Pépin Fast Dumbbells - The Best Adjustables EVER?
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- Опубліковано 13 чер 2024
- Today we take a look at what might be the best adjustable dumbbells ever made. They combine the heaviness and robustness of Iron Masters, with the quick adjustability of Power Blocks and NuoBells. However, how does an all steel dumbbell hold up when it comes to price, quality, and dropability?
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0:00 Intro
0:45 Why These for Me
3:37 Adjustable Market
5:55 Pricing
8:55 Construction
10:29 Operation
12:53 Cradle & Handle
15:06 Drop-ability
17:45 Areas of Improvement
22: 50 Final Thoughts - Спорт
Hey all, I heard from Pepin and they're planning on releasing an add on magnet sets that will allow you to evenly add 2.5 or 5lbs to the dumbbells for those of you who don't want to have one extra plate per side like I showed on how to do 5lbs jumps.
That's cool. I was thinking about the Plate Mate magnets and how they'd probably work.
So it'll be slide two rails, making sure you hit right marks, then squeeze in two magnetic plates. I can imagine that might end up being an off-putting hassle, like changing weights on iron masters. We're getting closer to the holy grail, this probably isn't it though I think.
@@DavidLee-cw6ci still would be way faster than adjusting Ironmasters
@@DavidLee-cw6ci significantly more convenient than iron-masters, and it’s not even close. The sliders are smooth and literally take one second.
Can’t wait for the v3 lol
This review is pointless without testing the durability of these dumbbells by throwing from the 23rd floor of the Nakatomi Plaza.
LOL! That would be fun to watch. I bet Coop at garage gym reviews would do it.
@@markhalstead2386 Definitely
You had me in the first half.
Go easy now Hans.
Yippee kay ay @&$&!!!
Great review! I wish these were available when I bought my original Pepin set about 18 months ago. I don’t like changing them out as much anymore but spending $1700 to replace is hard to justify. The knurling on them is the best of any adjustable dumbbells I have tried. Pepin makes quality products for sure!
Yeah I’ll just get get 500 pounds worth of barbell for like a fourth the cost
I've enjoyed my HDs as well, but agree they do get tiresome to change. I've upgraded equipment in the past by selling what I have to help offset the cost of something new.
I have added these dumbbells to a phantom cart so many times. I really want to pull the trigger because as you stated, small space + value. I like a lot of what Pepin has been making and the Fast series is solid and fast. Thanks for the video
Interestingly enough the Havak guys have been very supportive of my Pepin posts!
I can't pull the trigger either, since its $2,400 shipped to my door. The Ironmasters and Powerblocks are less than half that
@@jaycherno1141 whoaaa shipping is $600?!? I just bought a 300 lbs treadmill and shipping was $160. These dumbells are much easier to maneuver than a treadmill! $600 for shipping is absurd.
@@dasdos002 I agree. It was $750 shipping for me! I ended up going with Ironmaster (free shipping).
@@jaycherno1141 good call! That’s a lot of money just to move two small boxes! What are they smoking?!?
I really like the fact that you are reviewing Canadian products! Finally some stuff for us Canucks that we dont get rob with custom fees and shipping...up to you now! Great review
There are some great Canadian companies in my gym like Pepin, Irwin, and Oak Club!
Watching this stuff evolve has been a fun ride
In soviet russia, dumbbells lift you.
First day impressions:It arrived in a waist high box. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxP26Tir6n60vUkdtn4mbwhRO8cwuJQNy2 Each dumbbell was in its own foam box within the shipping box. Everything was secure and in good shape. No weird smells. The weight changing mechanism is really smooth and straight forward. Changing weight is really fast and easy. Though the handle is plastic, I don't think it will be breaking anytime soon. So far pretty impressed after my first session with them. I was afraid they were going to be too wide at first, but I didn't have any issues with them while doing upright rows.
True
Thanks for the video. I've wanted a pair of these since I first saw the design, and this video only further sold me on them. Pepin seems like a very straightforward, honest company.
I have these and they are 100% worth it
He's been really communicative throughout the process.
@Basement Brandon That matters to me a lot. Obviously I want items that match my needs the most perfectly, but I also want to support businesses that listen to feedback and adapt accordingly.
The review i was eagerly waiting for!
Hope it helped fill in some gaps
Thanks for this review Brandon! 👊🏻
You bet!
Having owned the standard old school spin lock dumbells for about 1.5 years, I can definitely say that I don't do dumbell exercises sometimes because it takes longer time to set up. The good thing about it is that I can drop those and not been my wallet screaming. I tired power blocks and didn't like them. Nubell and these I would look into as a potential upgrade. I really like those interlocking plate design. It definitely makes the plates more secure and gains my trust to do exercises over my head.
