Starting Strength Bar

USA Flag Built in Texas
Sale price$329.99

Weight: Starting Strength Bar

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Description

Texas Starting Strength Bar (28.5mm)

The Standard for Novice Linear Progression

28.5mm Shaft — "Fine" Knurl — Bare Steel

The Texas Starting Strength Bar is the official barbell authorized for use in Starting Strength Gyms nationwide. Designed to strict specifications for the Novice Linear Progression (NLP), this bar is the definitive tool for trainees dedicated to basic barbell training.

Handbuilt in Texas by Buddy Capps, this bar features a specific 28.5mm diameter and "Fine" Knurling. This combination creates the perfect balance for the A/B split, allowing you to Squat, Press, Bench, Deadlift, and Power Clean three days a week without tearing up your hands. If you are "Doing the Program," this is the only bar you need.

Why This Is The "Blue Book" Standard

Optimized for the specific mechanics of the five basic lifts:

  • ✓ Type B "Fine" Knurling: Essential for high-frequency training. It provides a secure grip for the Deadlift but won't shred your hands during high-volume sets of 5.
  • ✓ 28.5mm "Sweet Spot" Shaft: Thinner than a power bar to allow for a better rack position in the Power Clean and a tighter grip for The Press.
  • ✓ Passive Center Knurl: sticky enough to lock in a heavy Low Bar Squat, but passive enough not to abrade the neck during Cleans.
  • ✓ Bare Steel Finish: The preferred finish of the program. It offers the most tactile feedback and "bite," ensuring the bar feels like an extension of the body.

Built for The Program

Standard power bars are often too thick (29mm) for the correct mechanics of the Power Clean and The Press. The Texas Starting Strength Bar utilizes a 28.5mm shaft, which improves grip security on pulling movements and allows for better wrist positioning when pressing overhead.

Whether you are on your first day of linear progression or grinding through a heavy set of five, the 190,000 PSI tensile strength steel ensures the bar remains straight, rigid, and reliable.

Who This Bar Is Best For

  • Trainees following the Starting Strength Novice Linear Progression
  • Lifters focused on the basic compound movements (Squat, Press, Pull)
  • Starting Strength Affiliate Gyms needing authorized equipment
  • Home gym owners who want the authentic "bare steel" feel
  • Women and lifters with smaller hands who prefer 28.5mm

"The standard tool for Basic Barbell Training."

Dual Marks for Dual Purpose

To accommodate the Power Clean (an Olympic lift) and the Bench Press (a Power lift), this bar features Dual Knurl Marks. This ensures you can find your consistent setup instantly, whether you are racking a clean or setting up for a heavy bench press.

Engineered for Linear Progression

  • Versatility: Optimized for both slow lifts (Squat/Deadlift) and quick lifts (Power Clean).
  • Authenticity: 100% Bare Steel provides the classic gym aesthetic and feel.
  • Durability: 190k PSI steel and bronze bushings ensure decades of performance.

Handbuilt in Texas, this bar represents the gold standard for general strength training.

Technical Specifications — Texas Starting Strength Bar

Specification Details
Shaft Diameter 28.5mm – Optimal for Pulls & Presses
Weight 44 lbs / 20 kg – Standard weight
Tensile Strength 190,000 PSI steel
Knurling (Fine) – High frequency friendly
Center Knurl Yes 4" (Passive) – For Low Bar Squats
Knurl Marks Dual Marks – IWF & IPF
Sleeves 15″ Loadable Sleeves – Bronze Bushings
Finish Bare Steel Only
Inside Collar Width 52"
Origin Handbuilt in Texas, USA

Available Finish — Bare Steel

The Texas Starting Strength Bar is available exclusively in Bare Steel.

  • Why Bare Steel? It offers the ultimate "metal-on-skin" grip feel required for the program. There is no plating to make the bar slippery.
  • Patina: Over time, bare steel will develop a natural patina. This is expected. Regular brushing and oiling are required to keep it in top condition.

Experience the Texas Power Bars Difference

Specs may look similar on paper, but nothing feels — or performs — like a Texas Power Bar in the hands. When you lift with a Texas Power Bar, you’re not only lifting with a piece of strength history — you’re passing on a tradition of becoming the strongest version of yourself to the generations to come.

