Written by: Jake Jaworski
Get info to improve your home gym to your inbox.
Introduction
Bare steel barbells are not the #1 option for most home gym owners because maintenance needs to be performed on them regularly. If not maintained properly, they will rust pretty quickly, especially in humid climates. Even with cost in mind, only 13% of GGE followers say this would be the number 1 choice for them.
But Why Bare Steel Barbells?
There is nothing quite like the feel of a bare steel barbell. Without an additional coating, it’s easiest to maintain a solid grip, and they are the cheapest option.
Based on GGE follower feedback, they are the top choice for those prepared to perform regular maintenance (to avoid rust), want the best “feel,” and desire the cheapest option.
The Steel Bristle Brush
This brush seems to be the best way to maintain and clean up large areas of rust from a bare steel barbell. With steel bristles and a flexible wrap-around grip, you can get deep into the knurl to clear out whatever may be hiding in there.
Since you can wrap it around the bar, it covers much more ground than other options.
As spots pop up, it’s nice to be able to brush it off quickly. For small spots (like below), you’ll be able to knock them out within 10 seconds by simply brushing.
This can also handle those larger projects. It’s best if combined with something like WD-40.
The barbell in the picture was restored in about 20 minutes.
It’s so easy; a toddler can do it. Not really, but it is pretty easy.
This specific brush will scrape up coated barbells. For those interested in maintaining a coated bar, an option with nylon bristles is also available.
Conclusion
Ultimately, for $29.99, this barbell brush is going to help extend the life of your barbell by make maintenance easier and more convenient. This would be a solid addition for anyone with a bare steel barbell they want to maintain. Or, it may remove the hesitancy one may have about purchasing a bare steel bar. It’s easy to use, very effective, and won’t break the bank.