A lot of useful information in this video. 4 years later and it still holds up. There are some college degrees that can’t say the same. Nice work, brother. 💪
Seeing Brendan comment here is just as cool as seeing Brandon jump into a random Calgary Barbell live stream. In case people don't know, Brendan has awesome powerlifting content on his channel.
Two things: 1. I have the Titan SSB V2 and love it with two exceptions. The chrome finish is reminiscent of a hollywood gun and I hate it. The second thing is that in my RML690 the bar isn't long enough to sit flush onto the standard J-cups 2. The Mike Bartos Power Center FuBar is an awesome bar that you should check out. I used my coach's a few times and just recently purchased one (should be here this week)
1. Yeah but i wonder if it's worth the trade off for the awful clear finish on the EliteFTS that flakes off after 1 use lol. 2. I've been looking at that actually.
"Which I might have mentioned already, ahh, but, I'm a couple bars in and I don't really know where I am at this point in my life." Touche, Brandon, touche.
Got the isf squat bar and after using a Texas and rogue squat bar I’m sincerely impressed! A fully knurled squat bar shipped to my house in Florida for $300 was a no brainer.
Well ready for you to start getting the Florida shipping rates! Trying to get it all stocked and website issues worked out to take advantage of the fulfillment locations.
They have been saying they'll send me one forever (since I reviewed their olympic bar). From what I've heard the knurling isn't very aggressive and they're supposed to be fixing that for their v2
I got a Titan bar at the start of the pandemic for $110 from Amazon. It was the only barbell I could find. It will be my landmine bar. It is very very passive. I have since received an Ohio Power Bar.
I’ve been using the kabuki during this lockdown, got it from my powerlifting gym so I’d used it before but tended to use the ohio power bar, gotta say though since getting acquainted with it its an absolutely stellar bar. Very well engineered, sleeves have a built in side to side buffer to protect it with deadlift impacts. Knurl takes some getting used to and it does mark up with oxidation pretty quick but its great for all lifts. Agree though that if i had to buy one though the Ohio is almost as good and a fair bit cheaper
I just got my kabuki transformer and I’ve got to agree with what you said. Mine was spotted all over with oxidation, had deep scratches, on both levers like it had been dragged on the ground. Kabuki told me “those are where the machine bends the metal”....nothing came finished and all of the edges were sharp. The bar seems solid and it’s great to use, but it’s hard to imagine a $740 shipped bar going out looking that bad and it not be an accident.
@@BasementBrandon I guess my squat has to have something going for it. My 405 lb 1rm isn't anything to write home about but it's something. Gotta find the positive in my below average squat.
Another reason to use the Titan SSB V2 bar over EliteFTS SSB is that the EliteFTS has smaller diameter sleeves which are more of an axle size (1.9"). Not a deal breaker, but annoying to have additional collars just for 1 bar. The finish also flakes A LOT on the EliteFTS... Just my $0.02
13:15 "I would avoid staying away from this particular bar." Just to be clear, you meant to say you "would avoid this particular bar" or "would stay away from this bar" right?
I use my curl bar a fair bit. I have shoulder issues (who doesn’t!!) and the hand position feels good to me for lots of exercises. Curls and overhead extension obviously, but, bent over row and overhead press as well when my shoulders are in a particularly bad place
Just saw this, Brandon. Nice collection. Here are mine: York USA elite Oly, York USA power, Schnell Oly, Schnell power, Schnell power stainless, Ironwolfe power stainless (3), Ironwolfe deadlift stainless, Eleiko Rack (2), Eleiko Hybrid. Coming soon: Uesaka power.
I actually found a lady in my town selling a home made saftey squat bar that I expected to be very crappy but I’ve used it a few times and it actually isnt bad😂 would love to have an Elite FTS one though.
Just got my Rep EX today. Looks and feels great, but I'm wary that it might feel overly aggressive for high bar squats and bench. Is it worth splurging on the SS OPB to rotate/replace this bar with, or will I learn to love the Deep Knurl as my one-and-only daily driver? (btw: the knurling on my shaft stops a full centimeter before the collars, they might have fixed that design in the new batches)
Ive bought a handful of things from rep fitness and have yet to be disappointed. They make great oly bars for a great price and the cheaper plates are solid and durable. Glad to hear there consistent across multiple things haha. Also a tip is some items can be bought from amazon for a marginal difference but shipping is usually free. So i bought the one barbell for about 10$ more than there store and got it shipped to the east coast for free. So always worth checking.
I’ve had both the Elite FTS and Titan SSB at the same time. Titan padding is not nearly as good and the angles were off on the camber. Always found it uncomfortable whereas the Elite just feels perfect. That said, I hate the clear coat which was the only reason I gave the Titan a try.
I've got the Rogue Ohio Power Bar, Rogue Deadlift Bar, and the Rogue Squat Bar...love them all, but I agree that the Squat bar is uniquely awesome...wish they had sold a bare steel one to bring price down since the stainless steel was like $450, but still totally worth it
Great review! My current barbells are Rep deep knurl bar ex, Rogue 28.5mm Ohio bar, Titan SSB and of course an old beater bar but it actually has needle bearings in the collars. Maybe I’ll get a deadlift bar eventually.
You're not kidding about Elite FTS and their shipping. I ordered a bar and it said, ships in 1-3 business days. After 4 weeks, and sending two requests for my bar, I got a lovely response from them a few days ago. ''Sorry, but your bar won't until August.'' Look at their website now, almost everything says, call for a price and estimated ship date of August. I'm not sure what happened, but they're basically down.
@@Pler1978 I seem to remember hearing something like that. That's interesting. I wonder if I can just go straight to those companies. Thanks for the info.
It will be so nice when I can buy a new bar. Hopefully by next year the suppliers will be restocked. I suspect the used market will be plentiful once gyms open back up again....
