Texas Strength Systems G1 Power Bar - Stainless Steel Bargain?

A stainless steel IPF spec bar that has aggressive knurl that doesn't break the bank? Let's take a look!
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[@Mrwatson185]

I know we spend a lot (maybe too much) time talking fitness gear, but for sure want to wish you best of luck with your upcoming competitions! Thanks for the content as always.

[@BasementBrandon]

Thanks! Need to put some go behind this show 😇

[@Fathom555]

Thanks for making the review. As for tapered sleeves, my Pyrros oly SS bar has them, kinda nice to have.

[@BasementBrandon]

Ah you know my AB and TPB do too, but I guess I haven't seen one on a competition bar.

[@NoFate247]

I am usually too cheap to buy SS, BUT the SS handles I do have just hit different and I never regretted paying more

[@BasementBrandon]

Yeah for barbells if it's an option, gotta go stainless!

[@carps_gym]

Move to Tennessee. It will change your tune on SS. he won’t feel as cheap because it rust like a mofo around here

[@NoFate247]

@@carps_gym Solid point!!!!

[@TexasFlex]

Glad I’m not the only cheapo

[@carps_gym]

@@NoFate247you Know What my Buddy Warren Buffet says……

[@Drenth96]

Just ordered one before I finished the video lol. Was already looking at getting one but the insight on the knurl sealed the deal.

[@BasementBrandon]

Please let me know your thoughts. I'm always cautious with these kind of bars especially when they're out of stock and a new shipment is coming in (late June I believe), I worry that the batches will have some variances.

[@flipexed]

As usual your review is spot on. Just received the bar and finished my first squat session with Kg plates. Fit and finish is amazing and on par with my SS OPB. A bargain @ $270 before shipping bought on Black Friday. Heck even at $349 still worth it.

[@BasementBrandon]

Great deal!

[@Rocket4ce]

Still really like my stainless steel Rogue power bar 20kg. Rogue's power rack has definitely cleaned up my squat and bench. Its gotta be a super special bar for me to upgrade.

[@BasementBrandon]

It's a hard price to quality to beat. I'm looking forward to them updating that bar to their newer tolerance fit and finish sleeves.

[@6packonlyripped604]

I own both but texas is the go 👏

[@vintageweightspgh]

This bar is new to me so I loved this review. I want to learn more about this company. Great review. You hit all the main points as always. Plus, I liked the personal asides and opinions you added. Really well done!

[@BasementBrandon]

Thanks Rob!

[@PixelGameSquad]

Just found you after the comment! Appreciate you my man!

[@BasementBrandon]

Thanks Riff and/or Ricky

[@18pth]

As far as the tapered sleeves goes, my American Barbell elite power bar has them, as well. I believe all AB barbells have them, if I’m not mistaken. So, you’re chewy bar should have them as well.

[@BasementBrandon]

Ah good call, I guess I'm looking more at comp bars b/c apparently so do all my texas bars lol.

[@PlaucheBarbellClub]

When you said stainless, I assumed this would be a bar outside of most people's budget, but I was delighted when you said $349. I prefer stainless, and that is a great deal.

[@BasementBrandon]

Yep, one of the better deals out there. The REP Black Diamond and Double Black Diamond are similarly priced as well, but they do not have comp style collars.

[@reginaldchesterfield8110]

I like that the knurling is a bit more grippy. I like that.

[@BasementBrandon]

Got a bit of a bite to it!

[@RoryEllisMusic]

Very interesting knurl pattern! I’d definitely like to get my hands on one of these to see how it feels.

[@BasementBrandon]

was pleasantly surprised.

[@13beyeker]

@@BasementBrandon I used this exact bar in my very first power lifting competition several months ago. I was shocked by both how grippy it was but at the same time I never felt like it was so grippy that it was hard on my hands. I even asked the hosts of the even what kind of bar it was because I was so impressed! My other bars are a beat-up texas power bar and and a Rep Fitness Oly bar that used to be called the Gladiator bar. I would say that the knurling of the TSS bar was the best combination of both of the other bars. That is why I am a hairs breath from buying one myself.