Yeah still a tough pill to swallow for price, but if you use DBs they can really come in handy
You can't drop nuobell at all plastic handles
Thanks for the review I have been looking for durable adjustable dumbells I was a bit thrown off by the price but when you explained in context makes total sense.
Thanks for taking a look!
Thanks for the review, always good info.
Any time!
Wowzers, nearly 24 minutes of a fantastic review! I've got a dumbell set from 5-100lbs as well and I can't see myself getting adjustable, but if I did these Pepin's look like they'd make it to the top of my list to consider. The challenge with the Pepins is you can't do an overhead triceps extension or lat pullovers based on the handle guides. Nuobells can do that based on their design. Pros/Cons to everything I guess. Great review Brandon, I loved it!
I meant to show it in the video as I took footage, but you can do those exercises, just a bit more wonky. Thanks for the kind words.
I do pullovers with the fast series no problem
Wow, they look really good! I would say that the lower weights are too expensive but these 120's are priced competitively with powerblocks - I am impressed!
Thanks for taking a look!
Great point on the drop test, it doesn’t make sense to drop them any other way. The only thing I’ve ever spent that much money on is my functional trainer and even 2 years later I still guide the weights down carefully
In time mike… in time 🤡
I'm pretty old school when it comes to lifting. I've been doing it since 1978. I was taught never to drop the weights. The weights back then were very high quality (like everything else) but dropping them was simply out of the question. Cross fit style training with all of the Olympic lifting has really opened the door to dropping weights. No matter how well something is made its not going to last as long if you feel the need to keep dropping the equipment. Even with bumper plates I still wouldn't be inclined to drop my weights. It's just too ingrained in me not to do so.
@@stevesorensen9648 I agree. Unless you feel as though you're about to injure yourself, I see no reason to throw weights.
dropping dumbbells can be completely involuntary or a good thing to do to avoid an impending injury. Think flat/incline DB press/flys. There are times when dropping them from height would absolutely be the right thing to do and trying to guide them down would be stupid as you'd risk worse injury. By all means if you never push anywhere close to failure and only use light weight, then dropping is probably not going to be a consideration
@@trulsrohk1 I have dropped a db while failing on a db bench press. Arm started to "wander" and that was it. My set up was not very good. Obviously, it is not up head high, but it is higher than Brandon is doing here.
I'm buying these for sure. I have the bowflex 1090s and the most infuriating thing is that they're the same width whether you're using them as 20s or 90s and they generally suck otherwise. So I got a nuobell 50 for the lighter weights, but that gets stuck in its cradle. The thing I'm loving about these- apart from the fact they go up to 120- is that the weight selection mechanism isn't integrated with the cradle. It's all in the dumbbell. Great design. Much respect as an engineer.
I think it may take some slight adjusting on the cradle with these. You have about 1/2" of adjustability per side. Once you find the perfect spacing it makes racking much easier when fully loaded.
Powerblocks don't need the cradle - sounds like another option that might work for you
I got the Pepin fast dumbbells too after owning the 1090s one of the plates chipped and doesn't adjust anymore ...one time I was pressing and some of the plates slid off as well which freaked me out. The Bowflex quality is terrible long term and a safety hazard.
I will buy these thank you for this!
Hope you enjoy!
I can’t wait for your second initial impressions. Just giving you a hard time. You know i love your videos!
Got the first one out in 2 weeks, 2nd one will take 2 years :)
@@BasementBrandon You are the man. Keep up the great content!
These look great. Probably the only pair of adjustable dumbbells that would make me want to upgrade from my powerblocks, especially with an add on magnet. I love the powerblocks since switching weights is super simple, but I never take out the add on weights in between. I also don't like how they don't look / feel like real dumbbells.
Yeah the feel is the thing that killed it for me! I know a lot love them though.
I have been waiting for this, I bought the Nuobells just because I was tiered of waiting. It looks like the V2 of these will be worth waiting for mainly for refinements to the handle/ adjustment bar and hopefully balanced 5 pound adjustments.
Yeah it’s cool to see him actively improving things as part of the process.
When is v2 supposed to release?
And release in the UK?
how do you like the nuobells?
@@alexbenzler5327 they work perfect. Can change quick to do supersets, never had a failure, feel like real DBs. I had the Bowflex before and the Nuos are significantly better. I bought some 85 and 95 fixed DBs as well
Have these and they are fantastic. Have to give them the edge over my ironmasters
Appreciate the first hand feedback
Thank you for the honest review.
Always!
