US Kettlebell

[maverick]

I'm looking to get a KB and I think this is going to be my choice, unless of course someone here talks me out of it. I just can't justify the money that goes into buying multiple traditional KBs.

http://uskettlebells.com/productinfo.html

It's an adjustable kettlebell, but much more like a traditional kettlebell than the homemade versions or the kettlestack. It's a bit pricy (about $200 with shipping), but can mimic 9 different KB sizes from 16kg to 32kg.

I was wondering if anyone here had any experience with these, as reviews on the internet are limited from my searches. The consensus seems to be that they are the best adjustable KB out there, but are subject to durability issues as they are not a ball of solid iron like traditional KBs. Basically, juggling and hand switching at your own risk.

Thoughts?

[Dan C]

Suck it up and buy a 16kg and/or 24kg solid bell, Mav. The money spent is justified, trust me. Check ebay and go with a DragonDoor, Pro-Grade or Lifeline bell.

Consider the fact that your purchase will out live you, your children and your grandchildren, then divide the cost of your bell over that many years.

[trainerty]

KBs are an investment. Most folks I know with kbs did not just buy them all at once. They invested in them and slowly collected a nice array of weight.

I think those look pretty solid. My only concern would be changing the weights around if necessary for circuits, drop sets, pyramids or whatever. Also how solid are they with that type of plate changing. I have seen db like this and I hate the rattling and slight movements that happens in more explosive movements. Let us know how they work for you.

[maverick]

Yeah, I thought that might be your sentiment Dan. I'm just concerned with spending over $100 on one fixed weight. I mean, there's no moving parts here, its a ball of iron. And in that respect, I got an oly bar with 255 pounds of weights for the same price at Dick's.

I will likely buy the solid ones after I purchase these, though. I think I can handle reduced durability on my first one, though, and save the exercises that would be dangerous to the KB for when I get solid ones.

[Dan C]

If you're trying to be economical about it, buy the best equipment you can afford the first time out and be done with it. With over $12k invested in equipment, I learned this the hard way!

You are a serious trainee that deserves serious equipment. What's $100 anyway? You can make that up in a day! Would you trade a single days worth of pay for a brand new kettlebell?

I was in the same boat as you, thought I would "get the most bang for my buck" by going with adjustable. Do yourself a favor and don't -- it is a waste of money. The movements with kettlebells are dynamic, and because of that solid kb's have a better feel to them. Also keep in mind the movements aren't like regular barbells and dumbbells where progressive resistance is all that important. Volume is key. You want to get stronger with your kettlebells? Do more work in less time!

Just my 2 cents.....

[Dan C]

Good post Ironman! Very true about KB training.

[maverick]

3 opinions I respect telling me to take the expensive route... damn you! Just kidding guys, sounds like a solid 24kg KB will be mine in the near future.

Dan, why did you suggest those 3 brands? Have you tried them all? Are there brands you specifically don't like? Anyone else can feel free to chime in on this one too. I know all you crossfit'ers have KBs at home so I'd like to hear from you too.

[Dan C]

The Pro-Grade kettlebell put out by the AKC is made to international competition specifications. They are all the same size (even at different weights... some are hollow, some are filled with lead) and they have been called the "Rolles Royce" of KB's. That's all I use now but I typically do not recommend them to newcomers because it's harder to get used to the larger bell when you are first starting, but the professional 24kg is not much bigger than a solid cast 24kg.

You can't go wrong with DragonDoor. However, I am not a fan of the new paint (or it might be powdercoat) they use. It doesn't hold chalk well.

The LifeLine bells I have not used personally, but all the reviews I've heard have been positive. They are advertised as having a slightly "gritty" finish and are reminiscent of the original DragonDoor bells. I usually mention that as an option to people who moan and cry about the cost of the aforementioned bells

As far as brands I do not like, Power Systems, Power Max, Ader (has good quality but I do not like the slick finish... not familiar with their "competition bells" though but I can tell you that they are not international spec), CardioBells and anything that is not 100% iron.

JMO.

And Maverick, I'm going to be up in PA next Sunday meeting some friends for a training session. The gym we're meeting at has kettlebells and strongman equipment, and I'll be bringing with me 3 different kinds of KB's. It might be a bit of a drive from Pittsburgh (the gym is in Harrisburg) but you're welcome to join us if you'd like.

[luke.w]

Originally Posted by Dan C

and they have been called the "Rolles Royce" of KB's.

Gurhka- the Rolles Royce of cigars!!!!

sorry, just had to!


with regards to the thread, I regret getting a cheap super-yoke, I've had to weld that sucker twice.

[Dan C]

Remember, Darryl paid for that yoke!!!

[luke.w]

right,

and I bought the conans wheel plus a yoke attachment, same quality for like $500 (I'd sell that wheel for $50 cause thats probilly what it's worth in steel?) I'd pay over $500 (heck $1,000) just for a super-yoke made by John M. cause I know it would be quality.

[maverick]

Originally Posted by Dan C

And Maverick, I'm going to be up in PA next Sunday meeting some friends for a training session. The gym we're meeting at has kettlebells and strongman equipment, and I'll be bringing with me 3 different kinds of KB's. It might be a bit of a drive from Pittsburgh (the gym is in Harrisburg) but you're welcome to join us if you'd like.

Where exactly is it and what time are you guys getting together? Harrisburg is a hike from Pittsburgh (3.5 hours), but its only about an hour and a half from my parent's house and it might give me a reason to go visit the fam that weekend if they are in town. You can PM me if you're worried about xtermetris showing up.

BTW, I'm likely gonna get the Lifeline 24kg KB soon.

[Dan C]

Actually, I'd extend that invite to him, but I don't think he'd show.

And just an FYI, though you'd certainly get more use out of a 24kg in the long run, it's not going to be easy to learn to snatch with.

maverick, here is a buyers guide for kettlebells