Evil Pal P3A Home Gym Power Rack Review: A Solid Budget Option

Looking for a budget-friendly home gym rack with a cable system? The Evil Pal P3A Power Rack might be exactly what you need. At $650, this rack offers impressive stability compared to competitors in the same price range, and its 2×3 inch posts provide a significant advantage over the more common 2×2 inch designs.

Assembly and Shipping

The Evil Pal P3A arrives well-packaged with minimal scratches or damage to the components. Assembly is straightforward for the most part, though there are a couple of minor issues. Some bolts are slightly too short, making assembly a bit challenging in places. There was also an initial issue with some pulley spacers being sized for a 2×2 rack instead of the 2×3 rack, but Evil Pal quickly sent replacements that arrived within three days.

Dimensions and Specifications

Here are the key measurements of the Evil Pal P3A rack:

• Height: 83.7 inches (can be reduced to about 80 inches by flipping the pulley bar)
• Width: 67.7 inches
• Depth: 63.4 inches
• Post dimensions: 2×3 inches
• Hole spacing: Approximately 1.5-1.75 inches
• Hole diameter: 1 inch

Included Accessories

The $650 package includes:

• J-hooks (rated for 1000 lbs)
• Dip bars (350 lb capacity)
• Safety bars
• Plate storage (two posts in the basic model)
• Bar holder
• Pull-up bar with multiple grip options
• Cable system with 20 adjustment points

The upgraded version includes additional plate storage posts.

Build Quality and Stability

The most impressive aspect of this rack is its stability. Unlike many budget racks with 14-gauge 2×2 posts that tend to wobble, the 2×3 uprights on the Evil Pal provide substantial rigidity. The powder coating is also noteworthy—a glossy red finish that appears durable and well-applied throughout.

The rack features laser-cut numbers on the adjustment posts, which is a nice touch that makes changing heights quick and precise. The backplate not only adds stability but also provides a clean look while hiding storage for attachments.

Cable System Performance

The cable system uses parallel linear bearings that provide smoother operation than the square bearing designs found on some competing racks. Once the proper spacers were installed, the cable system functioned well with minimal play in the pulleys.

Pros:

• Outstanding stability for the price point
• 2×3 inch posts instead of the common 2×2 design
• Quality powder coating
• Smooth cable action
• Good customer service (quick response to parts issue)
• Customizable backplate options
• Included accessories provide good value

Cons:

• Some bolts are slightly too short
• Initial pulley spacer sizing issue
• J-hooks, while adequate for most users, might need upgrading for those lifting very heavy weights

Final Verdict

For $650, the Evil Pal P3A offers excellent value with its 2×3 inch frame providing stability that outclasses many competitors in this price range. The minor hardware issues are overshadowed by the overall quality and functionality of the rack.

If you're looking for a budget home gym rack with a cable system, the Evil Pal P3A should definitely be on your shortlist. Its superior stability alone makes it worth considering over many similarly priced alternatives with 2×2 inch frames.