I noticed that my Rep Power Bar EX has a lot more play in the sleeves than my girlfriend's OPB. For example in vertical storage it can be made to rattle if the bar is shaken whereas the OPB doesn't make any noise. Just curious on your thoughts on this and if it's something to worry about. The OPB is brand new so I wasn't sure if this is something that happens over time. I'd say main thing I notice is that it's louder on deadlifts than the OPB.
Hey Brandon, I recently ordered a SS OPB. I understand it’s supposed to be a maintenance-free barbell for the most part. However, I was wondering if you do anything (in terms of maintenance) for your barbell? Oiling, brushing, etc.
EliteFTS does have terrible shipping. Went to purchase plates there as things were getting crazy and for a set costing like 450$ shipping was quoted nearly the same price. Insanity.
Elite and Sorinex have crazy shipping. I was thinking about buying one of Elite's 6 post racks and inquired about shipping. If I bought from them I could have worked shipping down for the rack to under $300. So not bad. They suggest contacting them to get the best price. I went with a 4 post Monster Rack and I am happy with it.
Heyyyy. This popped up in my feed. Believe I have watched it when it came out. But watched again.. Are you able to do another updated version? I think you have a heap more bars since moving into your new place? 👍🏼
I know you’ve had a couple buffalo bars, but aren’t in love with them. I picked up a Fringe Longhorn and really like it. Don’t have any experience with those type of bars in the past to compare though. Lots of good bars on your list and we have several of the same bars but different finishes.
Regarding the Elitefts SSB Yoke vs the Titan SSB v2.: I used the Elitefts SSB Yoke for years, then bought the Titan SSB v2 when we built our house and moved into the garage. I prefer the Titan. Reasons: the Elitefts version flakes really bad, because of the finish, the diameter of the sleeves (you need specialty collars for the Elitefts version and the titan version has standard sleeves); and, the price/shipping. If I factor in shipping, I could buy 2 Titan SSB v2 bars for the price of 1 Elitefts version and use them for a 4 week block before the Elitefts version ever arrives. I love Dave Tate and Elitefts/Williams Strength, but they are just too damn expensive. I'm not a fan of Rogue due to their stupid high prices. You can check the price of American steel and their prices don't reflect any change in steel prices. That tells me something.
Brandon, how about a video for us(me) dummies about the difference between all the bars. I hear about Ohio bars, Power bars, Deadlift bars etc, etc. Do you really need 3-4-5 different bars for powerlifting ? If you don't want to do such a video, please direct me to where I can learn such. Thanks, from the big, old dummy.
I could probably understand if someone wanted two power bars, one with passive and one with aggressive knurling depending on needs. Maxing out on an aggressive bar is easier since grip will be less on an issue, but it will fuck up your hands over time, at least that's my experience.
Do to this pandemic, I was only able to get a hold of cheap bar but I make the best of it at home. Which brand would you highly recommend for outdoors.
Have you tried a Kabuki Kadillac Bar? Would love to get your take on it. Coop loves it, but I'm more curious from a competitor's standpoint. My shoulders are trashed from 30+ years of lifting (and 2 shoulder surgeries). Could someone train on the Kadillac bar and get good carryover when competing with a power bar?
I’d hate to post this randomly on a new video so forgive me for the slight necro… Have you stated anywhere (I don’t have IG), that you plan on looking at the Rogue Aggro bars? We are both the same height and Probably same hand size? 😉 and your thoughts on what is aggressive Match mine so I trust what you’d say about that 3x more than some others … Thanks Brandon
I like your videos I watch a lot of them to learn about fitness, I don’t see any about supplements I am interested in collagen and bone broth what supplements do you take? Maybe make a video!
Appreciate all the barbell reviews they’re very helpful. If you wanted a multipurpose barbell but wanted one that had a good grip for deadlifts would you go with a AB 29 mm Grizzly in chrome or the AB 28 mm California bar in Cerakote ?
I’d like to hear your take on the Premium Safety Squat bar by Bells of Steel. It’s something I’ve looked at as it’s shipping is much more affordable for Canadians. There’s mixed reviews though on its geometry.
It's better than their first version (which I trashed). I've heard the offset angle isn't the same as the other offerings, but for the price it's probably worth a shot.
The main purpose is to save the shoulders, but as I mention in the video there's a ton of exercises you can do with it that you can't really do well with a barbell.
Can you say something about how tight the sleeves are on the bar in case of the ROPB? Can you move the sleeves from letf to right in any way? Or move them up and down? So is there a "klack" wenn you start pulling during deadlifts?
@@BasementBrandon Thank you for the answer! So is there "klicking" from the bar when starting the deadlift? I used to have an eleiko which had absolutly no movement at all, but sold it for a better price damn
Great video, thx! Do you ever use a Swiss bar (aka football bar)? I know you had one a while back that was pretty cheap. Also, any suggestions for selling equipment? Craigslist?
If the price was the same would you recommend the rogue ohio power bar in stainless steel or the kabuki power bar? Do rogue calibrated plates fit the kabuki power bar?
It was basically a TPB with less aggressive knurling. I found I used other power bars more and the other "crosstraining" bars I have were a bit better for the application I was looking for.
Is the knurl on your shoulderok the same as the knurl on kabuki's power bar? I have a shoulderok and am not too impressed with the knurl, I understand it's a diff movement than you would do with a barbell but it kind of stinks in my opinion.
Brandon do you think a more expensive bar is necessary for an average recreational lifter ? I do have an Ohio deadlift bar for dling, but for front squats (back issues can't back squat) benching and pressing I've been using the same $150 bar I got on amazon for a couple years. Never had an issue with it.. isn't bent or anything. Works fine. Do I really need a nicer bar? Been looking at Ohio bar and Texas power bar but seems like a waste of money of mine works? Haha. Cool bars though 😎
Looking for Help....what is best recommended for a BAR that I can bench, squat and conventional deadlift for my garage-gym. As I'm getting to 3,4,5 plate sets on my lifts, my current bar is bending. It's a cheapy...it doesn't have a name. Best all-around BAR ? THANKS
Do you find that your Kabuki bar oxidizes even with the nickel plating? I’ve also heard people report mild rusting on their Rep EX bars (apparently Rep uses a lower grade of stainless steel), not sure if you’ve noticed it happening?
