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There are many different bars on the market that are designed for powerlifting.
So, which one is the best?
Well, that depends on your needs and preferences.
Some people prefer a bar with more aggressive knurling, while others prefer a bar with less aggressive knurling.
Some people prefer a bar with more whip, while others prefer a bar with less whip.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
That said, some bars are better than others, and here is my list of the top 25 to help you find the best bar for powerlifting in your home gym.
Table of Contents
Top 25 Bars for Powerlifters
Here is my list of the best Olympic Bars, Specialty Bars, and Power Bars.
1. Rogue Ohio Power Bar (Overall Best Powerlifting Bar)
If you’re in the market for a top-quality powerlifting bar, the Rogue Ohio Power Bar is the one to beat.
This precision-engineered bar is made in Columbus, Ohio, and features a 190,000 PSI tensile strength shaft with a polymer ceramic composite coating.
It’s also got dual knurling marks to provide a firm grip during your lifts.
Plus, this bar comes with a lifetime bend warranty, so you can be sure it will stand up to the rigors of your workouts for years to come.
Regarding bars, the Rogue Ohio Power Bar is in a class by itself.
Pros
- Multipurpose
- It offers a decent grip during lifts
- No center knurl for comfortable deadlifts and front squats
- Solid construction
- It has some whip to it
- The high PSI means it’s built to last
- Up to par with the International Powerlifting Federation barbell specs
Cons
- Not the most aggressive knurling
- The coating on the weight sleeves tends to scrape off
Specs
- Diameter: 28.5 mm
- Loadable Sleeve Length: 16.40″
- Bar Length: 86.75″
- Bar Weight: 20 KG
- Men’s
- Shaft: Cerakote
2. The “Original” Texas Power Bar
The “Original” Texas Power Bar is just what you need for your next big lift.
This bar has a tensile strength of 190,000 pounds, making it one strong power bar.
The aggressive knurling provides a solid grip for your hands, while the center knurl ensures that your back stays tight during low bar squats.
Pros
- Good sleeve spin
- A versatile bar for your garage gym
- Great knurling contact points reduce the need for straps when lifting
- Easy to maintain
- The 28.5 mm diameter allows for a firm hold on the bar
- Good balance of stiffness and bend
Cons
- Some customers experience long delivery times
- Knurling may be too aggressive for some users
Specs
- Shafts: Bare Steel, Black Zinc, or Chrome
- Sleeve: Bare Steel or Chrome
- Diameter: 28.5 mm
- Loadable Sleeve Length: 17″
- Bar Weight: 20 KG
- Bar Length: 86″
3. CAP Olympic Weightlifting Bar
This Olympic lifting bar is made from Japanese cold-rolled steel for great strength and durability.
It also features a medium-depth diamond knurling for a secure grip.
Plus, with snap clip sleeves, you can easily change out weights as needed.
CAP has been a pioneer in the fitness industry for over 30 years, so you can be sure this bar is of the highest quality.
Pros
- UV resistant
- Compatible with most 2″ Olympic weight plates
- Capped ends
- These cheap bars are built to last
- Provides a good grip without tearing up your hands
- No center knurling
Cons
- Ships poorly packaged
- Inadequate sleeve spin
Specs
- PSI Tensile Strength: 110,000
- Bar Weight: 20 KG
- Loadable Sleeve Length: 15″
- Finish: Black Phosphate
- Bar Length: 86″
- Sleeves: Chrome
- Diameter: 28.5 mm
- Shaft: Alloy Steel
4. American Barbell Elite Power Bar
If you’re looking for a top-quality power bar that won’t let you down, look no further than the American Barbell Elite Power Bar.
This precision-grade stainless steel bar is built to last, with a 190,000 PSI tensile strength that can handle even the most intense workouts.
You’ll appreciate the minimal flex, which ensures a consistent and reliable performance each and every time.
So whether you’re doing squats, presses, or any other powerlifting move, you can rest assured that the American Barbell Bars will help you get the job done right.