[@BasementBrandon]

@@13beyeker Great bar IMO. Just used it myself at my competition this weekend and a lot of other people were suprised by it as well.

[@carps_gym]

Yeah my Living.Fit bar has the same collar Taper. Is more like an Oly bar with a 28mm and bearings, but the sleeves taper is just like that.

[@BasementBrandon]

My AB and TPB have it too, I guess I'm just surprised I don't see it on comp bars as much.

[@carps_gym]

@@BasementBrandon yeah but it’s definitely more of a chamfer or taper than something like rogue That’s just barely there

[@BrimhallBarbellClub]

The comp collars are definitely hard to get use to with a Rogue rack. I nicked my safety straps on the way down with a plate and it was not pretty. 😆

[@BasementBrandon]

Live to lift another day!

[@saditiscool]

Cool review! What rack are you using for your squats and benches? Seem good.

[@BasementBrandon]

That was the Get RX'd combo rack I did a video on, for the price it's a pretty good budget combo rack.

[@thomastkach7467]

Maybe I'm biased because TSS runs all the meets around here that I'm doing, but I kinda want this. Not sure if They've had it at the meets, but part of me wants a comp-spec bar (and kilo plates some day).

[@BasementBrandon]

It's a nice bar!

[@andie_pl]

Looks like a good power bar to pick up especially since hansu isnt running their power bar sale right now

[@BasementBrandon]

True that!

[@TexasFlex]

That’s a pretty great price. Idk if I’ve ever used one. Been competing at the TSS gym for 2 years and I wanna say I have but they gotta lot of power bars that say TSS but some of them feel “softer” For the most part feel pretty similar to my Hansu

[@BasementBrandon]

I believe these SS ones released right around Sept of last year.

[@TexasFlex]

@@BasementBrandon then probably especially since the last time I competed I noticed the “sharper” bars

[@kowalarcade]

The edge of Olympic equipment should have a radial bevel - there should not even be a 45 degree diagonal bevel. This is supposedly a requirement, but no one follows it. I have an EAKO barbell and it is the only one with all the edges on the radius including the collar too. A lot of models now have a large phase, but mostly they are still diagonal. The beam happens, but it is subtle, not a full beam. It's a deal, but it improves the fit and safety in the event of the bar falling, e.g. on the foot. it will still break, crush, but probably won't cut the skin

[@BasementBrandon]

Yeah good call, I think I was more surprised to see such a big taper on an IPF comp bar, none of my other ones have it, but a few of my other bars do (American Barbell, Texas, etc)

[@breadenjoyer7986]

Such a good bar wish the end caps were cooler lol but such a good bar for the price

[@BasementBrandon]

I've seen a lot worse!

[@griffinohara9864]

I’ve been looking at the rogue hybrid power bar. How do you think this compares for a general strength purpose? They’re the same price.

[@BasementBrandon]

The rogue is 28.5mm and has thicker collars than this. If you're looking for a general purpose power bar, the rogue may be better as for the reasons why comp collars turn some off who don't compete. The rogue has their aggro 2, which depending on your preference you might find perfect or a bit on the aggressive side.

[@griffinohara9864]

@@BasementBrandon thank you sir. I’ve definitely got some thinking to do.

[@HughLeFitness]

What is your go-to bar these days?

[@BasementBrandon]

I still end up using the Hansu SS the most.

[@Exercise-vt6je]

I saw the HG Discord talking about ORI bars... any chance you're going to pick one up?

[@BasementBrandon]

The sleeves look cool but don't think there's any compelling reason to grab one otherwise.. especially at almost $1000 delivered.

[@nowayjosehomegym]

Finally! thanks for the review!

[@BasementBrandon]

Next bar??