My kabuki does have some. I find their finish isn's as resistant as some of the other brands. For the Rep bar, it's held up just as good as my Rogue SS.
As someone new to lifting, what do a lot of the variations mean when looking at barbells? Rogue has the ohio bar, the ohio power bar, the echo bar. When it says bar use is powerlifting does that mean clean and jerks? And would be overkill for something like a bench press?
Powerlifting is considered bench, squat and deadlift. Basics are 28mm bars are best for weightlifting (clean and jerek/snatch). 29mm best for powerlifting and 28.5mm can be considered a hybrid for either.
@@BasementBrandon yeah me too. Thanks for your honest opinion. Love my rogue ohio bar stainless steel and my rogue Ohio power bar black zinc. My next bar is going to be that squat bar! That knurling looks amazing
Can I ask why you don’t use the kabuki as often anymore? I remember you originally said it became your daily driver. I want a single bar and was going with the kabuki over the OPB. I don’t mind the price. I also want the better, less sharp knurl. What do you think? Kabuki has a red and black cerakote just like rogue that I am comparing.
I like the feel of the OPB better. At the time I only had a black zinc OPB so the knurling was dulled. Cerakote bars look great, but offer one of the worst feels IMO as they fill in the knurl too much for my liking.
@@BasementBrandon thanks for replying! I was about to buy the kabuki in cerakote. And this video planted the seed of doubt. Sent me down a rabbit hole that made me abandon the kabuki altogether and buy the American barbell elite. I would love to know what you think about that stainless steel bar for beginner, uncalloused hands or those who want moderate knurl.
@@theawesomeslimes The Kabuki is still a really good bar, just a tad on the expensive side. AB make great bars, but they're all prettty passive in general.
Hi Brandon! I believe u have a lot of european subscribers, my self included. It would be interesting to make a video about the options we have in order to create a home gym. I'm romanian and since all gyms have been closed for about 2 month in my area, i looked into a home gym. The only brand that seemed to be high quality and that i could find was ATX. I ordered a 810 halfrack, a atx crossfit olympic bar and bumper plates(the ones i found in stock are realy thick, the 20kg have a 12 cm thickness) since those were the only things i could find in stock. There seams to be no benches available. Thanks for the help!
Strength shop is great value if you're in Europe. Brandon has done a review of the strength shop power bar and their squat bar. Depending on which country you're in, there can be a few local alternatives. Have a look at the Home Gym Community facebook group by Garage Gym Reviews, there's a few Europeans in there.
@@BasementBrandon That's too bad, your opinion would have helped a lot. Your other videos helped anyway... and hopefully ATX will offer similar quality to US bassed companies like Rogue or Sorinex. The uprights are 80x80mm with 3mm thick steal which i think is a bit bigger than the 3x3 inches that Rogue offers on the Monster rack. We'll see when it's finally shipped. Thanks, Brandon!
I like the rogue better mainly for the quality of the knurl length (full vs partial) and the finish option (stainless). that being said the StrongArm bar is still fantastic.
@@BasementBrandon I know I have asked this before, but what is the upkeep for a bare steel again? Is that the main reason why you prefer the stainless steel? Or is it the feel? I am also confused about the price. They seem to have two different sites, one for US and one for Canada. If I am in the US can I still buy from the Canadian site? Because that will run about $50 less from what I can tell.
@@BasementBrandon Do you think the wider spacing between knurls would be an issue for deadlifts? I've read mix reviews on it, I'm stuck between the Ohio power bar and chan bar.
I've heard nothing but good things, I just find it hard to justify that much $ for a specialty bar. If you're going to use it a lot go for it, if only like 1x per week, I'd prob go something more economical.
@@irispettson they may sell more than one variant. I know in the oly bars they sell the comp bars are aggressive and cant really be used daily but the training bar is more mild. So i feel the same probably goes for their power bars. Basically your average person shouldnt buy comp versions for daily training.
Awesome video man as this helps me with some potential future purchases for my garage gym. That Rogue Squat Bar sounds awesome man. How do you think it compares to a Texas Squat bar or even Kabuki's Squat bar? I also want to pick up that Rep EX Power Bar in the near future.
@@BasementBrandon Yeah that Rogue Squat bar looks pretty damn nice and will more than likely be one that I pick up for a squat bar. The first specialty bar that I want is that SSB though.
Just shared this video with my GarageGym411.com Facebook Group (11,300+ members strong!) Playback Speed 1.0 = 'Bladder full of Preworkout' BCD Playback Speed .75 = 'Head trauma/insomniac' BCD The cheapest I have seen the EliteFTS SSB Yoke Bar was during a Summer ‘overstock’ Sale for $300.00 (plus there was a coupon code) bringing the price down to $280.00 (before shipping) Kabuki Transformer Bar padding was updated Jan 2020. Kabuki CEO, Chris Duffin, has been taking care of any Transformer Bar owners that have experienced any 'padding issues.' Right now, Kabuki is offering multiple payment options through a partnership with Klarna. I'll be ordering a Kabuki Kadillac Bar soon. (I know BCD liked the Archon Multi-Grip Bar during his 'basement years.')
@@BasementBrandon - I know Brandon but quality is quality and at least to me the raw material is about the same. Quite a few countries have great steel companies. The Swedish steel company SSAB (I´m a shareholder myself btw) has one or more factories in the US and is a big exporter of special steel to your country!
There is probably more than one way to get there but go to their site, select Barbells and then select Boneyard bars. I don't check it often but there are no bars in it now and there hasn't been for some time.
@@BasementBrandon im in Europe, everything is sold out over here. I tried all major brands, with zero luck. And I don't think that rogue Europe has a boneyard. I found the boneyard on the American site, but not the European.
