Rigging Shackles

Fulcrum Lifting offers a variety of steel rigging shackles to fit a variety of applications. Types of shackles include:

• Anchor Shackles or Bow Shackles: Feature a larger bow or "O" shape opposite the shackle pin, anchor shackles provide superior load distribution and multi-directional pulling capabilities. Ideal for applications requiring angular loads or when connecting multiple rigging components.
• Chain Shackles or D Shackles: Have a "D" shaped bow that is more narrow than anchor shackles, offering higher working load limits in straight-line pulls. The streamlined design reduces weight while maximizing strength for heavy-duty lifting applications.
• Long Reach Shackles: Feature an extended reach design for accessing confined or hard-to-reach load pick points. Essential for specialized rigging situations where standard shackles cannot provide adequate clearance or positioning.
• ROV Shackles: Engineered with specialized release mechanisms designed for remotely operated vehicle (ROV) operations. These subsea-rated shackles enable safe, precise underwater rigging operations.
• Soft Shackles: Constructed from high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE) rope, offer comparable strength to steel shackles at a fraction of the weight. These corrosion-resistant alternatives provide superior handling safety, eliminate sharp edges, and won't damage equipment surfaces during use.
• Synthetic Sling Shackles: Purpose-built with wider bows specifically for synthetic flat web or round slings. The increased bearing surface reduces stress concentration, prevents sling damage from bunching or pinching, and extends sling service life.
• Wide Body Shackles or Sling Shackles: Feature an increased bow radius that improves the critical D/d ratio for wire rope and synthetic slings. This design eliminates the need for protective thimbles, reduces sling wear, and prevents costly bunching and kinking that can compromise lifting operations.

• The Bow is the curved body portion of the shackle opposite of the pin. The bow can also be referred to as the bail, body, bowl, or dee.

• Ears are at either end of the shackle body and support the shackle pin.

• The Pin is the steel bolt which spans the two shackle ears.

• The Shoulder is the contact point between the pin and ear. When the shoulder is in contact with the ear, the pin is fully engaged or threaded.

Watch the video to learn more about shackle identification. 

Tip: When selecting a rigging shackle for your application, always ensure the working load limit (WLL) at least meets or exceeds the load for the application. Your alloy steel shackle WLL should also be comparable to the other rigging hardware and slings being used.

A screw pin shackle uses a threaded pin inserted through the shackle ears and tightened down. The fast and easy connection and disconnection of these shackles make them convenient for “pick and place” applications. Screw pin shackles can be used in applications where side loading is present with consideration to the reduced WLL.

*Screw pin shackles are not recommended for long-term or permanent applications.

*Tighten the screw pin before each pick.

Round Pin Shackles use a round, unthreaded pin which is secured by a cotter pin. Round pin shackles are only to be used in applications where the load is applied strictly in-line such as suspension, tie-down, or towing.

*Round pin shackles are not recommended for overhead lifting applications, where multiple sling legs are used, or where side loading may occur.

Bolt-Type Shackles use a nut, and cotter pin combination to secure the bolt in place. Bolt-type shackles are able to be used in any application a screw pin or round pin shackles are used. Bolt-type shackles can be used in applications where side loading is present with consideration to the reduced WLL. Bolt-type shackles are recommended for long-term or permanent applications

Ready to secure your next project with industry-leading rigging shackles? Don't compromise on safety or performance when it matters most. Fulcrum Lifting's extensive selection of premium shackles from The Crosby Group®, Van Beest Green Pin®, and Columbus McKinnon ensures you'll find the perfect solution for your specific lifting requirements. Contact us today to discuss your project needs and discover why leading industries trust Fulcrum Lifting for their critical rigging hardware.