How to choose the right shackle for your lifting sling

Choosing the right equipment for the job is the first order of business when lifting heavy objects. If you carefully review the manufacturer’s recommendations, you are going in the right direction, but you should also use common sense to choose the best option for lifting slings and shackles.

There is an order to everything and before you buy shackles you need to know the type of lifting sling you will be using. But before you buy a lifting sling, you need to know what item you’ll be moving and how much it weighs, among other things.

Lifting slings are used for a variety of applications. They can be used to lift loads with a crane, even loads as heavy as a boat or ship. They can also be used to pull a 4×4 out of the mud or a car out of a ditch. These straps are usually made of nylon, polyester, cable, or chain. Nylon is the all-purpose option with a little more stretch than polyester. Wire rope and chain are for the really tough jobs and the chains have unmatched strength. Each type of sling will be rated for capacity and weight load, and you should check to make sure your choice is strong enough to do the job you need it to.

Once you decide on a sling, you’ll want to choose the appropriate shackle to connect it to the crane, hoist, etc. Your choice will depend on the type of pull you are going to perform. Chain shackles are best for direct pulling. One type of anchor is better for multidimensional pulls. Both chain and anchor types can be available in a variety of materials, including galvanized or stainless steel. Stainless steel is better for marine applications. You should also consider the type of fastener with options ranging from threaded pins to round pins and bolts. Threaded pins are the easiest to connect and disconnect.

An important note that requires common sense is that the weight rating capacity of the sling and shackles you purchase is based on their being new. Once you put these items into service, they should be carefully inspected each time they are used, as they can be adversely affected by sunlight, abrasion, and daily heavy lifting. Replace them as soon as you see signs of wear.