Shackles might not be the flashiest piece of rigging gear, but they’re absolutely essential—and surprisingly interesting. From the different types used in lifting and rigging to the markings that matter for safety and compliance, there’s more to these small but mighty components than most people realize. In this post, we’re diving into some of the most useful—and downright unexpected—shackle facts every rigger, site supervisor, or safety pro should know.
Shackle Facts:
• All sizes of shackles are quenched and tempered for maximum strength.
• Forged alloy steel from 30 through 300 metric tons.
• Cast alloy steel from 400 through 1,000 metric tons.
• Sizes 300 tons and smaller are proof tested to 2 times the Working Load Limit.
• Sizes 400 tons and larger are tested to 1.33 times the Working Load Limit.
• All ratings are in metric tons, embossed on the side of the bow.
• Bows and pins are furnished Dimetcoted. All pins are Dimetcoted then painted red.
• They greatly improve the wearability of wire rope slings.
• They can be used to connect HIGH STRENGTH Synthetic Web Slings, HIGH STRENGTH Synthetic Round Slings or Wire Rope Slings.
• Increase in shackle bow radius provides minimum 58% gain in sling bearing surface and eliminates need for a thimble.
Shackle from LGH.
• Increase useable sling strength minimum of 15%.
• Pin is non-rotating, with weld on handles for easier use (300t and larger).
• All 2160 shackles are individually proof-tested and magnetic particle inspected. Crosby certification available at the time of order.
• Crosby products meet or exceed all the requirements of ASME B30.26 including identification, ductility, design factor, proof load, and temperature requirements. Most importantly, Crosby products meet other critical performance requirements including fatigue life, impact properties, and material traceability, not addressed by ASME B30.26.
• Shackles requiring ABS, DNV, Lloyds, and other certifications are available upon special request and mist be specified by time of order.
• Shackles are produced in accordance with certified lifting appliance requirements.
– Non-Destructive Testing.
– Serialization / Identification.
– Material Testing (Physical/Chemical/Charpy).
– Proof Testing.
Conclusion
Shackles may be small, but the role they play in lifting and rigging is anything but minor. Knowing the right type, understanding the markings, and staying up to speed on inspection standards can make a major difference in jobsite safety and performance. Hopefully, these shackle facts gave you a deeper appreciation—and maybe even a few fun takeaways—for this unsung hero of the rigging world.
Need the right shackle for the job? Explore our full range of lifting and rigging equipment—including shackles rated for safety, strength, and reliability. 👉 Browse Shackles Now
LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. With over 80,000 pieces, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.
• All sizes of shackles are quenched and tempered for maximum strength.