I sprained the F outta my wrist when i was younger trying not to drop the 120s after a chest press; trying to slowly lower them to the floor as best i could. I felt my wrist translate across my forearm when my wrist had the max leverage on it. It swelled up immediately, lost ROM and hurt for 3 months. Now I always make sure i save enough to bring them to my knees and swing myself back up. These dumbbells look really cool. I've had power blocks for over 10 years and like them.
That doesn't sound fun :(
@@BasementBrandon I took the “don’t drop the weights” gym sign too far haha
@@DrTopLiftDPT 😂
I just bought one of their Pro Series set. I was shocked how good customer support was and how good the dumbbells feel.
He really cares about his customers, which I can't say for all the companies I've dealt with.
Thanks so mich Eric ! 🙏
Awesome review there, Good job! 👌🏻💪🏻
Thanks! 👍
Thanks for sliding these up to the front of your review queue, they definitely seem to be heavy adjustables everyone is talking about. I would be curious about what movements are a bit awkward with the slides, like db goblets.
For me overhead tricep ext were a bit wonky, mostly b/c of the sharp edges and my poor should mobility.
For your follow up video, can you check if it’s possible to put a microgains 1.25 and 2.25 on both sides of the handle and still have room? That’d let you hit the 7.5 increments as well while staying balanced
I don't have the 2.25 set but we will see!
It is great to see the progress and development of Home Gym equipment. Just jealous that these didn’t exist sooner. too much effort to sell my IMs and Powerblocks.
Yeah things keep improving, which sucks bc it means I keep buying 😝
Great video . Thank you Sir.
Thanks for taking the time
Those are really nice! I have the first generation Pepin handles and I really like the feel of them in my hands.
Agreed, he does a good handle!
These look great, and I certainly agree on the value proposition of them. That railing on the sides is not ideal, but they are heavy, quick changing and steel. That has been a unicorn in the adjustable dumbbell arena. Great review man!
Yeah the rails are not ideal, but it's better than Nuobell's plastic cam followers that are practically guaranteed to break sooner or later and are not serviceable.
@@plmn93 totally agree
I have them and the rails actually don't bother me at all, I was worried too
Thanks Philip!
@@JBS7551 Thank you for sharing your direct experience!
Great review Brandon. I may have to replace my fixed dumbbells for a pair of these and make room for more equipment 👌🏼
I think if it came down to me wanting more pieces that may be a route I'd explore too. But right now I love my fixed set and the versatility of the Iron Bear.
@@BasementBrandon for sure. I only have fixed DB’s up to 50 in 5LB incriminates so I wouldn’t be losing anything really in upgrading to these.
I was wondering what number you got! I'm number 4! I also got the stand and heavy handle kit. Because I ordered it with the heavy handle they etched the numbers appropriately so it reads 30-130 on the rails. They feel like the best of all worlds adjustable dumbbells to me.
Ah was not aware, that's cool to know!
Where did you see the heavy handle kit? I can’t seem to see find the kit.
I should clarify, production was taking longer than anticipated, so he emailed me about a discount and informed me of a future stand and heavy handle add on. I asked what it might look like, and he sent a prototype photo and its really 2 additional plates that bolt to the inner plates of the handle. There is less handle room now but I've got fairly meaty paws and they fit just fine, no rubbing. Not sure if you need to email him for the add on kit??
@@garrettsolberg9100 thank you for responding! I Definitely should contact him. Been wanting adjustable dumbells over 100lbs these seem to be a good fit.
I couldn’t find where to add the heavy handle kit when I purchased. But it’s cool, I use 20s more than 130s
Edit: nvm should’ve kept reading
Do you know if the Mad Spotter Hooks will work with these? Good to know for going really heavy for some folks.
I don't believe the Mad Spotter Pro hooks will as they have a max handle girth of 32mm.
Nice review as always. I have the first version of their screw-in (HD is the name now?). It was one of their early orders before things went banana and I still love them today. The knurling is amazing and I got their fat version afterwards. Yes it takes a bit of time to setup and you can't drop them from car chase, but it's still one of my precious gym possessions. I can't recommend them enough. Buying these new shiny ones would be a stretch with wifey though...
However, I'm very happy to see that David updated the design numerous times and now just released the most advanced adjustable model.
Very happy to see too that we're from the same Canadian province and that we can encourage our people here with crazy nice local made stuff ;)
Go Poutine GO!
I'll do a video of the HDs, I think there were a few enhancements but would love to hear your point of view.
@@BasementBrandon The first version is "hand made", not CNC. They looks good in a picture, but in real life those are very beautiful... When the delivery man came and put the box in my hand, he said : That is heavy... ;)
I purchase used the fat handles afterwards, and those ARE FAT. I've tried fatgrip on the normal one, but since the handle is bigger, they could not fit well. The guy that sold my the fat handles was a welder and he told me that David, that handmade all the handles before, made one of the best welds he ever seen and it will never fail "that guy makes arts"... (I'm no welder, just reporting what he told me). At first, I didn't had any uhmw donut inside, I had to purchase it afterwards so the tightness were not "there" at first.
