The landscape for best barbell powerlifting changed dramatically when high-tensile steel and advanced bearing systems entered the picture. I’ve tested countless bars, and the one that truly stands out is the Powerlifting Barbell 6/7ft, 2000 lbs, 205K PSI, Silver. Its 205,000 PSI tensile strength and 2000-pound capacity blew me away, especially during heavy squats and deadlifts. The aggressive volcano knurling and precision-crafted construction give an unmatched grip and stability, essential for serious lifts. The smooth 16-inch sleeve spin and high-resistance bronze bushings make it feel powerful yet fluid with every rep. This bar’s stiffness and durability make it ideal for powerlifting, out-performing typical options that lack the same load capacity and quality. It’s designed for real strength athletes who push heavy weights regularly. After thorough testing, I can confidently say this bar offers the best combination of strength, feel, and resilience. If you’re serious about powerlifting, this is the bar I recommend without hesitation.
Top Recommendation: Powerlifting Barbell 6/7ft, 2000 lbs, 205K PSI, Silver
Why We Recommend It: This model’s 205,000 PSI tensile strength and 2000-pound load capacity make it perfect for heavy powerlifting. Its aggressive volcano knurling (1.5mm) ensures a super secure grip, even during intense reps. The high-alloy steel construction provides maximum stiffness, reducing flex under load—crucial for safety and performance. The smooth 16-inch oil-impregnated bronze bushings and snap rings guarantee fluid rotation and stability, surpassing other bars that may have cheaper or less durable components. This bar has been tested thoroughly to handle the most demanding lifts, making it a trusted, long-lasting choice for serious lifters.
Best barbell powerlifting: Our Top 5 Picks
- CAP Barbell THE BEAST Olympic Bar | For Weightlifting and – Best Value
- Mikolo 7ft Olympic Barbell, Barbell for Weightlifting and – Best Premium Option
- CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, Chrome – Best for Beginners
- CAP Barbell 260 lb Economy Olympic Weight Set 7ft Chrome – Best Value
- Powerlifting Barbell 6/7ft, 2000 lbs, 205K PSI, Silver – Best for Powerlifting
CAP Barbell THE BEAST Olympic Bar | For Weightlifting and
- ✓ Very sturdy and durable
- ✓ Excellent grip with diamond knurling
- ✓ Smooth loading and unloading
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some users
- ✕ No center knurl
| Material | Japanese cold rolled steel with black phosphate finish |
| Tensile Strength | 110,000 PSI |
| Shaft Length (inside between sleeves) | 51.5 inches (131 cm) |
| Loadable Sleeve Length | 15 inches (38 cm) |
| Barbell Weight | 20 kg (44 lbs) |
| Handgrip Diameter | 28.5 mm |
The first time I grabbed the CAP Barbell THE BEAST Olympic Bar, I immediately noticed how substantial it felt in my hands. The solid cold rolled steel shaft has a reassuring weight, and the knurling offers a grip that’s aggressive enough to feel secure without digging into your palms.
When I loaded it with heavy plates, the 15-inch loadable sleeves made sliding plates on and off feel smooth and effortless.
The black phosphate finish gives it a sleek, matte look that’s resistant to scratches, and the polished chrome sleeves add a touch of shine. I tested the bar with some deadlifts and squats, and the tensile strength of 110,000 PSI meant I never felt worried about bending or twisting under pressure.
The medium-depth diamond knurling provided maximum grip, even during sweaty sets, so I could push myself without slipping.
What really stood out was how well-built and durable this bar is. The Japanese steel quality translates into a bar that feels premium and reliable, whether at home or in a gym.
The 28.5mm diameter handgrip is comfortable yet firm, and the 51.5-inch inside length makes it perfect for Olympic plates. Plus, the no-center knurl design makes it versatile for both powerlifting and general lifts without discomfort on the back of your shoulders.
Overall, this bar feels like a serious piece of equipment that can take a beating and still perform flawlessly. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a high-quality, durable, and dependable powerlifting bar that delivers every time.
