Shackle vs Clevis: What's the Difference?
Shackles and clevises both connect lifting and rigging components, and they look similar enough that people often confuse them. But they are not the same thing, and choosing the wrong one changes how a load behaves. This guide explains the difference and when to use each.
What Is a Shackle?
A shackle is a U-shaped or O-shaped connector with a removable pin or bolt across the opening. The body wraps around the load, and the pin closes the loop. Shackles are forged and rated by working load limit, and they come in bow and Dee shapes. See our types of shackles guide for the full range.
What Is a Clevis?
A clevis is a U-shaped fitting with holes at both open ends, closed by a pin or bolt. It is designed to connect a rod, cable or hook in a single straight line. Clevises are common on cylinders, rods, tie rods and chain ends, where the connected part swings in one plane only.
Key Differences: Shackle vs Clevis
| Feature | Shackle | Clevis |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | U or O body, pin across the mouth | U body, pin through both legs |
| Loading | Bow type takes multi-direction loads | Straight-line, single-plane loads |
| Typical use | Connecting slings, chains and hooks | Rods, cylinders, tie rods, chain ends |
| Rated by | Working load limit (WLL) | Often by pin size and material |
When to Use a Shackle
Use a shackle for general lifting and rigging, especially when the load direction may change. A bow shackle is the safer default because it tolerates multi-directional loading. Our US type bow shackle is a common choice.
When to Use a Clevis
Use a clevis when the connection must move in one plane only, such as a cylinder rod or a tie rod. Clevises keep the joint aligned and prevent the connected part from twisting. For hook fittings with a clevis-style pin, see our clevis slip hooks.
Clevis Shackle: Where the Two Meet
The terms overlap in a "clevis shackle," which is a Dee-style shackle with a clevis pin. It is used for clean, straight-line pulls where you want the simplicity of a pin but the strength of a forged shackle body.
How to Choose
Will the load direction change? If yes, choose a bow shackle.
Is the connection a rod or cylinder that must stay in one plane? Choose a clevis.
Do you need a quick, hand-tightened pin? A screw pin shackle or clevis pin both work.
Confirm the WLL or rated load for the component before use.
FAQ
Is a clevis the same as a shackle?
No. Both are U-shaped with a pin, but a shackle is a forged lifting connector rated by WLL, while a clevis is a straight-line fitting often used on rods and cylinders.
What is a clevis shackle?
A clevis shackle is a Dee-style shackle closed with a clevis pin, used for straight-line pulls.
Can I use a clevis for lifting?
Only if it is rated for lifting and used in a straight line. For general lifting, a forged shackle with a marked WLL is the safer choice.
Rigging Connectors You Can Rely On
SolidLink forges shackles and rigging hooks in carbon steel and stainless steel, with WLL marked and certificates available. Browse our shackles or contact us for a quote.
