Ditch The Straight Bar? Bells of Steel SS3 Safety Squat Bar Review

Is it time to ditch the straight bar? The Bells of Steel Safety Squat Bar (SS3) is worth taking a look at especially as a budget SSB option. In this review we talk about why you might want a SSB as we go indepth on Bell's latest version of their bar.
Safety Squat Bars are often used to squat even if you have a pec or shoulder injury but can also be used to strengthen your weak points and break through plateaus. While most of us will use these with one of the many squat variations it allows as a home gym owner you'll find a ton of other uses as well.
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▬▬▬▬ Jump to Chapters ▬▬▬▬
0:00 Introduction
1:07 Why Get A Safety Squat Bar
3:13 Specs and Build of the SS3
6:24 Yoke Thoughts
6:56 The Camber
8:03 Titan Vs Bells SSB

[@GlucksGym]

What is your favorite budget safety squat bar? How many people noticed I was exhausted during filming? We had run a double leg and chest workout before filming.

[@markwurtz8759]

Titan - its all that and a bag of chips!

[@actionjackson9121]

the titan is a great buy but I bought the Rogue for 400 on marketplace and love it. Money aside I wish I had the transformer bar

[@miamifins4]

Ok, the SSB in the Jeep is an all-time top opening gag.

[@GlucksGym]

Yesss! The one time I actually wrote the intro! TAKE THAT WYNIE!

[@KevinKaneCanada]

I’ve had this bar for 2 years. It feels nearly identical to the Elite FTS Yoke bar but I appreciate that the SS3 has shorter sleeves. The shorter sleeves and lower bar weight make it much easier to maneuver in and out of the rack without smashing your walls. With bumpers I can load only 465 lbs but fortunately I also have calibrated plates so the sleeves are long enough. I kept the small handles and I threw out the other 2 handles. They felt awkward and they’re bulky to store.

[@Useruytrw]

The sense of humour is UNMATCHED 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@GlucksGym]

Thanks! Not everyone appreciates it 😂

[@jrssae]

Commenting for the algorithm, but also safety squat bars have been a godsend for me. I have nerve damage in my arm that prevents the external rotation needed to do back squats at all. SSBs have given me that option back

[@GlucksGym]

That's awesome. Glad to hear it. That's why a lot of this stuff was invented

[@ryanharrison9575]

Good looking SSB, like the multiple handle options. Thanks for the review.

[@GlucksGym]

Thanks for the kindness and support!

[@marcywodniakowski3185]

Like the idea of the 3 different handle options. Might have to add this to my gym this year!

[@GlucksGym]

Solid bar! I'm sure you'll be very happy with it.

[@joecowan3719]

It is nice to see another option at the lower price point to the SSB market. I call my SSB "The Humbler" but I love how it lights up my lats and saves my shoulders. Solid review Gluck!

[@GlucksGym]

Exactly, I agree completely. It's definitely humbling and Hatfields are a ton of fun (which is the only time I'll admit a squat is any bit of fun.

[@ttitschinger]

Insert "contact with the shaft" joke

[@BasementBrandon]

I do love me some SSBs. Titan's is prob the only product outside of some of their racks I recommend (mostly b/c it's just a clone of the EliteFTS one). If you have the extra cash and can swing it, you can get the made in USA Elite one for about $100 more when it goes on sale.

[@GlucksGym]

Always support American when it makes sense especially if they're being copied.

[@babygiantbarbell1014]

I have terrible hip flexibility and my Titan SSB helps my squat depth also. Thanks for the overview of a newer alternative.

[@GlucksGym]

Thanks for the support. Glad to hear the bar is finding some use for you

[@lilmug77]

Killed it as always

[@GlucksGym]

😀 thank you!

[@crudegrilling1070]

Thanks for the video. I have the titan safety bar it it’s great. Keep up the hard work!

[@GlucksGym]

Thanks! I'm trying! Glad to hear it but hopefully I don't have to review as many SSBs as benches

[@crudegrilling1070]

@@GlucksGym lol. How many benches do you guys own anyways? 😆

[@GlucksGym]

@@crudegrilling1070 6 at the moment? I should really sell some stuff but I had a big plan to do a bench showdown video

[@NoFate247]

Really loving my ssb these last few months.

