Equipment guide

Know the iron before you buy it.

The implements grip athletes train and compete on: what each one tests, how hard it is, and who makes a good one.

4 equipment categories

Rolling Handles

Support GripIntermediate to Elite

Revolving handles that test support grip strength through one-handed deadlifts. The handle rotates as you lift, making it significantly more challenging than static thick bars.

What it builds

  • Support grip strength development
  • Forearm endurance training
  • Wrist stability improvement
  • Competition preparation

Training tips

  • Start with lighter weights to master the technique
  • Focus on smooth, controlled lifts rather than jerky movements
  • Use chalk to improve grip security
  • Train both single and double-handed variations
  • Progressive overload is key - increase weight gradually

Popular implements

Rolling Thunder

IronMind · 2.375" (60mm)

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The original and most recognized rolling handle. Gold standard for competitions worldwide.

Record150.5 kg (331.85 lbs) - Alexey Tyukalov

Raptor Handle

Country Crush · 1.5" - 3" (38mm - 76mm)

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Advanced rolling handle with three mounting positions and minimal friction design. Smoother rotation than Rolling Thunder.

RecordN/A - Newer design

Godlike Rolling Handle

Gods of Grip · 50mm, 60mm, 76mm

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UK-made rolling handles with BZP steel construction and textured finish for enhanced grip.

RecordN/A - Competition use

OmniGrip Rolling Handle

Gods of Grip · 40mm - 120mm

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Modular system with multiple attachment options including tubes, cones, and specialty shapes.

RecordN/A - Training focused

On the platform

Standard event in grip competitions worldwide. Used in IronMind contests, Armlifting USA events, and local competitions.

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Hand Grippers

Crushing GripBeginner to Elite

Spring-loaded devices that test crushing grip strength by closing the handles against spring resistance. The foundation of grip strength training.

What it builds

  • Crushing grip strength development
  • Finger strength improvement
  • Hand endurance training
  • Competition preparation

Training tips

  • Master the credit card set technique
  • Train both closing and negative phases
  • Use proper hand positioning
  • Progressive overload through gripper ratings
  • Include extensor work to prevent imbalances

Popular implements

Captains of Crush

IronMind · Various

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The gold standard gripper series. Used for official certifications and competitions worldwide.

RecordCoC #4 Close - Elite level

Mash Monster Grippers

FBBC · Various

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Custom-made grippers that are among the hardest in the world. Each level represents significant strength increase.

RecordMM8 Close - Legendary level

Grip Genie Grippers

Grip Genie · Various

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High-quality grippers with smooth action and consistent resistance curves.

RecordN/A - Training focused

On the platform

Core event in all grip competitions. Used for official certifications and world record attempts.

crushing-gripgripperscompetitioncertificationspring-loaded

Pinch Grip Equipment

Pinch GripBeginner to Elite

Equipment designed to test thumb and finger strength by pinching objects between the thumb and fingers. Essential for comprehensive grip development.

What it builds

  • Thumb strength development
  • Finger coordination improvement
  • Hand stability training
  • Competition preparation

Training tips

  • Start with lighter weights to develop technique
  • Focus on thumb positioning and pressure
  • Train both single and double-handed variations
  • Use chalk for better grip security
  • Progressive overload through weight increases

Popular implements

IronMind Pinch Block

IronMind · Various

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Standardized pinch blocks for consistent training and competition use.

RecordN/A - Training standard

Euro Pinch

Various · Various

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Standardized pinch device used in European grip competitions.

RecordN/A - Competition standard

Hub Lifts

Various · Plate centers

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Lifting weight plates by their center hub using only finger and thumb strength.

RecordN/A - Plate dependent

On the platform

Standard event in grip competitions. Used in IronMind contests and international competitions.

pinch-gripthumbscompetitionplatesblocks

Thick Bar Training

Support GripBeginner to Elite

Bars and attachments with increased diameter to challenge support grip strength. Essential for developing comprehensive grip strength.

What it builds

  • Support grip strength development
  • Forearm muscle activation
  • Hand endurance training
  • Functional strength improvement

Training tips

  • Start with lighter weights to adapt to thicker grip
  • Focus on maintaining proper form throughout the lift
  • Use chalk to improve grip security
  • Train both pulling and pressing movements
  • Progressive overload through weight increases

Popular implements

Fat Gripz

Fat Gripz · 2.25" - 2.75"

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Portable thick bar attachments that can be added to any standard barbell or dumbbell.

RecordN/A - Training tool

Axle Bar

IronMind · 2" (50mm)

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Standard thick bar used in strongman competitions and grip training.

RecordN/A - Competition standard

Saxon Bar

Various · Various

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Thick bar with rotating handles, making it significantly more challenging than static thick bars.

RecordN/A - Competition use

On the platform

Used in strongman competitions and grip contests. Essential for comprehensive grip development.

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