with. I have the SML-2 squat rack right now and was debating on upgrading it to an hr-2 half-rack or rml-390f flat foot rack (Power rack).

[@BasementBrandon]

Personally I prefer to lift in a rack if possible.

[@Pler1978]

Have you seen anything about the... Rotating chin up bar.? Looks pretty cool and looks like based on the design that it would act as a better stabilizer than a typical rack...

[@BasementBrandon]

Just pictures but haven't even heard 2nd hand feedback.

[@justtraining4702]

I’m still sticking Rogue. The need for a temporary setup (18 mo.) & the resale ability has value.

[@BasementBrandon]

Could be!

[@justtraining4702]

Could we expect part 5 of the series today? It’s rather captivating!

[@jeffreybabino1411]

Great video thanks

[@BasementBrandon]

No problem 👍

[@JasonLeeno]

I’m still thinking Rep fitness. You’ve always been that guy to only consider quality, and the best bang for its buck, not just the glammer.

[@BasementBrandon]

I just have a hard time putting that much money into what’s known as a budget brand. It’s like dropping $50k on a Kia or Hyundai.

[@JasonLeeno]

Brandon Campbell Diamond Bro....I drive a Hyundai lol

[@BasementBrandon]

JasonLeeno an Equus?

[@JasonLeeno]

Brandon Campbell Diamond Elantra

[@BasementBrandon]

My point exactly!

[@patrickmurphy8008]

Did you check out the rogue monster fortis? It looks so affordable for a monster and without really any drawbacks besides no color options. It has 30 or 43 inch depth, comes with safeties, and is under 1 grand for both depth sizes.

[@BasementBrandon]

Patrick Murphy I did consider it but worried if I got welded panels I may miss out on certain accessories potential.

[@patrickmurphy8008]

@@BasementBrandon I actually didnt even realize that could be a problem. I'm looking for a rack to replace my cheap off brand one now that I've become stronger, and we have a lot of similar boxes to tick. I'm leaning more towards the Fortis 30" simply to have straps and the monster niceties at a cheaper price. I dont feel very comfortable doing 1RM squats with only spotter arms, though that is probably unfounded.

[@BasementBrandon]

Patrick Murphy makes complete sense and if you don’t care about colors, the Fortis is prob the way to go.

[@Pler1978]

@@patrickmurphy8008 not an issue at all. I have the rogue monster half half rack... Now I many convert to an rm6 with 30 inches inside and the front feet but it's not because of safety or anything like that.

[@crob2184]

I like the REP but resale and height are not issues for me. After seeing this I might even get one. Hope u like what you get.

[@BasementBrandon]

I've heard almost all good things about the racks outside of one person who got one with a very bad powder coat and beat up boxes.

[@MrDorodongo]

Brandon, I don;’t know what camera you’re using, but if you can, try playing around with your shutter angle setting if it has one, to phase out the flicker on your face caused by the light form your computer monitor. 144 degrees or 172.8 degrees will likely knock it out. On some cameras it will be a shutter speed setting, and you will have to experiment to see what SS knocks out the flicker. Other than that, thanks for the informative videos!

[@BasementBrandon]

Yeah it was easier when I used a GH5 and could just change the degee to fix it. On the current one it's just shutter speed and I haven't bothered to change lol

[@Indylawguitar]

Did you ever consider the Rogue HR-2 Half Rack from the Monster Lite Series? It seems like that would have fit your needs and it is quite a bit cheaper.

[@BasementBrandon]

I really wanted 1” hardware for this one. So the RML series was out!

[@dlroto]

Brandon Campbell Diamond if you stuck with the monster lite, you would already have all the accessories. One more thing, are you going to sell your custom j cups???

[@Pler1978]

@@dlroto I think Brandon probably realized that if he stick with the rml he could have used the rml attachments he had before... He mentioned several times 1 inch hardware was part of his criteria.

[@Indylawguitar]

@@BasementBrandon Ahh, I see. I overlooked that fact. Thanks.

[@BasementBrandon]

Yeah I would have just taken off the plate storage so it would fit, basically making it a RML 490!

