What is a plain, rigid loop at the end of a sling that connects multiple rigging components?

• A. Hook design
• B. Link
• C. Shackle
• D. Eyebolt

Answer: (C)

A shackle is the connector that provides a plain, rigid loop for tying together rigging pieces. Its U- or bow-shaped body forms a fixed loop, closed by a pin, so loads stay in line through the connection rather than bending or slipping. This in-line, rigid connection makes shackles the go-to choice when you need to attach multiple rigging components—slings, hooks, blocks, or chains—safely and without the loop opening under load.

Hook designs aren’t fixed loops; they’re shaped to grab and release, which can allow opening or snagging. A link is a part of a chain assembly, not a dedicated end connector for a sling. An eyebolt is meant to be threaded into a structure to provide a point of attachment, not to join several rigging pieces together.