Original Texas Power Bar - Black Zinc, 7th Generation, 29mm - Preorder (Ships by July 31)

Preorder Notice: This product is currently available for preorder. Shipping will begin by July 31. If your order includes other items, everything will be shipped together once this product is available.

Original Texas Power Bar – 7th Generation

The competition power bar. Built for the Big Three.

Product Overview

The Texas Power Bar has been the reference point for powerlifting barbells since Buddy Capps built the first one in 1980. The 7th Generation is the most refined version yet - re-engineered from the ground up while keeping everything that made the original legendary: aggressive knurling, uncompromising stiffness, and a centre knurl that locks the bar to your back.

What sets the 7th Gen apart from standard power bars, including other bars in the Texas lineup - is the 29mm shaft. Most power bars, including earlier Texas models, run at 28.5mm. The extra half-millimetre matters: the 29mm diameter increases rigidity significantly, eliminating bar whip under maximal squat, bench, and deadlift loads. Combined with a tensile strength of ~1380 MPa, this is one of the stiffest shafts available in a competition power bar.

The Black Zinc finish adds solid corrosion resistance, keeping maintenance low and the aggressive knurl feel intact over time.

This bar is purpose-built for powerlifting — not a multipurpose or general fitness bar. If you are training the squat, bench press, and deadlift seriously, this is the bar.

29mm vs. 28.5mm — Why It Matters

Most power bars — including standard Texas Power Bars — use a 28.5mm shaft. The 7th Generation steps up to 29mm. That additional diameter increases cross-sectional rigidity, meaning the bar stays stiffer under load. For heavy squats this translates to a more stable bar on your back. For bench, a more predictable path. For deadlifts, a more confident pull with less unwanted oscillation. It is a small number with a noticeable difference at the top end of the lift.

Key Features

• 29mm shaft — stiffer than standard 28.5mm power bars, including earlier Texas models
• ~1380 MPa tensile strength for elite rigidity under maximal loads
• Aggressive knurling — deep, sharp bite for secure grip during heavy attempts
• Centre knurl (~13cm wide) — locks the bar across your back on heavy squats
• Single powerlifting knurl marks
• Extended loadable sleeve length (~41cm) for calibrated competition plates
• Bronze bushings — maintenance-free, smooth and consistent sleeve rotation
• Black Zinc finish — solid corrosion resistance, low maintenance
• Handbuilt by Buddy Capps in Texas since 1980

Who This Bar Is For

• Competitive powerlifters training and competing in the squat, bench press, and deadlift
• Lifters who want a stiffer, more rigid bar than standard 28.5mm options
• Lifters training for sanctioned powerlifting meets where a standard power bar is required
• Home gym and commercial gym owners wanting a genuine competition-grade power bar

Note: This bar is built for powerlifting. It is not designed for Olympic lifting or multipurpose training.

Technical Specifications

FAQ

What makes the 29mm shaft different from a standard 28.5mm power bar?
The extra 0.5mm of diameter increases the bar's cross-sectional rigidity, resulting in noticeably less flex under heavy loads. For the squat this means a more stable bar on your back; for bench and deadlift it means a more predictable, controlled movement. Most power bars — including other Texas models — use 28.5mm. The 7th Gen 29mm shaft is the stiffer option.

Is the centre knurl necessary?
For back squats yes — the centre knurl grips your back and prevents the bar from shifting during heavy attempts. It is a powerlifting-standard feature and one of the key differences between a power bar and a general-purpose barbell.

What is Black Zinc and how do I maintain it?
Black Zinc is a zinc-based coating that provides solid corrosion resistance with a dark finish. It requires minimal maintenance — wipe down after use and lightly brush the knurling periodically to keep it clean. It holds up well in most gym environments.

Is this bar suitable for Olympic lifting?
No. This bar is purpose-built for powerlifting — squat, bench, and deadlift. The stiff 29mm shaft and powerlifting spec sleeves are not suited to the dynamic movements of Olympic weightlifting.

Warranty and returns: See our T&Cs for more information.