The vast majority of my gym meltdowns have been during workouts or training sessions that involve Olympic lifts. They are technical and to hit them you have to do what seems like a million small movements at lightning speed. Therefore, I want to make sure that I have as much help as possible when I’m performing snatches or clean and jerks, and that is where a solidly constructed Olympic barbell, like the American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar, comes into play.
This bar meets International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) specifications and has a fairly high tensile strength of 190,000 PSI (how much weight per square inch the bar can handle before bending or breaking). However, what really makes the American Barbell shine as bright as the Fourth of July fireworks is how it is constructed and how it rotates. Read on to find out more about how this bar spins and so much more in my full American Barbell Stainless Steel Bearing Bar Review.
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A Quick Look at the American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar Review
SPECS
- Weight: 15kg and 20kg
- Knurling: Medium
- Diameter: 28mm
- Length: 2010mm and 2020mm
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
The American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar is both a sturdy tank and a nimble luxury car all in one. With its stainless steel construction and considerable tensile strength, it is more than capable of handling all the weight that you can load on it. However, what makes this bar stand out is its rotation system. American Barbell uses needle bearings that have a higher load-bearing capacity than many of its counterparts. Not only does this allow you to lift heavy, but it also helps the bar spin properly.
As opposed to barbells used for powerlifting, which need to stay fairly stationary, Olympic barbells need to spin effortlessly both when unloaded and when supporting a heavy load. Thanks to the durability of this bar’s bearings it will provide you with a stable bar that spins just as it should to help you optimize your technique and the weight on the bar. Although some may prefer more aggressive knurling than this bar provides, the medium-level knurl is great for performing Olympic lifts.
What We Like
- Clean, smooth look
- Lifetime warranty
- Proprietary bearing system
- Cleans up easily
What We Don’t Like
- Relatively low tensile strength
- Fairly passive knurling
BUY: American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar
A Closer Look at American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar
The American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar is a gleaming stainless steel beauty. However, it is much more than its looks. It is a bar for serious weightlifters, and for those who like to purchase quality gear. The company paid attention to the details of this bar, and we’re going to take a deeper dive into its construction and features.
American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar Construction
By using stainless steel, American Barbell laid the groundwork for building a durable and easy-to-maintain barbell. This bar meets IWF specifications. Therefore, if you want to participate in any weightlifting competitions, you can rest assured that the 15kg or 20kg bar with a 190,000 PSI, will be a reliable companion. Additionally, the use of stainless steel means that this bar is easy to grip, and has top-notch oxidation resistance. If you train in an area that is close to the ocean or has a high humidity level, this bar will resist rust.
The sleeves on this bar are constructed of hard smooth chrome which will make them quieter, but by not having grooves, plates may not stay as securely in place as well. However, this can be quickly remedied by using collars. When you’re loading up the bar for PRs, unique and strong needle bearings that are used for this bar, mean that it can handle heavy loads while still spinning just enough to make this bar ideal for performing Olympic lifts.
American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar Features
Aesthetically speaking, this barbell has it going on. It is constructed from stainless steel and gleams nicely. The smooth sleeves feature beautiful recessed welds that have become something of a signature for American Barbell. It also features a smooth spin thanks to its proprietary bearings. Furthermore, there is a lifetime warranty on this bar.
Our Verdict
The American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar is definitely a great bar. Although some may want more aggressive knurling and others may argue that it could have a stronger tensile strength, those are certainly not deal breakers. It is evident that the company takes pride in how its equipment looks and functions, and considering that they back it up with a lifetime warranty, we think that purchasing this bar is a no-brainer for heavy lifters and anyone with the budget for it.
BUY: American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar
FAQs About American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar
Are stainless steel barbells good?
Stainless steel barbells are solidly constructed and can usually withstand heavy loads. Additionally, they are good for areas with high humidity because stainless steel is corrosive resistance.
Where is American Barbell made?
The American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar is made in America. The company is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada.
How heavy is the American Barbell?
The American Barbell Stainless Bearing Bar weighs 20 kg.
About the Author
Sosha is a staff writer for ACTIVE.com and a CrossFit enthusiast. Her work’s been featured in The Washington Post, Huffington Post, MUTHA Magazine, Charlotte Magazine, and The Charlotte Observer. Her weekly column, Soshally Awkward, is featured on the nationally-syndicated radio show, Bob & Sheri.
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