York Black Oxide Barbells are Superior to their Hard Chrome Barbells (See Steve34 for York 7' International Hard Chrome Bar - 32MM full review). York Black Oxide Barbell has good hard chrome sleeves, hard chrome collars, and the oxide knurl is grippier than Hard Chrome. You can even do Deadlifts with it if you have medium 8 inch hands. If you have large 9 inch hands, then Deadlifts will be a complete joy. Their knurl-less center has no chipping that requires covering it in Gorilla tape, or sanding it which made the Hard Chrome Barbell look discolored in daylight only. The 32MM Black Oxide barbell is a great barbell for Squats and Bench. For Deadlifts, I do wish the medium grip was a little more assertive and deeper, but overall a great barbell worth 4.5 Stars. It also had two stickers that said it passed inspection. The other Hard Chrome barbell clearly had no such stickers and I don't know how it ever passed inspection.

Very good bars from York! The 7ft bars feel solid, and grip well for any heavy lifting (moderate knurling). I recommend these for any lifting style. 6ft bars are also great technique bars, or for someone that has a smaller space. If you're looking for something with a bit more grip then s 28-29mm bar, go with these.

We have five of the 5 foot bars & five of the 6 foot bars. These bars are the most popular Metcon bars in our gym. The ladies love the 5 foot 25# bars as they can load them up with 10# & 15# plates as they progress. The men (frankly everyone) love the 6 foot bars for the same reason. Both the 5' & 6' bars have proven WOD favorites as they are "more comfortable" than larger 7' bars. Our Trainers rave about these bars as they save space and have great balance for overhead Oly movements, walking lunge and OH walking lunge. We will be purchasing more of the 6 foot bars, rack-able & great for snatch movements.