I like these dumbbell a lot , in fact , I believe they be the best and safest adjustable dumbbell on the market . however , they be not without some drawback and risk . for example , it be very important that the pin assembly in place through the hole straight and not upside down . if you do not check this , it be possible a plate can break loose . there be a backup elastic strap that will protect you in most exercise , but not all . overall , these dumbbell be comfortable and more compact than the round type for a give weight range across the same number of increment . they be not awkward to lift , but as you go to larger set , it become difficult to get a full range of motion for some exercise such as upright row because of they length . the smallest set of this type be in my opinion the best and most convenient . if you go beyond this range , you can add additional dummbell as you need they or get a upgrade kit . however , I like these less as they get bigger . in general , I wholeheartedly recommend this product and the stand that come with it . if you make pin adjustment on the floor , especially on carpet , it be more likely you will make a error in pin placement that could cause a injury . if you circuit train with very little rest between set , these be a must have and I also find they be great for use on a stability ball to simultaneously hit the core muscle .