They are also a bit slower when you screw it than the new model (same version but enhanced and better made). It was still evolving a lot at the time. Also, I have to check before and after each sets that the screw are tight. It annoys my wife, but I got used to it, I don't even thinks about it now.
The knurling on the normal handle is not TPB, but close. For a DB it's definitely very high end... I don't know what Coop got, but mine is quite sharp... The fat version has a milder knurling, but not bad at all, but maybe closer to what Coop described.. Not the typical DB thing however and nothing to complain about really...
What I've found, is that you need to ensure that you have at least 1 inch of screw inside the handle to have a safe set, I've stretched my luck one time, but hopefully nothing bad happened and the weight came of. You just need to be aware.
Other than this, the DB is great and I'm still figuring out how I could load them faster, like the IM... I might build a rig at some point. The stand that Pepin's sell dream great, but man that's big for a homegym... And when you load a 80-100 DB, you don't want to bring them on a high table... However, when you get used to it (2y), you can definitely be quick at building your DB. If you prepare your things in your resttime you can make it smooth and quick. On the ground is the best IMO, and it's really fast with experience though it was not the case when I got it... Magnetic weight attachments are a great assets, I might invest in microgains or other gadgets like this to load even faster.
About the plating, even after two years of everyday use, I got a couple of scratches, but nothing that really attacked the plating itself. The nickel is still looking crazy great...
Really, I bought them before it went banana and I'm glad I did and this is something I will probably keep forever.
My wife told me she would like another sets for her... Eh boy... It sure that if I had the money I would get the fast one right away, but I'm extremely satisfied with what I have and getting those would be a luxury. And my wife needs to learn to enjoy what we have!!!
Pepins are fantastic. I have the HD'S, and they feel better than any other adjustable or fixed
dumbbells that I have used. Given I've never used Watson's. The only draw back to the HD'S is the time it takes to adjust, but if you get the stand with it, it makes it a lot easier, and faster. The handles at 37mm, and 49mm with excellent knurling are great for grip, forearms, pressing, triceps, and biceps. I had high expectations before I received them, and braced myself for disappointment, but they exceeded my expectations.
Thanks so much for your feedback on my HD series !
Agreed, David does handles right!
@@davidoss15 hey david! Any way to get these bad boys distributed in Europe? I need this set in my life right now!
How do these feel when holding them vertically, like for doing dumbbell french presses or dumbbell pullovers? Do the side rails get in the way?
Ah you know I had a clip of my doing overhead tricep extensions but forgot to show it. It's doable, a bit awkward, but the thing for me (who has terrible shoulder mobility), the the metal plates don't feel great if you whack yourself in the neck.
I do pullovers with these and took a bit to get used to but I like it and works well
I love the fact there are no gears, dials, threads. Etc to fail. Super simple, super strong design.
agreed
I love the fact that Rep is releasing them for half the price!
@@joeschmidhofer2674 Thanks for the heads up.... looks like 32% off actually.. but a 6 month wait for pre orders. ;-(
Will be waiting for the pepin hd review. That's more up my alley.
Right on!
Great solid review
Thanks dude!
@@BasementBrandon since the very first video I commented on 10 years ago, you still make it a point to respond. You Sir live the Stay Big mentality!
ahhh cant wait for these, great review as always. They look super beefy
When are yours coming in?
How is reracking after a hard, heavy set? I find aligning my Powerblocks can be difficult when I'm gassed. Great review brother! These look to be the new standard of adjustable dumbbells.
The 120s can be a bit tough depending on where the cradle is. For me too I think I should play with where the ends bolt on as they allow you to adjust width some. I imagine if it’s dialed in, it would be harder to “miss”.
@@BasementBrandon do you mean like slightly loosening the bolt-on pieces? I’m having trouble imagining what you’d tweak
@@BrandonSchwartz1 The 2 pieces of the cradle that stick up and hold in the end plates bolts on. There's about .5" of adjustability on either side. If you push them both all the way in, it may be too narrow to rerack the handle unless you're 100% dead on.
Great review! I would have loved to see you hold the dumbbell and press the dumbbells while it was set to a middle weight. I'm specifically interested in seeing the balance of the dumbbell in the between settings.
Next time!
best review ever! thanks unc
Thanks my dude.
Funny thing about drop tests.. I have seen fixed dumbells 100+ lbs that were bent up from idiots throwing them on the horsestall floors. These things seem pretty sturdy, I like them.
thanks for taking a look!
The all steel construction really does it for me. Ooohhh yeaa, dig it.
