When it comes to secure and efficient marine mooring or anchoring systems, anchor swivel shackles play a crucial role. They help prevent chain twisting and ensure a reliable connection between the anchor and chain.
But did you know there are different types of swivel shackles? Most commonly, you’ll encounter Type A anchor swivel shackles and Type B anchor swivel shackles. So, which one should you choose? Let’s break down the differences and help you make the right choice for your marine setup.
What Is an Anchor Swivel Shackle?
An anchor swivel shackle is a marine hardware component that connects anchor chains while allowing rotation. Its swivel mechanism helps reduce twisting of the chain, especially under movement from tides, waves, or anchor handling.
Our swivel shackles are made from marine-grade materials such as carbon steel, galvanized steel, or stainless steel, and are widely used on ships, offshore platforms, buoys, and harbor mooring systems.
Type A vs. Type B Anchor Swivel Shackles
Understanding the difference between Type A and Type B is essential when choosing the right fitting.
1) Type A – Jaw-to-Jaw Swivel Shackle
Structure: Both ends are jaw-type (U-shaped with pins).
Application: Ideal for connecting two chain links or other shackle-type hardware.
Advantages: Symmetrical design allows flexible installation; perfect for floating systems or mooring buoys.
2) Type B – Jaw to Eye Swivel Shackle
Structure: One end is a jaw, the other is an eye (circular loop).
Application: Commonly used between the anchor and the chain.
Advantages: More compact, direct terminal connection; often used at the chain's end.
How to Choose the Right Type?
Your selection should be based on:
Connection Type: Are you connecting chain-to-chain or chain-to-anchor?
Installation Space: Type B offers a more compact setup.
Flexibility Needed: Type A gives you more directional freedom.
Chain Grade: Ensure the swivel shackle matches your Grade 2 or Grade 3 chain size and strength.
Recommended Use Cases:
Application | Recommended Type |
Anchor to chain connection | Type B |
Chain-to-chain or mooring hardware | Type A |
Buoy mooring systems | Type A |
Space-limited installations | Type B |
Safety and Durability
Both Type A and Type B anchor swivel shackles are engineered for heavy-duty marine use. At ZAZ Buoys, all our swivel shackles are:
- Tested for tensile strength and working load limit
- Corrosion-resistant with hot-dip galvanized or stainless finishes
- Compatible with ISO 1704 chain standards
Still not sure which anchor swivel shackle fits your application?
Contact our sales team for expert advice and customized mooring solutions.
