Trap Bar Deadlift vs Axle Back Squat
Compare your trap bar deadlift (high handles) and axle back squat against strength standards for your sex and bodyweight. Use one clean 1–12-rep set per lift to review estimated one-rep maxes, strength levels, next targets, and priority.
First lift: total external load and 1–12 strict reps. Second lift: weight used and 1–12 strict reps. Pounds or kilograms. For the first exercise, strapless, neutral grip, from floor to lockout. For the second exercise, descend under control until hip crease clearly below top of knee; no box/contact/bounce; stand to full hip/knee lockout with axle controlled. Each lift is compared with its own standards, so the heavier lift is not automatically the stronger one.
Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) vs Axle Back Squat Strength Standards
Use these tables to compare the estimated one-rep max required for the trap bar deadlift (high handles) and axle back squat to reach the same strength level at each listed bodyweight. The numbers are calculator targets, not a required gap between the two lifts.
Choose the men’s or women’s table, find the closest bodyweight row, and read across to Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, or Elite. Each entry shows Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) / Axle Back Squat, with pounds above kilograms. Use the calculator for your exact bodyweight and recent sets.
Men’s Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) vs Axle Back Squat Standards
How to read the table: Find the closest bodyweight, then use the labeled exercise row. Every strength-level entry shows one target with pounds first and kilograms beneath it.
| Bodyweight | Exercise | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120 lb54.4 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 140 lb63.5 kg | 196 lb88.9 kg | 252 lb114.3 kg | 308 lb139.7 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 239 lb108.4 kg | 271 lb122.9 kg | 306 lb138.8 kg | 338 lb153.3 kg | |
| 130 lb59 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 148 lb67.1 kg | 207 lb93.9 kg | 266 lb120.7 kg | 325 lb147.4 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 252 lb114.3 kg | 286 lb129.7 kg | 323 lb146.5 kg | 356 lb161.5 kg | |
| 140 lb63.5 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 155 lb70.3 kg | 217 lb98.4 kg | 279 lb126.6 kg | 341 lb154.7 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 264 lb119.7 kg | 300 lb136.1 kg | 339 lb153.8 kg | 374 lb169.6 kg | |
| 150 lb68 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 162 lb73.5 kg | 227 lb103 kg | 292 lb132.4 kg | 357 lb161.9 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 277 lb125.6 kg | 314 lb142.4 kg | 355 lb161 kg | 392 lb177.8 kg | |
| 160 lb72.6 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 169 lb76.7 kg | 237 lb107.5 kg | 305 lb138.3 kg | 373 lb169.2 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 289 lb131.1 kg | 328 lb148.8 kg | 371 lb168.3 kg | 409 lb185.5 kg | |
| 170 lb77.1 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 176 lb79.8 kg | 247 lb112 kg | 318 lb144.2 kg | 388 lb176 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 301 lb136.5 kg | 342 lb155.1 kg | 386 lb175.1 kg | 426 lb193.2 kg | |
| 180 lb81.6 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 183 lb83 kg | 257 lb116.6 kg | 330 lb149.7 kg | 403 lb182.8 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 313 lb142 kg | 355 lb161 kg | 401 lb181.9 kg | 443 lb200.9 kg | |
| 190 lb86.2 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 190 lb86.2 kg | 266 lb120.7 kg | 342 lb155.1 kg | 418 lb189.6 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 324 lb147 kg | 368 lb166.9 kg | 416 lb188.7 kg | 459 lb208.2 kg | |
| 200 lb90.7 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 197 lb89.4 kg | 275 lb124.7 kg | 354 lb160.6 kg | 433 lb196.4 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 335 lb152 kg | 381 lb172.8 kg | 430 lb195 kg | 475 lb215.5 kg | |
| 210 lb95.3 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 203 lb92.1 kg | 284 lb128.8 kg | 366 lb166 kg | 447 lb202.8 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 346 lb156.9 kg | 393 lb178.3 kg | 445 lb201.8 kg | 491 lb222.7 kg | |
