The results of experimental and numerical analysis of the influence of the non-axisymmetric pulse shaper position on recorded wave signals in the split Hopkinson pressure bar experi- ment are presented. The paper focuses attention on the problem of wave signal disturbances caused by a bending wave resulting from non-axisymmetric pulse shaper positions and, moreover, different shaper thickness, striker impact velocities and Wheatstone bridge confi- gurations. The obtained results of analyses indicate that the effect of the non-axisymmetric pulse shaper position may be neglected if deviation from the bar axis does not exceed 20%.