Barbell Recommendations

Training Q&A [Moderated]
1

Hey guys, I am thinking it is about time to purchase a new barbell. The current barbell I have is a cheap brand called Body Solid that is a thick boy (about 31+ mm in diameter).

What caused me to think it is possibly time for a new barbell is a deadlift form video I posted where someone mentioned that perhaps using a thick bar is causing me to have issues “pulling the slack out” and feeling that. Could this actually be an issue that could make a difference using a thinner bar?

Anyway, might be nice to purchase a good bar to get comfortable to the standard “size” for grip, especially as I have transitioned to hook grip. I first had my eyes on the CAP “Beast” barbell, but saw recommendations that if you lift in the 300-400 pounds area, then it is probably not a good bar as there has been failures in this area, even though it claims to be “1000 lb capacity”.

Would love some thoughts on the “pulling the slack” comment and also looking for a recommendation for a bar. I do not regularly do olympic lifts, although the occasional power clean is fun. Would like a few different budget options if possible.

Thanks,

Conner

2

Can you be more specific about your budget?

The Ohio Power bar has many variations and options, most of which fall in the price range of $250-$400, and are generally excellent.

Depending on the weight (and type of plates) on the bar, you will notice more flex/“slack” with a thinner bar compared with a thicker one.

3

Hey Connor I personally have the beast barbell by cap, I’ve had it for 2 years now and have had 600 on it with no issues. I believe I bought it for around $250 at the beginning of covid , I have zero complaints with it.

4

I would suggest Rogue Boneyard. 29 mm power bar for 225.00

1 Like
5

Alright…I did some simple math.

The 28.5 mm bar will deflect just under twice as much as the 31 mm bar around the weights I will be using it at (it’s a linear equation).

And the 28.5 mm bar, if their ultimate tensile strength is correct for the CAP “The Beast” and even if the alloy was horribly made and has a 1:2 ratio of yield to tensile strength, then the bar will not permanent warp until 66,000 PSI. A 500 pound pull on the bar would create approximately 46,000 PSI…so not ideal (normally you would want like a 1:2 or 1:3 safety factor) but still fine. But since Brett said that he has pulled 600 without any permanent deformation, then I am guessing the ratio of yield to tensile is more like industry standards and good to go (like .85).

I purchased the CAP “The Beast” and we will see how it does on my first deadlift session! Thanks.

6

I would buy a Rogue Ohio Power 29mm (bare steel for budget) and never look back. Anything else in the same price range is usually inferior. Anything that is “better” ( subjective) is around double the price, or more.