The 3 Main Types of Shackles (and How to Choose the Right One)

Jan 19th 2026

Rigging Hardware Guide

Shackles are load-rated connectors used to join slings, chain, wire rope, hooks, and lifting points. The right selection helps reduce risk from side-loading, poor fit, and unintended pin rotation—especially during critical lifts.

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Jump to:

1) Bow / Anchor Shackles • 2) Chain / D (Straight-Side) Shackles • 3) Long Reach Shackles • Pin Styles (Screw vs Bolt Type) • Safety Checklist

Before you lift: quick safety checklist

Match the WLL to the lift plan (including sling angle factors) and confirm markings are legible.
Avoid side loading unless the shackle is specifically rated for it—side loading can reduce capacity significantly.
Check fit: the pin should not “point load” slings, wire rope, or chain—use the correct size and geometry.
Inspect for deformation, thread damage, cracks, excessive wear, or mismatched pins before each use.
Choose the right pin style for the application (quick pick-and-place vs semi-permanent).

Type 1

Bow / Anchor Shackles (Rounded “Bow”)

Bow shackles (often called anchor shackles) have a wider, rounded body that provides more room for sling eyes and multi-leg bridle connections. This geometry helps accommodate non-perfect alignment and can be a better fit when connection points need extra clearance.

Best for

Multi-leg bridle slings and wider sling eyes
General-purpose rigging where alignment may vary
Connections needing extra room inside the bow

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Category spotlight: All Shackles

If you’re comparing brands, capacities, or pin styles, start in the All Shackles category. It’s the fastest way to filter down to the right geometry and Working Load Limit for your lift.

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Type 2

Chain / D Shackles (Straight-Side)

Chain shackles (also called D shackles or straight-side shackles) are designed for in-line loading where space is limited and the pull direction is controlled. Their narrower shape is a strong choice when you want to minimize the chance of side loading.

Best for

Straight-line connections (controlled loading direction)
Tight rigging setups where a wider bow won’t fit
Chain and hardware connections where alignment is consistent

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Category spotlight: Screw Pin Chain Shackles

Need a fast, reliable connection for controlled, in-line loading? Screw pin chain shackles are popular for field rigging because they’re quick to install and easy to remove during pick-and-place work.

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Category spotlight: Bolt Type Chain Shackles

If the connection is semi-permanent or subject to vibration, a bolt-type chain shackle (bolt + nut + cotter pin) adds security against unintended loosening—ideal for longer-term rigging setups.

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Type 3

Long Reach Shackles (Extended Body)

Long reach shackles provide extra length between the bow and pin, helping you connect into recessed pick points or awkward attachment areas. They’re common in construction and heavy rigging when standard shackles don’t provide enough clearance.

Best for

Recessed pick points and hard-to-reach lift lugs
Situations where clearance reduces binding and improves alignment
Construction and heavy rigging requiring extended connection geometry

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Category spotlight: CM Long Reach Shackles

When standard shackles don’t give you enough clearance, CM long reach models offer an extended connection point to reduce binding and make attachment easier—especially on job sites where speed and fit matter.

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Pin Styles Matter: Screw Pin vs Bolt Type

Shackle “type” is the body shape (bow vs chain vs long reach), but pin style often determines whether a shackle is best for quick handling or a more secure, longer-term connection.

Quick guide

Screw pin shackles: fast and convenient for pick-and-place rigging and frequent removal.
Bolt type shackles (bolt + nut + cotter pin): extra security for semi-permanent setups or vibration-prone environments.

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Category spotlight: Screw Pin Shackles

If you’re doing frequent connections on the job, screw pin shackles are the go-to for speed and versatility. Filter by size and WLL to match your lift plan and hardware.

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Category spotlight: Bolt Type Shackles

For longer-term connections—or anywhere vibration could back out a screw pin—bolt type shackles add a secondary retention method. Ideal for semi-permanent installs and critical connections.

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