Rogue OPB: 0:53
Rep Fitness PB EX: 3:52
Kabuki Power:: 7:01
ISF Power: 9:40
Titan Blues City: 12:03
Rogue Ohio Bar: 13:17
Rogue Squat Bar: 14:55
StrongArm Deadlift: 16:51
EliteFTS SSB: 18:35
Where is the link for the isf bar
Where can I buy a good bar for around $300? I wanted to purchase the Rogue Ohio Powerbar but they've been out of stock.
My best bar I found it's the Rogue Westside power bar but thinking switching for Rogue OPB 20KG to be IPF spec on everything.
They come in stock but you have to check often.
waiting on my ISF Stainless right now :c)
A lot of useful information in this video. 4 years later and it still holds up. There are some college degrees that can’t say the same. Nice work, brother. 💪
Binge watching?!
Great macro photos and review, as always!
I had bigger aspirations but got lazy lol
@@BasementBrandon have you tried the American barbell grizzly or mammoth bar ?
@@InsaneCrazy255 I have not :( I'd like to but i'm hesitant b/c I've always heard the knurl is pretty passive.
@@BasementBrandon that’s what I like 👍🏻to compare the Ohio power bar is too sharp and aggressive 🤣
so where is the eleiko bar you put in the teaser 🤔
:)
@@BasementBrandon Ok. Now I'm intrigued. Going full Gucci on the bar with an Elieko?
Hahaha I was just going to comment this
No kidding. What a punk.
I love when you talk about stiff things
That’s what she said
hey now
Seeing Brendan comment here is just as cool as seeing Brandon jump into a random Calgary Barbell live stream. In case people don't know, Brendan has awesome powerlifting content on his channel.
Two things:
1. I have the Titan SSB V2 and love it with two exceptions. The chrome finish is reminiscent of a hollywood gun and I hate it. The second thing is that in my RML690 the bar isn't long enough to sit flush onto the standard J-cups
2. The Mike Bartos Power Center FuBar is an awesome bar that you should check out. I used my coach's a few times and just recently purchased one (should be here this week)
1. Yeah but i wonder if it's worth the trade off for the awful clear finish on the EliteFTS that flakes off after 1 use lol.
2. I've been looking at that actually.
"Which I might have mentioned already, ahh, but, I'm a couple bars in and I don't really know where I am at this point in my life." Touche, Brandon, touche.
Haha don't really plan these out too well.
Funniest sound bite on the video. Immediately paused the video to see what the masses said.
Got the isf squat bar and after using a Texas and rogue squat bar I’m sincerely impressed! A fully knurled squat bar shipped to my house in Florida for $300 was a no brainer.
awesome
Well ready for you to start getting the Florida shipping rates! Trying to get it all stocked and website issues worked out to take advantage of the fulfillment locations.
I would love to see a video or at least hear ur thoughts on the rhino power bar from synergee. Thanks for the content man.
They have been saying they'll send me one forever (since I reviewed their olympic bar). From what I've heard the knurling isn't very aggressive and they're supposed to be fixing that for their v2
@@BasementBrandon Can't wait for your review! Up here in Canada at 300$ and cheap shipping it is a very interesting bar.
I got a Titan bar at the start of the pandemic for $110 from Amazon. It was the only barbell I could find. It will be my landmine bar. It is very very passive. I have since received an Ohio Power Bar.
Right on!
I’ve been using the kabuki during this lockdown, got it from my powerlifting gym so I’d used it before but tended to use the ohio power bar, gotta say though since getting acquainted with it its an absolutely stellar bar. Very well engineered, sleeves have a built in side to side buffer to protect it with deadlift impacts. Knurl takes some getting used to and it does mark up with oxidation pretty quick but its great for all lifts. Agree though that if i had to buy one though the Ohio is almost as good and a fair bit cheaper
The thing that irks me outside the price is as you mentioned it oxidizes pretty quick
I just got my kabuki transformer and I’ve got to agree with what you said. Mine was spotted all over with oxidation, had deep scratches, on both levers like it had been dragged on the ground. Kabuki told me “those are where the machine bends the metal”....nothing came finished and all of the edges were sharp. The bar seems solid and it’s great to use, but it’s hard to imagine a $740 shipped bar going out looking that bad and it not be an accident.
dang sorry to hear, was this the new version or the old?
Been using the 20kg Ohio Power Bar for almost a year. I don't have any issues hitting my Monster Rack. It's my daily driver.
Someone has a clean walkout!
@@BasementBrandon I guess my squat has to have something going for it. My 405 lb 1rm isn't anything to write home about but it's something. Gotta find the positive in my below average squat.
Stainless steel, no oxidation whatsoever! Love my Rep Fitness ex bar!
My man
Another reason to use the Titan SSB V2 bar over EliteFTS SSB is that the EliteFTS has smaller diameter sleeves which are more of an axle size (1.9"). Not a deal breaker, but annoying to have additional collars just for 1 bar. The finish also flakes A LOT on the EliteFTS... Just my $0.02
Good point
Just got my first Ohio bar and happy I did...loving life!! Great vid B!!
Did I miss the Eleiko review?
Nice Brian!
It is wonderful
13:15 "I would avoid staying away from this particular bar."
Just to be clear, you meant to say you "would avoid this particular bar" or "would stay away from this bar" right?
I blacked out. What happened?
This is actually funny
He would stay away from the bar
@@BasementBrandon cocaine is a hell of a drug.
Just purchased my ISF PowerBar in Black oxide after watching your review! Located in RI so shipping wasn't bad at all. Can't wait to try it out.
Let me know what you think!
Would love a review on bells of steel SSB. Helps us Canadians out with budget equipment!
I had the V1, it was awful. V2 looks much better.
I use my curl bar a fair bit. I have shoulder issues (who doesn’t!!) and the hand position feels good to me for lots of exercises. Curls and overhead extension obviously, but, bent over row and overhead press as well when my shoulders are in a particularly bad place
Makes sense!
