Gimmick or Safe Alternative? - Synthetic Shackle

[Land_Shark]

This was touched on ever so briefly a few years ago, but it didn't go anywhere.

Synthetic Shackles: Soft Shackle 32,000 lb Breaking Strength, Stronger than Steel!

The bubbarope synthetic shackle has a break rate of 32k pounds. Given that break rate, plus the fact that it's less metal in the recovery process has me interested.

This one by Lucky 8 claimes 18k pound strength: Lucky8 Llc. - Take the road less traveled...

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0Vgyoo9yJM

I guess "RG&B" makes one as well, but I can't find it for sale.

Anyone have experience with these? I like the idea if you can increase strength and possibly increase safety with less metal.

Here's a review via Expedition Portal which provides actual test numbers including cycles and breaking points: RG&B Soft Shackle review - Expedition Portal

Might have to give it a go.

 

[Swarty]

Great on rounded edges.

This was touched on ever so briefly a few years ago, but it didn't go anywhere.

Synthetic Shackles: Soft Shackle 32,000 lb Breaking Strength, Stronger than Steel!

The bubbarope synthetic shackle has a break rate of 32k pounds. Given that break rate, plus the fact that it's less metal in the recovery process has me interested.

This one by Lucky 8 claimes 18k pound strength: Lucky8 Llc. - Take the road less traveled...

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0Vgyoo9yJM

I guess "RG&B" makes one as well, but I can't find it for sale.

Anyone have experience with these? I like the idea if you can increase strength and possibly increase safety with less metal.

Here's a review via Expedition Portal which provides actual test numbers including cycles and breaking points: RG&B Soft Shackle review - Expedition Portal

Might have to give it a go.

Can be really good but if you are using the shackle mounts on a bumper the soft edges will cut the strands. Just use appropriately.

 

[Hellamatic]

Looks like it has its place. Not sure I'd take one if I was out wheeling, due to the fact that it is vulnerable sharp edges, rocks, etc. - I think I'd stick to steel in that case. However, I think these would be great for an "everyday carry" situation, or just as part of a winter kit for your vehicle. They'd be way lighter than steel.

 

[Land_Shark]

Found this thanks to [MENTION=109391]st8rocks[/MENTION]

Soft Shackles, Tube Savers & Load Equalizing Bridles | Southeast Overland

That's a good point about them possibly sheering from the different mounts

 

[Jabberjaw]

Not sure about a "shackle replacement", but Bubba Rope is a reputable company ...seems like these might be the Swiss Army Knife of shackles; more versatile.

 

[Jetboy]

Dynema soft shackles are easy to make. I use them for lots of stuff on my boat. Just buy a length of dynema and Google a video on how to make them. Takes 5 min. I'll still keep my metal shackles in the tool kit though.

 

[CharlestonFisher]

Scott Fields of Uwharrie Off-road Training Center in NC teaches his class using closed system soft shackle recovery. He will only use a metal shackle in the event a connection is on a rock. I saw Scott's presentation at Overland Expo East and they emphasize safety and situational awareness when winching. Any off angle pull is done with a block and bridle to keep the load as balanced and centered as possible.

 

[cbielat]

I use my synthetic shackles with no worries at all. Just make sure you use them correctly.