[@garagegymfanatics]

In My Opinion, if Resale Value is a concern Rogue is always going to win. I've been flipping for years and Rogue Fitness is the only brand that keeps most of its value, Sorinex will keep some value but not as much as Rogue products. Also, Rogue Fitness has the best customer service in my opinion Rogue has literally sent out replacement pads for their benches to people I've flipped a bench too ( so basically a third owner). However, I have to say I think Rep Fitness Rack offers the best rack not only for the price ( Flat Floor Band Pegs and Upper Band Pegs.

[@BasementBrandon]

I think it depends on who’s buying. Average consumer Rogue all day bc it’s more name brand. If it’s to a person who knows what they’re getting, they might even pay more since they don’t come up as often (in my experience). I agree the Rep offers some fantastic value, but my biggest concern is that it’s be the equivalent of paying $50k for a Hyundai.

[@Pler1978]

@@BasementBrandon rogue for resale for sure...

[@tony72tony72]

@@BasementBrandon so you purchased a genisys also

[@Pler1978]

Don't see alot of value for the upper bands... And so few attachments on the rep.

[@jesuscerdaorozco9097]

I currently own a Rogue SM-2 and am wondering if I could buy some uprights & crossmembers to convert it into a halfrack or maybe even a full rack. I know they have the HR-2 kits, but I believe those are only for the ML version.

[@BasementBrandon]

You could prob make a RM 390F. Would have to contact them and buy 2 more uprights and the other pieces.

[@Magnus-pm7ic]

They have a hr-2 conversion kit available for the sm-2

[@rodrigoalonso9196]

I thought you posted a story on IG that showed you already bought one. And judging by the font on the website thought it was rogue. Unless you bought something else from them.

[@BasementBrandon]

I needed to buy weights too :)

[@pmart1023]

Many tips in this video... will be definitely Rogue, but a 30'' depth power rack. Similar base price with safeties included. Lower footprint. Greater customisation. All the pro's are pointing to that.

[@BasementBrandon]

Some strong detective work

[@pmart1023]

Brandon Campbell Diamond I made a similar analysis last year, but in Europe I had way less quality options. Also ended with a rogue power rack instead of the half rack. All these years watching your videos makes the job of reading you more easy 😉

[@everetthymel864]

Milking tf outta this.... I fw it😂😂

[@BasementBrandon]

lol like I said in the first video I tried to do it in one video but it was way too long and lacked enough context still.

[@damiensmith8351]

Who would pay $100 less for something 4/5 years old rather than buy new with a warranty? Some crazy humans out there!

[@Pler1978]

There are a lot of cheap ass folks.

[@BasementBrandon]

You have to factor in shipping and tax adds a few hundred.

[@FranBaske4595]

Is there a reason you did not consider bells of steel? Just wondering since its my top choice for my future home gym

[@Pler1978]

It's a low budget rack and brand.

[@BasementBrandon]

Francisco Gonzalez didn’t really fit into my criteria of what I was looking for on this build. Good budget pick however!

[@FranBaske4595]

Not even the brute rack?

[@BasementBrandon]

Francisco Gonzalez yes. It’s 2.3x2.3 tubings which means you’re also likely stuck using only their attachments and it’s not 1” hardware

[@Pler1978]

@@FranBaske4595 all their stuff is cheap... Compared to the other racks he discussed.

[@docz313]

Give the people what they want! A review of chalk holders! Lol

[@BasementBrandon]

Have to start using chalk first!

[@docz313]

Brandon Campbell Diamond i knew you were natty. Lol. Good shit man. Love your channel

[@Pler1978]

Got a the rogue stand to review... Too lazy to review but it's about as cool as a chalk stand can get. Has some useful hooks for collars and stuff. Very well made

[@brucemackenzie4952]

Option now has 90” which I bought and 30” deep perfect.

[@BasementBrandon]

nice!

[@itzbuffxcsgoandmore4573]

Are you going to buy the repfitness zero-gap bench?

[@BasementBrandon]

If I didn't already have a zero gap bench from rogue I'd consider it.

[@Pler1978]

Good to know that rogue is willing to cut the front. Wonder if that would make the slinger usable? Rogue did tell me That 100 inch rack is ideal for the slinger though. Big fan of rogue and as far as the shipping comments agreed. I've likely based on your videos spent more Than you have on rogue and have noticed the same. Hoep you went with the monster...

