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How to choose the right shackle for the job

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How to choose the right shackle for the job

Anchor/Bow Shackles and Chain/D Shackles

 

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 the shackle securely locked. Shackles are a versatile tool for connecting lifting slings, wire rope, chain, nylon and poly rope. With so many different options available, choosing the right shackle for the job can be a confusing task.

We've outlined some of the basics below. If you have any questions, contact one of our product specialists on our sales team at info@dawson-group.com

 

Anchor/Bow Shackle vs. Chain/D shackle

Anchor and bow shackles are synonymous. 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 refer to the “D” shape design. A d-shackle is narrower 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 or chain shackle.

Both anchor/bow and chain/d-shackles come with different pin options as well.

Dawson Brand Hot Dip Galvanized US Type Chain Shackle with Safety Pin, S6 Bolt Type Dee Shackle - Dawson Group Ltd. - China Manufacturer, Supplier, Factory
S6 Forged Bow Shackle, Alloy Steel Anchor Shackle - Dawson Group Ltd. - China Manufacturer, Supplier
2T Bulk US Type Anchor Shackle - Dawson Group Ltd. - China Manufacturer, Supplier, Factory

Galvanized shackles vs. stainless steel shackles

Galvanized metal and stainless steel both offer excellent protection from rust and corrosion, making either a great choice.

In general, galvanized shackles are ideal for industrial applications where moisture is not a major issue. Galvanized steel has a thin coating of zinc oxide to protect the steel from elements that lead to corrosion and oxidation. Galvanized is also a great value as it tends to be less expensive than stainless steel, but still maintains the shackle’s strength and durability.

Stainless steel shackles are more corrosive-resistant and, are therefore ideal for marine applications. Our stainless steel shackles are made 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

These are a variation on the stainless steel d 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 they are not recommended to secure heavy-duty loads. Our stainless steel 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 shackle, These are popular because 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.

With so many varieties and names of similar items, misspellings are common. You may also see these items listed as: shakles, shakle, shacles, schackles

 

Screw collar pin

Shackles with screw collar pins are mainly used where you need to mount and demount the shackles often. We do not recommend this type at fixed installations with many lifting operations since there is risk for the bolt to unscrew by itself.

Dawson Brand Hot Dip Galvanized US Type Bow Shackle with Screw Pin, S6 High Strength Screw Pin Anchor Shackle - Dawson Group Ltd. - China Manufacturer, Supplier, Factory
Dawson Brand Hot Dip Galvanized US Type Chain Shackle with Screw Pin, High Strength S6 Screw Pin Dee Shackle - Dawson Group Ltd. - China Manufacturer, Supplier, Factory

Safety pin

The type that are commonly used in fixed installations like lifting beams. The nut must be secured with the safety pin.

Dawson Brand Hot Dip Galvanized US Type Bow Shackle with Safety Pin, S6 Bolt Type Anchor Shackle - Dawson Group Ltd. - China Manufacturer, Supplier, Factory
Dawson Brand Hot Dip Galvanized US Type Chain Shackle with Safety Pin, S6 Bolt Type Dee Shackle - Dawson Group Ltd. - China Manufacturer, Supplier, Factory

Marine Shackle, Bow Shackle, Anchor Shackles, Mraine Hardware - Dawson Group Ltd. - China Manufacturer, Supplier, Factory