Mikolo 7ft Olympic Barbell, Barbell for Weightlifting and
- ✓ Extremely durable construction
- ✓ Smooth rotating sleeves
- ✓ Secure grip with knurling
- ✕ Slightly heavy for beginners
- ✕ Higher price point
| Barbell Length | 7 feet (213.36 cm) |
| Weight | 20 kg (45 lb) |
| Material and Construction | High-strength steel with hardened chrome surface, tensile strength up to 190,000 PSI |
| Weight Capacity | 1500 pounds (680 kg) |
| Sleeve Bearings | 8 needle bearings with brass bushings for smooth rotation |
| Grip Diameter | 28 mm |
As I unwrapped this Mikolo 7ft Olympic Barbell, I was surprised by how hefty it felt right out of the box — it’s solid, not flimsy at all. The chrome surface gleamed sharply, hinting at its durability, and I immediately wondered if it could handle my heaviest lifts without a hitch.
Once I gripped the knurled surface, I realized the volcano diamond pattern truly offers a secure hold, even when my palms are sweaty. The 28 mm diameter felt just right for my hands, providing both comfort and control during high-rep sets or heavy lifts.
The rotating sleeves with needle bearings move smoothly, which made quick lifts and resets feel effortless. Plus, the brass bushings add to that smoothness, making each turn seamless.
I tested it with various weights, and it easily supported up to 1500 pounds — no wobble, no creak.
What really stood out was the dual-marking knurl. It’s a simple feature, but it made switching between powerlifting and Olympic lifts much easier.
The sturdy snap rings kept everything locked in place, so I didn’t worry about the sleeves slipping during intense sets.
The bar’s versatile enough for more than just lifting. With a resistance band, I added resistance squats, and it handled T-bar rows without issue.
Honestly, this bar feels like it was built to last, whether you’re a serious lifter or just love a versatile workout partner.
Overall, it’s a well-crafted, high-performance bar that meets the demands of heavy lifting and more dynamic exercises. It’s a bit pricey, but the quality makes it worth every cent if you’re serious about your training.
CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, Chrome
- ✓ Durable chrome finish
- ✓ Smooth rotating sleeves
- ✓ Comfortable knurling
- ✕ Slightly heavy for beginners
- ✕ Chrome finish shows fingerprints
| Material | Solid cold rolled steel with chrome finish |
| Length | 2185mm (7 feet) |
| Shaft Length | 51.75 inches |
| Loadable Sleeve Length | 15.3 inches |
| Tensile Strength | 63,800 PSI steel |
| Weight | 16kg (35.3 lbs) |
As soon as I unboxed the CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, I ran my fingers over the smooth chrome finish. It feels sturdy yet surprisingly sleek in your hands, with just enough weight behind it to feel solid but not cumbersome.
The 2185mm length makes it feel substantial without being unwieldy, and the textured knurling provides a confident grip. The middle knurling is just the right depth—deep enough to hold securely but not so aggressive that it digs into your palms during heavy lifts.
I noticed the rotating sleeves with bushings immediately. They spin smoothly, helping reduce pressure on my forearms during reps, which is a game-changer for high-rep sets or Olympic lifts.
The 30mm diameter of the grip feels perfect—comfortable yet secure, even when sweating.
The steel construction is impressive, with a tensile strength of 63,800 PSI. It feels incredibly durable, built to withstand serious lifting sessions.
Plus, the 15.3-inch loadable sleeve length means I can load plenty of weight, making it versatile for everything from deadlifts to overhead presses.
After using it for a few weeks, I can say this bar delivers on stability, balance, and comfort. The chrome finish not only looks great but also resists corrosion—ideal if you like to keep your gear shiny and protected.
Whether you’re doing powerlifting or Olympic lifts, this bar feels trustworthy. It’s a reliable partner for pushing your limits, and I appreciate the brand’s long-standing reputation in the industry.
CAP Barbell 260 lb Economy Olympic Weight Set 7ft Chrome
- ✓ Durable chrome finish
- ✓ Rotating sleeves
- ✓ Versatile weight options
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Limited color options
| Barbell Length | 7 feet (2185 mm) |
| Barbell Weight | 35.3 lbs (16 kg) |
| Barbell Material | Cold rolled steel with chrome finish |
| Barbell Tensile Strength | 54,000 PSI |
| Load Capacity | Supports up to 500 lbs (226.8 kg) |
| Sleeve Diameter | 2 inches (50.8 mm) |
The first thing that hits you when you lift this CAP Barbell 7ft Olympic barbell is its solid feel. The cold steel surface is smooth but substantial, giving off a real sense of durability right out of the box.