It's over the top in the best way lol
Would these work on a slanted surface? I have the Titan dumbbell rack that I really like how it’s angled to lift my ironmasters from, and I’m curious if these Pepin’s only work on a flat surface.
These dumbbells would be an instant buy if Pepin could figure out the 5lb increments. Sure, you just tack on 10 on one side, but I feel like for the money, should have designed it with 5lb increment dials
They work only on a flat surface. And the 5lb increment balance isn't an issue, trust me
He suggests flat surface only. They are in the process of coming out with magnet plates for both ends if you don't want to do the 5lbs jumps the way I show.
Great, detailed review. I appreciate it. The only part I didn't agree with is comparing the price to a set of commercial urethane dumbells, which hardly anyone in the market for adjustable dumbells would cross shop with. A better price comparison is with a set of hex dumbells. Also, most home gym owners won't need or buy every 5 lb increment up to their max dumbell weight. But like I said, good review overall!
I probably should have used hex as an example for most as you're still looking at substantially more money (and even more space). I just used urethane since I was using myself as the use case. Appreciate the feedback!
Hey Brandon,
How do you think they will handle in a garage setting? Due to the humidity. I wonder how they will hold up. I wonder if they are going to rust right away due to the all metal.
I do think they'd oxidize over time, but not any more than other metal equipment in the gym.
Do you think something like spot grips would fit with these? The side bars for selecting weight seem like they would get in the way but not sure on this.
I've never owned any so can't really say!
I should have waited……..the day after I ordered my stage 3 for the powerblocks…….you drop this vid. Oh well.
On another note……I love to see you out there commenting on smaller channels!
Lot of those channels put out better content than the bigger ones!
I like them and feel that they are overall worth the price. Thanks for sharing this content.
Thanks for taking a look!
Do you find the guide rails get in the way? I love these but hate that feature. You can't do movements like dumbbell pullovers or goblet squats.
Not for normal pressing movements, but pullovers are more awkward.
@@BasementBrandon Thanks for the reply! Are you going to review the Pepin HD series? I'm interested in those and would love a thorough review! Thanks.
@@HughLeFitness I have a set, I just need to find time to do a video.
Does the cradle have to be flat or can you use an angled stand?
Seems like with the stand at an angle the extea weights would fall over when you take the handle out.
Cradles must be on a flat surface for proper functionality. But plates can't fall as they are held by the support, even at angle.
I see david answered. I would think angled would work as the end of the cradle has a female end to lock plates, but racking would be awkward.
Microgainz now sell 2.5lb fractional plates. Im curious if those would fit to get you the 5lb increment adjustments.
Plate mates work great for it
I see Pepin will be coming out with magnet sets for those who prefer as well.
They’re probably the best out there. That price is honestly justified given the manufacturing I would imagine they take - but there is no way I could do that. It’s just too much.
Fair enough!
How do these feel in regards to balancing the load (like a round dumbbell). My gripe with IM is because they are square they weight gets thrown off center due to gravity if not parallel with the ground. Sometimes happens during heavy pressing, or even flys, curls, etc. which is noticeable to me compared to my urethane dumbbells. How do these compare with the octagon weight distribution?
I never ran into that issue with my IM, so I'm not sure my answer would help here.
Is there any rattle between the plates? I'm curious if they feel just like a fixed dumbbell or maybe more like a slightly loose spinlock dumbbell, where there can be some play with the plates during use.
If you change directions forcefully you'll hear a quick rattle, but otherwise pretty quiet to me.
Pepin is great. I’ve got their spinners and they’re holding up great.
Really nice quality in my pieces from them.
I’d love for your video to cover the safety of the locking mechanism. How prone or likely is it to accidentally unlock these mid-lift?
I think if it were to unlock anywhere it would be on the drops. While lifting there's nothing that should jar it loose.
When these first came out I was for sure getting these but now I’m thinking about just going with iron master. These are amazing but Id rather save the difference and buy something else for my gym
Fair enough!
@basementbrandon Hello! Enjoyed this review, especially now that the Repin version is coming out and look very promising. Question for you about these - is the cage on each one annoying or don't really notice? Let's say you wanted to use straps for a heavy back row to conserve the grip, is there enough room to get the straps around the handle? Thanks, sir!
Annoying only for certain exercises to me. Like when you’re doing two hand overhead extensions or pullovers.
@@BasementBrandon got it, thank you. I’ll get to put hands on the prototypes at HGC next weekend, just saw something mentioned about these not being conducive for straps and was curious if your take. Thanks again!
@@jared.freedom.gym2021 They did make it a bit more difficult, but I rarely use straps so I could just have bad form 😅
Is it a hassle to use with straps due to the guide rails (like for heavy DB rows)? It was pretty annoying with powerblocks, but these seem like there's probably enough clearance for it to not be much of a problem.