[@nowayjosehomegym]

@@BasementBrandon which is more aggressive, the strongarm razor or this one?

[@BasementBrandon]

@@nowayjosehomegym StrongArm, but it's also $100 more

[@billwinter8386]

Texas Power Bars all have a small taper at the end of the sleeve.

[@BasementBrandon]

Ah good call I should know that with all my texas bars lol, but have yet to see that on a comp bar.

[@billwinter8386]

@@BasementBrandon Well, I guess "comp" depends on the fed. USPA and WRPF use lots of Texas bars. If by comp you mean IPF approved bars, then I completely agree. Must of those have flat/squared ends.

[@jollyrocks7357]

I am planning on getting a new powerlifting barbell, considering cerakote ( has good knurl based on review), hard chrome and stainless steel shaft ( sleeves hc), which one should b the best for long run I mean no scratches less rusting chances n all..??

[@BasementBrandon]

SS would be the best overall in most cases, but also usually the most expensive.

[@jollyrocks7357]

@@BasementBrandon thanks wl get ss only then better investment

[@carps_gym]

You had me a Bargain Brandon

[@BasementBrandon]

Brandon's Bargain Basement Barbells.

[@independentgymsupplyllc5755]

@@BasementBrandon😂 I envision an old Bob’s Furniture style ad! “Can you get a better barbell at a better price? I doubt it! Will it be stainless? Fahhhget about it!”

[@BasementBrandon]

@@independentgymsupplyllc5755 "oh my bob"

[@twistedbarbell3950]

Looks to be a great option at a decent price point. Yes, I have some USA bars, but I can't honestly say they're better than the import bars. Bottom line is, this is a damn good time to be in the market for barbells! And yes, the ad photo of the sleeve is very deceiving.

[@BasementBrandon]

Agreed, it's getting harder and harder to go with MiUSA for some of this stuff due to quality, pricing, and availability.

[@jonathanasigri9487]

For a potential buyer why may they purchase the cerakote or chrome version as opposed to the SS (not including the cheaper price point)

[@BasementBrandon]

For cerakote, usually it offers higher corrosion resistances than basic finishes and can have some pretty unique color offerings. For chrome, I can't think of a good reason.

[@jonathanasigri9487]

@@BasementBrandon but ss still reigns supreme over the cerakote?

[@BasementBrandon]

@@jonathanasigri9487 I think SS is the best finish available in almost all circumstances. The exception would be if you're going for a certain color/look.

[@JasonLeeno]

I find it hard to believe that you never thought about a tapered shaft being the shaft master 😂

[@BasementBrandon]

So there are some bars with it (that I own) but haven't seen one on a comp bar before.

[@scooobyj8714]

Great review

[@BasementBrandon]

Thanks my dude.

[@928guy]

Great review, at a great price for stainless steel power barbell 👍👍

[@BasementBrandon]

Thanks for taking a look!

[@gtlandis86]

I keep getting ads for the Iron Bull SS Power Bar. It's $325 with free shipping. Have you heard of/seen this one?

[@BasementBrandon]

I have heard of it but don't know of anyone with first hand experience.

[@ChristopherConti-c3c]

If you have a raw or stainless bar that you find the knurling too aggressive you can take some scotch bright to it and knock down the edges.

[@BasementBrandon]

blasphemy!! 🙃

[@MikeGuadango]

How does it compare to the Rep Double black diamond bar?

[@BasementBrandon]

REP DBD has a higher TPI and mountain knurl. I have not used that one, but I did have the Power Bar EX which it replaced. It's solid, but I have been prefering the thin comp collars these days.

[@MikeGuadango]

@@BasementBrandon thanks Brandon.

[@everettcamarillo6297]

Does barbell have crack in steel At 8:59 in video ? In middle of pic on knurling

[@BasementBrandon]

Prob just a hair. Price you pay for macro shots lol.

[@everettcamarillo6297]

@BasementBrandon at that price point for stainless its a steal and good investment for anyone .love how detailed and informative your vids are.