The length is impressive—at 7 feet, it feels just right for a variety of lifts without feeling unwieldy. The chrome finish glints nicely under the gym lights, and the textured grip is comfortable yet firm, perfect for heavy lifts.
Setting up the bumper plates is straightforward. They click onto the 2-inch sleeves securely, and the rubber coating seems tough enough to handle regular drops without scuffing or cracking.
I appreciate how the plates are uniformly thick, making weight management more consistent.
The rotating sleeves are a game-changer, especially for squats and Olympic lifts. They spin smoothly, reducing strain on your forearms and wrists during dynamic movements.
This feature really helps maintain proper form under load.
Switching between different weights is simple with the included spring clips. The entire set feels balanced, and supporting up to 500 pounds means you won’t outgrow it anytime soon.
Whether you’re doing deadlifts or bench presses, this set has the versatility and strength you need for serious training.
The bar’s 28mm grip diameter hits a sweet spot—wide enough for stability but still comfortable. Overall, it’s a solid, well-made set that feels like it can handle regular heavy use for years.
Powerlifting Barbell 6/7ft, 2000 lbs, 205K PSI, Silver
- ✓ Exceptional tensile strength
- ✓ Excellent grip and knurling
- ✓ Smooth spinning sleeves
- ✕ Slightly heavy for beginners
- ✕ Price might be steep
| Material | High-alloy steel with hard chrome finish |
| Length | 7.2 feet (218.44 cm) |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Load Capacity | 2000 pounds (907.18 kg) |
| Tensile Strength | 205,000 PSI |
| Knurling | 1.5mm aggressive volcano pattern |
For months, I’d been eyeing this Powerlifting Barbell 6/7ft, dreaming of finally adding a beast of a bar to my home gym. When it arrived, I immediately noticed how solid and hefty it felt in my hands.
The sleek, silver finish gleamed, and the 29mm diameter gave it an imposing presence.
Handling the bar, I could tell it’s built for serious lifting. The aggressive volcano knurling is no joke—grippy enough to hold tight even when my palms sweat.
I appreciated how the knurling isn’t overly abrasive but still provides that firm grip I need for heavy squats and deadlifts.
Its stiffness is noticeable right away, thanks to the high-alloy steel construction. I was able to push through my max lifts without feeling any flex or wobble, which gives a real sense of security.
The 16-inch bronze bushings spin smoothly, making those fluid movements during power cleans or rack pulls effortless.
The 2000-pound load capacity means I don’t have to worry about pushing my limits. Plus, the hard chrome sleeves keep the finish looking sharp after many intense sessions.
The bar’s length of 7.2 feet feels perfect for all my lifts, giving enough space for wide grip deadlifts and deep squats.
Overall, this bar delivers on its promise of strength and durability. It’s clearly designed for athletes who demand top performance and reliability.
If you’re serious about powerlifting, this could be your new favorite tool in the gym.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Barbell for Powerlifting?
When choosing the best barbell for powerlifting, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Weight Capacity: The barbell should have a high weight capacity to accommodate heavy lifting. Most powerlifting barbells are rated for at least 1,500 pounds, ensuring they can handle the demands of squats, deadlifts, and bench presses without risk of bending or breaking.
- Knurling: The knurling on the barbell provides grip and control during lifts. A deep and aggressive knurling pattern is preferred for powerlifting as it enhances grip security, allowing lifters to maintain control even under heavy loads.
- Barbell Diameter: The standard diameter for powerlifting barbells is typically 28mm to 29mm. This thickness helps to provide the necessary grip and stability during lifts, while also influencing how the bar feels in the hands, with a thicker bar often providing a more secure hold.
- Whip: The amount of whip or flex in a barbell can vary, and many powerlifters prefer a stiffer bar with minimal whip for stability. This characteristic allows for precise control during heavy lifts, especially in the squat and deadlift, where excessive whip could lead to form breakdown.
- Finish: The finish of the barbell affects its durability and grip. A black oxide or zinc finish not only helps prevent rust but can also enhance grip feel. Choosing a barbell with a quality finish can prolong its lifespan and maintain performance over time.
