YORK applied its vast knowledge in bar design and produced perhaps the highest quality, most functional and attractive Olympic Bar of today. YORK applied its signature "split sleeve" design to each bar which replaces the outmoded bolt and sleeve assembly. This means the sleeve assembly will not loosen or detach. Each bar has been manufactured from North American made steel. The Black Oxide International Bars are finished with a black Oxide coating & feature hard chrome split sleeves. It is a strikingly attractive bar. The black oxide finish has an aggressive grip. York applied its signature "split sleeve" design to each bar which replaces the outmoded bolt and sleeve assembly. This means the sleeve assembly will not loosen or detach.