5/16 in. Soft Shackle

A 5/16 soft shackle is a rope connector closed with a stopper knot and loop instead of a pin. It does many jobs a small steel shackle does, connecting blocks, rings, and slings, at a fraction of the weight and without metal to damage bark.

Where a soft shackle fits

Soft shackles started in sailing and found a home in tree rigging because they are light, strong for their weight, and easy to use with gloves on. Use one to connect a rigging block to a sling, join a ring to a loop, or close a soft anchor around a stem. There is no pin to drop from the tree and no steel to bang against your other hardware. They also pack small, so a few can ride on your saddle or in the rigging bag without adding much weight.

At 5/16 inch, this size suits light to moderate rigging and accessory connections. For heavy removals, step up to a larger shackle or steel hardware rated for the load.

Closing, rating, and inspection

Open the shackle, pass the loop around what you are connecting, push the stopper knot through the loop, and tighten it until the knot seats firmly. A soft shackle that is not fully seated can open under load, so check it every time.

Know the rated working load and stay within it. Inspect for cuts, glazing, pulled strands, and wear at the knot and loop, and retire it if in doubt. Follow ANSI Z133 and the maker's instructions for all rigging. See other rings and rigging hardware here.