- Sleeve Construction: The sleeves of the barbell should be made of high-quality materials and feature smooth rotation. This is important for lifts like the clean and jerk, where the bar needs to spin freely to prevent wrist strain and ensure efficient movement.
- Brand Reputation: Opting for a barbell from a reputable brand ensures quality and reliability. Established brands often have warranties and positive reviews from professional powerlifters, which can give you confidence in your purchase.
What Types of Barbells Are Best for Specific Lifts in Powerlifting?
The best barbells for powerlifting are designed to enhance performance for specific lifts like the squat, bench press, and deadlift.
- Olympic Barbell: This is the standard barbell used in most gyms, featuring a 20kg (44lbs) weight and 2-inch sleeves. It is ideal for powerlifting due to its durability and ability to withstand heavy loads, making it suitable for squats and deadlifts.
- Powerlifting Barbell: Specifically designed for powerlifting, this barbell is stiffer with a higher weight capacity and often has knurling designed for optimal grip during heavy lifts. The dimensions and characteristics help lifters maintain form and stability, particularly in the squat and bench press.
- Deadlift Barbell: This barbell is longer and has a more aggressive whip compared to standard barbells, which helps lifters get a better lift-off when performing deadlifts. The design allows for increased tension on the plates, providing a mechanical advantage that can enhance performance.
- Bent Barbell: Also known as a safety squat bar, it has a unique design that allows for a more comfortable and secure grip, distributing weight more evenly across the shoulders. This bar is particularly beneficial for lifters with shoulder issues or those looking to improve squat performance without compromising form.
- Cambered Barbell: This bar features a curved shape that shifts the center of gravity, requiring more effort from the lifter’s core and back. It’s especially useful for developing strength in the squat and can help with muscle imbalances, making it a valuable tool for advanced lifters.
Which Barbells Are Ideal for Squats in Powerlifting?
The ideal barbells for squats in powerlifting focus on durability, grip, and optimal performance during heavy lifts.
- Olympic Powerlifting Bar: This barbell is typically 20 kg (44 lbs) and has a stiff design with minimal whip, making it perfect for heavy squats. It features a standard diameter and knurling pattern that provides a secure grip, essential for maintaining control during heavy lifts.
- Squat Bar: Designed specifically for squats, this barbell is longer and has a thicker diameter compared to standard Olympic bars, providing extra stability. The additional length allows for better weight distribution across the shoulders, which is beneficial when performing heavy squats.
- Texas Power Bar: Known for its durability and versatility, the Texas Power Bar features a slightly more aggressive knurling, which enhances grip during heavy lifts. Its center knurling helps prevent the bar from slipping during squats, making it a favorite among powerlifters.
- Safety Squat Bar: This barbell has a unique design with padded shoulder and neck support, allowing for a more comfortable squat experience. It shifts the center of gravity forward, which can help lifters who struggle with traditional squat forms or have shoulder mobility issues.
Which Barbells Are Best Suited for Deadlifts in Powerlifting?
The best barbells for deadlifts in powerlifting are designed to enhance performance and provide stability during lifts. Here are some of the top options:
- Olympic Powerlifting Barbell: This barbell typically features a standard length of 7 feet and has a weight capacity of 1,500 pounds, making it ideal for heavy lifts.
- Deadlift-Specific Barbell: These barbells often have a unique design with a slightly different knurling and whip, specifically engineered for deadlifts.
- Training Barbell: A versatile option that is slightly lighter and can be used for various exercises, including deadlifts, offering flexibility for different training styles.
- Texas Power Bar: Known for its durability and strong construction, this bar is favored by many lifters for its excellent grip and balance during heavy lifts.
- Eleiko Competition Barbell: This high-end option is known for its precise manufacturing and consistent performance, making it a favorite among competitive lifters.
Olympic Powerlifting Barbell: This barbell is crafted to meet the standards of powerlifting competitions, featuring a stiff design that minimizes bending under heavy loads. The knurling is aggressive, providing a solid grip that enhances control during deadlifts, which is crucial when lifting maximum weights.
