"Original" Texas Power Bar

USA Flag Built in Texas
Sale price$289.99 Regular price$309.99
Save $20.00

Shaft: Bare Steel
Sleeve: Bare Steel

TrueMed logo HSA/FSA eligible for qualified customers Learn more
Description

The Original Texas Power Bar

The Bar That Built The Sport

Made in Texas — Trusted Since 1980 — The Original 28.5mm Standard

The Texas Power Bar is the original competition powerlifting barbell, made in Texas by Buddy Capps since 1980. Often considered the best Texas Power Bar for serious powerlifters, this 28.5mm barbell delivers the aggressive knurling, center knurl, and specific feel that built the sport of powerlifting. This is the bar that set the standard — and continues to define it.

Why Powerlifters Choose This Bar

  • ✓ The Original Texas Knurl: The specific, sharp cut that defined what a power bar feels like. Often imitated, never replicated.
  • ✓ Proven Since 1980: No guesswork. This is the exact bar design used to set decades of world records before "specialty bars" even existed.
  • ✓ The 28.5mm Standard: The classic shaft diameter that offers the perfect balance of rigidity for squats and just enough play for heavy deadlifts.

The Legend: The Original Texas Power Bar

The most iconic powerlifting barbell of all time — the revolutionary bar created in 1980 by powerlifter Buddy Capps. Known for its aggressive knurling, unyielding durability, and perfect whip, the Original Texas Power Bar has earned its reputation on competition platforms and in serious training facilities worldwide.

Handbuilt in Texas from a 44 lbs / 20 kg, 28.5mm diameter shaft forged with 190,000+ PSI tensile strength steel, this bar features maintenance-free bronze bushings, a 4" center knurl for reliable squat grip, 15″ loadable sleeves, single knurl marks, and an 86″ overall length.

Proudly carrying Buddy Capps’ stamp of approval, this is the original Texas Power Bar — not a copy.

Looking for upgraded stiffness? For modern competition-spec updates (stiffer 29mm shaft & thinner collars), see the 29mm Texas Power Bar (7th Generation).

Who This Bar Is For

  • Lifters wanting the original gold standard power bar
  • Commercial Gyms, High Schools, Universities, & Powerlifting Clubs needing equipment that lasts decades
  • Strength athletes who want the specific bar feel they grew up lifting on
  • Athletes training for competitions (IPF spec compliant)
  • Lifters who believe "if it ain't broke, don't fix it"

Whether on the platform or in daily training, the Texas Power Bar remains the gold standard for the squat, bench press, and deadlift.

Competition Proven & Built to Last

Texas Power Bars have been used in powerlifting meets, training halls, and home gyms for over four decades. Built with American steel and Texas craftsmanship, the Original Texas Power Bar is designed to perform today the same way it did decades ago — reliably, consistently, and without compromise.

Engineered for Versatility & Durability

  • Aggressive Knurling: Maximum grip security under heavy loads.
  • The 190k PSI "Sweet Spot": Strong enough for world records, but with the classic feel that has survived 40 years of abuse in hardcore gyms.
  • Proven Reliability: Trusted by powerlifters since 1980.

Whether you're training for a meet or building strength in your home gym, the Texas Power Bar delivers the same performance trusted by powerlifters since 1980.

Technical Specifications — The Original (28.5mm)

Specification Original Details
Shaft Diameter 28.5mm – IPF specification for powerlifting
Weight 44 lbs / 20 kg – Official powerlifting weight
Tensile Strength 190,000+ PSI – The classic power bar standard
Knurling Aggressive – Maximum grip security under heavy loads
Center Knurl 4″ center knurl – Keeps the bar locked on your back
Knurl Marks Single – Powerlifting standard
Sleeves 15″ loadable sleeves
Collars Classic thicker Texas collars
Inside Collar Width 52 inches
Bushings Bronze, maintenance-free – smooth rotation
Overall Length 86″
Origin Made in Texas, USA

Available Finishes — Pick Your Look, Feel, and Protection

The Original Texas Power Bar is available in three traditional finishes:

  • Bare Steel: Maximum grip feel with the sharpest knurl bite. Preferred by competitive lifters who want raw feedback. Requires regular maintenance to prevent oxidation.
  • Chrome: Classic old school bright shiny finish with long-term durability. Smooth feel while preserving aggressive knurl definition. Lower maintenance than bare steel.
  • Black Zinc: A dark coating with added corrosion resistance. Popular for home gyms and humid environments where corrosion resistance matters most.
  • Cerakote: Looking for popular colors like red, blue, black, green grey, and more! Cerakote finish provides enhanced corrosion resistance, improved rust protection, and a bold custom appearance—without compromising performance or grip feel. Long lasting durability, low maintenance easy to clean, retains its standout appearance for years to come.