Pros
- Long-lasting construction
- Good grip without tearing your hands apart
- The sleeves are smooth with nice rotation
- Sleeves are tight and quiet and are equipped with end caps
- Good stiffness
Cons
- Knurling isn’t aggressive enough for some lifters
Specs
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Bar Weight: 20 KG
- Diameter: 29 mm
- Includes a center knurl
- Stainless Steel Shaft
- Sleeve Finish: Hard Chrome
5. Synergee Regional Olympic Weightlifting & Powerlifting Barbell
The Synergee Regional Olympic Weightlifting & Powerlifting Barbell is the perfect bar for your biggest lifts!
It has a 190,000 psi rating and a 1500 lb weight capacity, so you can be sure it can handle anything you throw at it.
The 1.2 mm diamond knurl provides an excellent grip, while the 5 needle bearings on each sleeve ensure a smooth, precise movement.
Pros
- Good combination of whip and stiffness
- Rust, corrosion, and abrasion resistant
- Great sleeve spin
- The bar diameter is especially nice for smaller hands
- Double knurl marks
- Decent knurl grip
Cons
- The bar usually arrives with oil on it, so be sure to wipe it down
Specs
- Diameter: 28 mm
- Loadable Sleeve Length: 16.4″
- Bar Length: 86.4″
- Finish: Black Phosphate
- Bar Weight: 20 KG
- Shaft: Alloy Steel
6. Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar
The Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar is built to handle heavy weights.
Designed and precision engineered in Colombus, Ohio, and tested to 190,000 PSI, this guarantees you a high-quality bar with reliable strength.
The snap ring sleeves make sure that your plates stay anchored during heavy lifts.
This bar is designed with maximum whip so you get the most weight and power out of each lift—which translates to more gains in less time!
No matter what type of technique you use or how much pressure you put on it, this bar has got your back.
Plus, thanks to the lifetime warranty it comes with, peace of mind is guaranteed!
Pros
- Aggressive knurling
- Bronze bushings offer smooth spin
- Ideal thickness if you pull with hook grip
- Awesome flexibility for heavy deadlifts
- No center knurling
- Extended length
Cons
- This is specifically designed for deadlifting so it won’t be stable for heavy bench presses or squats
Specs
- Bar Length: 90.5″
- Loadable Sleeve Length: 15.5″
- Diameter: 27 mm
- Bar Weight: 20 KG
- Steel Shaft
- Both the shaft and sleeves have a cerakote coating
7. Kabuki Power Bar
Introducing the Kabuki Power Bar — American-made and built to last.
This New Generation power bar is designed to match International Powerlifting Federation bar specs.
It features standard powerlifting markings for convenience, plus it offers unbeatable 250k PSI tensile strength, as well as 51 RC hardness factors.
All of which makes it an excellent choice for today’s serious lifters.
We know that when you’re doing your heavy work in the gym, you can’t afford equipment that’s going to give out on you.
That’s why Kabuki Power Bars are designed with durability and strength top of mind.
Plus, they’re American-made, which means you’ll always enjoy quality construction and materials with this product.
Pros
- Equipped with bronze bushings for comfortable rotation
- The knurl is aggressive but not too sharp
- Versatile for all the main lifts
- Quality construction
- This bar was born to handle heavyweights
Cons
- The diameter might be a bit thick for some people
Specs
- Bar Weight: 20 KG
- Bar Length: 86.5″
- Sleeve Length: 16.5″
- Bar Diameter: 29 mm
- 6 different plating options are available at the time of writing
8. Bells of Steel Barenaked Powerlifting Bar 2.0 (Best Power Bars on a Budget)
This bare steel finish bar is any powerlifter’s dream come true.
It looks and performs like an expensive bar, and can handle serious weight.
It has extra thin collars for smoother loading/control of plates and standard powerlifting markings so you know exactly where to place your hands.
It also has a center knurling for a secure hold and reduced fatigue during long sets of squats.
Plus it meets all the specs of the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) so you can focus on pushing yourself to new limits with a platform-grade bar.
No weaklings here!
With 210,000 PSI tensile strength to prolong its life expectancy, this is one tough bar that will keep up with your epic gym performance.