I'm not sure TBH, I haven't tried!
Was going to get these but now going to wait for version 2.0 if that is coming out. I prefer thinner handles for dumbbells so wish they had 28mm or less. For dumbbell drop tests I would say slightly above the knees with is the max height they should be dropped from.
Right on! I know he's working on planning the next versions.
Other than using the fix you showed at the end of the video, Brandon, are there any adjustable DB sets that have a in-place 2.5 increment increase ?
see on my channel. 4-41 kg increments 1.5 kg
I believe Bowflex Selecttech can make 2.5lb increments up to a certain weight but then you have all the other downsides of Bowflex (plastic parts, DB length is always the same for all weights, etc)
I'm not sure TBH!
If memory serves me right 5-50 in dumbbell pairs is 550 pounds, 55-100 is 1500 or 1550, and 105-125 is 1150 pounds. Adjustable dumbbells make the most sense the heavier you go.. I prioritize durability and quick change but I sacrifice feel with my power blocks going to 125 and use DB Olympic handles for heavier than that. Not a fan of the the giant power U175 blocks just too wide for me.
Yeah a lot of preference will always dictate buying decisions.
Any idea if these are compatible with kettle gryps or monkeyfeet? These are two small versatile pieces of equipment I want to use with whichever adjustable dumbbells I buy as I will probably not have space for a rack initially and would open up adjustable dumbbells to a range of different movements. One of the key reasons I've ruled out PowerBlocks and IM (with two handles) are where I'm likely to go
I'm not sure as I don't own them. You don't have a ton of room to maneuver. Based off look, I'd assume the Kettle Gryps would work but don't think the Monkey Feet would.
Very random comment, but these are made in North America, specifically Beauce, one of the great entrepreneurial regions of Canada. It is amazing to see a small company make such an amazing high quality product, very innovative 💪
Appreciate the insight!
Would you recommend these or the REP 5-50 lb urethane sets? Also, Pepin Pro or the Ironmaster adjustable dumbbells?
It really depends on a few things. How much space you want to give up, how much you want to spend, how quickly you want it to adjust, if they're droppable and how you want it to feel.
@@BasementBrandon would you go with pepin pro/HD or the ironmaster?
@@Justin-cy8is in that case I'd prob go Iron master as it's a bit easier to adjust/load given the square plates.
Great review! I've been loving my set. My only real issue is the offset adjustment isn't ideal, but it hasn't been a major problem so far. I've also been looking into either the MicroGianz or PlateMate (magnetic) adder plates for both 2.5 and 5 lb adjustments. The bonus of getting those is I can also use them on my lat pull down/low row.
I definitely agree on the value of these. They are expensive, but well worth it compared to the alternatives for a similar weight range. The adjustment speed is worth the extra $600 to me versus the iron masters.
I got the platemates for mine and it works great 😀
I was thinking the same thing with the 2.5lbs micro plates.. I just don't know if it would fit well with the side rail.. looks like the 1.25 micro plates just fit. But if the 2.5lbs ones fit that would fit the counter balance problem
@@JBS7551 great to hear!
@@gavinmarion91 yeah, that’s my concern with the MicroGainz and why I’m leaning towards platemate.
I just pinned my comment, but Pepin will also be releasing magnet sets for 5lbs and 2.5lbs jumps if people prefer.
For the algorithm… great review man!!
Thanks my brother!
First love from Trinidad 🇹🇹
much love
Iron Masters can go to 180 lb with heavy handle kit and the 120 and 165 lb upgrades. The heavy handle kit does make them more like a regular dumbbell due to the long handle dropping to a regular handle length.
I have the 5-50 lb pairs of Rep Fitness urethane dumbbells and have no space for more. I use the Iron Masters for in between weights and greater than 50 lb weights. I don’t mind the change times.
I would probably get the Pepins if I didn’t already have Iron Masters, which was my first weight lifting equipment.
I have Iron Masters and bought the 125lb upgrade. Love them.
Even though the option to upgrade that much sound great. I've met only a handful of people in my days that would actually use that heavy of a DB lol.
@@BasementBrandon 120 lb is all I would ever need and know most people do not get the 165 lb upgrade.
I have been thinking about selling my power blocks to get something like this. Due to some tendinitis I have been using Versa Gripps again. Is there enough room in the handle to use Versa Gripps?
I don't own any, but I would think so.
How is it aiming the dumbbell for placing back into the cradle? Almost looks like you’d have to line it up pretty precisely.
Harder as it gets heavier, the side cradles can be adjusted some to give you a bit of wiggle room.