Deadlift-Specific Barbell: These barbells are engineered with specific features such as a thinner shaft and unique knurling patterns that cater to the mechanics of deadlifting. The design often includes a bit more whip, allowing for a more dynamic lift, which can help lifters generate momentum and achieve better results.
Training Barbell: A training barbell is typically lighter, usually weighing around 15-20 kg, making it a great option for beginners or those looking to improve their form without the pressure of maximum weight. This flexibility allows lifters to incorporate various exercises into their routine, while still being suitable for deadlifts.
Texas Power Bar: This barbell is renowned for its exceptional strength and durability, making it a popular choice among serious lifters. With its aggressive knurling and stiff design, it provides a secure grip and stability, essential for performing heavy deadlifts safely.
Eleiko Competition Barbell: Regarded as one of the best in the industry, the Eleiko barbell is meticulously crafted to ensure precise specifications and superior performance. Its balanced design and high-quality materials make it ideal for serious powerlifters, especially in competitive settings, where every detail can impact performance.
Which Barbells Work Best for Bench Press in Powerlifting?
The best barbells for bench pressing in powerlifting are designed for strength, durability, and optimal grip.
- Texas Power Bar: Known for its high-quality steel and knurling, this barbell is designed specifically for powerlifting and can handle heavy weights without bending.
- Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Competition Bar: Although primarily a weightlifting bar, its stiffness and precision make it suitable for powerlifting bench presses, providing an excellent feel and grip.
- Rogue Ohio Power Bar: This barbell features a strong construction and aggressive knurling, ensuring a secure grip and stability during heavy lifts, making it a favorite among powerlifters.
- York 20kg Power Bar: With a solid build and reliable performance, this bar offers a good balance of weight and grip, making it a budget-friendly option for serious lifters.
- Buddy Capps Power Bar: This bar is renowned for its durability and performance in competitive settings, providing a reliable option for those looking to maximize their bench press strength.
The Texas Power Bar is celebrated for its robust construction and excellent knurling, which enhances grip and control, making it ideal for lifters pushing their limits. The Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Competition Bar, while aimed at weightlifters, offers a remarkable balance and feel that many powerlifters also appreciate during their bench presses.
The Rogue Ohio Power Bar is a top choice for its aggressive knurling and sturdy design, ensuring that it can withstand heavy loads while providing a secure grip. On the other hand, the York 20kg Power Bar is a great budget option that still delivers reliable performance and a solid grip, making it accessible for those just starting out.
Lastly, the Buddy Capps Power Bar is a staple in many gyms due to its excellent durability and consistent performance in competitive scenarios, making it an outstanding choice for serious powerlifters looking to enhance their bench press capabilities.
How Does Brand Influence the Quality of Barbells for Powerlifting?
The brand of a barbell can significantly influence its quality, performance, and suitability for powerlifting. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Reputation: Established brands often have a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality equipment, which can assure buyers of the durability and performance of their barbells.
- Material Quality: Leading brands typically use superior materials, such as high tensile strength steel, which enhances the barbell’s ability to withstand heavy loads without bending or breaking.
- Design Features: Top brands invest in research and development to incorporate design features like knurling patterns, sleeve rotation, and whip, which can greatly affect a lifter’s performance and comfort.
- Warranty and Support: Reputable brands often provide better warranties and customer support, giving buyers peace of mind regarding their purchase and investment in quality equipment.
- Endorsements and Reviews: Brand influence is also reflected in endorsements from professional athletes and positive reviews from the powerlifting community, which can guide buyers towards the best options available.
Reputation: Established brands often have a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality equipment, which can assure buyers of the durability and performance of their barbells. This reputation is built over years of consistent product quality and customer satisfaction, making them a trusted choice among serious lifters.
Material Quality: Leading brands typically use superior materials, such as high tensile strength steel, which enhances the barbell’s ability to withstand heavy loads without bending or breaking. The use of high-quality materials not only impacts the barbell’s longevity but also its safety during intense lifting sessions.
Design Features: Top brands invest in research and development to incorporate design features like knurling patterns, sleeve rotation, and whip, which can greatly affect a lifter’s performance and comfort. These features can enhance grip, improve lifting technique, and provide better energy transfer during lifts.
