To start off, don't base your decision on these weights off of all the negative reviews you may read. I will state the simple problems and solutions to each one. I purchased 3 total sets, 50 pound set, 105 pound set, and 200 pound set which cost about $400 total. This is the cheapest and best option to obtaining the most weight as now I have over 360 pounds in total dead weight, 135 per arm, the reason for stating this is because this is absolutely the cheapest solution for the most weight. Now most of the complaints span to roughness of the handle to as ridiculous as giving one star for weight plates being to "greasy" upon first opening. The first major issue stated is that the star twist clamp doesn't stay tight enough for safe heavy lifting which causes the weight to constantly have to be checked for safety. The first obvious thing is that you should always check your weight for safety no matter if your clamp is tight or not, and I will assure you that if you tighten these clamps and put actual force into it they will stay put, take out the rubber rings if you must as that helps them stick together, for those of you that cannot put so much force than simply twist the last weight plate next to each clamp right and this will tighten it with little effort. The next most complained about is how rough the handle is, and metal splinters are common upon first opening, I will make it clear that I received 3 different sets of handles through my total orders so I know the extent of how rough they may come and honestly if your used to holding a shovel or have used lighter weights than you'll be fine, the metal splinter shards that people have stated really are not extreme enough to give these dumbbells one star over, this goes with the greasy weight statement, just have some paper towels like I did or a rag to be prepared to wipe down each weight and handle, I expected to do this even before my first order. When it comes to scraped paint and dents and scrapes in weight plates the scraped paint is minimal and expect to see some of the paint slightly come off when first using and especially upon opening, as for dents there is none, the "dents" are just how some come and is expected to see in every type of weight plate, I will show another picture for that. The last issue stated is shipping, know that the 50 pounds ships in 1 box, the 105 ships in 2, and the 200 ships in 3. Some have stated to be missing weights and handles which is really not to be expected so I wouldn't worry as I received over 7 packages in my 3 back to back orders and received every part of my order with no issues and received each order in only 3 days with free shipping. These weights are heavy duty and meant to last a lifetime and also not for beginner weight lifters, which is why there are so many negative reviews. These weights are perfect for if you need heavier weight and cannot afford it, do not expect pretty smooth handled easy grip amature weights as these are great for hardcore workouts and great to push you to your limits, and sky rocket your strength, if your truly for lifting than you will be completely satisfied with these weights. I have tried my best to accommodate every question as I wish I had this review when I made my major decision on this big purchase as major insight really eases the mind. I hoped this helped.
