10 Best Olympic Bars 2026 in the United States

The CAP Barbell Olympic 7 ft Bar, weighing 44 lbs, features a 28mm grip diameter and is designed for serious weightlifting. It is constructed from solid cold rolled steel with a chrome finish, providing durability and a polished look. With a length of 2185mm (approximately 7 feet), it fits standard Olympic weight plates with 2-inch holes and supports up to 500 pounds, making it suitable for heavy lifting exercises, including powerlifting and Olympic lifting technique building.

The bar's tensile strength is rated at 54,000 PSI, indicating good resilience under stress, though it may not match the higher tensile strength found in premium bars which could be a consideration for advanced lifters seeking maximum durability. The medium-depth knurling, including center knurl, is designed to offer a secure grip without being overly aggressive on the hands, providing comfort during various lifting routines. Additionally, the rotating sleeves reduce pressure on the forearms and wrists, enhancing lifting comfort and performance.

However, the 30-day warranty may seem limited compared to other brands which offer extended warranties, indicating a potential area for improvement. CAP Barbell's long-standing reputation in the fitness industry underscores its reliability and value. This bar is a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate lifters looking for a versatile, well-constructed Olympic bar at an affordable price.

The CAP Barbell 7 ft. Olympic Bar is a solid choice for those wanting a dependable bar for powerlifting and basic Olympic lifting practice. It has a standard 7-foot (2185mm) length and a 28mm grip diameter, which is a common size that fits comfortably in most hands without feeling too thick or thin. Weighing 40 pounds, it’s close to the typical Olympic barweight, making it easy to integrate into your workout routine.

The bar’s knurling is medium-depth with a center knurl, providing a secure grip without being overly harsh—good for both lifting and comfort. The black oxide finish helps resist rust but may wear over time compared to more durable coatings. Sleeve rotation is smooth thanks to bronze bushings, which reduces strain on the wrists during lifts, though this bar doesn’t use ball bearings which offer faster spin for high-speed Olympic lifts. With a tensile strength of 54,000 PSI, it’s built to handle up to 500 pounds safely, enough for most intermediate lifters but less than some high-end bars designed for heavy competitive use. Expect moderate whip suitable for general lifting rather than advanced Olympic weightlifting. It doesn’t come with collars, so you’ll need to buy them separately.

This bar is well suited for fitness enthusiasts and beginners looking for a versatile, affordable bar to support a range of lifts without specialized features aimed at elite athletes.

The LIONSCOOL 7ft Olympic Bar is designed as a reliable and economical option for beginners in weightlifting and powerlifting. With a bar length of 86.6 inches and a weight of 40 pounds, it offers a balanced size for various exercises such as squats, deadlifts, presses, rows, and curls. The bar has a medium depth knurling with a 1.5mm diamond pattern and a 4.7-inch center knurl, providing a secure grip without being too harsh on the hands. This feature is particularly beneficial during back squats, as it helps the bar stay in place on the shoulders.

The bar's 28.5mm handgrip diameter is standard for Olympic bars, ensuring it feels comfortable and familiar to most users. The 500-pound weight capacity and 100,000 PSI tensile strength indicate that the bar can handle significant loads, although it may not be suitable for more advanced lifters who require higher capacities and strength ratings. The black e-coat finish not only gives the bar a sleek appearance but also provides excellent resistance to oxidation and wear, ensuring durability over time. The sleeves, equipped with ball bearings and oil-impregnated brass bushings, offer smooth rotation and stability, which is a step up from traditional bushing-only models.

However, the 40-pound weight is slightly less than the standard Olympic bar weight of 45 pounds, which might require some adjustment for those accustomed to standard bars. Additionally, while the bar's whip and flex have been tested, more experienced lifters might find it less responsive compared to higher-end models. The LIONSCOOL 7ft Olympic Bar is a strong contender for beginners or home gym users looking for a durable and efficient barbell with a lifetime warranty backing its quality.