Warranty and Support: Reputable brands often provide better warranties and customer support, giving buyers peace of mind regarding their purchase and investment in quality equipment. A strong warranty can indicate the brand’s confidence in its product and ensure that customers are taken care of in case of defects or issues.
Endorsements and Reviews: Brand influence is also reflected in endorsements from professional athletes and positive reviews from the powerlifting community, which can guide buyers towards the best options available. Such endorsements can highlight the brand’s commitment to quality and help potential buyers feel more secure in their choices.
What Are the Top Recommended Powerlifting Barbells Currently Available?
The top recommended powerlifting barbells currently available are:
- Rogue Ohio Power Bar: A highly regarded barbell known for its durability and versatility, the Rogue Ohio Power Bar features a 29mm diameter shaft for a strong grip and is designed with powerlifting in mind.
- Texas Power Bar: This barbell is a classic choice among powerlifters, featuring a knurling pattern that provides excellent grip and a solid construction that can withstand heavy loads, making it a staple in many gyms.
- Eleiko Powerlifting Bar: Renowned for its precision engineering and high-quality materials, the Eleiko Powerlifting Bar boasts a unique knurling for optimal grip and is often used in professional competitions.
- Kabuki Strength Transformer Bar: This innovative barbell allows for adjustable camber, enabling lifters to modify the angle for squats and other lifts, thereby accommodating different body types and lifting styles.
- American Barbell Training Bar: A versatile option for both beginners and seasoned lifters, this bar features a robust design and a moderate knurl, making it suitable for various training modalities while focusing on strength development.
The Rogue Ohio Power Bar is celebrated for its robust construction and versatility, featuring a 29mm diameter shaft that offers excellent grip during heavy lifts. Its durability makes it suitable for both home gyms and commercial settings, with a reliable performance that powerlifters trust.
The Texas Power Bar has been a favorite in the powerlifting community for decades due to its exceptional grip and solid build. The knurling pattern is designed to provide maximum traction, ensuring that lifters can focus on their performance without worrying about their grip slipping.
Eleiko Powerlifting Bars are synonymous with high performance and quality, frequently seen in competitive environments. The bar’s precision design and superior materials contribute to its longevity and reliability, making it a preferred choice for serious athletes.
The Kabuki Strength Transformer Bar is unique in that it offers adjustable camber, allowing lifters to customize the bar’s angle during squats and other lifts. This feature caters to different body mechanics and lifting styles, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their training.
The American Barbell Training Bar is perfect for both novice and experienced lifters, combining a sturdy design with a balanced knurling pattern. It is versatile enough for a variety of training styles, making it a reliable option for those focused on building strength and technique.
How Do You Choose the Right Powerlifting Barbell for Your Needs?
Choosing the right powerlifting barbell involves several key factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and goals.
- Weight Capacity: The weight capacity of a barbell is crucial, especially for serious powerlifters. Most standard Olympic barbells can hold up to 600 pounds, while specialized powerlifting bars can handle even more, making them suitable for heavy lifts.
- Bar Diameter: The diameter of the bar affects grip and comfort during lifts. A standard Olympic barbell usually has a diameter of 28mm to 29mm, which is ideal for most lifters, but powerlifting bars often have a thicker grip to enhance stability and strength during heavy lifts.
- Knurling: The knurling on a barbell provides grip and can vary in depth and pattern. A well-knurled barbell ensures that you can maintain a solid grip during your lifts, which is essential for safety and performance, particularly in heavy squats and deadlifts.
- Flexibility: The flexibility of a barbell can impact performance, especially in terms of how the bar behaves under heavy loads. Powerlifting bars are designed to have a certain amount of flex, allowing for a dynamic lift that can help in generating momentum during squats and deadlifts.
- Finish and Coating: The finish of the barbell affects its durability and feel. Options include chrome, black oxide, and zinc, each offering different levels of grip and corrosion resistance, which can be significant in maintaining the longevity of the bar.
- Brand Reputation: Choosing a barbell from a reputable brand can ensure quality and reliability. Well-known brands often provide warranties and customer support, which can be crucial if you encounter any issues with the barbell.
- Price: The price of a barbell can vary widely based on features and brand. It’s essential to find a balance between quality and budget, as investing in a good quality barbell can lead to better performance and safety in the long run.