No Imports. No Shortcuts.

Texas Power Bars are hand-assembled in Texas using ultra-premium, industry-leading American steel. Family-owned and operated for over 45 years — never imported, never outsourced, never built to cut corners.

The Gold Standard of Strength Training

Texas Power Bars have set more powerlifting records than any bar in history. Built with relentless grip, maximum stiffness, and nearly indestructible durability to outperform and outlast rep after rep.

Proven Over Decades of Strength

With 100,000+ barbells sold since 1980, Texas Power Bars are trusted everywhere strength is earned — from home gyms and garages to Division I weight rooms and world competition platforms.

Record-Breaking Legacy > Everything Else

Every bar is a piece of strength history, built with the same attention to detail established over four decades ago by powerlifting founder Buddy Capps — while others have come and gone.

This Is the Texas Way

Backed by Texas-based support and industry leading warranty. When you reach out, you’ll speak with a real strength expert right here in the Lone Star State via our Contact Us page — because we stand behind our craftsmanship and know how our bars perform under pressure.

FSA / HSA Eligible

Smash PRs, not your wallet. Use pre-tax dollars to save up to 30% off Texas Power Bars strength equipment. Eligible for FSA and HSA funds, making it easier to invest in high-quality home gym strength equipment built to last.

Simple. Hard. Effective.

Stop overcomplicating your training. Get the bar built for the basics. The Texas Starting Strength Bar is the reliable partner you need to add 5 pounds to the bar, workout after workout.

What Customers Are Saying

Read all real lifter reviews here →

“The fine knurling is perfect for the program. I can train 3x a week without my hands ripping.”
“28.5mm is the perfect diameter for the all purpose training. Feels great.”
“The bare steel feels like a real tool. Just requires a little oil now and then.”
“Essential for anyone doing the Novice Linear Progression.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this bar only available in Bare Steel?
Bare steel is specified for Starting Strength Gyms because it provides the best possible grip feel (friction coefficient). Plating fills in the knurl depth and can be slippery.

What is "Fine" Knurling?
Standard Texas Power Bars have "Aggressive" knurling. This bar has a "Fine" pattern. This is critical for novice lifters training high volume (sets of 5) to prevent callus tearing while still offering a secure grip.

Why 28.5mm instead of 29mm?
29mm is standard for Powerlifting, but 28.5mm is better for General Strength Training. It allows for a more secure hook grip on the Power Clean and better rack mechanics for The Press.

Does it have a center knurl?
Yes. A center knurl is required for the Low Bar Squat to prevent the bar from sliding down the back. This bar features a passive center knurl that grips the shirt without scratching the neck.

Why does it have Dual Knurl Marks?
It features both Powerlifting (32") and Weightlifting (36") marks. This allows you to set up consistently for the Bench Press and the Power Clean/Snatch using standard reference points.

Not Sure Which Bar Is Right For You?

With over 45 years of specialized barbell manufacturing, we have the perfect tool for every lift. You can compare our full lineup of barbells here to find the exact diameter and flex for your training style.

Related Texas Power Bars

  • "Original" Texas Power Bar: This is the bar that set the powerlifting industry standard back in 1980 — and continues to define it. Made For Multiple Powerlifting Movements Like Squat, Bench, Deadlift, & More.
  • 29mm Texas Power Bar (7th Gen): Top Competition Choice For Multiple Powerlifting Movements Like Squat, Bench, Deadlift, & More. Upgraded from the "Original" to 29mm 200k+ Tensile Strength Steel Shaft For Extra Stiffness, 1/2 inch Extended Bar Length, 16" Loadable Sleeve Length, & Thinner Collars To Meet Competition Specs. *Competition Ready (USPA, IPL, + 1000's More Approved)
  • Texas Deadlift Bar: Thinner & Longer Shaft Allows For Max Bar Whip, Bend, & Flex Allowing You To Pull More Than Any Other Bar. *Competition Ready (USPA, IPL, + 1000's More Approved)
  • Texas Bench Bar: Optimal Dimensions For Presses Ensure Stable & Predictable Lifts. (USPA, IPL, + 1000's More Approved)
  • Texas Squat Bar: A Thicker/Longer Shaft Drastically Increases Stiffness & Stability Compared To Standard Barbells. (USPA, IPL, + 1000's More Approved)
  • Texas 2" Fat Axle Power Bar: 2" Thick, Fully Rotating Sleeves, & End-to-End Knurling To Deliver Real Power Bar Performance While Offering All The Benefits Of A Thick Grip. *Competition Ready
  • Monster Texas Squat Bar: Top Pick For Chasing Record Setting Max Squats.
  • Texas All American Bar: Top Choice For All Around Higher Rep Strength Training.
  • Texas Cross Bar: Top Pick For Dynamic Olympic Style & CrossFit Movements Featuring Smooth Spinning Sleeves & No Center Knurl.

