Different Types of Shackles

Shackles

Compatible with a wide range of lifting slings, shackles provide secure fastening and connection for a diverse range of jobs.

However, it's worth noting that shackles aren't all the same. In fact, there are many different types of shackle to choose from. Let's take a look at some of the most commonly-used shackle types:

Galvanised Steel D Shackle

D shackles

Most commonly used on single-leg slings, D shackles (or dee shackles) are so named because they're shaped like the letter D. They also resemble a loop of a chain, which is why they are sometimes called 'chain shackles'.

Here at Safety Liftin Gear, we stock a wide variety of high tensile stainless steel D shackles that are perfect for lifting a wide range of heavy loads. However, side or racking loads may bend a dee shackle, so think carefully about how you will use your shackle before making your final choice.

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Black bow shackle

Bow shackles

Recognisable by their 'O' shape, bow shackles (a.k.a. omega shackles) are commonly used on multi-leg slings. Ideal for an assortment of rigging jobs, bow shackles provide an easy way of fastening chains and straps securely. These shackles come in various weight limits, and in various colours too – black shackles like the one pictured above can be particularly useful for live event rigging, where minimal visibility is desirable.

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Green pin shackle

Green pin shackles

One of the most popular lifting shackle types in our range, our green pin shackles are essentially alloy bow shackles, providing durable reliability in eye-catching green for heightened visibility and easy identification.

These dependable fastenings are typically used with wire rope slings. Their weight limits range from 0.5 tonnes to 85 tonnes.

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Safety pin shackle

Safety pin shackles

Designed for maximum security, safety and reliability, safety pin shackles use a nut and bolt plus a safety pin for further stability and assurance.

This extra-secure fastening option is a popular choice for many lifting firms, including some of the UK's leading lifting rental companies.

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Screw pin shackle

Screw pin shackles

Primarily used for temporary applications, screw pin shackles are great for jobs where the shackles regularly need to be removed and re-attached. When using screw pin shackles, it's important to check the pin prior to each lift and re-tighten if necessary.

For jobs where vibration is a factor, wire mousing can help to prevent the pin from coming unscrewed. However, safety pin shackles (see above) are usually preferable in those situations.

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Stainless steel shackle

Stainless steel shackles

Extremely durable and long-lasting, our stainless steel shackles are the ideal connector for tough conditions. They're a particularly popular choice for sailing and industrial rigging jobs.

Simple to use and extremely reliable, these stainless steel shackles come in a variety of configurations, with different dimensions and WLLs (working load limits) to suit your requirements.

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Piling shackle

Piling shackles

Fully tested and certified, long-bodied piling shackles provide a strong and sturdy solution that's suitable for many different lifting jobs.

With a self-coloured finish, our piling shackles come in a range of durable weight categories, with weight limits ranging from 1 to 5 tonnes.

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In addition to all of the above, we also stock untested shackles for purely connective purposes. While these zinc-plated dee shackles cannot be used for lifting jobs and are unsuitable for carrying weight, they do make perfectly adequate connectors in situations where no force is being applied.

Do you have any questions about the different types of shackles we stock here at Safety Liftin Gear? Feel free to contact our customer service team!