If you could get one leg device/machine for a garage gym, what would you choose? Looking to switch it up from high bar back squats and to reduce axial loading a bit
Not exactly a leg device, but I'm getting a vest you can put 300ib worth of plates on and I'm going to hike. That's going to give you a full leg workout, including your calves. You use your calves to right your weight on rocky, uneven surfaces. I grew up in the mountains and got calves from running on trails. Before I ever did a weighted calf raise I was getting complements for my calves. The only downside is it's cardio, which releases cortisol that breaks down muscle but hey it's the natural way to do it.
For a start a safety squat bar could help. If you want to invest more but space is limited, a hip squat machine. If space is available, a hinge leg press - hinge machines tend to have better ergonomics then sliding machines.