| 220 lb99.8 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 210 lb95.3 kg | 293 lb132.9 kg | 377 lb171 kg | 461 lb209.1 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 357 lb161.9 kg | 406 lb184.2 kg | 459 lb208.2 kg | 506 lb229.5 kg | |
| 230 lb104.3 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 216 lb98 kg | 302 lb137 kg | 388 lb176 kg | 475 lb215.5 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 368 lb166.9 kg | 418 lb189.6 kg | 473 lb214.5 kg | 521 lb236.3 kg | |
| 240 lb108.9 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 222 lb100.7 kg | 311 lb141.1 kg | 400 lb181.4 kg | 488 lb221.4 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 379 lb171.9 kg | 430 lb195 kg | 486 lb220.4 kg | 536 lb243.1 kg | |
| 250 lb113.4 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 228 lb103.4 kg | 319 lb144.7 kg | 411 lb186.4 kg | 502 lb227.7 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 389 lb176.4 kg | 442 lb200.5 kg | 500 lb226.8 kg | 551 lb249.9 kg | |
| 260 lb117.9 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 234 lb106.1 kg | 328 lb148.8 kg | 422 lb191.4 kg | 515 lb233.6 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 399 lb181 kg | 454 lb205.9 kg | 513 lb232.7 kg | 566 lb256.7 kg | |
| 270 lb122.5 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 240 lb108.9 kg | 336 lb152.4 kg | 432 lb196 kg | 528 lb239.5 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 410 lb186 kg | 465 lb210.9 kg | 526 lb238.6 kg | 580 lb263.1 kg | |
| 280 lb127 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 246 lb111.6 kg | 344 lb156 kg | 443 lb200.9 kg | 541 lb245.4 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 420 lb190.5 kg | 477 lb216.4 kg | 539 lb244.5 kg | 594 lb269.4 kg | |
| 290 lb131.5 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 252 lb114.3 kg | 353 lb160.1 kg | 453 lb205.5 kg | 554 lb251.3 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 430 lb195 kg | 488 lb221.4 kg | 551 lb249.9 kg | 608 lb275.8 kg | |
| 300 lb136.1 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 258 lb117 kg | 361 lb163.7 kg | 464 lb210.5 kg | 567 lb257.2 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 439 lb199.1 kg | 499 lb226.3 kg | 564 lb255.8 kg | 622 lb282.1 kg |
Women’s Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) vs Axle Back Squat Standards
How to read the table: Find the closest bodyweight, then use the labeled exercise row. Every strength-level entry shows one target with pounds first and kilograms beneath it.
| Bodyweight | Exercise | Novice | Intermediate | Advanced | Elite |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 lb45.4 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 86 lb39 kg | 126 lb57.2 kg | 172 lb78 kg | 217 lb98.4 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 140 lb63.5 kg | 163 lb73.9 kg | 192 lb87.1 kg | 214 lb97.1 kg | |
| 110 lb49.9 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 92 lb41.7 kg | 134 lb60.8 kg | 183 lb83 kg | 232 lb105.2 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 149 lb67.6 kg | 173 lb78.5 kg | 205 lb93 kg | 229 lb103.9 kg | |
| 120 lb54.4 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 97 lb44 kg | 142 lb64.4 kg | 194 lb88 kg | 246 lb111.6 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 158 lb71.7 kg | 184 lb83.5 kg | 217 lb98.4 kg | 242 lb109.8 kg | |
| 130 lb59 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 103 lb46.7 kg | 150 lb68 kg | 205 lb93 kg | 259 lb117.5 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 166 lb75.3 kg | 194 lb88 kg | 229 lb103.9 kg | 255 lb115.7 kg | |
| 140 lb63.5 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 108 lb49 kg | 158 lb71.7 kg | 215 lb97.5 kg | 272 lb123.4 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 175 lb79.4 kg | 203 lb92.1 kg | 241 lb109.3 kg | 268 lb121.6 kg | |
| 150 lb68 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 113 lb51.3 kg | 165 lb74.8 kg | 225 lb102.1 kg | 285 lb129.3 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 183 lb83 kg | 213 lb96.6 kg | 252 lb114.3 kg | 281 lb127.5 kg | |
