Product Guide: Captains of Crush Grippers – Rogue Fitness

Overview

IronMind's Captains of Crush (CoC) Grippers are universally recognized as the gold standard for building and testing hand strength. Proudly made in the USA, these grippers have been a staple for Strongmen, weightlifters, and athletes for over 30 years. Unlike standard store-bought grippers, CoCs are precision-engineered to develop maximum grip strength through a wide range of resistance levels, from rehabilitation to world-class feats of strength.

Product Page: Captains of Crush Grippers at Rogue Fitness

Key Features and Specifications

Materials: Knurled aircraft-grade aluminum handles for a secure, non-slip grip.
Spring Technology: Features IronMind’s proprietary GR8 springs, exclusive to CoC Grippers and IMTUGs, ensuring consistent tension and longevity.
Manufacturing: Precision-made in the USA with "no-surprise" geometry for consistent performance across every unit.
Resistance Levels: 10 different strength options ranging from 60 lbs to 365 lbs.
- Guide (60 lb): Beginners, seniors, or rehabilitation.
- Sport (80 lb): Weekend warriors and light warm-ups.
- Trainer (100 lb): Serious athletes ready for dedicated grip training.
- No. 1 (140 lb): The baseline for most weightlifters.
- No. 1.5 (167.5 lb): A bridge to the No. 2.
- No. 2 (195 lb): Success here indicates a highly impressive grip.
- No. 2.5 (237.5 lb): Stepping stone to the legendary No. 3.
- No. 3 (280 lb): The worldwide benchmark for elite grip strength; requires certification.
- No. 3.5 (322.5 lb): Closing in on the final exam.
- No. 4 (365 lb): The ultimate feat; only a handful of people have ever officially certified this level.

Performance Benefits

Functional Strength: Improving crush grip directly translates to better performance in deadlifts, rows, and carries without relying solely on lifting straps.
Time Efficiency: Precision engineering allows for maximum strength development with high-intensity, low-volume sets rather than endless, low-resistance repetitions.
Progressive Overload: With 10 distinct levels, athletes can systematically increase resistance as their hand and forearm strength improves.
Durability: Built to last a lifetime, the GR8 springs do not lose their tension or "season" as quickly as cheaper imported alternatives.

Maintenance and Care

Knurling Care: The aircraft-grade aluminum handles can accumulate chalk, skin, and sweat. Use a stiff plastic brush to clean out the knurling periodically.
Oxidation Prevention: While aluminum is resistant to rust, the steel springs can oxidize in humid environments. A light wipe with a 3:1 oil on the spring every few months will prevent surface rust.
Storage: Store in a dry environment. Avoid leaving them in a damp gym bag for extended periods.
Spring Health: If the gripper develops a "squeak," apply a single drop of light oil to the point where the spring enters the handles to maintain silent and smooth operation.

Warranty Information

Captains of Crush Grippers are manufactured by IronMind Enterprises. Rogue Fitness generally honors a 30-day return policy for items in new, unused condition. For specific manufacturing defects or spring longevity issues, IronMind provides industry-leading support for their products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which one should I start with? A: Most active adults should start with the Trainer (100 lb) or No. 1 (140 lb). If you are focused on rehabilitation or have never done hand-specific training, the Guide or Sport are excellent entry points.
Q: How many reps should I do? A: Treat these like a heavy squat or deadlift. Aim for 3 to 5 sets of low repetitions (5–10) with full closure for strength, rather than hundreds of partial squeezes.
Q: Why does the gripper squeak? A: Squeaking is a common result of metal-on-metal friction within the spring. A drop of light oil (like 3-in-1 oil) on the spring coil will resolve this immediately.
Q: Can I use chalk? A: Yes, chalk is highly recommended to prevent the handles from slipping and to protect the skin of your palms from the aggressive knurling.