Other Texas equipment, accessories, & apparel

Complete your gym with official Texas Power Bars gear. From Texas magnetic collars and bar cleaning brushes to official shirts, hats, and gym banners, we have everything you need to support your strength training.

Shop All Texas Gear & Accessories →

Texas Starting Strength Bar (28.5mm)

The Standard for Novice Linear Progression

28.5mm Shaft — "Fine" Knurl — Bare Steel

The Texas Starting Strength Bar is the official barbell authorized for use in Starting Strength Gyms nationwide. Designed to strict specifications for the Novice Linear Progression (NLP), this bar is the definitive tool for trainees dedicated to basic barbell training.

Handbuilt in Texas by Buddy Capps, this bar features a specific 28.5mm diameter and "Fine" Knurling. This combination creates the perfect balance for the A/B split, allowing you to Squat, Press, Bench, Deadlift, and Power Clean three days a week without tearing up your hands. If you are "Doing the Program," this is the only bar you need.

Why This Is The "Blue Book" Standard

Optimized for the specific mechanics of the five basic lifts:

  • ✓ Type B "Fine" Knurling: Essential for high-frequency training. It provides a secure grip for the Deadlift but won't shred your hands during high-volume sets of 5.
  • ✓ 28.5mm "Sweet Spot" Shaft: Thinner than a power bar to allow for a better rack position in the Power Clean and a tighter grip for The Press.
  • ✓ Passive Center Knurl: sticky enough to lock in a heavy Low Bar Squat, but passive enough not to abrade the neck during Cleans.
  • ✓ Bare Steel Finish: The preferred finish of the program. It offers the most tactile feedback and "bite," ensuring the bar feels like an extension of the body.

Built for The Program

Standard power bars are often too thick (29mm) for the correct mechanics of the Power Clean and The Press. The Texas Starting Strength Bar utilizes a 28.5mm shaft, which improves grip security on pulling movements and allows for better wrist positioning when pressing overhead.

Whether you are on your first day of linear progression or grinding through a heavy set of five, the 190,000 PSI tensile strength steel ensures the bar remains straight, rigid, and reliable.

Who This Bar Is Best For

  • Trainees following the Starting Strength Novice Linear Progression
  • Lifters focused on the basic compound movements (Squat, Press, Pull)
  • Starting Strength Affiliate Gyms needing authorized equipment
  • Home gym owners who want the authentic "bare steel" feel
  • Women and lifters with smaller hands who prefer 28.5mm

"The standard tool for Basic Barbell Training."

Dual Marks for Dual Purpose

To accommodate the Power Clean (an Olympic lift) and the Bench Press (a Power lift), this bar features Dual Knurl Marks. This ensures you can find your consistent setup instantly, whether you are racking a clean or setting up for a heavy bench press.

Engineered for Linear Progression

  • Versatility: Optimized for both slow lifts (Squat/Deadlift) and quick lifts (Power Clean).
  • Authenticity: 100% Bare Steel provides the classic gym aesthetic and feel.
  • Durability: 190k PSI steel and bronze bushings ensure decades of performance.

Handbuilt in Texas, this bar represents the gold standard for general strength training.