Pros
- Pretty Aggressive knurling
- A great all-around bar for squat, bench press, deadlift, and overhead press
- Almost no whip with heavy weights
- Good collar spin
- The ribbed sleeves help lock the weight plates in place
Cons
- Not resistant to rusting
- Uneven knurl markings
Specs
- Bar Weight: 20 KG
- Bare Stainless Steel Shaft
- Hardened Chrome Sleeves
- Max Weight: 1500 LBs
- Lifetime Limited Warranty
- Diameter: 29 mm
- Bar Length: 86.6″
9. American Barbell Mammoth Power Bar
Are you ready to take your workouts to the human potential and beyond?
The American Barbell Mammoth Power bar is here to unleash your muscle strength with groundbreaking 210,000 PSI tensile strength!
Crafted from precision-grade stainless steel, this bar takes lifting to a whole new level, bringing Olympic-level performance right into your home.
With minimal flex, you’ll feel the power coursing through your veins like never before.
And if that wasn’t enough, it also features a Cerakote finish for superior durability and style.
You’ll feel like an Olympian every time you hit a lift in the home gym.
Pros
- Precise knurling without any sharpness
- Durable
- Bushing system for a spin
- The right amount of flexibility for the big three lifts
- Ships well packaged
Cons
- The sleeves aren’t super quiet when adding or removing weights
Specs
- Weight: 20 KG
- Diameter: 29 mm
- Has a center knurl
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Shaft: Stainless steel and Cerakote
- Sleeve: Machined steel and hard chrome
10. HulkFit Olympic Weightlifting Trap Bar
This bad boy was designed to take your strength training to a whole new level.
With its heavy-duty steel construction and high gloss powder-coated paint, it’s bound to get you pumped.
It has raised handles so you can lift more weight than ever before, with a stunning 1000 LB capacity.
If you’re looking for ultimate control during your workout, the HulkFit Trap Bar delivers.
You don’t have to worry about losing stability while lifting – this baby has got you covered.
Pros
- It has raised and regular handles, both with knurling
- Weights easily slide on and off
- Durable and sturdy
- Well packaged
- An affordable trap bar that provides a good workout
Cons
- Knurling isn’t cut very deep
- You can only fit 3-4 standard plates on each of the loading sleeves
Specs
- Sleeve Diameter: 1.97″
- Loading Arm Length: 9.25″
- Bar Length: 55.75″
- 2-year warranty
- Bar Weight: 45 LBs
11. Rogue 32MM Ohio Squat Bar
Introducing the Rogue Ohio Squat Bar, the perfect barbell for all your leg training needs!
It’s approved by Westside Barbell and has a tensile strength of 200,000 PSI to keep you safe while you power through those squats.
The deep fully knurled shaft provides an unbeatable grip no matter how heavy the weight is.
And the oversized stainless steel shaft gives this barbell an impressive whip reduction.
Pros
- The bronze bushing promotes smooth spin
- Includes a center knurl, and full-length knurling that is aggressive without being too sharp
- Sticks to your back really well
- A specialty bar specifically designed for squatting
- The extended length makes it easier to rack
- Holds stiff when lifting heavy
Cons
- This bar is designed for heavy squatters, so if you’re a beginner a cheaper option will suffice
Specs
- Diameter: 32 mm
- Fully stainless steel knurling
- Chrome sleeves
- Loadable Sleeve Length: 16.795″
- Lifetime Warranty
- Bar Weight: 25 KG
- Length: 94.488″
12. Rogue Olympic Barbell (Best Weightlifting Bar)
Rogue Olympic Barbells come with a precision-cut knurl pattern designed exclusively for Rogue Fitness and offers superior grip in any situation.
The bar is made of stainless steel, giving it an impressive 200,000 PSI tensile strength and making it one of the stronger bars on this list.
For smooth motion, it also includes needle bearings with low friction efficiency.
And because this barbell was crafted right in Columbus, Ohio, you can rest assured knowing that no matter what your progress looks like, your Ohio bar won’t be letting you down any time soon.