[@GlucksGym]

I probably don't need more stuff but I like these more than I thought I would

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Yeah, I upgraded from the Titan bar to this one. I like it. I only have one gripe. When loading or unloading, I am unable to use 55 pound plates because the bar is too light or too narrow to stay in place. I had an instance where it came crashing down already. Other than that, it’s pretty sweet. Good job as always Adrian!

[@GlucksGym]

Really? I swear I've put multiple plates on one side without the other but maybe I did 3 on one and 1 on the other... I gotta test this out

[@johnbeverungen6570]

Great video, and funny! I have a New York Barbells economy SSB. Pretty crude, but cheap and I like it. I'm 55, so I was looking for a way to reduce spinal loading, and though it took a while to get used to, I think the SSB encourages a more upright squat motion which feels easier on my back.

[@GlucksGym]

It definitely takes some getting used to. Glad you enjoyed the video and glad you're still supporting in the comments!

[@DarDarBanks1]

Awesome video. Just saw that they came out with an even newer version of this bar “SS4” curious to see what the differences/updates are hehe By any chance, would you know if these handles will fit the elite FTS SS Yoke bar? Saw that bells of steel has different options for sale.

[@karlhungus545]

Ok, you sold me. I just ordered it. Amazon (Canada) has it for $299 CAD ($218 USD) w/free shipping, so I figured a SSB is worth a try now.

[@JoelP1961]

I have the Titan SSB, works well but I prefer squatting with a regular power barbell. Entertaining as always! 💯

[@GlucksGym]

Thanks 😁 I'm not sure I prefer any kind of squatting 🤣

[@bradleygrzych6359]

I have a SS3 BAR, I absolutely love it. I can move some heavy weight and I abuse the bar. I use it for good mornings as well. Worth the money.

[@GlucksGym]

Glad to hear it. Thanks for the input

[@dkmchui]

I have the SS3. It is good enough for me and it is better for my shoulders during Squat.

[@burtbakerack1110]

Gluck looking like a burnt out cop who’s chasing a serial killer in a 90’s action movie in this one.

[@GlucksGym]

We just had to combine a legs and bench workout before I filmed this so I'm literally dying. I wondered if anyone would notice 🤣

[@tnash87]

I have the SS Yoke and it kicks my ass

[@GlucksGym]

Great bar which should be obvious since half the rest are using it as the basis of their designs

[@cappy0023]

I've got my eye on the upcoming REP Fitness SSB bar myself, although I do own the Bells of Steel open Trap Bar.

[@GlucksGym]

We'll be reviewing that one too!

[@jmagnum15]

I’m looking forward to the upcoming SSB from Rep Fitness. Hoping you’ll have a video on that once released. Will be disappointed if Rep doesn’t have the same chain option you showed in your video for this bar. 😂

[@GlucksGym]

We will be covering that one as well! I'll talk to them about making sure those chains are included in the purchase.

[@richards6431]

Rep is bringing the heat with their bars. I am eager to see their open deadlift bar.

[@GlucksGym]

@@richards6431 me too. We'll be all over that one as well

[@briankear8661]

…Chains. Love it! Thanks for always bringing the humor :)

[@GlucksGym]

😏 You might like the video too 😂

[@rodolfomedini9931]

You can use a standard SSB for front squats... I suggest watching a video first but it's great for those who don't feel comfortable in the front rack position... Way more comfortable then a front rack harness which looks like something the Legion of Doom would wear (WWF reference yes WWF not WWE they're truly old school)

[@mach5jeep]

IIRC you can use regular collars on the Titan but not on the EliteFTS SSB

[@jamestonbellajo]

So glad you reviewed this. Not a lot of detailed reviews of the SS3. I own or have owned the EliteFTS SS Yoke, Bells of Steel SS3 and Titan SSB and I like them from most to least in that order. The SS3 is a damn good bar.