[@Pler1978]

Forgot to say that rogue told me that the angled uprights prevents slinger from being used.

[@BasementBrandon]

It’s more they just swap out the uprights from the 90” monster rack. So in essence it becomes like a RM-2.5 since it’s 24” deep vs the 30” RM-3!

[@Pler1978]

@@BasementBrandon no I know don't care that they just had to swap out... Same end result... Im actually suprised that rogue doesnt make it very well known how much they can change stuff out...like rm6 they will make 30 but don't say that anywhere. For a long time didn't realize they sold colored J cups... Don't care that it's just black for the monster half... Like to keep it all black so as not to trigger my ocd... I don't think can ever go wrong with black for gym equipment.

[@Pler1978]

@@BasementBrandon any idea about the slinger?

[@BasementBrandon]

martyjanderson yes it would work as I asked that too 😝

[@dho11]

I really dont get why you would not consider a single rack - something like the rml-390c - 30 inch inside the box squats, safeties etc, can do anything you can do with the half and its similar footprint. Meets all of your requirements and compares well, lots of attachments (monster light attachments are cheaper too), color etc.

[@Pler1978]

I have rml it's an OK rack but wish I had gone with monster. Rml 390 is the worst rack they sell since can't add weight storage without turning into a half rack

[@dho11]

@@Pler1978 True for all single racks (whether its a monster or monster light or Sorinex) but that's a sacrifice of limited space - just get a weight tree or two. With a half-rack you sacrifice working in the box altogether. That's way more important to me than weight storage on the rack. Maybe cause I'm old.

[@BasementBrandon]

The biggest thing is that it uses 5/8" hardware and I really wanted 1" this build. But you may be on to something ;)

[@reidbarden755]

Been saying it since yesterday. He went with sorinex

[@Doing_It_Wrong]

He already has it. Definitely not Sorinex.

[@BasementBrandon]

Could be.

[@Fitforacting]

What are your thoughts on PowerTec Rack?

[@BasementBrandon]

I think there are better options in their price range. My biggest issues with racks like that is that you typically get lower grade steel and lower weight limits.

[@Pler1978]

Id avoid powertec...

[@bmstylee]

How about the Titax rack that seems to be every other commercial I see on KZbin.

[@BasementBrandon]

Interesting I haven't seen any. Maybe you're searching for "racks" too much :)

[@Gonzalez956]

Watching this cause I’m thinking of ordering and wow the price was 1,100, right now it’s at 1,600😢

[@BasementBrandon]

those pre covid prices!

[@JoeyAme]

I don’t think you mentioned the hole pattern for all the racks you talked about. I believe Rogue and Rep stagger the holes and Sorinex all four sides the holes match up. Accessory compatibility might be a problem.

[@BasementBrandon]

I actually think staggering makes more sense. That way you don’t run the issue of having bolts hit each other.

[@JoeyAme]

Brandon Campbell Diamond I think that’s why Rogue uses that hole pattern, but I feel like Sorinex accessories won’t be compatible.

[@BasementBrandon]

ADLT SWM I don’t know of any that would use front and side holes at the same time so it shouldn’t be an issue.

[@JoeyAme]

Brandon Campbell Diamond most of their attachments look cross compatible but looks like the safety spotters and monolifts are designed for their hole pattern.

[@Pler1978]

@@BasementBrandon doesn't really matter sorinex doesnt make any attachments that rogue doesn't make outside of their very janky "neck machine" attachment which is downright embarrassing and pathetic.

[@jeffreybabino1411]

Hi how strong is the rogue fitness half rack thanks

[@BasementBrandon]

Stronger than any of us!

[@derrickg5612]

Can you get one with a cup holder?

[@flicmydik]

With a straw attachment

[@BasementBrandon]

Derrick G prob hack a jcup into one

[@blackblaze1996]

Blackwidow makes an attachment for that. Its only 300 dollars.

[@GeEked008]

For April fools you should make a video about getting a planet fitness membership

[@BasementBrandon]

lol, hopefully they have free pizza that day!

[@mice130]

I love a half rack

[@BasementBrandon]

don't we all!

