Shackles

Shackles connect slings to loads, hooks and lifting points. They’re simple and strong, but only when they’re rated, marked, loaded in line, and closed with the right pin, fully tightened.

• Riggers
• Ironworkers
• Millwrights

Types

Markings

A rigging shackle should show the maker’s name or mark, the working load limit (WLL) and the size. No markings? Don’t use it. Hardware-store shackles without a rated WLL aren’t for lifting.

Using shackles right

• Tighten screw pins fully, so the shoulder seats against the shackle body, then back off no more than the maker allows.
• Load in line with the shackle’s centerline whenever possible.
• Side loading reduces capacity; follow the maker’s table (for example, many makers reduce capacity substantially at 45° and to about half at 90°).
• Multiple slings go in the bow of an anchor shackle, never on the pin.
• Center the load on the pin with spacers or washers if needed; don’t let it ride on one side.
• Mouse or secure screw pins when they could loosen during the lift.

• Don’t replace a shackle pin with a bolt or a pin from another shackle
• Don’t let the pin roll against a moving sling, which can unscrew it
• Don’t weld on, heat or grind shackles
• Don’t use a shackle larger or smaller than the fitting it connects

Inspect and remove from service if

• Markings missing or unreadable
• Body or pin bent, twisted or stretched (opening spread)
• Wear, nicks or gouges reducing the original size by about 10% or more
• Cracks, heat damage, weld spatter or arc strikes
• Pin not seating fully or threads damaged
• Wrong or missing pin

Last updated: October 2, 2026