BalanceFrom Olympic Weight Plates 85lb Set

(ATTENTION: Resolution/Assistance available on undelivered merchandise! Contact "Amazon Help & Customer Service" and arrange a chat session with a customer service representative. Solutions include product replacement or refund on order. Product Selections: LENGTH = 5-ft, 6-ft or 7-ft bar. DIAMETER: 2" Olympic style OR 1" Standard type. WEIGHT: 7-ft Olympic = 45 lbs; 5-ft Olympic = 26 lbs.) The 5-ft, 1-inch diameter, standard size barbell appears strong and sturdy - tested with 350 lbs of weight plates. Rated capacity of 700 lbs provides some re-assurance on durability. Most standard bars have recommended load of 250 lbs. No intentions on upgrading to an Olympic bar, which will require replacement of my existing standard-size weight plates. Bar features longer distance between the collar-stops (shaft grip area) - measured at 41 inches. Typical 5-ft standard bars have 37" between collar-stops /shaft grip area; this bar has adequate clearance to fit between the upright support racks of a Medium-Width bench (38" wide). The wider grip area allows exercise performance with better form & less discomfort, especially for bench/shoulder presses. (An option is the 6-ft, 1" diameter bar.) Ideal for a home gym set-up, particularly in confined space. Good construction: (1) Uniform, attractive chrome finish. (2) Solid, smooth bar ends, chamfered edges & WITHOUT center indentation holes at each end (neglectful workmanship). (3) Diamond-patterned, knurled grip areas provide good friction yet not abrasive. (4) Smaller size allows uninhibited motion/movement -- minimizes interference with equipment / objects in proximity. Item is impressive and exceeded expectations >>> 5 Stars! The negative reviews/ratings concern primarily inventory, shipment & distribution issues; and not pertinent to the evaluation of the quality & performance of the product. I received my merchandise earlier than the scheduled delivery date in good condition.