The CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic 7 ft Barbell Bar is expertly crafted from solid cold rolled steel with a sleek chrome finish, perfect for both powerlifting and Olympic lifts. With medium-depth knurling, a center knurl for extra grip, and rotating sleeves to minimize wrist strain, this bar delivers both performance and safety. Its impressive 63,800 PSI tensile strength and compatibility with Olympic weight plates make it ideal for full-body workouts. Trust CAP Barbell’s decades of expertise to upgrade your home gym with a highly reliable, versatile barbell.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means when you purchase through links on this page, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
Olympic barbell – Complete Review 2025
The Olympic barbell has earned a reputation for reliable strength training in home and commercial gyms. In this review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this product—including its specs, performance, and whether it’s right for you.
From loading it up with Olympic weight plates to handling rigorous weight lifting routines, the CAP Barbell 2-Inch model stands out for its construction and ease of use. The 7 ft bar, finished in sleek chrome, promises both durability and versatility.
This tool is ideal for various powerlifting and fitness bar exercises, making it a staple for anyone investing in quality workout equipment.
Key Features of the Olympic barbell
- Premium construction: Built from cold rolled steel with a resilient chrome finish, this model accommodates standard Olympic weight plates with its 2-inch sleeve diameter.
- Rotating sleeves: Smooth rotation is achieved thanks to robust bushings, reducing wrist stress during heavy lifts or dynamic movements.
- Medium knurling: The handgrip features both center and side knurling, offering a secure grip without being overly aggressive.
- Versatile length and weight: At 2185mm (approximately 7 feet) and weighing 16 kg, it fits most strength training and powerlifting setups.
If you’re also interested in versatile free weights, check out our complete dumbbells review.
Real-World Performance Testing
During hands-on tests, the Olympic barbell delivered consistent performance under loads up to 500 lbs—an impressive feat for a home gym bar. The rotating sleeves reduced joint strain, while the medium knurling provided excellent grip even during high-rep weight lifting sets.
This tool’s tensile strength of 63,800 PSI means it’s suitable for most recreational lifters. However, advanced users lifting 500+ lbs regularly might notice slight flex or sleeve movement over time, which is common in this price segment according to industry experts.
The 2-inch sleeve fits Olympic plates securely, and the chrome finish withstands daily use with minimal maintenance. For a bar in this range, performance meets expectations, but athletes seeking maximum whip or competitive Olympic lifting standards may prefer premium models.
For complimentary resistance options, read our complete resistance bands guide.
How It Compares to Alternatives
Compared to budget-friendly bars from Titan Fitness and XMark, this CAP Barbell option impresses with its chrome finish and rotating sleeves. The OB-86B from CAP offers similar specs but with slight differences in knurling and tolerance. High-end competitors like Rep Fitness provide greater tensile strength and less sleeve play, though at a higher price point.
Warranties are standard (30 days), and most users praise CAP Barbell for value. For more on top-rated bars, check BarBend’s latest roundup.
Who Should Buy This Product?
This tool is ideal for beginners, intermediate lifters, and home gym owners seeking a combo of affordability and dependable quality. Its 7 ft length ensures compatibility with power racks and benches, making it perfect for general strength training and casual weight lifting routines.
However, competitive powerlifters or Olympic lifters who routinely load bars above 500 lbs or demand precise spin mechanics may prefer investing in a higher-end fitness bar. If you focus more on lighter accessory work, this model should serve you well.
If you’re building out your fitness space, see our yoga mat review for more essential equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the load capacity of this bar?
Most users report this model supports up to 500 lbs safely for standard lifts, with higher-end CAP options rated for over 1,000 lbs. - Is this product suitable for powerlifting or Olympic lifting?
This bar is suitable for moderate powerlifting, general strength training, and traditional weight lifting routines. For competitive Olympic lifting, a premium specialty bar may be advisable. - Do the sleeves fit standard plates?
Yes, the 2-inch sleeve is designed for Olympic weight plates. Ensure collars are tight for best performance. - How does the olympic barbell compare to higher-priced bars?
The olympic barbell offers solid value and performance for home gym owners, though higher-priced bars from Rep Fitness or Rogue provide even better durability and spin for advanced athletes. - What’s the warranty policy from CAP Barbell?
According to CAP Barbell’s website, a 30-day warranty applies to most models, with select pro bars offering extended coverage.
For reliable, affordable strength training, the olympic barbell remains a smart choice—backed by CAP’s reputation and user-friendly design. Ready to elevate your workouts? Order yours today!
