What is the F Scale™?

The F Scale is a durability scale for barbells based on functional testing at stresses similar to what barbells experience when being dropped from overhead. Bars tested using this scale carry an F Rating™ such as F1 or F6, with higher numbers indicating increased durability for this application. Bars that have been treated with Rogue Work Hardening™ (RWH™) have an R designation in their F Rating™.

What is Rogue Work Hardening™ (RWH™)?

Rogue Work Hardening is a proprietary, patent pending process for treating barbell shafts to increase their durability.

What F Rating™ is right for me?

The durability that you need is dependent on how many people will be using the bar and how the bar will be used. For example, a single athlete, using a bar in a garage gym has different needs than a gym owner who will be using a bar for multiple athletes. If you are a powerlifter, your bar will experience less stress than if you are using it for Olympic weightlifting at home or in a gym. This calculator will help you choose the best bar for your application.

What situations cause the the most stress on a bar?

Dropping a bar from overhead that is loaded leaving a large amount of sleeve hanging out beyond the plates causes a large amount of stress. The stress is due to the unsupported end of the sleeve continuing to move downward after the plate hits the ground. Even higher stress is seen when dropping a bar with a single bumper and a large number of smaller diameter change plates leading to additional unsupported weight on the sleeves. Dropping weights that require more bumper or competition plates causes less stress because there is a shorter length of unsupported sleeve extending beyond the plates. Lifts that are not dropped, such as squats or bench press, cause far less stress than lifts that are dropped. Dropping a bar from deadlift height causes less stress than dropping a bar from overhead after a snatch or thruster.

How do I know which bars have been treated with Rogue Work Hardening™ (RWH™)?

Bars that have been treated with RWH™ are designated by having an R in their F Rating™, such as F8-R

Why doesn’t Rogue sell bars with chrome plated shafts?

While providing an excellent, wear resistant plating for sleeves, chrome plating is detrimental to the durable lifespan of a bar shaft. We offer several alternatives that provide greater corrosion resistance and superior feel such as Cerakote or stainless steel.

What is is the science behind the F Scale™?

A detailed explanation of the F Scale™ can be found here.