[@AdrienBCaldwell]

I notice a recurring theme in your videos that you push reselling of these power racks and gym equipment. Just curious why you go this route? I'll be in the market to buy a rack and some equipment when we close on our new home. The goal for me is to love what I have and keep it for life (or use it until I run it into the ground), not sell it in a couple of years.

[@BasementBrandon]

Since gym equipment is so big and heavy, it's unlikely you'll be able to "try before you buy" in some instances. Some people also choose to upgrade items over time, or they find what they thought they wanted doesn't work out as well as they imagined. Also things change (living situations) so if you ever had to get rid of everything I think it's worth stating.

[@Pler1978]

Why aren't you going to keep this? Do you ultimately want a full rack?

[@BasementBrandon]

Space constraints right now that I won't have in the new place.

[@Pler1978]

So you ultimately believe that the full rack is more ideal if space is a concern? I have a pretty good setup in general but I want my next rack to be my last rack and my "dream rack...

[@BasementBrandon]

martyjanderson full rack is the best rack imo.

[@EatShytake]

I like rogue half racks. Works but pricing wise is questionable. I'd say Rogue

[@BasementBrandon]

Yeah kind of “average” in most of the categories I’m looking at!

[@zachmitchell5290]

Can the half rack pretty much do anything a full rack can?

[@BasementBrandon]

It's very hard to train inside a half rack. Check the video in the playlist where I talk about what rack I went with and I briefly discuss there.

[@zachmitchell5290]

I'm getting the Rogue R3 Power rack for my garage gym.. Can you use any name brand iron weight plates or is the Rogue weight plates the only plates to fit the barbell?

[@BasementBrandon]

Zach Mitchell as long as they’re Olympic plates you’re good to go!

[@dlroto]

Not sure why you need 1 inch hardware, the 5/8 stuff is pretty damn strong and much cheaper accessories for them. I love my rml-490

[@BasementBrandon]

dlroto 1” stuff is more beefy and usually finished nicer (including UHMW where they attach to the rack).

[@Pler1978]

@@BasementBrandon and laser cut numbers... The lined attachments a big plus.

[@robakkam]

@@BasementBrandon I wanted to ask exactly the same question. Does a person really need 1 inch hardware as than you loose west-side spacing on your rack. Isn't 5/8" more than enough in terms of strength and durability ?

[@BasementBrandon]

Kamil Robak I didn’t find it came into play too much for myself after initially thinking it would.

[@Pler1978]

@@robakkam 5/8 looks cheap and crappy compared to the 1inch hardware. Went to rm from rml... Rm far far nicer. The attachments are much nicer not just a bigger hole. The actual designs are different for many. Lined attachments are nice as well. My rml got scratched to hell rm none at all.

[@dewai]

This might be a dumb question but why a half rack if you generally want more space inside? The foot print is the same as a bigger rack. I know you're going to work outside it, but just curious why you went this route.

[@BasementBrandon]

Overall footprint up top is a concern. Garage has a lot of things hanging or that could get in the way.

[@flakey1228]

What about elitefts?

[@BasementBrandon]

Didn't have anything that met my search criteria.

[@airgordo4]

Just watching these videos it would seem to me that Sorinex would be someone’s last choice.. the cost of shipping good lord. And the fact that their accessories tend to cost a bit more, and then likely way too much for shipping on those as well.. yikes.. plus having to wait 2ish months to get it, not worth it. As for the color customization, I’m sure you could order whatever color rogue nameplate you wanted since they offer it in a number of colors, even if the uprights are limited to black.

[@BasementBrandon]

Sorinex can do some pretty awesome stuff (like customized name plates and more), but their price point isn't very appealing for the individual.

[@__-yw1hb]

im surprised there is nothing at elitefts

[@Pler1978]

They have a half rack but no one inch hardware and no 4 way design which he said in one of the videos he wanted I believe.

[@BasementBrandon]

Yeah they don't really have anything that fits what I'm looking for and their shipping sucks in most cases.

[@Hahner88]

Thought Reps half rack in black was $1149?

[@BasementBrandon]

I put text on the screen saying that I believe.

[@gregnoble8083]

Should have mentioned does it need to be bolted down

[@BasementBrandon]

The front feet make it stable enough!