[@GlucksGym]

Glad to hear someone agrees! It's nice to have more options at the budget level and as much as I don't love every little thing about the SS3 I do appreciate the attempt at evolving and not simply copying.

[@tannerconley44]

lmao I should've known a joke was going to be made about the chains but I was not ready for it haha

[@GlucksGym]

😁 I had to do it

[@kashmiri911]

Great video new subscriber what rack is that from rep? I have the rep 5000 rack and ordered the bells SSB was wondering their earlier issues with bar not sitting property in the rack

[@GlucksGym]

That's a PR 5000 so you you'll have the same setup as me. Thank you for the support!

[@eltorogym4884]

Is like you know I’m looking at SS bars. And are tempting me.

[@GlucksGym]

I'm bar for your wallet

[@richards6431]

I have some shoulder mobility issues, as well as some injury and I hate straight bar squats. My range of motion also sucks. I am eagerly awaiting my Transformer Bar. It is good to see so many options at so many price points.

[@GlucksGym]

Oh baby that's a bar and a half!

[@richards6431]

@@GlucksGym yeah it better be with a freakin 16 week lead time…

[@GlucksGym]

Don't forget the price 😬

[@richards6431]

@@GlucksGym yeah at that price I expected the bar to rack the weights by itself lol

[@AM-dd6gk]

Do the handle options for the BoS ssb work on the Titan SSB? I currently own the titan SSB V2, but I really want those chain and spider handles

[@CD-sg7eh]

Truly a true American!

[@GlucksGym]

I try my best to uphold my American roots

[@Jay.12]

God I hope it comes with those chains

[@GlucksGym]

Unfortunately those are a little extra

[@CVNTGETENOUGH]

The jeep is freaking hilarious!!!

[@GlucksGym]

That might be the only intro I can take full credit for

[@CVNTGETENOUGH]

@@GlucksGym You have the best intros and videos, I crack up every time while also getting the info needed.

[@michaelpietrzak2067]

Elites is a nice bar but doesn't use most commonly used collars. Titans does surprisingly. And the finish is flaking off my Elite bar. Kinda frustrating. I was able to get aftermarket handles from Bare Steel Equipment

[@sonofashepherd6668]

You keep outdoing yourself on those intros, fucking hilarious 😂 Great review btw, my squat is lagging miles behind my over exercises. Do you think with this bar it would be more efficient to use as opposed to a regular barbell?

[@GlucksGym]

I prefer to think of it as an alternative or a way to work in more volume in a safer manner. So Hatfield squats or just SSB squats are just another weapon in your arsenal. Thanks. This is one of the very few intros I wrote myself!

[@ironhallgym]

POV you’re here from his latest ssb review. Both are awesomely honest.

[@GlucksGym]

Hahaha welcome to the party. Can't wait to do another 😢

[@ironhallgym]

@@GlucksGym 🤣

[@TrenbologneSandwich]

Those are some nice benches in the background

[@GlucksGym]

Right? Who has a better collection of items you don't need more than 1 of? I knew that's what people were looking at

[@TrenbologneSandwich]

@@GlucksGym That's definitely why I'M here. It's all about benches and barbells, baby. Every man wants to feel that nice, firm, (but supple) pad and grip their long hard shaft

[@airgordo4]

Have the Titan and the Transformer and love them both.. Would love to have the chain handles though, do you know if they offer them as a standalone item?

[@GlucksGym]

Bells doesn't offer theirs

[@justinbriney8388]

My Titan X3 is 48" so I have concerns on whether or not the BOS SSB will fit on my rack. I do have roller J-Cups, but still concerned.Do you think it'll fit?

[@joebot9309]

Just bought a Bronson ssb. It’s cheap and just as good or better than elitefts, titan etc...

[@Sobersunrise]

🔥🔥🔥

[@GlucksGym]

😁

[@phenoxfitnessnutrition4189]

You crack me up

[@GlucksGym]

I'm glad someone thinks so

[@johna9168]

great review, you look tired! lol. thanks for the hard work in putting out great contents!!!