Pros
- Meets the International Weightlifting Federation standards
- Resistant to oxidation
- The knurling isn’t overly aggressive
- The reduced diameter makes it much easier to grip
- Strong with good flexibility
Cons
- Some users had issues with the ends spinning inadequately and unevenly
Specs
- A stainless steel version or Cerakote finish option is available
- Chrome or Stainless Steel sleeves
- Dome-tag endcaps
- Olympic Knurl Marks
- No center knurl
- Sleeve Length: 16.3″
- Diameter: 28 mm
- Weight: 20 KG
13. Valor Fitness OB-DL Olympic Deadlift Bar
The Valor Fitness OB-DL Olympic Deadlift Bar is a beast!
With 165,000 PSI tensile strength and dual bushings, its accuracy meets the IPF standards.
Not only is this bar incredibly strong, but it’s also incredibly flexible.
The protective rubber collar rings help guarantee a safe lift every time.
Just knowing this bar is ready for action will get you fired up for your next workout session!
Pros
- Somewhat aggressive knurling
- The reduced diameter makes for an easier time holding on during big pulls
- Strong Man Approved
- Responsive customer support
- Great whip with heavier weights
Cons
- The coating on the sleeves tends to chip
- Some users say the knurling is too passive
Specs
- Length: 90.5″
- Grip Diameter: 27 mm
- Weight Limit: 1200 LBs
- Bar Weight: 45 LBs
- Powder Coated Alloy Steel
- 14.5″ sleeves
14. ISF 27MM Deadlift Bar
Introducing the ISF 27MM Deadlift Bar – the perfect tool for everyday deadlifts!
With its aggressive knurling, you can benefit from the maximum grip when lifting.
Its unique whip allows it to move as you lift and take the strain off your body.
The friction-welded sleeves keep it running smoothly, without worrying about parts becoming loose.
And unlike other barbells, it does not have a center knurl, so your ankles don’t get torn up!
Pros
- A lot of time went into testing the build for these bars
- Solid construction with good whip
- Designed to maintain its straight shape after lifts
- Deep knurl patterns
- Great customer support from ISF
Cons
- Requires frequent oil lubrication
Specs
- Diameter: 27 mm
- Length: 91.73″
- Loadable Area: 15.75″
- Weight: 20 KG
- Fully stainless steel barbell with hard chrome sleeves (other options are available)
15. Titan Fitness 60″ Olympic Barbell (Best Compact Bar)
Introducing the Titan Fitness Olympic Barbell- made with strength, comfort, and reliability in mind.
This heavy-duty steel barbell is perfect for moderate weightlifting with its 500 LB capacity!
The diamond knurl patterns make sure that you can trust this bar to stay secure and comfortable when pushing yourself to the max.
This barbell’s design caters to both men and women- so don’t be shy, everyone can join in on the fun!
At just 60 inches long, this beast is one of the most compact bars on this list, but don’t let that fool you; it still packs quite a punch.
Pros
- Perfect for accessory movements like skull crushers, curls, or rows
- Offers balance and control
- Great for a smaller home gym
- It’s a nice-looking bar
- Knurling provides a good grip without cutting up your hands
- Fits with Olympic plates
Cons
- You won’t be able to rack it in a normal size power rack
Specs
- Weight: 25 LBs
- Diameter: 28 mm
- Steel with chrome finish
- Sleeve Length: 10 3/4″
- Total Length: 60″
- No center knurl
16. Vulcan Elite Powerlifting Barbell
Get ready to take your lifting to the next level with this top-of-the-line barbell.
Uncompromising quality and superior construction make it a no-brainer for serious lifters.
With 196K PSI steel, you’ll get unmatched strength and control for even the toughest sets.
And with no whip, you can be sure your form will remain consistent between reps.
Oilite Oil impregnated bronze bushings provide smooth rotation during every rep, every set – all while you maintain control of the weight.
Plus, dual snap rings hold the plates securely in place even at extreme weights.
Pros
- The bushings are designed to self-lubricate, which will lessen the maintenance requirements
- Great for presses and squats
- Consistent knurling pattern
- Good stability and quality construction
- Ships well packaged
Cons
- The diameter and center knurling aren’t ideal for deadlifts
Specs
- 4″ Center knurl
- Loading Sleeves: 16.25″
- Diameter: 29 mm
- Single finger markings
- Weight: 20 KG
- Materials: Steel and Zinc
17. Rage Fitness 15 LB Olympic Training Barbell
This powerful technique bar is designed for new Olympic weightlifters and powerlifters.
