Body Solid Powerline Smith 1442

Question

Your reviews on smith machines have been very helpful. I was wondering what you thought of the Body Solid Powerline 1442. I have seen it priced about 1000 - 1200 dollars and was contemplating purchasing it for home use. My son and I were looking for a good self-spotting weight system. Your input would be appreciated?

Answer

The Body Solid Powerline is the low end Body Solid equipment that's a notch below their normal equipment in terms of price and performance. I do like the Body Solid smith machines in general and almost bought the Body Solid 7 Series Smith Machine until I found a closeout deal on a Parabody Smith that I couldn't pass on.

With that said, there are some shortcomings of the Body Solid Powerline series smith machine that you should be aware of before you go plunk down your hard earned money for one…

The first problem with the Body Solid Powerline, and most budget smith machines is that they don't have a linear bearing weight carriage. Instead, the smith carriage rides on square tubes with bushings that can and will bind with moderate to heavy use.

The second problem with the Powerline Smith Machine is that the carriage rides on a 90 degree linear path that's not natural for the body on exercises like shoulder presses, squats and bench presses. A 7 degreee to 10 degree smith machine will lessen your chance for injury and provide a more natural movement for exercises.

The third and last problem with the Powerline is the lack of a gunrack on the front of the unit for using free weights. I know you said that you and your son want a gym that self spots, but it's nice to have the option to lift "a natural" off the front of the machine if you so desire.

If you can't afford the better Body Solid 7 Series Smith, the best option is to bide your time and find a used Body Solid, Nautilus Hoist or Parabody on eBay or Craigslist that someone is looking to get rid of (a don't wanter). Don't waste your money on a smith machine that's almost what you want - get the real thing.