Technical Specifications — Texas Starting Strength Bar

Specification Details
Shaft Diameter 28.5mm – Optimal for Pulls & Presses
Weight 44 lbs / 20 kg – Standard weight
Tensile Strength 190,000 PSI steel
Knurling (Fine) – High frequency friendly
Center Knurl Yes 4" (Passive) – For Low Bar Squats
Knurl Marks Dual Marks – IWF & IPF
Sleeves 15″ Loadable Sleeves – Bronze Bushings
Finish Bare Steel Only
Inside Collar Width 52"
Origin Handbuilt in Texas, USA

Available Finish — Bare Steel

The Texas Starting Strength Bar is available exclusively in Bare Steel.

  • Why Bare Steel? It offers the ultimate "metal-on-skin" grip feel required for the program. There is no plating to make the bar slippery.
  • Patina: Over time, bare steel will develop a natural patina. This is expected. Regular brushing and oiling are required to keep it in top condition.

Experience the Texas Power Bars Difference

Specs may look similar on paper, but nothing feels — or performs — like a Texas Power Bar in the hands. When you lift with a Texas Power Bar, you’re not only lifting with a piece of strength history — you’re passing on a tradition of becoming the strongest version of yourself to the generations to come.

No Imports. No Shortcuts.

Texas Power Bars are hand-assembled in Texas using ultra-premium, industry-leading American steel. Family-owned and operated for over 45 years — never imported, never outsourced, never built to cut corners.

The Gold Standard of Strength Training

Texas Power Bars have set more powerlifting records than any bar in history. Built with relentless grip, maximum stiffness, and nearly indestructible durability to outperform and outlast rep after rep.

Proven Over Decades of Strength

With 100,000+ barbells sold since 1980, Texas Power Bars are trusted everywhere strength is earned — from home gyms and garages to Division I weight rooms and world competition platforms.

Record-Breaking Legacy > Everything Else

Every bar is a piece of strength history, built with the same attention to detail established over four decades ago by powerlifting founder Buddy Capps — while others have come and gone.

This Is the Texas Way

Backed by Texas-based support and industry leading warranty. When you reach out, you’ll speak with a real strength expert right here in the Lone Star State via our Contact Us page — because we stand behind our craftsmanship and know how our bars perform under pressure.

FSA / HSA Eligible

Smash PRs, not your wallet. Use pre-tax dollars to save up to 30% off Texas Power Bars strength equipment. Eligible for FSA and HSA funds, making it easier to invest in high-quality home gym strength equipment built to last.

Simple. Hard. Effective.

Stop overcomplicating your training. Get the bar built for the basics. The Texas Starting Strength Bar is the reliable partner you need to add 5 pounds to the bar, workout after workout.

What Customers Are Saying

Read all real lifter reviews here →

“The fine knurling is perfect for the program. I can train 3x a week without my hands ripping.”
“28.5mm is the perfect diameter for the all purpose training. Feels great.”
“The bare steel feels like a real tool. Just requires a little oil now and then.”
“Essential for anyone doing the Novice Linear Progression.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this bar only available in Bare Steel?
Bare steel is specified for Starting Strength Gyms because it provides the best possible grip feel (friction coefficient). Plating fills in the knurl depth and can be slippery.

What is "Fine" Knurling?
Standard Texas Power Bars have "Aggressive" knurling. This bar has a "Fine" pattern. This is critical for novice lifters training high volume (sets of 5) to prevent callus tearing while still offering a secure grip.

Why 28.5mm instead of 29mm?
29mm is standard for Powerlifting, but 28.5mm is better for General Strength Training. It allows for a more secure hook grip on the Power Clean and better rack mechanics for The Press.

Does it have a center knurl?
Yes. A center knurl is required for the Low Bar Squat to prevent the bar from sliding down the back. This bar features a passive center knurl that grips the shirt without scratching the neck.

Why does it have Dual Knurl Marks?
It features both Powerlifting (32") and Weightlifting (36") marks. This allows you to set up consistently for the Bench Press and the Power Clean/Snatch using standard reference points.

Not Sure Which Bar Is Right For You?

With over 45 years of specialized barbell manufacturing, we have the perfect tool for every lift. You can compare our full lineup of barbells here to find the exact diameter and flex for your training style.

