3D Model — Orbit & Inspect
Anatomy of a Bow Shackle
Bow (Body)
The wider, rounded body that distinguishes it from a dee shackle. The wider bow accommodates multiple sling legs or wider fittings, allowing them to move freely within the shackle.
Pin (Bolt)
The removable pin that closes the shackle. Can be a screw pin (hand-tightened) or safety bolt (nut + split pin) for permanent rigging applications.
Ears
The two lugs on the shackle body where the pin threads through. The ears are drilled and tapped (screw pin) or drilled through (bolt-type) to accept the pin.
Bow vs Dee Shackle Comparison
| Feature | Bow (Anchor) | Dee (Chain) |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | Wide, rounded | Narrow, D-shaped |
| Load Direction | Multi-directional, angular loading | Inline only, single-direction pull |
| Multi-Leg Slings | Yes — legs move freely in the bow | No — too narrow for multiple legs |
| Strength (same WLL) | Slightly less efficient | Stronger for inline loads |
| Crane Hook Use | Yes — wide enough for hook saddle | Not recommended |
When to Choose
Use a bow shackle when attaching 2+ slings to one point, connecting to a crane hook, or when angular loading is expected. Use a dee shackle for direct inline connections where no side loading occurs.
This Model — 6.5t Bow Shackle
This 3D model represents a 6.5 tonne WLL bow shackle. The Working Load Limit is permanently stamped on the body of the shackle — always verify before use.
WLL — Common Bow Shackle Sizes
| WLL | Pin Dia (approx) | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 t | 10 mm | Light rigging, tag lines |
| 2.0 t | 13 mm | General purpose |
| 3.2 t | 16 mm | Medium loads |
| 4.7 t | 19 mm | Structural steel |
| 6.5 t | 22 mm | Heavy crane lifts |
| 8.5 t | 25 mm | Heavy industrial |
| 9.5 t | 29 mm | Large crane operations |
| 12 t | 32 mm | Heavy lift |
| 17 t | 38 mm | Major structural lifts |
| 25 t | 44 mm | Extra heavy duty |
Pin Rules — Critical
- Screw pin: hand-tight + ¼ turn back. This allows the pin to be removed after loading. Used for temporary connections
- Safety bolt (nut + split pin): required for permanent rigging, overhead running lines, or any connection that could vibrate loose
- NEVER replace the pin with a non-rated bolt — the pin is an engineered component rated to the same WLL as the body
- NEVER use a shackle with a missing or wrong pin — remove from service immediately
- Pin must be fully engaged — threads fully through both ears, no partial engagement
Common Pin Errors
- Using a hardware-store bolt instead of the rated pin
- Over-tightening screw pins (cannot remove after loading)
- Not using split pins on safety bolt types
- Cross-threading the pin into the ears
- Using a shackle where the pin shows wear grooves
When to Use Bow vs Dee
Use a Bow Shackle When
- Connecting to a crane hook — the wide bow sits properly in the hook saddle
- Attaching multi-leg slings — 2, 3 or 4 legs can move freely in the bow
- Angular loading is expected — the bow distributes side loads better
- Using with wire rope eyes that need room to seat properly
- Any connection where the load may shift direction during the lift
Use a Dee Shackle When
Direct inline connection only. Single sling to single anchor. No side loading. Chain-to-chain connections. Where maximum inline strength is needed for a given size.
Inspection & Rejection Criteria
Inspect shackles before every use. Remove from service if ANY of the following are found:
Reject Immediately If
- Distorted or bent bow: indicates overloading or side-loading beyond capacity
- Worn pin: visible wear groove, reduced diameter, or thread damage
- Cracks: any visible cracks on the body or at the ear holes
- Elongation: the bow has stretched — compare to a new shackle of the same size
- Missing markings: WLL, grade, or manufacturer markings illegible or absent
- Wrong pin type: non-original pin, hardware bolt, or mismatched pin from another shackle
- Corrosion: significant pitting or rust that reduces cross-section
- Heat damage: discolouration from welding, cutting, or fire exposure
Good Condition Indicators
- Body shows no deformation — bow is symmetrical
- Pin threads smoothly and engages fully
- WLL marking clearly legible
- No cracks, gouges, or corrosion
- Pin is the original rated pin for this shackle
Standards & Compliance
- AS 2741 — Shackles (covers bow, dee, and other types)
- Shackles must be Grade S (6) or Grade T (8) for lifting
- Every shackle must have the WLL permanently marked on the body
- Shackles must be proof tested to 2× WLL before first use
- All lifting shackles must carry a manufacturer’s identification
- Shackles used in lifting operations fall under AS 4991 Lifting equipment
- NSW WHS Regulation 2017 — plant and equipment inspection requirements