Can you do tow hand overhead tricep extension with these? It is impossible with the powerblocks. Cannot fit both hands in the powerblock cage. These look to have more space but wondering if there is enough space to perform the exercise.
Yes, I filmed it but forgot to include. It's doable but a bit wonky in my opinion. Also with the hard edges if you hit yourself or have shitty shoulder mobility like me, good luck!
@@BasementBrandon Thanks for replying.
If you are doing curls with that handle do the two metal plates ever bump the wrist?
Not unless you're bending your wrists in
I have powerblocks 90 and have been looking to get something in 120. Definitely considering these
I think they make a powerblock that goes up that high as well, no?
@@BasementBrandon ya they do but i can’t find that for the model I have it only goes to 90
Everything seems great about these but I wonder about one thing, the guide rails on each side of the handle. I have never seen that on a dumbbell and wonder if that would be a problem. What is your opinion of the rails, do they interfere or cause any problems when performing your exercises?
They don't get in the way for main work, but could pose for some awkwardness on things where you put both hands on the db (like extensions and pull overs) or for explosive movements (like snatches)
I do pullovers weekly and they function fine
@@JBS7551 Thanks for adding your first hand feedback about using these for goblets and pullovers just fine. Do you have any add ons that you use with these like monkey feet? I wondered if they would fit on okay because of the guide rails
That looks good to be honest especially for a garage gym db setup
Def on the hardcore side!
These adjustable dumbbells are perfect for people who don't have the space for 5-100 urethane sets. I really like how these look compared to powerblocks and the amount of metal on there plus its Canada made. I already own 5-75lb vulcan urethane dumbbell set for $2700 shipped which is a steal so for me if I were to pay $700 more I would still pick the urethane set since I have the room in my garage. If I didnt have the space in the garage or budget I would go for the Pepins. I wished they would design it in a way where its closer to nu bell but with more metal because I don't like caged adjustable hands for more comfort so my wrists wont hit anything.
Just remember the more dumbbells means you are able to work out with partner or buddy during dumbbell sets. These pepins look quality so I might change my mind one day.
Some good points here!
Sounds like a good product 👌 and free is always a good deal❗
If it's free, it's for me!
I would feel worried the adjustment plate would go through my forearm/slam or hyperextend my wrist if something bad happened on a heavy rep / if something slipped ... probably why I've never liked the powerblocks either. They look great, just worried about too many spots for catching your hand/forearm if it goes bad...
Makes sense! On the bright side, lifetime warranty could be extended to your wife 😅
I sold my elite powerblocks and went with the rep set. Unless I had very limited space I would never go back to selector dumbbells. Good to see another alternative though
Yeah if I wanted to I could prob ditch my fixed and open up a whole wall for more equipment but tbh my wife does a shit ton of DB work and supersets so it would not go over well lol.
you're making think of selling my powerblocks brandon... 90 lbs is too light, i need some 120s.
Sorry 😅
wouldnt it be de nice if the side pieces (where you adjust the weight) in between plate would be rounded, that would potentielly give you more options on how you grip the weight, like say a DB pull over. That could be awkward otherwise?
I have them and do pullovers just fine
I've found overhead ext can be a bit wonky, but we'll see how Pepin continues to improve these.
Good job as always, Brandon. I have Nuobell and like them but you do have to be careful just putting them back in cradle which is a bit of a PIA.
Just one of the tradeoffs of this style I think :(
100% agreed on the drop test. The demonstrated drop test is a good example of a natural “drop.” Just throwing the weights around has always felt…obscene to me. I don’t get why people are comfortable doing that.
Appreciated! Some still aren't happy, but I tested them how I would use them, which is all I need 😅
These are so sick. Just hard to justify dropping 2k for me when dumbbells would just be secondary work for me (I do think the pricing is fair because they replace an entire set) I think I am going to get the bolt fitness octobells that go to 80 lbs in the coming months.
I have those. Love them. Literally just like nuobells except in a octagon shape. Knurling is very passive though if you care about that. I have the bolts for accessory and then for heavy db work I have a pair of loadable dumbells but since I powerlift most of my workout is barbell with dbs being accessory work... If I could do it all over and get either these or the setup that I already have, I would probably still get the set up that I have since I saved close to a grand.
Yeah I agree. I got away without DBs in my home gym for a long time and believe I could still do so if I wanted.
I have the same set. Valid concerns for peoples comments on the plastic but I haven’t seen any reports of major or minor failure of Nuobell style dumbbells but time will tell. I love my set. My only regret is not getting the military green versions lol
I'm excited for these. I'll save up, so hopefully ny the time I get enough cash a new revision comes out. The upside for these are going up to 120lbs each. That's a real good weight.
What’s the release date for the revision?
