Bare Steel Barbell vs. Coated Bars: Which is Right for Your Workout?

So you’re looking into a bare steel barbell, huh? Well, let me tell you a bit about it in simple words. See, when it comes to barbells, a bare steel bar is like the good old way of doing things. No fancy coating, no shiny stuff—just plain, strong steel. Folks say it’s got a nice grip to it because of the raw feel. Now, if you’re the kind who doesn’t mind a bit of rust over time, then a bare steel barbell might be just what you’re looking for.

Let’s talk a bit about why some folks go for bare steel. You know, back in the day, there wasn’t all these coatings like you see now—chrome, stainless, you name it. Back then, it was just steel. This kind of barbell is plain as it gets, but that doesn’t mean it’s not strong. Oh no, it’s tough all right! And some folks love that real, bare feel in their hands, like they’re gripping onto something solid and natural. Plus, it’s usually cheaper compared to those coated barbells.

Why choose a bare steel barbell?

Better grip: Since there’s no coating on it, the bar feels a bit rougher, which can give you a better grip when you’re lifting. Now, if your hands sweat a lot, you might find it helpful.
Cost-effective: Usually, bare steel bars come at a lower price compared to stainless steel or chrome ones, so it’s lighter on the wallet.
Old-school feel: Some folks just like that old-fashioned feel of raw steel. It’s got character, you know?

Now, it ain’t all perfect. One thing you should know is that bare steel barbells do rust if you don’t look after ‘em. Without any coating, they’re exposed to the air, sweat, and everything else. You leave it in a damp spot? Rust city! But don’t worry; if you’re the careful type, you can keep that rust at bay. All it takes is a bit of maintenance.

How to take care of a bare steel barbell:

Oil it up: Every now and then, give your barbell a rub with some oil, like 3-in-1 oil or even WD-40. This keeps it from rusting too fast.
Keep it dry: After you’re done using it, wipe it down, especially if you’re sweaty. Moisture is the enemy of bare steel.
Use a brush: A nylon brush can help you keep the knurling (that rough grip part) clean. Just give it a scrub to get any chalk or grime out.

Of course, if you don’t want to worry about all this cleaning, there’s always the option of going for stainless steel. Stainless steel is pricier, but it’s less likely to rust and a bit easier to maintain. But hey, that’s another topic. Right now, we’re talking about bare steel, and bare steel’s got its own charm. It’s raw, it’s simple, and it’s just you and the bar—no frills.

So, if you’re thinking about buying a bare steel barbell, keep in mind the pros and cons. It’s cheaper, gives you a solid grip, and has that classic feel. But remember, you gotta be ready to give it some care now and then. If that sounds like something you’re up for, well then, you’ve got yourself a good piece of equipment. Happy lifting!