I did exactly as Keith suggested on his review, and I couldn't recommend this enough. This is perfect for anyone that shouldn't start with a 135 lb bar right off the bad. Cost me a total of about $25. I primed and painted mine for no good reason.

With calibrated plates, most of what you're paying for is precision. HOWEVER, there are levels to these things, and the eleiko plates are definitely the nicest calibrated plates I've ever had the pleasure of using. They cost a lot. They have the same downsides as other calibrated plates.They're not in my price range, but you can always afford to appreciate beautiful things.

I feel like there are cheaper ways to train this movement pattern.

I dont know what it is about this knurling, but it's very grippy without being aggressive. Excellent choice for all around lifting. Appreciate the center knurling on a general purpose barbell. My only criticism is that TPB also make the similar All American bar that costs a bit less and is usually included in discount offers.

Used many times at a local gym. I have all the same thoughts about this coating as I do the others, but I'll say that my preferred bars are just bare steel, so I'm not interested in the cerakote premium.