I’m here to share my personal opinion. You’re doing good work.
I appreciate that
I don’t see the ISF bar listed in the description with the others, but I did see your review in the video. I’ve have good luck with them as well
Updated sorry!
Just saw this, Brandon. Nice collection. Here are mine: York USA elite Oly, York USA power, Schnell Oly, Schnell power, Schnell power stainless, Ironwolfe power stainless (3), Ironwolfe deadlift stainless, Eleiko Rack (2), Eleiko Hybrid. Coming soon: Uesaka power.
Some nice bars! Feel free to send some Ironwolfes my way.
I actually found a lady in my town selling a home made saftey squat bar that I expected to be very crappy but I’ve used it a few times and it actually isnt bad😂 would love to have an Elite FTS one though.
Lol bad ass.
Just got my Rep EX today. Looks and feels great, but I'm wary that it might feel overly aggressive for high bar squats and bench. Is it worth splurging on the SS OPB to rotate/replace this bar with, or will I learn to love the Deep Knurl as my one-and-only daily driver?
(btw: the knurling on my shaft stops a full centimeter before the collars, they might have fixed that design in the new batches)
I think it's tough to recommend a 2nd bar to most for budget purposes, I think you'll find it breaks in (your back) nicely lol.
Ive bought a handful of things from rep fitness and have yet to be disappointed. They make great oly bars for a great price and the cheaper plates are solid and durable. Glad to hear there consistent across multiple things haha. Also a tip is some items can be bought from amazon for a marginal difference but shipping is usually free. So i bought the one barbell for about 10$ more than there store and got it shipped to the east coast for free. So always worth checking.
Good tip!
Might be time for an updated collection video! 😄
Could prob do that.
@@BasementBrandon would be awesome!
Great video..!!! U asked what bar I’d like you to do a video on.. a trap bar .. would be great
Thanks! I don't find a place for them in my training for the most part. I had one which I reviewed, but got rid of it.
I’ve had both the Elite FTS and Titan SSB at the same time. Titan padding is not nearly as good and the angles were off on the camber. Always found it uncomfortable whereas the Elite just feels perfect. That said, I hate the clear coat which was the only reason I gave the Titan a try.
Yeah it is a shame they do that, all the flakes the first time you use it.
I've got the Rogue Ohio Power Bar, Rogue Deadlift Bar, and the Rogue Squat Bar...love them all, but I agree that the Squat bar is uniquely awesome...wish they had sold a bare steel one to bring price down since the stainless steel was like $450, but still totally worth it
Def would make more sense!
Great review! My current barbells are Rep deep knurl bar ex, Rogue 28.5mm Ohio bar, Titan SSB and of course an old beater bar but it actually has needle bearings in the collars. Maybe I’ll get a deadlift bar eventually.
Waiting to see those equalizers.
Delivery today! Finally! Lol
Which do you use as your daily driver for powerlifts?
"When I opened [the ISF bar] I was like GOD DAMN" lolol there's an honest review
It's interesting b/c the photos don't look that aggressive.
One year later my Rep Fitness stainless steel deep knurl bar is holding up great. It’s my daily driver so I haven’t babied it.
Mine is as well!
You're not kidding about Elite FTS and their shipping. I ordered a bar and it said, ships in 1-3 business days. After 4 weeks, and sending two requests for my bar, I got a lovely response from them a few days ago. ''Sorry, but your bar won't until August.'' Look at their website now, almost everything says, call for a price and estimated ship date of August. I'm not sure what happened, but they're basically down.
Damn
@@Pler1978 I seem to remember hearing something like that. That's interesting. I wonder if I can just go straight to those companies. Thanks for the info.
Nice video Brandon! Very informative. You have some great bars. :)
Have to sell some of these to get my set up to look like yours
@@BasementBrandon lol... I'm just trying to be a cool dad. Have a great week man!
It will be so nice when I can buy a new bar. Hopefully by next year the suppliers will be restocked. I suspect the used market will be plentiful once gyms open back up again....
Let's hope!
Bout time you posted a video...I thot that Rona got you!! Glad to see you’re doin well! Great review as always!
Haha work has been super busy these days, so UA-cam takes a back seat.
@@BasementBrandon no doubt bro. glad to see you are well.
I noticed that my Rep Power Bar EX has a lot more play in the sleeves than my girlfriend's OPB. For example in vertical storage it can be made to rattle if the bar is shaken whereas the OPB doesn't make any noise. Just curious on your thoughts on this and if it's something to worry about. The OPB is brand new so I wasn't sure if this is something that happens over time. I'd say main thing I notice is that it's louder on deadlifts than the OPB.
Interesting, I don't have that issue with mine.
You have the best info on home gym equipment thanks for all the info
I appreciate that!
GREAT video. Exactly what I needed. Thank you for your videos.
Great to hear!
Hey Brandon, I recently ordered a SS OPB. I understand it’s supposed to be a maintenance-free barbell for the most part. However, I was wondering if you do anything (in terms of maintenance) for your barbell? Oiling, brushing, etc.
Yep, should still do it! It can still oxidize (depending on environment), but cleaning is likely very less frequent.
finally a new video. ive been waiting patiently brotha!
Work has been super busy so haven't had much time for youtube!
@@BasementBrandon ahh i see! but were glad to see you back! best of luck and stay safe brotha!
EliteFTS does have terrible shipping. Went to purchase plates there as things were getting crazy and for a set costing like 450$ shipping was quoted nearly the same price.
Insanity.
Bob Dongle always contact them directly as often times they can work some magic. Still expensive though!
Elite and Sorinex have crazy shipping. I was thinking about buying one of Elite's 6 post racks and inquired about shipping. If I bought from them I could have worked shipping down for the rack to under $300. So not bad. They suggest contacting them to get the best price. I went with a 4 post Monster Rack and I am happy with it.