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.

Unlock Your Strongest Self

For decades, Texas Power Bars have helped lifters just like you unlock their strongest selves. Whether your goal is chasing world records or general strength training, we engineer premium American-made barbells that are up to the task. We look forward to you experiencing the Texas Power Bars difference. The original Texas Power Bar — pure, uncompromised powerlifting performance.

What Customers Are Saying

Read all real lifter reviews here →

“Bought mine in 1999 and it’s still the best bar in my gym. The knurling never wears down.”
“The 28.5mm shaft is the perfect sweet spot—stiff enough for heavy squats but you can still get a full grip for deadlifts.”
“There is no substitute for a real Capps bar. The knurl bite is legendary.”
“Classic feel. If you want to know what powerlifting felt like in the 80s and 90s, this is the bar.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose the 28.5mm Original vs. the 29mm 7th Gen?
The Original 28.5mm shaft offers a slightly thinner grip, which many lifters prefer for deadlifting and general strength training. The 7th Gen 29mm is stiffer and designed specifically for modern squat and bench press rigidity.

Does this bar have any "whip"?
Because of the 28.5mm shaft, this bar has a slight amount of flex compared to the 29mm bar, which can be beneficial for pulling heavy deadlifts without being as flexible as a dedicated deadlift bar.

Is the knurling really that aggressive?
Yes. The Texas Power Bar is famous for its "mountain" style knurling. It is sharp and provides a deep bite for maximum security. It is not recommended for lifters who prefer soft or passive knurling.

How do I maintain the Bare Steel finish?
Bare Steel offers the best grip but will rust if not cared for. We recommend brushing the bar with a nylon or brass brush and applying a light coat of 3-in-1 oil regularly to keep it in top condition.

Will the 15" sleeves fit all my plates?
15" is the classic standard and fits plenty of weight for most lifters. However, if you are using wide bumper plates or lifting over 700lbs with calibrated plates, you might prefer the 16" sleeves on the 7th Gen bar.

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 →

The Original Texas Power Bar

The Bar That Built The Sport

Made in Texas — Trusted Since 1980 — The Original 28.5mm Standard

The Texas Power Bar is the original competition powerlifting barbell, made in Texas by Buddy Capps since 1980. Often considered the best Texas Power Bar for serious powerlifters, this 28.5mm barbell delivers the aggressive knurling, center knurl, and specific feel that built the sport of powerlifting. This is the bar that set the standard — and continues to define it.

Why Powerlifters Choose This Bar

  • ✓ The Original Texas Knurl: The specific, sharp cut that defined what a power bar feels like. Often imitated, never replicated.
  • ✓ Proven Since 1980: No guesswork. This is the exact bar design used to set decades of world records before "specialty bars" even existed.
  • ✓ The 28.5mm Standard: The classic shaft diameter that offers the perfect balance of rigidity for squats and just enough play for heavy deadlifts.

The Legend: The Original Texas Power Bar

The most iconic powerlifting barbell of all time — the revolutionary bar created in 1980 by powerlifter Buddy Capps. Known for its aggressive knurling, unyielding durability, and perfect whip, the Original Texas Power Bar has earned its reputation on competition platforms and in serious training facilities worldwide.

Handbuilt in Texas from a 44 lbs / 20 kg, 28.5mm diameter shaft forged with 190,000+ PSI tensile strength steel, this bar features maintenance-free bronze bushings, a 4" center knurl for reliable squat grip, 15″ loadable sleeves, single knurl marks, and an 86″ overall length.

Proudly carrying Buddy Capps’ stamp of approval, this is the original Texas Power Bar — not a copy.

Looking for upgraded stiffness? For modern competition-spec updates (stiffer 29mm shaft & thinner collars), see the 29mm Texas Power Bar (7th Generation).

Who This Bar Is For

  • Lifters wanting the original gold standard power bar
  • Commercial Gyms, High Schools, Universities, & Powerlifting Clubs needing equipment that lasts decades
  • Strength athletes who want the specific bar feel they grew up lifting on
  • Athletes training for competitions (IPF spec compliant)
  • Lifters who believe "if it ain't broke, don't fix it"

Whether on the platform or in daily training, the Texas Power Bar remains the gold standard for the squat, bench press, and deadlift.

