I couldn't be happier with this bar. I decided on this over Rogue or American Barbell bars and don't regret it a bit, even after recently lifting on all 3. The finish distinguishes it from many other bars, and I don't mind that its not shiny like many others. The collars and the sleeves more than make up for it. The performance is exactly what Vulcan says it is. You will not want to lift on any other bar (besides, perhaps a $1000+ professional bar) after lifting on this. It is grippy beyond belief without tearing up your hands, and the bar whips at 200lbs, even more so at 250+. If you can only buy one bar, this is the one! Vulcan knows their stuff, and was very helpful when I callled.