Tip for Truck Owners on Bow Shackles and Recovery

Being prepared for an emergency is always preferable to having an emergency and not being prepared. When considering the need for rigging equipment such as bow shackles, lifting slings, recovery tow straps, hooks, chains, and cables, many people avoid planning ahead for their needs. Instead, they hope they can find the right equipment when the need arises. But what if you are in a remote area and access to such equipment is not available? This is a consideration for truck owners who enjoy mud or four-wheeling in off-road areas. Of course, we all believe that our truck dominates and will outrace and outmaneuver any deep hole or ravine. But ask any stuck truck and you’ll know that domination isn’t always reality. In these cases, it is a good idea to have equipment available.

So what exactly should you plan to have with you when you go off-roading? In addition to the beer and water cooler, why not add some cable, tie downs, recovery straps, and bow shackles? Cold drinks may keep the heat from rising to your face when you’re stuck, but they’re not going to get your truck out of the mud.

Here are some basic pieces of equipment to bring when you and your truck head out to play:

• Receiver Hitch Shackle – This item will hook onto the ball of the towing vehicle to aid in recovery.
• Recovery Tow Strap – Nylon recovery straps allow for some stretch, which is important. That stretchability actually gives the tug momentum and will make it easier to pull your truck out. Be sure to check the breakout points and know the weight of your vehicle to choose the correct recovery strap.
• Bow shackles or other strong shackle – If you are unsure which type of shackle will work best, any good freight company can help you with the information. Don’t be afraid to invest in the larger shackles, at least 2 inches, as you want it to hold up to the job of pulling a vehicle out.

Beyond the off-road playground, you’ll find that when you have a truck, having this type of equipment can often come in handy. Each type of shackle has benefits. With a bow shackle, there is a release pin and an “O” shaped bow that can withstand pressure from many directions. This may be preferable to a spring shackle with its release activated by spring. Although that type of release can be actuated with one hand, the pull of the load in some cases can make it difficult. That’s where the pin release comes in handy.

If you own a truck, take the time to invest in some towing and recovery equipment. These items can be easily stored in your vehicle, ready to be put into service when the need arises. Happy muddin!