[@GlucksGym]

Yeah we did a double workout right before I filmed... I was dead

[@mikep5111]

Bought the Transformer bar the second they released the new version, it showed up 400 weeks later. I haven't squatted with a straight bar since as it pisses off my elbow's.

[@GlucksGym]

That thing is sick but the price... oh baby

[@mikep5111]

@@GlucksGym Yeah shipping it to Canada hurt my soul

[@GlucksGym]

@@mikep5111 oh man your price probably made mine look like a bargain

[@krimsondeath22]

where did you get that shirt i love it

[@GlucksGym]

The dinosaur shirt? We made it! It's on our website. 😁

[@massiminimakes]

I don't know how you can deadpan the lines from 5:50-6:10 without cracking up. Did you do a ton of takes or are you just so practiced now that it comes naturally?

[@GlucksGym]

After 17 years as a teacher I've gotten very good at deciding whether I want to react or not. It really messes with the kids. 🤣 funny you bring it up because it also gets me in trouble a lot of the time and always has since high school.

[@StonedRambo01]

Elite FTS has a blemished (scratch and dent) SS yoke for $375.00

[@RonaldRumRaisin]

Elite Fts yoke bar

[@filiphedman4392]

I thought it was "Balls of steel" at first and thought, "That's a NICE name for a company".

[@ClarksvilleBarbellClub]

Him: "A little help, Daddy?" You: "Not a chance." Me: 🤣🤣🤣

[@GlucksGym]

I gotta say after awhile that thing isn't that comfortable to wear 😭🤣

[@ClarksvilleBarbellClub]

@@GlucksGym How the heck did you get it in your Jeep!? 😅

[@GlucksGym]

@@ClarksvilleBarbellClub with some help from Wynie 🤣

[@LukesGarageGym]

What’s your thoughts on the Titan one?

[@GlucksGym]

Did this guy watch the video?! Solid budget that's very similar to EliteFTS's bar

[@LukesGarageGym]

@@GlucksGym I comment first and watch after. Watched on my plan time

[@GlucksGym]

Haha I get it, I do the same a lot of the time

[@Demothones]

My lower back is garbage from 26 years in the Army. I used to just use the leg press machines in the gym but I have my own gym in the garage now. Is a bar like this one a good choice for someone with lower back issues? Thanks.

[@GlucksGym]

SSBs definitely can be. Check out the Marrs bar. Much much more expensive but a different design with more support

[@Demothones]

@@GlucksGym thanks

[@vicenteochoa6498]

Supposedly it replicates a front squat more than a back squat. That's probably why you feel you can get deeper. But I can't really verify since I haven't used one (yet).

[@GlucksGym]

There's definitely some similarities between the two though the SS3 doesn't push you forward as much as others with a deeper drop.

[@scooobyj8714]

Good review. The chains pic…hahaha. KZbin is going to give you a strike for that one.

[@GlucksGym]

Ah crap I hope not but I gotta be me!

[@scooobyj8714]

@@GlucksGym it was a good laugh that’s for sure. Wasn’t expecting that on a SSB bar review.

[@GlucksGym]

@@scooobyj8714 😁 slowly canceling myself here

[@robertbartlett4674]

I ordered the titan ssb on 3/5 still waiting for it to ship, getting the runaround and losing my patience.

[@GlucksGym]

😔 Sorry. I had that with something I ordered from them once. It took months to arrive. Hope you don't have that kinda wait.

[@CVNTGETENOUGH]

Have you heard anything about when Rep is releasing theirs?

[@GlucksGym]

Early summer

[@jkhristov]

Renaissance Periodization just did an excellent video on butt wink. Make sure we get an update winnie video so we can ...umm... critique her new technique after watching it? lol

[@GlucksGym]

I feel like everyone would enjoy Wynie squat videos 😂

[@thuirwyne]

I bought this bar because at the time the Titan one was O/S and I had 0 spouse justification for a Kabuki Transformer. I like it but have nothing to compare it to. Just got the BoS Industrial rackable EZ. Good thing it's industrial because the packaging was BUSTED.

