The Gungnir Allrounder features built-in “SlideLocks” that hold the plates together and eliminate traditional barbell collars’ needs. The craftsmanship and innovation within this barbell are out of this world! It’s also durable, smooth, easy to operate, versatile, and simply a beautiful bar. The Allrounder is about as impressive as it gets. However, it does come at a price point where most will not consider this for their gym.
The Issue?
You may think this is solving a problem that doesn’t exist? However, a barbell with built-in collars cannot be fully appreciated until you use a traditional barbell (where collars are needed) after using the Allrounder from Gungnir. Not having to use collars creates a much more efficient workout and the SlideLocks work better than most collars, to begin with. With many collars sliding off during workouts, this also creates a safer working experience.
The Differentiator
The built-in collar is straightforward to use and sets it apart from other bars on the market. You lift, slide and then drop it into the machined sleeves. It takes just a few seconds. I do not doubt that my 93-year-old grandma could do it.
Whether you’re dropping it from overhead or deadlifting heavyweight, the built-in collar does not budge. Within the center of the SlideLock is a powerful magnet that keeps the titanium piece center and limits unwanted movement. There doesn’t seem to be any possibility of this budging because of too much pressure when being utilized for weightlifting.
With the fixed grooves and lock, there may be small gaps between the collar and the weight on the barbell. Nevertheless, it’s not enough to have a large impact on your actual lifts, and it’s still more secure than your traditional barbell collar.
Overall, the built-in collar is ROCK SOLID.
The Barbell Itself is Rock Solid
Take the patented technology away, and you still have a solid barbell. The Allrounder is extremely versatile with a medium knurl/passive center knurl, bronze bushings, 28 mm shaft diameter, and dual knurl marks. There is no lift you won’t be able to do, and it performs similarly to other multi-purpose bars. The bar is easy to grip, has a smooth rotation, and can be utilized for high and low rep workouts.
There are no real concerns about its long-term durability. Made with a 216k PSA, this bar is just about as strong as it gets. It is rated to hold a maximum of 1,500 pounds and includes a lifetime warranty. The SlideLock is made with grade 5 titanium, often used with race cars and the aerospace industry. The shaft coating is satin hard chrome, whereas the sleeve is coated with an electroless nickel deposit.
The issue is that it’s so pretty, you may not want to beat it up over time.
Price
The price of this barbell is going to limit the number of people interested in it. Priced at $799, this premium bar is much more expensive than other multi-purpose bars on the market. There are too many $200-$300 barbells that perform just as well (not including the built-in collars) for this to be considered by the masses. Some money is saved on not requiring collars, but that doesn’t make a huge dent in the price difference. Therefore, while it may be one of the best multi-purpose bars on the market (if not the best for many), it wouldn’t be the best value.
This could also be their current pricing strategy. It is a premium bar at a premium price. Maybe it’s a difficult bar to produce, and this company doesn’t have the ability yet to serve all? Only time will tell!
Conclustion + Next Steps?
To conclude, with a combination of its durability and masterful engineering, this barbell has to be in the conversation as one of the best multi-purpose bars on the market. It just comes down to whether or not one feels that it is worth the price of 2-4 other multipurpose bars.
This is the first Olympic Barbell released by Gungnir of Norway. They’ve already teased an adjustable dumbbell using this technology (pic below), and it will be interesting to see what other items they release. A power bar, where many are loading and unloading weight often, seems like the way to do it. Many powerlifters take their training extremely seriously and may be willing to spend some extra money, while many who want a multi-purpose bar want something cheap they can beat up.
Nevertheless, there is a great amount of potential with a built-in collar. It truly does make for a more efficient and safer workout experience.
What about for cleans and snatches? Do the collars spin effectively enough to stay “on top” of the barbell?
Bill, yes but not to the extent of a bar with bearings.