1/2 in Eye Bolt for Tree Cabling

A 1/2 in eye bolt for tree cabling is a through-bolt anchor that passes through the limb and gives the cable a strong attachment point. It is one of the standard anchors for steel cable systems on medium-sized leaders.

Where an eye bolt fits in a cabling system

In a steel cable system, each end of the cable needs a solid anchor in the tree. A through-bolted eye bolt is one of the most common: you drill straight through the limb, run the bolt through, and secure it with a washer and nut on the far side. The cable then attaches to the eye, usually with a thimble and a preformed dead-end grip or wire rope clips.

The 1/2 in size suits a range of medium leaders. Larger stems and heavier loads call for bigger hardware. Find matching cable and fittings in our cabling hardware section.

Eye bolts are typically galvanized or otherwise corrosion-resistant so they hold up in the tree for years. Check the listing for the bolt length and whether a nut and washer are included.

Sizing and installation

Choose the bolt length to pass fully through the limb with enough thread for the washer and nut. Drill a hole matched to the bolt, set the eye in line with the cable, and avoid drilling into decay.

Cabling should be designed and installed by a qualified arborist following ANSI A300 and ANSI Z133. Inspect systems regularly and keep records.

Plan the cable height and anchor spacing before drilling; once a hole is in the tree it cannot be undone.