The Rage Fitness Olympic Training Barbell includes rotating sleeves with bushings, meaning there’s less friction as the plates move along their path.
Perfect for when you’re smashing through one of your workouts.
Plus, they fit 2″ Olympic plates, so everything will feel secure and supported as you lift.
Pros
- Great for a compact space
- A good beginner bar for practicing technique
- The knurl won’t tear up your hands
- Weights go on and off smoothly
- Lightweight and sturdy
- Adequate end spin
Cons
- May not fit properly in some power racks
Specs
- Weight Limit: 300 LBs
- 72″ long
- Aluminum with chrome finish
- Bar Weight: 15 LBs
- Diameter: 28 mm
- Medium diamond knurling
18. Vulcan Absolute Power Bar
This powerhouse bar has an impressive 221k PSI tensile strength, allowing you to lift more weights than ever before.
The captivating grooved sleeves provide steady plate security.
Plus, the bushing rotation makes for smooth spinning.
And with a single marking system, you’ll never be confused about where to put your fingers.
Pros
- Perfect amount of grip and sharpness on the outer knurling
- Stiff
- Quality construction
- Well-packaged
- The center knurl is mild
- Good spin
Cons
- One user reported chipping of the matte chrome when adding/removing weights
Specs
- 4″ Center knurl
- Lifetime Warranty
- Black Oxide Shaft
- Matte Chrome Sleeves
- Bar Weight: 20 KG
19. Rogue’s Bella Bar 2.0 (Best Powerlifting Bar for Women)
Get ready to revolutionize your workout with this top-of-the-line powerlifting bar made specifically for women athletes.
This bar boasts an impressive 200,000 PSI tensile strength and incorporates oxidation-resistant steel to keep it looking fresh and new after hundreds of workouts.
Dual knurl marks give you the flexibility to train with either Olympic or Powerlifting techniques.
While composite bronze bushings ensure a smooth ride every time you set up your lifts.
Pros
- Multipurpose
- Passive yet grippy knurling
- Adequate sleeve spin
- The thickness is great for smaller hands
- Rust resistant
Cons
- Some users reported scuff marks on their bar upon receiving it
Specs
- Bar Weight: 15 KG
- Bar Length: 79.13″
- Loadable Length: 13″
- No center knurl
- Construction Warranty
- Stainless steel shaft with chrome sleeves
- Diameter: 25 mm
20. Rogue Ohio Junior Bar (Best Barbell for Beginners)
Introducing the Rogue Ohio Junior Bar, the perfect introduction to strength training for beginners!
Featuring 190,000 PSI tensile strength and dual knurl marks, this barbell is durable enough to handle all your new workouts.
But don’t worry – no center knurl means you won’t have any uncomfortable knurling in the middle of your rests and sets.
With bronze bushings and a unique snap ring design, this bar is sure to be a welcome addition to any gym.
Pros
- Fits on standard-sized power racks
- The reduced diameter is nice for small hands
- An excellent technique bar
- Compact and durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- If you use bumper plates you might run out of loading room quickly
Specs
- Diameter: 25 mm
- Total Length: 66.8″
- Loadable Sleeve: 6.625″
- Steel shaft with a black zinc finish
- Bright zinc sleeves
- Bar Weight: 10 KG
21. The Kabuki Strength Duffalo Bar
The Kabuki Strength Duffalo Bar is the only barbell of its kind in existence.
Manufactured with unbeatable precision in the USA, this bar has a proprietary bend that allows you to use it for both squats and bench presses, giving you unbeatable control and stability.
The oil-impregnated bronze bushings also ensure long-lasting spin, so you can say goodbye to constant maintenance.
For your convenience and comfort, this bar has been crafted using the highest quality materials.
Experience the difference with The Kabuki Strength Duffalo Bar!
You will be able to lift heavier weights or perform more sophisticated workouts without having to worry about any additional strain on your shoulders or back.