These are awesome. I am actually a fan of power blocks. But, shortly after getting my set, they released new models and it is unclear that I can get the previous expansions (this is now years later). One reason I went power block was the kettlebell handles. I got all this when all I had was a bench and powerblocks. That versatility was huge.
Any idea if they have a kettlebell solution?
I am about to start exploring kroc rows. If my powerblocks don’t cut it (and can’t be expanded further) these will be in my future.
As always, great review!
I believe he made one or is making one.
@@BasementBrandon I see a "new product" for adjustable kettlebell. But they look like they will be light weight by comparison to the 120lb fast.
I think using a landmine and handle I already own is going to be the better option for now. I had done meadows rows in the past. Kroc rows just sound more fun.
Powerblocks go up to 175 now. That's pretty cool.
I had asked if these were compatible with kettle gryp handles? Coop regularly recommends them so that's always something to try if Pepin don't have their own solution
I bought the bow flex adjustable ones like 3 years ago. They still are as good as day 1. That being said I’ve always been careful not to be rough when putting them down.
Edit: that being said, when I bought them they were not as marked up as they are now. I would not pay over $250 for them again.
Appreciate the feedback!
If Nuobell released an all metal version with metal internals they could crush the market. Anecdotally I'm scared to drop mine, but they've survived a few so far.
The worst one being when I was doing incline AMRAP, my balance got messed up towards the end and instead of crushing my face, I threw one of them with 80lb on it, and it's been fine
I also found some urethane 90s, 100s, and 110s locally for 450$ total so I'm set for years and happy
Check out Snode, that's basically what they are.
@@BasementBrandon Was just about to mention snode. Have you reviewed those?
@@user-fi6hg8vq6c I have not!
I'm seeing other fellow Europeans that crave this product. Maybe one day 🙏
🤞
Would love to get these but just bought a pair of Snodes which I hope are as good as they sound. Pepins do seem like they are the best, but price seems a bit high.
From what I've seen Snodes are still a step up from most adjustables as they're metal and go up to 80lbs that quickly adjust.
What about the dynamics of the resistance as they do not have their weight equally distributed. The gap on the plates for the guide rails are in a diagonal across the dumbbell. It will be ok for presses but may feel weird in some movements.
Haven't had any issues personally!
"nature of the beast" - only commenting that because you suggested the comments would contain a correction. great video, thanks!
🙏
So I know a week ago I said IM was the route I was going but after watching this review 100 times I think you’ve sold me on Pepin! I’ve just got one question that will be the final factor. Money not being a factor, are you picking Pepin over IM for durability and feels “most like” a regular dumbbell? Thanks for giving honest reviews btw!
Money not a factor I would pick pepins b/c I'm more likely to use them due to the adjustability. IM still wins in durability and feel since it doesn't have the rails, but I found myself not using them as often b/c of not feeling like changing weights.
@@BasementBrandon thank you! Can’t wait to put my order in!
@@Nick-1828 If it helps at all, I have IM and fast series. Now I only touch IM when needing under 20lbs lol
@@JBS7551 thank you! Have you found the bars on the side of the Pepin get in the way for anything? Regardless, I’m sold on Pepin and as soon as I can I’ll be placing an order lol
@Nick I thought I'd hate the rails but really don't mind them at all, they give a lot of rigidity! Plus it's not like a cage, like powerblocks
I'm able to do pullovers, OH triceps extensions, etc.
Unless you have giant hands, I don't think they are an issue!
I know what you mean about ironmaster, I also seem to carry over weight from one thing to another to save changing (I do have 2sets tho so it’s not that bad, joys or eBay). The pepin look really good but for what you want, dumbbells from 105 to 120, how often would you need to change the weight on the ironmaster if you were to use them for that range?
I know you got these for free but raising the point as with you having the rep dumbbells what you want is quite specific. Taking the major point you were making about adjustable dumbbells was cost savings and the ironmaster are cheaper.
The problem with the IM is still the adjusting. The 120lbs set comes with bigger plates and bigger screws. If you cross that threshold you need to ditch the bigger plates and use different screws. You also likely need their stand (or any stand) to hold the plates as they just stack somewhere. I like how the pepins are self contained. If I didn't have the Pepins now, I would either go the full fixed route, or more than likely just not get DBs since the price/return isn't worth it.
@@BasementBrandon I can see all your points. Obviously if you have the stand they would be similar footprint as the pepins and it probably still be cheaper. I only raise it as it seemed to be a big driver between the adjustable and fixed dumbell options. The pepin so look awesome but ive mamaged to get 2 sets (1x 54kg and 1x34kg) for less than the pepin (not thaf they were available at the time), but yes, I'd also love the ease of adjustability of the pepins.