Can you review the rep fitness ab 5200 bench? Trying to compare it to the review you did on the rogue ab 2.0
May have one coming my way
Heyyyy. This popped up in my feed. Believe I have watched it when it came out. But watched again.. Are you able to do another updated version? I think you have a heap more bars since moving into your new place? 👍🏼
Could probably do this.
@@BasementBrandon Legend!
Can you do a review on the Belfast bar from Blk Box Fitness and Gorila Training Bar from Gorila Fitness
I don't know if that's available in the US?
Need the Vulcan ss power bar... B side for 425 and it blows away the other ss I've tried
That and the AB Mammoth bar are def intriguing
@@BasementBrandon I replaced my eleiko pb with the vulcan ss pb. Its like a kabuki and rep ex had a baby.
I know you’ve had a couple buffalo bars, but aren’t in love with them. I picked up a Fringe Longhorn and really like it. Don’t have any experience with those type of bars in the past to compare though. Lots of good bars on your list and we have several of the same bars but different finishes.
The only thing I wish Fringe did was make the bar 92" instead of the standard 86. That way it'd probably be 55lbs instead of the 48 they claim.
Hey Brandon, thought on Ohio Power Bar vs Westside Power Bar 2.0, which would you get if you had the option? Thanks
I think he’s said his OPB is his number one
Julian Hernandez OPB. I had the V1 and loved it but sucks bc it only comes in black zinc and the finish wears on the shaft and sleeves.
Regarding the Elitefts SSB Yoke vs the Titan SSB v2.: I used the Elitefts SSB Yoke for years, then bought the Titan SSB v2 when we built our house and moved into the garage. I prefer the Titan. Reasons: the Elitefts version flakes really bad, because of the finish, the diameter of the sleeves (you need specialty collars for the Elitefts version and the titan version has standard sleeves); and, the price/shipping. If I factor in shipping, I could buy 2 Titan SSB v2 bars for the price of 1 Elitefts version and use them for a 4 week block before the Elitefts version ever arrives. I love Dave Tate and Elitefts/Williams Strength, but they are just too damn expensive. I'm not a fan of Rogue due to their stupid high prices. You can check the price of American steel and their prices don't reflect any change in steel prices. That tells me something.
appreciate the feedback!
Brandon, how about a video for us(me) dummies about the difference between all the bars. I hear about Ohio bars, Power bars, Deadlift bars etc, etc. Do you really need 3-4-5 different bars for powerlifting ? If you don't want to do such a video, please direct me to where I can learn such. Thanks, from the big, old dummy.
I could probably understand if someone wanted two power bars, one with passive and one with aggressive knurling depending on needs.
Maxing out on an aggressive bar is easier since grip will be less on an issue, but it will fuck up your hands over time, at least that's my experience.
I recently did dedicated videos on Power bars and Deadlift bars. I go over some of that there!
Do to this pandemic, I was only able to get a hold of cheap bar but I make the best of it at home. Which brand would you highly recommend for outdoors.
Doesn't matter as long as you store it inside when not in use.
I feel it would have helped if the focus was adjusted so you could see the logo on the caps as well
I thought about that, but since I have dedicated videos that cover all that I didn't feel like the extra work was necessary!
One thing to mention about trying to deadlift with the rogue squat bar is that your shins won’t exist after 😂
Lol
Have you tried a Kabuki Kadillac Bar? Would love to get your take on it. Coop loves it, but I'm more curious from a competitor's standpoint. My shoulders are trashed from 30+ years of lifting (and 2 shoulder surgeries). Could someone train on the Kadillac bar and get good carryover when competing with a power bar?
I haven't found much room in my training for a bar like that (had a swiss bar I sold).
Is a buffalo/duffalo bar coming once you’re in a permanent residence? If so, which one?
Think he used to have a duffalo bar but rarely used it as he used the safety squat bar in preference...if I remember from a previous vid
I've owned a few already!
I’d hate to post this randomly on a new video so forgive me for the slight necro…
Have you stated anywhere (I don’t have IG), that you plan on looking at the Rogue Aggro bars? We are both the same height and Probably same hand size? 😉 and your thoughts on what is aggressive Match mine so I trust what you’d say about that 3x more than some others …
Thanks Brandon
Considered it, but just don't see a reason to drop about $700 on a bar that I don't think I need right now!
I like your videos I watch a lot of them to learn about fitness, I don’t see any about supplements I am interested in collagen and bone broth what supplements do you take? Maybe make a video!
I used to make a lot of supplement videos back when I first started!
Appreciate all the barbell reviews they’re very helpful. If you wanted a multipurpose barbell but wanted one that had a good grip for deadlifts would you go with a AB 29 mm Grizzly in chrome or the AB 28 mm California bar in Cerakote ?
I haven't had my hands on either, but I would prob go 29mm there.
Brandon Campbell Diamond okay thanks
I’d like to hear your take on the Premium Safety Squat bar by Bells of Steel. It’s something I’ve looked at as it’s shipping is much more affordable for Canadians. There’s mixed reviews though on its geometry.
It's better than their first version (which I trashed). I've heard the offset angle isn't the same as the other offerings, but for the price it's probably worth a shot.
I own this bar and i honestly really love it
Thanks Brandon. I've never used a safety squat bar before.
In terms of squatting what are the benefits of a safety squat bar?
The main purpose is to save the shoulders, but as I mention in the video there's a ton of exercises you can do with it that you can't really do well with a barbell.
Thanks Brandon. You're the best.
Can you say something about how tight the sleeves are on the bar in case of the ROPB? Can you move the sleeves from letf to right in any way? Or move them up and down? So is there a "klack" wenn you start pulling during deadlifts?
There's minimal movement when forced.
@@BasementBrandon Thank you for the answer! So is there "klicking" from the bar when starting the deadlift? I used to have an eleiko which had absolutly no movement at all, but sold it for a better price damn
Great video, thx! Do you ever use a Swiss bar (aka football bar)? I know you had one a while back that was pretty cheap. Also, any suggestions for selling equipment? Craigslist?
