Guide · Cable bars
Triceps V-bar vs close-grip row handle
How to tell a triceps pressdown V-bar from a close-grip row handle by shape, what a swivel hub adds, and what makers publish about grip size and width.
We may earn a commission if you buy through links on this page. How we make money
Picks that fit
- Yes4All Revolving Straight Bar with Non-Slip Handle (A. Straight Bar - Chrome)Check price on Amazon
- Synergee D Handle Cable Attachment - Double D HandleCheck price on Amazon
- Yes4All Seated Row Double D Handle (Chrome)Check price on Amazon
Short answer
"V bar" can mean two attachments. A triceps V-bar is a short bar bent into a shallow V for pushdowns. A close-grip row handle puts two grips close together for rows and close pulldowns. Identify them by shape and by the exercise you plan, not by the listing title, then check grip size, swivel and width.
Picks that fitAll picks and how to choose
- Yes4All Revolving Straight Bar with Non-Slip Handle (A. Straight Bar - Chrome)Check price on Amazon
- Synergee D Handle Cable Attachment - Double D HandleCheck price on Amazon
- Yes4All Seated Row Double D Handle (Chrome)Check price on Amazon
Two shapes, one name
Triceps V-bar (pressdown bar): a short bar with a bend in the middle. Each side angles down from the center connector, so your wrists sit at an angle between overhand and neutral. It is built to be pushed down.
Close-grip row handle: two grips close together, either parallel (often called a double D handle) or angled into a V or triangle frame. It is built to be pulled toward you on seated rows or close-grip pulldowns.
Sellers use "V bar", "V handle" and "V grip" for both. Look at the photo and the grip angle in the listing, and read which exercises the seller names.
A swivel V-grip, by spec
Rogue's Rotating V-Grip is one of the few with a detailed spec sheet. Rogue lists a 360-degree swivel with bronze bushings at the center, 32 mm anodized aluminum handles 5 inches long, a stainless steel clevis plate and a stated width of 14.4 inches.[1] It comes standard with a 90-degree hub, with an optional 70-degree kit.[1] Rogue does not list the grip spacing or say whether a carabiner is included.
A swivel lets the grips turn relative to the cable, so the handle can follow your hands rather than twisting the cable. Whether that matters to you is a feel choice; we found no study that compares swivel and fixed handles.
Close-grip models and sets
MAG lists close, medium and wide-grip handle models, with the close and medium grips each in neutral, pronate and supinate versions.[2] MAG publishes no materials, load ratings or connection details for them.
Yes4All's four-piece set listing includes a V bar alongside a rope, a double D handle and a straight bar.[3] Its 880 lb figure is not stated per piece, so it is not a rating for the V bar.[3]
Side by side
| Attachment | Shape | Swivel or fixed | Grip size | Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rogue Rotating V-Grip | Two handles on a hub, 90 or 70 degrees | 360-degree swivel | 32 mm, 5 in long | 14.4 in stated |
| MAG close-grip models | Close grip, neutral, pronate or supinate | Not published | Not published | Not published |
| Yes4All set V bar | Called a V bar; shape not described | Not stated | Not stated | Not stated |
Can one handle do both?
Often, yes. A close-grip row handle can be pushed down for triceps, and a V-bar can be pulled on a close row. The grip angle will feel different from the attachment built for the job, so start light. If you plan to own just one, choose by the movement you do most.
Picks that fit3 products
Pushdown V-bar: on Yes4All's revolving bar listing choose 'E. V Bar - Chrome' or 'F. V Bar - Rubber'.
More on choosing
Close-grip row handle: Synergee 'c) Double D Handle' or 'd) Double D Handle with Grip', or Yes4All's single chrome Double D. On Amazon, check that 'Ships from / Sold by' shows Amazon.com or the brand.
Yes4All Revolving Straight Bar with Non-Slip Handle (A. Straight Bar - Chrome)
Double D row handle with a listed grip diameter
Next
Questions
What is the difference between a V-bar and a row handle?
A triceps V-bar is a short bar bent into a shallow V with the grips angled down, made for pushdowns. A close-grip row handle holds two grips close together, often parallel, for rows and close pulldowns. Sellers use 'V bar' for both, so go by the shape.
Does a swivel V-grip matter?
A swivel lets the grips turn relative to the connector. Rogue's Rotating V-Grip has a 360-degree swivel with bronze bushings at its center. Whether you prefer a swivel or a fixed handle is a feel choice; we found no study that compares them.[1]
Can one handle do rows and pushdowns?
Often, yes. A close-grip handle can be pushed down as well as pulled, and a V-bar can be used for close rows. The grip angle will feel different, so try the movement light first.
How wide is a V-grip?
It varies and is often unpublished. Rogue states a 14.4-inch width for its Rotating V-Grip but does not list the grip spacing.[1]