I have have these Powerblocks for five year . I use they just about everyday . combine with a good quality bench there be not much you can not do with these . they be a staple in any exercise equipment arsenal . they save a tremendous amount of space and clutter compare to individual dumbbell . they be very reliable , but you do need to move the retain pin with care and not in haste , as if you get it engage across multiple section it could be a dangerous situation when you lift they up -lrb- this have happen to I a few time but be really not a huge issue -rrb- . once engage with the desire weight , they stay together nicely and they feel solid and do not rattle . I like to do tricep extension while standing , and in the gym I can pick up a single traditional dumbbell and hold it by its end with both hand and lower it behind my head and then do the extension . that be the only exercise that be somewhat difficult to do with the Powerblocks , due to the limited space to grasp the weight end of the Powerblock . but that be a minor nit . they be indestructible , and with the exception of a few scratch on the side , look and operate like the day that I buy they . as state earlier , I use these almost daily , so they have serve I very well . in my new house , we have a actual gym with rubber floor and lot of space but I see no reason to not continue to use these powerblock due to they compactness and ease of use . I find the soft grip to very comfortable and I also like the way they feel in my hand and the way they provide lateral support since the Powerblock slightly rest on you wrist area when lift they . slight downside be that I have max they out , as most probably will if you strength train regularly , so I find myself want more weight . highly recommend this product .