[@Pler1978]

@@BasementBrandon the actual footprint with the way front feet stick out makes the footprint as big or bigger than many of their full racks from what I recall.

[@AB-ft7gg]

Brandon Campbell Diamond he knows this because he bought one already

[@BasementBrandon]

S E lol all the others use flat foot design so I think bc this one has raised feet there might be some concern.

[@BasementBrandon]

martyjanderson yeah it ends up being 62” according to the website

[@carlosruiz1234]

Just go with Rogue and let the force be with you.

[@BasementBrandon]

lol we will see

[@williammosher4953]

Are spotter arms safe

[@BasementBrandon]

William Mosher yes assuming you’re within their coverage area. Obviously a chance you drop it too far back depending on your squat walk out.

[@Pler1978]

Yes very safe. Used by tons of college football...as far as if big failure... Wouldn't really be any different than a full rack just woold have your floor... Bit certainly should never fall backwards outside blowing a knee out or heart attachk or stroke.

[@BrendanCBreen]

@@Pler1978 You edited your post and it's still that bad? I'm curious to see it before your edit.

[@Lifthead]

Brandon did you see that pathetic world record squat that got 3 white lights in the spf?

[@BasementBrandon]

The only thing worse were the bench and deadlifts lol

[@asvpab]

I probably would have joined a gym for 18 months tbh

[@BasementBrandon]

Would have been an awful decision with everything shutting down b/c of covid. :)

[@JLPerez90]

This series > Game of Thrones.

[@BasementBrandon]

More people die in this series.

[@jessegaskell]

Too bad you couldn't wait until Black Friday and get free shipping regardless.

[@bmstylee]

I am holding off until then to order my RML 690c to see if they have a shipping deals. Add in I am having some nagging knee injuries which will probably require a trip to a orthopedic I am hesitant pull the trigger on it. In time.

[@BasementBrandon]

Yeah true that!

[@Pler1978]

Their shipping is so cheap compared to comp... So its not that big deal... Though made my current order big enough that get free shipping even though 3 freight items.

[@mattpeters6224]

You did a video without owning or having the product in your possession? What?

[@BasementBrandon]

I literally say in the first 10 seconds that this video is about racks I'm considering buying, I can't make it any more clear lol.

[@mattpeters6224]

@@BasementBrandon I know. I was wondering why. Lol?

[@BasementBrandon]

@@mattpeters6224 Wanted to document the process I go through as I buy a lot of equipment. Things to consider and what goes into it.

[@watchman9198]

Brandon don’t get those other garbage brands. Get rogue!!!!

[@Chedda3000music]

Sorinex is definitely Not garbage. Used by many professional athletes and high profile college programs.

[@BasementBrandon]

Lol you'll find out soon!

[@triplecap4307]

I can't believe I am so vested in this. It's a thousand bucks jeez lot of drama for little money.

[@BasementBrandon]

Haha sorry to drag it out, but I just wanted to make sure I gave adequate context to my thought process.

[@mspencer9]

Pretty sure rogue is taking advantage of this pandemic and price gouging right now, smh

[@BasementBrandon]

Their pricing is the same.

[@Dash1326]

It’s 1,450 now

[@keysersoze5920]

Samson: 7-gauge, custom, almost indestructible.

[@BasementBrandon]

They do have some interesting options, but are tremendously more expensive in most cases (and not as functional IMO)

[@Pler1978]

Rogue "stealing" ideas from sorinex... Nah sounds more like sorinex stealing ideas from others.. I havent much of anything particularly innovative from sorinex... 4 hole design not all that useful... ... Ask donny Thompson...

[@BasementBrandon]

Yeah the Fat Bells/Center Mass bells was interesting but I'm glad to see them rectify it. That being said, you'll find many people who feel that way about Rogue.

[@GHorton70]

Rogue resell value? Please, the only reason you sold your old unit is bc some fan. No way in hell you sell this on CL, FB, etc. for almost full price. Misleading video and clear rogue bias.

[@BasementBrandon]

As someone who frequently buys/sells equipment online, as well is a member of many groups on social media of people who do the same, you must be a terrible salesperson lol.