Related Texas Power Bars

  • "Original" Texas Power Bar: This is the bar that set the powerlifting industry standard back in 1980 — and continues to define it. Made For Multiple Powerlifting Movements Like Squat, Bench, Deadlift, & More.
  • 29mm Texas Power Bar (7th Gen): Top Competition Choice For Multiple Powerlifting Movements Like Squat, Bench, Deadlift, & More. Upgraded from the "Original" to 29mm 200k+ Tensile Strength Steel Shaft For Extra Stiffness, 1/2 inch Extended Bar Length, 16" Loadable Sleeve Length, & Thinner Collars To Meet Competition Specs. *Competition Ready (USPA, IPL, + 1000's More Approved)
  • Texas Deadlift Bar: Thinner & Longer Shaft Allows For Max Bar Whip, Bend, & Flex Allowing You To Pull More Than Any Other Bar. *Competition Ready (USPA, IPL, + 1000's More Approved)
  • Texas Bench Bar: Optimal Dimensions For Presses Ensure Stable & Predictable Lifts. (USPA, IPL, + 1000's More Approved)
  • Texas Squat Bar: A Thicker/Longer Shaft Drastically Increases Stiffness & Stability Compared To Standard Barbells. (USPA, IPL, + 1000's More Approved)
  • Texas 2" Fat Axle Power Bar: 2" Thick, Fully Rotating Sleeves, & End-to-End Knurling To Deliver Real Power Bar Performance While Offering All The Benefits Of A Thick Grip. *Competition Ready
  • Monster Texas Squat Bar: Top Pick For Chasing Record Setting Max Squats.
  • Texas All American Bar: Top Choice For All Around Higher Rep Strength Training.
  • Texas Cross Bar: Top Pick For Dynamic Olympic Style & CrossFit Movements Featuring Smooth Spinning Sleeves & No Center Knurl.

Other Texas equipment, accessories, & apparel

Complete your gym with official Texas Power Bars gear. From Texas magnetic collars and bar cleaning brushes to official shirts, hats, and gym banners, we have everything you need to support your strength training.

Shop All Texas Gear & Accessories →

Proof On The Platform

More Records Broken Than Any Other Bar In History

Thousands of state, national, international, and world powerlifting records have been and continue to be set and broken on Texas Power Bars. Here are just a few...

Just A Few Iconic Records Broken On Texas Power Bars

•1985 Fred Hatfield 1002lbs Squat
•2007 Charles Bailey 1102lbs Squat
•2016 Tiny Meeker 1102lbs Bench Press
•2016 Yuri Belkin 992lbs Deadlift at GPA World championship in Moscow
•2017 Joseph Pena 1025lbs Squat at Texas High School championships.
•1994 Mark Hanlon and 8X Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman pulled 800lbs deadlift with the Texas Power Bar.

World Powerlifting Championships

•2010-2011 United States 🇺🇸
•2012 Argentina 🇦🇷
•2013 Finland 🇫🇮
•2014 Australia 🇦🇺
•2015 United States 🇺🇸
•2016 Russia 🇷🇺
•2017 Argentina 🇦🇷
•2025 Argentina 🇦🇷

We Created The Industry & Everyone Else Followed

•1984 World Championship (Dallas, TX)
•1981 Senior Nationals
•1982 Nationals
•1983 Teenage and Collegiate Nationals
•1984 High School Nationals, Women's Nationals, Junior Worlds

44LB / 20KG | Fine Knurling

Starting Strength Bar

Ideal for all ages & strength levels.

The Starting Strength bar lineup was designed in 2018 by Buddy Capps and Texas Power Bars at the request of Mark Rippetoe for Starting Strength Gyms. These bars are bare steel all the way, a comfortable 28.5 mm* in diameter with the best knurl in the industry. The collars on the SS bars were redesigned with a bigger (3.25”) **diameter, shorter overall length, which also increases the plate space. The collars and sleeves are machined to a near smooth finish. The shafts have a center knurl (20 kg only) and dual ring marks. The 3-bar lineup includes a 20 kg, a 15 kg, and 10 kg option for all ages and strength levels. A natural steel bar that will age gracefully with your gym, The Starting Strength Bar will be your favorite piece of equipment for decades.