Snap Shackles: What Can I Use a Quick Release Shackle for?
What is a Snap Shackle? How Are They Used? What Are Their Similarities and Differences?
We carry many different types of shackles, but a snap shackle is not like an anchor, D shackle, bow shackle, etc. While these other shackles are more heavy-duty and powerful, this product has unique features, like a captive pin, which makes it great for certain applications. The captive pin on these stainless steel shackles allows you to use them without worrying of dropping or losing the pin. This makes them great for many rigging and lifting applications, especially those near water or marine-like environments.
The Similarities Among Snap Shackles
First, it is important to know that all snap shackles we carry have certain similarities. They each contain a spring-loaded captive pin, which stays locked in place and does not remove from the body. In order to open this pin, you must pull to engage the opening.
These shackles are made of Stainless Steel Type 316, also known as Marine Grade Stainless Steel. Obviously, this also makes them great for marine use and nautical applications. Type 316 contains an element called molybdenum, which helps prevent against corrosive damage from saltwater. Another distinctive characteristic is you can use these shackles quickly with one hand, which is excellent for jobs where speed is important.
So, What Are the Differences?
The Eye Swivel has a circular shape, or eye shape, on one end. Note that this end has no opening. In order to use this swivel shackle, you can simply clip something to it. The Jaw Swivel has a screw pin on the end, instead of an eye-shaped opening. The pin keeps in place by a "keyring" that's removed before the pin can actually remove from the body.
Both swivel snap shackles have a swivel on one end that can rotate 360 degrees. This helps prevent tangling, which makes it ideal to use with high-movement items. These shackles come in the following sizes: 2-3/4", 3-1/2", and 5".
Fixed Snap Shackle and Rope Sheet Snap Shackle
The end of a Snap Shackle has an identical circular shape like the eye swivel, but it functions differently. The end is non-twisting, so the fixed shackle is not recommended for applications that require twisting and spinning movement. The Snap Shackle has an end that is "rope friendly" for your marine and sailing applications.
The fixed shackle comes in sizes 2", 2-3/4", and 4", and the rope sheet shackle comes in sizes 2", 2-1/2", and 3-3/4".
What Can I Use Snap Shackles For?
You can use these shackles in several ways. You can apply these quick release shackles for your lifting and rigging needs, or marine applications. Or, you can even use them for personal use, such as using it as a dog leash clip, for halyards (line of rope used to hoist a ladder, sail, or flag), or even on a gate.
Remember, the swivel shackles works for frequent spinning movements, while the fixed snap shackle and rope sheet snap shackles are suitable for more straight-line applications.
Keep in mind that it's extremely important to check the working load limit (WLL) of the clip or hook to ensure it will work for your intended use. These snap shackles open quickly and easily opened, so we recommend that you consider these shackles to meet your application’s workload before purchasing them. Also, we advise that you do not use these to lift heavy loads, so be cautious.
Learn More About Shackles in this Video
In this short video, Lacy talks about other types of shackles and brands we have available.
