Tree Austria Stainless Steel Shackle

The Tree Austria stainless steel shackle is a compact shackle climbers use for semi-permanent connections on a saddle, such as at a bridge or fixed attachment point. Stainless steel resists corrosion, and a shackle stays put where a carabiner might rotate.

Where a shackle makes sense

Some connections on a saddle do not need to be opened during the day: a bridge termination, a fixed rope-wrench tether, or a ring captured on a bridge. A small shackle is lower profile than a carabiner, it cannot be accidentally opened with a gate, and it will not cross-load the way a carabiner can when it rotates.

Stainless steel holds up to sweat, rain, and sap without rusting, which matters on a part that stays on the saddle for months.

Match the shackle size to the parts it joins. It should fit a bridge eye or ring without forcing the pin, and it should not leave the connection loose enough to cross-load. Keep spares the same size so swaps are straightforward.

Before you install one

Only use a shackle in a life-support position if it is rated and marked for that use and your saddle's instructions allow it. Check the strength markings on the part itself, close the pin fully, and secure it as the manufacturer directs so it cannot back out. Inspect it for wear grooves, cracks, and a bent pin. Other saddle parts are in this category.

Life-support gear must meet the applicable standard (ANSI Z133 and the manufacturer's instructions), be inspected before every climb, and be used only by trained climbers.