Pros
- Promotes shoulder health and lat engagement during lifts
- Rests comfortably on your back or shoulders for back/front squats
- Improves core stability
- Includes a stamp end cap from Kabuki Strength
- Corrosion resistant
- Awesome knurling that sticks to you
Cons
- Long shipping times
- If you’re on a tight budget this might not be the best option since it’s not super versatile
Specs
- Bar Weight: 55 LBs
- Bar Length: 95″
- Diameter: 31.75 mm
- Loadable Length: 17.25″
- Black Oxide, Clear Zinc, or Tactical Green Cerakote finish
- Load Capacity: 1500 LBs
22. Titan Fitness Safety Squat Bar
Tired of feeling the strain of the barbell on your shoulders and neck during squats?
Say goodbye to discomfort, and hello to Titan Fitness Safety Squat Bar!
This barbell will keep you moving safely and efficiently during sets, with its lower center of gravity that gives you more control.
Plus, this durable steel construction will last for years of rigorous workouts.
Pros
- It has padded grips for extra hand comfort
- The shoulder pads help prevent bar marks on your back
- Promotes proper balance during squats
- The padding is of good quality material
- Sturdy
Cons
- Its main purpose is limited to squatting and some special exercises
Specs
- Total Length: 90.5″
- Item Weight: 61 LBs
- Alloy Steel with Chrome Finish
- 1.5″ diameter
- Loadable Length: 16″
- Designed for Olympic Plates
- 1500 LB capacity
23. Yes4All Multigrip Swiss Bar
The Yes4All Multigrip Swiss Bar is a must-have if you’re serious about your presses!
Not only will it help you take your workout to the next level, but you’ll also have a blast while doing it.
With six hollow grips, you can easily switch between neutral and angled ones for more variation in your regimen.
It fits any standard power rack and 2″ Olympic plates, making it a welcomed addition to your home gym.
Pros
- It comes with two t-screw lock collars to ensure your weights don’t fall off
- Reduces stress on your shoulder and wrist joints
- Versatile for upper body movements
- Lightweight and sturdy
- The grips are evenly knurled
Cons
- Not designed for lower body exercises
- The knurling is pretty mild
Specs
- 1-year warranty with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee
- 400 LB capacity
- 14″ loadable sleeves
- 28 mm diameter
- Steel construction
- Weight: 22 LBs
- Length: 82.2″
24. Annzoe Olympic Weightlifting Barbell
This barbell is constructed of high-grade steel alloy, featuring a 190,000 PSI tensile strength that can handle any lift you throw at it.
The oxidation resistance ensures this bar will keep its shine even after years of use.
The knurling features an anti-slip design for optimal grip, plus a small center knurl for precise movements and easy gripping during those heavy squats.
Pros
- Heavy-duty
- Decent sleeve rotation
- Super affordable bar for Olympic lifting
- Well-balanced
- The grip is okay
- An optimal amount of whip
Cons
- The knurling is fairly light
Specs
- Weight Limit: 700 LBs
- Alloy Steel with Chrome finish
- Weight: 35 LBs
- 84.6″ long
- 18-month warranty
- Diameter: 1.2″
- Sleeve Length: 15.2″
25. Rep Fitness Deep Knurl Bar EX (Limited)
Made from stainless steel and featuring a 200 KSI tensile strength, you won’t find too many higher-quality barbells out there.
Boasting a deep knurling that’s perfect for heavy deadlifts and squats, plus a center knurl for added grip and stability – you’ll be sure to get the most out of each rep!
With a bushing and snap ring design, plus smooth sleeves that make it easy to swap plates on the fly, this bar can handle whatever you can throw at it.
And with its static rating of 1500 lbs, you know it’ll have no problem supporting even your hardest lifts.
Pros
- Rust resistant
- Aggressive grip that won’t destroy your hands
- The sleeves are really nice for sliding iron plates on/off
- Great sleeve spin and bar whip
- High strength
Cons
- The thickness and center knurl may not be convenient for deadlifting
- Discontinued (limited availability)
Specs
- Power Bar Tensile Strength: 200,000
- IPF knurl markings
- 29 mm diameter
- Loadable Length: 16.5″
- Weight: 20 KG
- Bar Length: 86.5″
- Fully Stainless Steel
- Limited lifetime warranty
The Different Types of Powerlifting Bars
Power Bars
Most Power bars are heavy and thick because they’re meant to be versatile.
