Shackles you can sleep with

[Outeast]

I am putting new anchor rode and chain on my Pearson 34-2. I've read articles (a while ago) warning to stay away from any chain or shackles made in China as there have been instances of abrupt failure (breakage). I had no problem purchasing American made chain and rode but am having trouble finding the shackles.
Has the quality issue been resolved and am I overly concerned? If my concern is valid any direction is appreciated.
BTW I was just in Italy on the Ligurian coast and those marine stores also only had shackles from China and Taiwan.
Thanks for any feedback.

 

[Jackdaw]

The only real issue with items of Chinese manufacture is the incredibly wide range of quality you might see. They are capable of making world-class ANYTHING, and do. They are also capable of making absolute crap, and do that too.

The real question is do you trust the source. Avoid ebay and the like. Stick with established vendors with a track record of quality. That last point is actually the hardest part of dealing with Chinese manufacturers. Getting what you asked/paid for. Ask Rocna.

 

[woodster]

The only real issue with items of Chinese manufacture is the incredibly wide range of quality you might see. They are capable of making world-class ANYTHING, and do. They are also capable of making absolute crap, and do that too.

The real question is do you trust the source. Avoid ebay and the like. Stick with established vendors with a track record of quality. That last point is actually the hardest part of dealing with Chinese manufacturers. Getting what you asked/paid for. Ask Rocna.

crosby shackles

 

[Gunni]

Crosby Shackle

Crosby still sells a line of guaranteed, certified anchor shackles. I can't use them in my anchor roller, but I still keep a few around for my secondary anchor and kedge.

 

[shemandr]

There used to be a guy in Riverhead who sells chain and shackles to commercial fishermen, and mooring etc. He had a good reputation and was fair in pricing. I couldn't find his business in the Yellow Book and couldn't find him on Google. Ask around. If you know anyone who works in a boat yard they will know him. Most of the yards buy from him.

 

[svchickadee]

Look for a shackle with WLL (working load limit) stamped on it.

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

Look for a shackle with WLL (working load limit) stamped on it.

Definitely the first thing you want to look for.

If they do have a stamped allowable load, are still Chinese made, and you're still worried, get a shackle that is significantly greater that the allowable load of your chain and rode. The shackle with the largest pin that will fit through a link in your chain.

 

[Outeast]

Thanks to all for your comments. I ordered Crosby shackles from the rigging warehouse. Price appeared fair and customer service was excellent.