How to make a set of Kettlebell handles f

I wanted to try kettlebell training for weight loss and agility, but found the cost for bells way too high.  Even Iron Mind's set of adjustable handles for $95 seemed too much.  So here's what I did:

I went out and bought a tricep bar.  These are the bars with the two interior handles that are perpendicular to the weight axis.  All you do is get a metal-cutting blade, I use a circular saw with a 6 1/2 inch blade, and cut away the excess bar between the two interior handles.  Once you see one of these bars, you'll know exactly what I mean.  Use the blade or a grinder to smooth the edges and you are done.  Since I am going to be swinging these things around, I opted for one of those bars with the spin-on collars.

I can't say it feels the same as a real kettlebell, since I've never come accross one, but it works at least as well as the Iron Mind one, I'm sure.  Also, since its made from hardened steel, and not just cast iron like a real kettlebell, I bet it could be released onto the ground without it cracking.

this one is s little cheaper, but homemade is always the best!

http://www.newyorkbarbells.tv/im-0310.html

http://www.newyorkbarbells.tv/unique.html

Ha!  Mine cost $25 for the pair, not apiece.  Plus I trust the screw-on collars more.  Besides, playing in a shower of sparks for half an hour is fun.

But I already get the point about the pain.  Those plates don't distribute the force over a very wide area.   I'll figure something out.

G-Man, you're probably right.  Kettlebell enthusiasts will probably give you a variety of reasons that kettlebells are better than dumbell exercises (increased agility, bracing for the 'shock', wrist strength, etc.) but from the persepctive of training for the Highland Games, I'm sure that dumbell training is just as effective.

As for using the throwing weights for swings, I guess the answer is that my handles can be loaded with just about any weight, and done for drop sets, pyramiding, etc.  Also, since I can barely stand up in my basement without hitting my head, I prefer to swing something with a little more control, which the solid handle provides.

Lastly, and probably more important, kettlebells are something of a competitive sport in itself, and can be done indoors during the long winter months.  I'm sure I'll never compete in an organized event, but it may be fun to test myself anyway.  If you don't understand the appeal of trying out some weird, obscure, ancient-history, ethnic-related sport, you're probably at the wrong message board.