Ohio Power Bars and Texas Power Bars are two of the best-known power barbells, and they both offer similar advantages.
The Ohio Power Bar features high-grade steel and provides a smooth lift.
It also has center knurl marks so you maintain tightness during squats.
The Texas Power Bar is also made with high-grade steel and has a center knurl.
It also has extra long sleeves to accommodate heavier lifts during powerlifting exercises.
Both of these power bars are popular among serious lifters.
Specialty Bars
Some bars are meant for special exercises.
For example, squat bars are good for squats, deadlift bars are good for deadlifts, and Swiss bars are good for presses.
Trap bars are excellent for deadlift exercises with reduced strain on the lumbar spine.
Safety bars can help you squat or perform good mornings with heavier weights while reducing the risk of a shoulder injury.
Finally, Duffalo bars are great for performing squats and presses with less shoulder strain.
All in all, these specialty bars can be used as an effective way to take your workout to the next level!
Olympic Weightlifting Bars
Olympic weightlifting bars are a specific type of barbell that is used in the sport of Olympic weightlifting.
They have slightly different flex, spin, and size than other bars and are specifically designed for use in the snatch and clean and jerk lifts.
How To Find the Best Bar for Your Needs
When looking for a powerlifting bar, there are several factors you should consider.
The first is PSI tensile strength, which indicates the amount of weight the bar can hold without breaking (pounds per square inch).
You should also consider the bar shaft material, loadable length, weight, thickness, and knurling.
These features determine the performance of the bar and how it feels in your hands.
You want a bar that is strong enough but also comfortable to hold.
Knurling, which are grooves on the bar shaft, helps you maintain a better grip during lifts.
Finally, you should take into account the material used in making the bar and related components as this may affect the durability of your bar.
Benefits of Using a Powerlifting Bar
Powerlifting barbells are designed to be more rigid and have higher tensile strength than regular bars.
This means they can handle heavier loads without bending or breaking, which is important for any serious powerlifter.
They typically have more precise stiffness and spin than regular bars, allowing you to generate more power and muscle recruitment on your lifts.
They also tend to be semi-thick in diameter, making it comfortable to grip the bar when doing heavy lifts.
Plus, powerlifting barbells usually feature aggressive knurling which helps provide additional grip on the bar.
This helps you keep your hands in place and prevents the bar from slipping out of your grip.
Powerlifting Bar FAQs
What Bar Is Used in Powerlifting?
A barbell is a piece of exercise equipment used in weightlifting, bodybuilding, and powerlifting.
It consists of a steel shaft with weight sleeves on either end.
The most common type for powerlifters is the Power bar, which weighs 20-25 kg (44-55 lb) and is 2.2 m (7 ft) long.
Is a Thinner or Thicker Bar Better for Deadlift?
Thinner bars are better for deadlifts because they are more flexible and easier to grip.
Additionally, thin bars allow for a greater range of motion and help keep the torso upright throughout the movement.
What Bar Do Olympic Lifters Use?
Olympic Barbells measure 7.2 feet across in men’s weightlifting and 6.6 feet in women’s.
Depending on the athlete, the bar can weigh anywhere between 15 kg (33 lbs) to 20 kg (44 lbs).
The barbell’s shaft is also made from stainless steel, which allows it to remain rigid while still being able to flex and bend under pressure.
Finally, the sleeves should spin to reduce torque and relieve pressure on the wrists and elbows.
Summarizing the Best Powerlifting Barbells
When it comes to powerlifting, having the right equipment is key.
That’s why I put together this list of the 25 best bars for powerlifting in your home gym.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lifter, I’ve got you covered.
I’ve also given you a few tips on how to choose the right bar for your needs and some ideas on how to use them for optimal results.
Let me know which one you’ve chosen in the comments below!
If you plan on competing, be sure to check out my list of the best powerlifting singlets.
Sources:
https://barbend.com/how-to-choose-barbell/
https://www.beastgear.co.uk/blogs/knowledge-bombs/awesome-trap-bar-deadlifts
https://stronghomegym.com/olympic-barbell-weight/
https://homegymhideaway.com/are-olympic-bars-supposed-to-spin/