| 160 lb72.6 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 118 lb53.5 kg | 172 lb78 kg | 235 lb106.6 kg | 298 lb135.2 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 191 lb86.6 kg | 222 lb100.7 kg | 263 lb119.3 kg | 293 lb132.9 kg | |
| 170 lb77.1 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 123 lb55.8 kg | 179 lb81.2 kg | 245 lb111.1 kg | 310 lb140.6 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 199 lb90.3 kg | 232 lb105.2 kg | 274 lb124.3 kg | 305 lb138.3 kg | |
| 180 lb81.6 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 128 lb58.1 kg | 186 lb84.4 kg | 254 lb115.2 kg | 322 lb146.1 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 207 lb93.9 kg | 241 lb109.3 kg | 285 lb129.3 kg | 317 lb143.8 kg | |
| 190 lb86.2 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 132 lb59.9 kg | 193 lb87.5 kg | 263 lb119.3 kg | 334 lb151.5 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 214 lb97.1 kg | 249 lb112.9 kg | 295 lb133.8 kg | 329 lb149.2 kg | |
| 200 lb90.7 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 137 lb62.1 kg | 200 lb90.7 kg | 273 lb123.8 kg | 345 lb156.5 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 222 lb100.7 kg | 258 lb117 kg | 305 lb138.3 kg | 340 lb154.2 kg | |
| 210 lb95.3 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 141 lb64 kg | 206 lb93.4 kg | 282 lb127.9 kg | 357 lb161.9 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 229 lb103.9 kg | 267 lb121.1 kg | 315 lb142.9 kg | 352 lb159.7 kg | |
| 220 lb99.8 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 146 lb66.2 kg | 213 lb96.6 kg | 290 lb131.5 kg | 368 lb166.9 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 236 lb107 kg | 275 lb124.7 kg | 325 lb147.4 kg | 363 lb164.7 kg | |
| 230 lb104.3 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 150 lb68 kg | 219 lb99.3 kg | 299 lb135.6 kg | 379 lb171.9 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 243 lb110.2 kg | 283 lb128.4 kg | 335 lb152 kg | 374 lb169.6 kg | |
| 240 lb108.9 kg | Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) | 155 lb70.3 kg | 226 lb102.5 kg | 308 lb139.7 kg | 390 lb176.9 kg |
| Axle Back Squat | 250 lb113.4 kg | 291 lb132 kg | 345 lb156.5 kg | 384 lb174.2 kg |
How Your Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) vs Axle Back Squat Result Is Calculated
The calculator estimates both one-rep maxes, rates each one against its exercise and bodyweight standards, and then compares the two ratings.
1. Estimate a one-rep max from each set
The entered weight is used directly for one rep. With 2–12 reps, both estimates are compared and the lower value is used.
- Epley: weight × (1 + reps ÷ 30)
- Brzycki: weight × 36 ÷ (37 − reps)
Set quality matters for this Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) vs Axle Back Squat comparison. Enter technically consistent, challenging sets, and prefer lower-rep results when practical because the estimate extends less far beyond the performed set.
2. Find the trap bar deadlift (high handles) strength level
For trap bar deadlift (high handles), the individual exercise thresholds start from reference bodyweights of 190 lb for men and 150 lb for women. Exact-bodyweight targets use reference target × (user bodyweight ÷ reference bodyweight) to the two-thirds power.
The target rises more slowly than bodyweight so larger lifters are expected to lift more without requiring strength to increase pound for pound.
3. Find the axle back squat strength level
The axle back squat rating uses its sex-specific exercise standards. Reference targets at 190 lb for men and 150 lb for women are scaled to the entered bodyweight by reference target × (user bodyweight ÷ reference bodyweight) to the two-thirds power.
The target rises more slowly than bodyweight so larger lifters are expected to lift more without requiring strength to increase pound for pound.
4. Compare the two results
Each max receives a level from Beginner through Elite. The lower-level lift becomes the priority. At matching levels, a priority appears only when one lift is at least 10 points farther from its next level; otherwise the result is Balanced.
The result identifies the lower standards rating, not its cause. Technique, fatigue, training history, and set quality can all affect the comparison. Age range is recorded anonymously but does not change these standards.