[@GlucksGym]

They need to work on their packaging for some things. My SSB and AR h Nemesis were ok. The blitz bike was pretty good though. The kabuki is insanely priced. Great bar but jeeeeez

[@thuirwyne]

@@GlucksGym agree 100% on everything!

[@KungFuCooter]

Still waiting for the new gym tour.

[@GlucksGym]

Hopefully late April

[@KungFuCooter]

@@GlucksGym how big is your gym? Mine is 24×40 and I'm planning on building onto the back of it another 20x40.

[@GlucksGym]

@@KungFuCooter 28 x 10 in the back and I believe 10 x 16 in the front

[@squealer42]

They do all have that inherent flaw of being used for ... squats. In this day and age, shouldn't there be at least a non-budget option that lets me lay on the sofa, and maybe plug in some electrodes to do all the work for me?

[@GlucksGym]

Finally someone who gets it. Why do I have to pay money to do work?!

[@DesiGymReviews]

You won’t believe but there’s not a single good safety squat bar here in India. This looks so much better than all the bars here

[@GlucksGym]

I've heard from a few people it's hard to get much down there. We're really lucky here, that's for sure

[@sharonseward3635]

Sounds like you have an opportunity to start making equipment

[@joeymoneymo]

The problem with SSB's is that isn't for squatting. Now if they could make an SSB for benching or curling, I'd have 10 of them.

[@karlhungus545]

What?? This comment makes no sense. It's made for squatting. I can now squat properly and it doesn't kill my shoulders and knees. Also, the Bells of Steel Swiss bar has also allowed me to do flat bench again. I can't believe it took me this long to get these bars...

[@ClarksvilleBarbellClub]

I have to get an SS bar eventually... I guess... 🙄

[@GlucksGym]

You don't have to but if you don't get one you won't be able to do errands using it

[@ClarksvilleBarbellClub]

@@GlucksGym That is a good point... 🤔

[@jeremyelmore7537]

Took a second watch to notice the phone at 1:45

[@GlucksGym]

That's because sometimes we film IG clips at the same time

[@jeremyelmore7537]

Smart way to not have to do extra sets.

[@GlucksGym]

@@jeremyelmore7537 yeah and there's still plenty of extra 😭

[@ttitschinger]

Emg studies....Enough Money Gonealready

[@markhalstead2386]

I hate squats too, but don't skip them. They are among my least favorite lifts.

[@GlucksGym]

They are probably my least favorite. Even when I'm on a good streak I never look forward to them.

[@keithhoneycutt2324]

Has to be better than rogues. It’s their worst piece I have first hand experience with

[@GlucksGym]

Are we allowed to say negative things about Rogue?!

[@Azegreen]

Plz tell me you are doing squats responding to this comment!

[@GlucksGym]

Hahaha I was advisable responding to a real comment but omg Wynie messed up the clip a few times so I had to do it a few times 😂

[@bcarter9252]

Oh look a "padded" bench in the corner !!!

[@GlucksGym]

That bench sure does seem to get a lot of attention 😂

[@carps_gym]

First?

[@GlucksGym]

Maybe? Where's Baylee!? What is happening?

[@eddielimmy4150]

He's using the bar upside down - no wonder it's unstable. The camber should be 90 degrees to the squater.

[@karlhungus545]

What do you mean? He looks very stable to me. He isn't even holding the handles...

[@jrsmith5]

I like to eat my oatmeal while walking around with a SSB.....Food for Thot

[@GlucksGym]

Food for thot lol

[@Bigfrosticle]

First, F baylee

[@GlucksGym]

Poor Banana

[@baylee0831]

so rude :-(

[@GlucksGym]

@@baylee0831 wow look who showed up

[@operationtruth288]

The comedy sucks Stick to the topic

[@GlucksGym]

There's a lot of other reviewers you might prefer but this is my style. Good luck in your home gym pursuits.

[@ilyas2631]

How about no?

[@richt5986]

If you don't like it keep scrolling. No need for the negative comment.

[@operationtruth288]

@@GlucksGym Enjoy the content. The Comedy SUCKS !

[@billfromnowhere7687]

@@operationtruth288 Douche Alert 🚨!!!