[@johnnguyen6044]

Hi Mr. Campbell: You forgot to include the overpriced Ivanko OBS-20kg stainless steel Olympic for $1100.00. Nice Video.

[@BasementBrandon]

TBH if it ever came back in stock I'd prob buy it lol.

[@FlashGamer521]

Are the sleeves also stainless?

[@BasementBrandon]

They aren't listed, but my guess would be no.

[@joecowan3719]

Looks like a great SS option at a great price point!

[@BasementBrandon]

I was surprised at how well they did this one

[@timpike3856]

What is the LENGTH if this bar ????

[@BasementBrandon]

Have to measure but should be around 86.5"

[@NoFate247]

If you aren't first you're last --->

[@BasementBrandon]

shake n bake!

[@fwiffo42]

That’s a stainless steel of a deal!

[@BasementBrandon]

Hey now!

[@sandon32167]

Rep fitness has a tapered end on the sleeve.

[@BasementBrandon]

I guess i'm looking more specifically at competition bars.

[@sandon32167]

@@BasementBrandon gotcha. I have the rep fitness double black diamond bar. Stiff bar, but I guess it’s not an association specific bar of choice though.

[@BrimhallBarbellClub]

Oh boy. I need to quit watching these videos. Now I want one.

[@BasementBrandon]

Jack has entered his USAPL arc.

[@Garage_gym48]

Loving it. BB reviewing a 29mm stainless IPF spec power bar with aggressive knurling. Everything is right in the world. The rep double black diamond bar has a beveled edge on the sleeve from memory? Any progress on selling the rack? Was it Irwin fitness you are replacing it with? Excited to see regardless!

[@BasementBrandon]

You know I ended up having a few bars with the beveled edge, but I've just been so consumed by IPF thin collars I only think about those bars lol. For my rack I haven't posted it yet b/c I"m not sure when the Irwin will show up. But hopefully soon!

[@Garage_gym48]

@@BasementBrandon ah nice. Can’t be rackless. Would be devastating.

[@carps_gym]

Just from the pictures it looks a lot like my ATX IPF bar but it’s chrome not SS

[@BasementBrandon]

Maybe from the same factories 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@Quentin_pwrlifting]

average fear inoculum listener

[@BasementBrandon]

I like all Tool

[@Quentin_pwrlifting]

@@BasementBrandon as we should, i’m not saying it’s a bad album at all!

[@MrPanthers23]

I already have 2 power bars.... Dont tempt me Frodo....

[@BasementBrandon]

Gateway bars

[@bobbyhunt3009]

That is the lowest price that I've ever seen on a SS bar. This could be the bar that starts to bring the market for high quality barbells down to within reason. I'm okay with the prices, if I think a price on one is too high then I don't buy it. I just think along the lines if I was the manufacturer, I would get the price on the low end and sell more product because most of the time while they're buying your affordable product they are looking to buy other things, just makes more sense to me instead of charging $400 or more for a barbell. Eleiko charging $1000 -$1,200 is a joke to me. There has never been 2 barbells made by anybody that should cost what Eleiko charges for one. IMO, you would have to be in the buisness or be a fool to be one of those Eleiko bars.

[@BasementBrandon]

Given the price of stainless steel I would worry that getting a bar for "at cost" might be worrisome as well. From what I've seen in the market, average cost is around $400-$500.

[@bmstylee]

I hear import bar I say pass.

[@BasementBrandon]

I think in the past it was easier to do so b/c of quality issues, these days a lot of the imports are coming with some heat.

[@hayesdelezene4590]

Why’s that? If it stand up to quality inspection, what’s the issue?

[@danielpicerni24]

Great review!! Love the knurl porn!!

[@BasementBrandon]

It's all in the details!

[@jvtraining9723]

Brandon is THE modern day barbell critic. 🤌🏻 thank God for this man🥲

[@BasementBrandon]

😅😅😅