I just don't find myself using one much, which is why I got rid of it! I usually use FB Marketplace these days.
If the price was the same would you recommend the rogue ohio power bar in stainless steel or the kabuki power bar? Do rogue calibrated plates fit the kabuki power bar?
I prefer the OPB. Less cleaning and the knurl is more preferable to me.
Why did you end up getting rid of the Texas All-American bar? I was looking at getting one and would like your feedback
It was basically a TPB with less aggressive knurling. I found I used other power bars more and the other "crosstraining" bars I have were a bit better for the application I was looking for.
Is the knurl on your shoulderok the same as the knurl on kabuki's power bar? I have a shoulderok and am not too impressed with the knurl, I understand it's a diff movement than you would do with a barbell but it kind of stinks in my opinion.
It is not, but they may have updated.
Brandon do you think a more expensive bar is necessary for an average recreational lifter ?
I do have an Ohio deadlift bar for dling, but for front squats (back issues can't back squat) benching and pressing I've been using the same $150 bar I got on amazon for a couple years.
Never had an issue with it.. isn't bent or anything. Works fine.
Do I really need a nicer bar? Been looking at Ohio bar and Texas power bar but seems like a waste of money of mine works? Haha. Cool bars though 😎
Also Brandon would there be any reason to get a bare steel sleeve over a chrome sleeve ?
Thanks man you're awesome
Nope, def not necessary, but nice to have :)
Always enjoy your videos. Have you ever tried the Lynx hybrid bearing bar? It’s bearing and bushing and spins F-O-R-E-V-E-R
I have not, I don't do any olympic weightlifting so no real need for bearing bars.
Looking for Help....what is best recommended for a BAR that I can bench, squat and conventional deadlift for my garage-gym. As I'm getting to 3,4,5 plate sets on my lifts, my current bar is bending. It's a cheapy...it doesn't have a name. Best all-around BAR ? THANKS
for the 3 main powerlifting lifts I don't think you can go wrong with an OPB.
@@BasementBrandon Beautiful ! Thanks Brandon.
Do you find that your Kabuki bar oxidizes even with the nickel plating? I’ve also heard people report mild rusting on their Rep EX bars (apparently Rep uses a lower grade of stainless steel), not sure if you’ve noticed it happening?
My kabuki does have some. I find their finish isn's as resistant as some of the other brands. For the Rep bar, it's held up just as good as my Rogue SS.
As someone new to lifting, what do a lot of the variations mean when looking at barbells? Rogue has the ohio bar, the ohio power bar, the echo bar. When it says bar use is powerlifting does that mean clean and jerks? And would be overkill for something like a bench press?
Powerlifting is considered bench, squat and deadlift. Basics are 28mm bars are best for weightlifting (clean and jerek/snatch). 29mm best for powerlifting and 28.5mm can be considered a hybrid for either.
@@BasementBrandon Thank you! This is very helpful to know when looking at bars.
How does the Rogue B&R bar knurling compare to that of the OPB?
OPB is considered aggressive, B&R would be medium.
Have you tried the kabuki kadillac bar?
I haven’t. I have a hard time committing big money to specialty bars.
@@BasementBrandon yeah me too. Thanks for your honest opinion. Love my rogue ohio bar stainless steel and my rogue Ohio power bar black zinc. My next bar is going to be that squat bar! That knurling looks amazing
Can I ask why you don’t use the kabuki as often anymore? I remember you originally said it became your daily driver. I want a single bar and was going with the kabuki over the OPB. I don’t mind the price. I also want the better, less sharp knurl. What do you think? Kabuki has a red and black cerakote just like rogue that I am comparing.
I like the feel of the OPB better. At the time I only had a black zinc OPB so the knurling was dulled. Cerakote bars look great, but offer one of the worst feels IMO as they fill in the knurl too much for my liking.
@@BasementBrandon thanks for replying! I was about to buy the kabuki in cerakote. And this video planted the seed of doubt. Sent me down a rabbit hole that made me abandon the kabuki altogether and buy the American barbell elite. I would love to know what you think about that stainless steel bar for beginner, uncalloused hands or those who want moderate knurl.
@@theawesomeslimes The Kabuki is still a really good bar, just a tad on the expensive side. AB make great bars, but they're all prettty passive in general.
Hi Brandon! I believe u have a lot of european subscribers, my self included. It would be interesting to make a video about the options we have in order to create a home gym. I'm romanian and since all gyms have been closed for about 2 month in my area, i looked into a home gym. The only brand that seemed to be high quality and that i could find was ATX. I ordered a 810 halfrack, a atx crossfit olympic bar and bumper plates(the ones i found in stock are realy thick, the 20kg have a 12 cm thickness) since those were the only things i could find in stock. There seams to be no benches available. Thanks for the help!
Strength shop is great value if you're in Europe. Brandon has done a review of the strength shop power bar and their squat bar. Depending on which country you're in, there can be a few local alternatives.
Have a look at the Home Gym Community facebook group by Garage Gym Reviews, there's a few Europeans in there.
Simpleproducts offers great value, strength shop quality sucks most of the time speaking from experience.
I've been trying to get some ATX stuff but they won't ship over to the US :(
@@BasementBrandon That's too bad, your opinion would have helped a lot. Your other videos helped anyway... and hopefully ATX will offer similar quality to US bassed companies like Rogue or Sorinex. The uprights are 80x80mm with 3mm thick steal which i think is a bit bigger than the 3x3 inches that Rogue offers on the Monster rack. We'll see when it's finally shipped. Thanks, Brandon!
How does the Rogue Squat Bar compare to the StrongArm Squat Bar? Did you use your StrongArm to buy the Rogue SB?
I like the rogue better mainly for the quality of the knurl length (full vs partial) and the finish option (stainless). that being said the StrongArm bar is still fantastic.
