An extremely strong, U-shaped piece of equipment, a metal shackle is generally used as a connecting link in a variety of rigging, lifting, pulling and hoisting applications. A clevis pin or bolt across the opening, or a hinged metal loop secured with a locking pin mechanism keeps it securely locked. Shackles are a versatile tool for connecting lifting slings, wire rope, chain, nylon and poly rope. With so many different options available in metal shackles, choosing the right one for the job can be a confusing task.
We’ve outlined some of the basics of shackles below. If you have any questions, contact one of our product specialists on our sales team at 800-660-3585.
Anchor/Bow shackle vs. Chain/D-shackle
Anchor shackles are also known as bow shackles. Both names refer to a shackle with a larger “O” shape look. This design can take loads from many directions without developing significant side load. The larger loop shape does reduce its overall strength, but it is also able to handle a larger strap.
Chain shackles are also known as D-shackles, d shackles, or dee shackles. Both names refer to a shackle with a “D” shape design. A d-shackle is more narrow than a bow or anchor shackle and generally have a threaded pin or pin close. The smaller loop is designed to take high loads primarily in line. Side and racking loads may twist or bend a D shackle or chain shackle.
Both anchor/bow and chain/d-shackles come with different pin options as well. If you’re not sure whether you need anchor, chain shackles or other accessories, our product experts at 800-660-3585 can help.
Galvanized shackles vs. stainless steel shackles
Galvanized metal and stainless steel both offer excellent protection from rust and corrosion, making either a great choice for shackels.
In general, galvanized shackles are ideal for industrial applications where moisture is not a major issue. Galvanized metal is a metal that has a thin coating of zinc oxide to protect the steel from elements that lead to corrosion and oxidation. A galvanized shackle is also a great value as it tends to be less expensive than a stainless steel shackle, but still maintains its strength and durability.
Stainless steel shackles are more corrosive-resistant and, are therefore ideal for marine applications. Our stainless steel shackles are of type 316 stainless steel, which is considered “marine grade.” Type 316 marine grade stainless steel contains molybdenum, which makes it resistant to ocean water mist or spray, so it’s especially useful in extreme conditions or moisture or in a high chloride environment. Type 316 stainless d shackle equipment is ideal for sailing and yacht rigging uses.
Snap shackle
Another variation of the stainless steel d shackle (sometimes also called a dee shackle) is a snap shackle. A snap shackle is designed with a spring-activated mechanism so it can be used quickly and with one hand. These are handy for jobs where speed is important, or when an item needs to be hooked and unhooked often, but snap shackles are not recommended to secure heavy-duty loads. Our stainless steel d shackle snap-style shackles are in type 316 stainless steel for extra corrosion resistance.
Pin types
The pin that locks a shackle can be a deciding factor on which shackle will work best for your job. We carry shackles with loose pins, captive pins, round pins, screw pins and bolt type pins. Screw Pin Shackles are a very popular shackle as they offer a pin that is easy to connect and disconnect. Captive Pin Shackles offer a pin that cannot be removed from the bow of the shackle which is essential in various marine applications. This captive pin keeps the pin from accidentally falling out and into the water. Twisted Shackles offer a hook up from the same direction the pin is facing making them ideal for certain limited hook up instances.
If you’re unsure whether a bow, chain, snap or other type of shackle is the best option for your job, call one of our product specialists at 800-660-3585 for expert advice on all of our shackles for sale. We buy from only the very best and trusted shackles suppliers.
With so many varieties and names of similar items, misspellings are common. You may also see shackles listed as: shakles, shakle, shacles, schackles
D Ring Shackles