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Estimate each max | Use the entered weight for 1 rep; for 2–12 reps, keep the lower formula result. |
| Rate the trap bar deadlift (high handles) | Use the exercise-specific estimated max and adjust targets to exact bodyweight with the two-thirds scaling rule. |
| Rate the axle back squat | Use the exercise-specific estimated max and adjust targets to exact bodyweight with the two-thirds scaling rule. |
| Compare different levels | Name the lower-level lift as the priority. |
| Compare matching levels | Use Balanced unless the difference in progress toward the next level reaches 10 points. |
The calculator above applies these steps to your exact entries and reports both lift ratings, both next targets, and the final comparison.
How Men’s Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) and Axle Back Squat Standards Differ
What the men’s data shows:
The standards come closest at 120 lb.
Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, and Elite at every displayed bodyweight.
13.6 → 24.9 kg from 120 to 300 lb bodyweight.
How to read this chart: Choose a strength level and follow its line across bodyweight. Values show the Axle Back Squat standard minus the Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) standard: zero means equal, above zero means the Axle Back Squat standard is higher, and below zero means the Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) standard is higher. Swipe horizontally on mobile. Use the standards table for exact lb/kg targets.
Line chart loading. The standards tables above contain the exact pounds and kilograms.
How Women’s Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) and Axle Back Squat Standards Differ
What the women’s data shows:
The standards come closest at 100 lb.
Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced at every displayed bodyweight.
Across 100–240 lb bodyweight, the Elite gap changes from 1.3 to 2.7 kg.
How to read this chart: Choose a strength level and follow its line across bodyweight. Values show the Axle Back Squat standard minus the Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) standard: zero means equal, above zero means the Axle Back Squat standard is higher, and below zero means the Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) standard is higher. Swipe horizontally on mobile. Use the standards table for exact lb/kg targets.
Line chart loading. The standards tables above contain the exact pounds and kilograms.
Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) and Axle Back Squat Exercises Used by This Calculator
Compare like-for-like attempts by keeping the trap bar deadlift (high handles) and axle back squat setup consistent with their individual rules. Use strict, repeatable Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) and Axle Back Squat tests that follow each exercise’s setup, range of motion, equipment, and load rules. Do not mix variations, assistance, partial range, momentum, or different load conventions.
Use the Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) setup and load convention
High-handle trap bar deadlift only. Strapless, neutral grip, from floor to lockout. Load entered is total external load on the trap bar. If reps > 1 are entered, 1RM is estimated using the Epley/Brzycki blend. No age adjustment applied; adult lifter standards (18–50). Percentiles are tier-anchored approximations, not precise population statistics. This is a snapshot of today’s strength, not a lifetime label.
Use the Axle Back Squat setup and load convention
Confirm Rogue Axle: 25 lb, 84 in, 1.9 in outside diameter, non-rotating powder-coated shaft. Place shaft centered on upper trapezius below C7 and above posterior-deltoid shelf; pronated index-finger centers exactly 81.0 cm apart, measured/marked. Unrack standing; stable stance chosen before rep and unchanged across set. Descend under control until hip crease clearly below top of knee; no box/contact/bounce; stand to full hip/knee lockout with axle controlled. Total weight includes axle/plates; whole reps 1–10. Spotter protects only; no assistance. Allowed: exact axle, plates, axle collars, rack, belt, knee sleeves, wrist wraps, chalk, shoes.
Enter one recent Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) result and one recent Axle Back Squat result
First lift: total external load and 1–12 strict reps. Second lift: weight used and 1–12 strict reps. Pounds or kilograms.
Related Tools
- Trap Bar Deadlift — View the individual Trap Bar Deadlift (High Handles) standards and next strength-level target.
- Axle Back Squat — View the individual Axle Back Squat standards and next strength-level target.
- Barbell Front Squat — Use this related standards tool to examine a closely related exercise without mixing its result into this comparison.
- Machine Hack Squat — Use this related standards tool to examine a closely related exercise without mixing its result into this comparison.
- Safety Bar Squat — Use this related standards tool to examine a closely related exercise without mixing its result into this comparison.
- Barbell Sumo Squat — Use this related standards tool to examine a closely related exercise without mixing its result into this comparison.