@@BasementBrandon I know I have asked this before, but what is the upkeep for a bare steel again? Is that the main reason why you prefer the stainless steel? Or is it the feel?
I am also confused about the price. They seem to have two different sites, one for US and one for Canada. If I am in the US can I still buy from the Canadian site? Because that will run about $50 less from what I can tell.
Review the Matt Chan bar! Would love to know your thoughts on it
Looks awesome, have almost got a few times, just don't know if I want another 28.5mm bar.
@@BasementBrandon Do you think the wider spacing between knurls would be an issue for deadlifts? I've read mix reviews on it, I'm stuck between the Ohio power bar and chan bar.
@@mikeworkman1759 I guess it depends where your grip is. I haven't used the bar so I can't really comment from first hand experience.
Have you ever tried the Marrs Squat Bar?
Haven't but have spoken to them a bit.
What other flavors does the ISF bar come in Brandon 🤣🤣🤣
:)
how the strongarm dl bar knurling compares to the rogue ss opb?
Different, strongarm is more sharp,
review an elieko competition bar please
Can probably do that.
What do you think of Bare Steel Equipment power bars?
They're good, made by solid bar fitness I believe.
Good Video! Have you heard of or tried the Marrs Squat Bar?
I have, talked to them about reviewing it, but they don't have many available to do so.
Do you think Eleiko Öppen deadlift bar is worth buying?
I've heard nothing but good things, I just find it hard to justify that much $ for a specialty bar. If you're going to use it a lot go for it, if only like 1x per week, I'd prob go something more economical.
I'd like to see you review a Rhinoflex HD or Super
Havne't heard of it TBH
How about Eleiko power bars!?
Expensive, but amazing, very aggressive knurling (too aggressive to use as a main bar in my opinion).
Very good, but likely not worth the 3x more they are than other bars.
@@irispettson they may sell more than one variant. I know in the oly bars they sell the comp bars are aggressive and cant really be used daily but the training bar is more mild. So i feel the same probably goes for their power bars. Basically your average person shouldnt buy comp versions for daily training.
How often do you usually maintenance your bare steel barbells?
JJ Wilson I haven’t found I have to do it that often but I try to every 4-8 weeks or as needed.
What’s the most expensive bar you would consider purchasing?
Eleiko at $1000
@@BasementBrandon - I´m not sure but I think it´s a little less expensive here in Sweden.
Awesome video man as this helps me with some potential future purchases for my garage gym. That Rogue Squat Bar sounds awesome man. How do you think it compares to a Texas Squat bar or even Kabuki's Squat bar? I also want to pick up that Rep EX Power Bar in the near future.
The TSB is a classic, but I like some of the options the Rogue version offers over it.
@@BasementBrandon Yeah that Rogue Squat bar looks pretty damn nice and will more than likely be one that I pick up for a squat bar. The first specialty bar that I want is that SSB though.
excellent job!!!
Thank you!
I live in Ohio and Rogue's shipping is still expensive as hell. They don't offer any perks such as free shipping like other companies.
Free shipping isn't free, it's just those companies that do have super cheap products and build it into the price.
@@BasementBrandon The trade off is Rogue has high quality equipment. I have a basic SM squat stand and it's solid steel and stable.
hello brandon, i bought a barbell and its center bar rotates it and not fixed with the side bars, not sure if its normal. Whats your thoughts on this?
sleeves and shaft should be able to rotate independently of each other.
Did you get rid of the Texas deadlift bar? Why?
Don't find myself using a DL bar that often and a friend wanted to buy it.
Any thoughts on Fringe Wonderbar 2.0?
Don't have much hands on with oly specfic bars. I'm not a fan of the coating on the shaft/sleeve though as it won't hold up well.
Thank you, I appreciate your content!
Just shared this video with my GarageGym411.com Facebook Group (11,300+ members strong!)
Playback Speed 1.0 = 'Bladder full of Preworkout' BCD
Playback Speed .75 = 'Head trauma/insomniac' BCD
The cheapest I have seen the EliteFTS SSB Yoke Bar was during a Summer ‘overstock’ Sale
for $300.00 (plus there was a coupon code) bringing the price down to $280.00 (before shipping)
Kabuki Transformer Bar padding was updated Jan 2020. Kabuki CEO, Chris Duffin, has been taking care of any Transformer Bar owners that have experienced any 'padding issues.' Right now, Kabuki is offering multiple payment options through a partnership with Klarna. I'll be ordering a Kabuki Kadillac Bar soon. (I know BCD liked the Archon Multi-Grip Bar during his 'basement years.')
I recall the Elite sale, I think the code was hotdog lol.
@@BasementBrandon - Yes. Yes, it was HOTDOG, fellow gear nerd.
Should I get a squat bar or a duffalo bar?
Depends on what you want to use it for!
Brandon Campbell Diamond lots of squats
Any particular reason you don't own a Swiss bar or a trap bar?
Don't find use for them in my training. Owned previously and sold!
Don't they have patents so they can't be cloned?
No
Regarding the shaft it doesn´t matter too much if it´s made of American, Canadian, Swedish or Finnish steel imo:)
People in the US have a big preference for things made here!
@@BasementBrandon - I know Brandon but quality is quality and at least to me the raw material is about the same. Quite a few countries have great steel companies. The Swedish steel company SSAB (I´m a shareholder myself btw) has one or more factories in the US and is a big exporter of special steel to your country!
what is Boneyard,, i gets zero usable hits when i google for Rogue boneyard.?
There is probably more than one way to get there but go to their site, select Barbells and then select Boneyard bars. I don't check it often but there are no bars in it now and there hasn't been for some time.
@@josipbroz3866 thank you.
bars that have slight cosmetic issues sold at a discount.
@@BasementBrandon im in Europe, everything is sold out over here.
I tried all major brands, with zero luck.
And I don't think that rogue Europe has a boneyard.
I found the boneyard on the American site, but not the European.