Thanks! And yeah, like Jeff says, the arms swing in so I can move them without unloading the plates. But I've been asking myself the same question about storing plates on the rack. It is only slightly more convenient than carrying them from the tree on the other side. For the time being they aren't in the way so I'll continue to store some plates there.
I questioned this myself on R-6 vs a RML-690. For that, it was only another 100 bucks. For something I'll never have to replace in my lifetime? I think it was worth it.
I created a google doc back then for comparison purposes. Back then I was not only comparing across the R/RML/RM lines, but also looking at adding the 6 series storage onto the smaller 3 and 4 series racks. I also swapped standard J-cups for sandwich J-cups and pin/pipe for strap safeties - so the prices reflect the swap, not buying both options.
Rogue Racks
I'm a spreadsheet geek as well...so this will give me something interesting and fun to chew on while I listen to some conference calls at work this AM I was thinking of the same thing....let me factor in the TCO (total cost of ownership) assuming adding plate storage vs external plate storage as well.
Thanks for sharing!
To make it even more complicated, I didn't have the room for the full RML-690. So what I ended up with was a RML-690, shortened to the 30in working depth of the smaller racks (vs. the original 40in).
I also store the bench inside the plate storage area, so it works out pretty efficiently for me, and clears up the floor to walk around.
Rogue was helpful and responsive in the custom build process, so don't hesitate to swap parts / features.
I've just bought a house and I'm looking to put a gym in the basement. (squat rack, bench, area for deadlifts)
I've got tile floor that I'd prefer to not break (and my wife would really prefer me to not break). I've searched through this post and folks seem to recommend plywood as the first layer and then rubber stall (3/4 inch thickness) matting on top.
1. Does this make sense to you guys? Is there a plywood thickness/type recommended? Does the squat rack area need plywood underneath or just the deadlift area.
2. Is it as simple as laying down the plywood and screwing the rubber into the plywood or are they additional steps? (DIY noob)
Thanks!
A couple layers of 3/4 plywood will distribute the load over a broader surface area and then a layer of rubber over that absorbs the shock and spreads the load even more. I’d protect any area where plates etc might get dropped intentionally and unintentionally. Happy wife, happy life.
And it doesn't have to be pretty either.
Exhibit A:
Workout Area - Google Photos
But my true candidate for the "all ugly team" would be my dead lift jack.
But I just look at my reconditioned Hamptons and smile.