Competition Proven & Built to Last

Texas Power Bars have been used in powerlifting meets, training halls, and home gyms for over four decades. Built with American steel and Texas craftsmanship, the Original Texas Power Bar is designed to perform today the same way it did decades ago — reliably, consistently, and without compromise.

Engineered for Versatility & Durability

  • Aggressive Knurling: Maximum grip security under heavy loads.
  • The 190k PSI "Sweet Spot": Strong enough for world records, but with the classic feel that has survived 40 years of abuse in hardcore gyms.
  • Proven Reliability: Trusted by powerlifters since 1980.

Whether you're training for a meet or building strength in your home gym, the Texas Power Bar delivers the same performance trusted by powerlifters since 1980.

Technical Specifications — The Original (28.5mm)

Specification Original Details
Shaft Diameter 28.5mm – IPF specification for powerlifting
Weight 44 lbs / 20 kg – Official powerlifting weight
Tensile Strength 190,000+ PSI – The classic power bar standard
Knurling Aggressive – Maximum grip security under heavy loads
Center Knurl 4″ center knurl – Keeps the bar locked on your back
Knurl Marks Single – Powerlifting standard
Sleeves 15″ loadable sleeves
Collars Classic thicker Texas collars
Inside Collar Width 52 inches
Bushings Bronze, maintenance-free – smooth rotation
Overall Length 86″
Origin Made in Texas, USA

Available Finishes — Pick Your Look, Feel, and Protection

The Original Texas Power Bar is available in three traditional finishes:

  • Bare Steel: Maximum grip feel with the sharpest knurl bite. Preferred by competitive lifters who want raw feedback. Requires regular maintenance to prevent oxidation.
  • Chrome: Classic old school bright shiny finish with long-term durability. Smooth feel while preserving aggressive knurl definition. Lower maintenance than bare steel.
  • Black Zinc: A dark coating with added corrosion resistance. Popular for home gyms and humid environments where corrosion resistance matters most.
  • Cerakote: Looking for popular colors like red, blue, black, green grey, and more! Cerakote finish provides enhanced corrosion resistance, improved rust protection, and a bold custom appearance—without compromising performance or grip feel. Long lasting durability, low maintenance easy to clean, retains its standout appearance for years to come.

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.

Unlock Your Strongest Self

For decades, Texas Power Bars have helped lifters just like you unlock their strongest selves. Whether your goal is chasing world records or general strength training, we engineer premium American-made barbells that are up to the task. We look forward to you experiencing the Texas Power Bars difference. The original Texas Power Bar — pure, uncompromised powerlifting performance.

What Customers Are Saying

Read all real lifter reviews here →

“Bought mine in 1999 and it’s still the best bar in my gym. The knurling never wears down.”
“The 28.5mm shaft is the perfect sweet spot—stiff enough for heavy squats but you can still get a full grip for deadlifts.”
“There is no substitute for a real Capps bar. The knurl bite is legendary.”
“Classic feel. If you want to know what powerlifting felt like in the 80s and 90s, this is the bar.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose the 28.5mm Original vs. the 29mm 7th Gen?
The Original 28.5mm shaft offers a slightly thinner grip, which many lifters prefer for deadlifting and general strength training. The 7th Gen 29mm is stiffer and designed specifically for modern squat and bench press rigidity.

Does this bar have any "whip"?
Because of the 28.5mm shaft, this bar has a slight amount of flex compared to the 29mm bar, which can be beneficial for pulling heavy deadlifts without being as flexible as a dedicated deadlift bar.

Is the knurling really that aggressive?
Yes. The Texas Power Bar is famous for its "mountain" style knurling. It is sharp and provides a deep bite for maximum security. It is not recommended for lifters who prefer soft or passive knurling.

How do I maintain the Bare Steel finish?
Bare Steel offers the best grip but will rust if not cared for. We recommend brushing the bar with a nylon or brass brush and applying a light coat of 3-in-1 oil regularly to keep it in top condition.

Will the 15" sleeves fit all my plates?
15" is the classic standard and fits plenty of weight for most lifters. However, if you are using wide bumper plates or lifting over 700lbs with calibrated plates, you might prefer the 16" sleeves on the 7th Gen bar.

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 | Aggressive Knurling

"Original" Texas Power Bar

The ultimate, legendary "Original" Texas Power Bar. Aggressive knurling, Proudly Made in the USA Since 1980... enough said.