Bells Of Steel Utility Barbell
The Bells of Steel Utility Barbell is my budget CrossFit-bar pick because it gives you a 20 kg, 28.5 mm multipurpose shaft, dual knurl marks, center knurl, 190,000 PSI tensile strength, and brass-bushing rotation for about budget-bar money.
Pros:
- Strong value for a multipurpose bar
- Center knurl adds useful squat grip
- Dual knurl marks support mixed training
- 28.5 mm shaft balances stiffness and usable whip
- 190,000 PSI tensile strength
- Shipping-inclusive budget pricing was a major value point in the article
Cons:
- Black zinc can feel slick and wear over time
- Brass bushings are less premium than bronze or composite systems
- Knurl consistency may not be perfect
- Grooved sleeves are a preference issue for some lifters
Brand:
Bells of Steel
Best For:
Home gym owners who want an inexpensive multipurpose bar for CrossFit-style training, general strength work, and Olympic-style lifts without paying premium-bar prices.
Skip If:
Skip it if you want premium corrosion resistance, ultra-smooth high-end sleeve rotation, or perfectly consistent knurling and finish quality.
Research Status:
Research Based
Specifications
| Weight | 20 kg (44 lb) |
|---|---|
| Length | 86.6" |
| Shaft Diameter | 28.5 mm |
| Tensile Strength | 190,000 PSI |
| Weight Capacity | 1,000 lb |
| Knurl | Mild to medium |
| Center Knurl | Yes |
| Knurl Marks | Dual IPF / IWF |
| Rotation | Brass bushings |
| Shaft Finish | Black zinc |
| Sleeve Finish | Bright zinc |
| Loadable Sleeve Length | 16.14" |
| Purpose | Multipurpose |
| Made In | Imported |
| Warranty | 5 years |
Owners Feedback
Pros
- Strong value for a multipurpose bar
- Center knurl adds useful squat grip
- Dual knurl marks support mixed training
- 28.5 mm shaft balances stiffness and usable whip
- 190,000 PSI tensile strength
- Shipping-inclusive budget pricing was a major value point in the article
Cons
- Black zinc can feel slick and wear over time
- Brass bushings are less premium than bronze or composite systems
- Knurl consistency may not be perfect
- Grooved sleeves are a preference issue for some lifters
