29mm Texas Power Bar - The Best Home Gym Barbell?

29mm Texas Power Bar – The Best Home Gym Barbell?

If you train the big three at home and want one bar to do it all, the 29mm Texas Power Bar should be on your short list. In this review, we break down why this bar earned the #1 spot in his home gym—and why it might be the only power bar you’ll ever need for squat, bench, and deadlift.

Why the 29mm Texas Power Bar?

The original Texas Power Bar is famous for its feel and durability. The newer 29mm shaft option responds to lifter feedback with subtle but meaningful updates:

  • 29mm shaft (vs. the classic 28.5mm) for a stiffer, competition-style feel

  • Slightly slimmer collars than the traditional TPB (still not IPF-thin)

  • Aggressive knurling that grips without compromise

  • Multiple finish options (e.g., black zinc shaft + chrome sleeves, bare steel, cerakote)

Price note: the exact price varies by finish and sales, but the black-zinc/chrome combo is typically around $300 and is often on sale (we’ve seen ~$50 off).

How It performs (and Why It’s Stayed on the Rack)

  • Squat walkouts feel stable thanks to the stiffer 29mm shaft and not-too-thin collars.

  • Bench press benefits from the bar’s grip and rigidity.

  • Deadlift behavior is true “power bar” with no whip.

If you like a bar that bites and doesn’t budge, this checks the box.

Texas Power Bar vs. Other Popular Power Bars

vs. IPF-Spec Power Bars (thin collars)

IPF-spec bars are great for tested federation standards—but the thin collars can make walkouts in some racks feel awkward or cramped. For many home gyms, that’s a daily quality-of-life issue. The 29mm TPB’s not-IPF-thin collar setup makes training more practical without giving up the power-bar feel.

vs. Rogue Ohio Power Bar (29mm, similar price)

  • Knurl feel: The TPB’s knurl is noticeably more aggressive (we prefer it).

  • Heritage & construction: TPB uses a roll-pin end-cap design (vs. common snap rings). We’ve run Texas bars hard for years without durability concerns.

  • Value: Rogue rarely discounts; TPB runs sales. When the Texas bar drops ~$50, it’s hard to beat on value.

Finishes & Maintenance

  • Black Zinc + Chrome Sleeves: Classic look, resists rust better than bare steel, minimal maintenance.

  • Bare Steel: Best raw feel, highest maintenance (wipe down/oil to manage patina—especially in garages).

  • Cerakote: Color options and corrosion resistance, but slightly mutes knurl bite and can wear on sleeves over time.

Pick by environment and preference: garage lifters often favor black zinc; knurl purists may choose bare steel if they’ll maintain it.

Who Is This Bar For?

  • Home gym powerlifters who want one primary bar for the big lifts

  • Lifters who prefer aggressive knurling and a stiff 29mm profile

  • Anyone frustrated by thin-collar walkouts on IPF-spec bars in their rack

If you’re training for untested meets (or meets that run Texas bars), the carryover is a bonus.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Stiff 29mm shaft for powerlifting specificity

  • Aggressive knurl you can count on under heavy loads

  • Collars are practical for walkouts (not IPF-thin)

  • Proven Texas PB heritage and durability

  • Frequent sales → excellent value for money

Cons

  • Knurl may be too sharp if you prefer a milder grip

  • Bare steel requires more maintenance

  • If you need IPF spec for prep, this isn’t that

Verdict: The Best Home Gym Power Bar?

For most home gyms focused on heavy squats, bench, and deadlifts, the 29mm Texas Power Bar hits the sweet spot of feel, build, and value. It’s been Tommy’s primary training bar for months—and for good reason.

👉 Want to support the channel? We often have affiliate links for Texas Power Bars and other brands in our video descriptions. It kicks a little back to us—thanks!

Keep Lifting with Massenomics

Tommy DeFeaComment