VEVOR 6 ft Stainless Steel 316 Anchor Chain with Shackles: specs

The VEVOR 6-foot Anchor Chain is a short length of stainless steel chain that sits between a boat's anchor and its rope. It comes with two 3/8-inch bow shackles, one for each end. Boaters add this kind of lead chain to help the anchor set and hold, and to protect the rope from abrasion on the bottom.

What an anchor lead chain does

The listing explains the purpose: a chain at the anchor helps keep the shank parallel to the lake or sea bed. A shank that lies low, rather than being pulled upward, usually lets the anchor dig in and stay set. VEVOR says this reduces pull-out when waves or drift tug on the boat. The weight of the chain also gives some shock absorption, and the metal resists chafing on rocks and shell, which can wear through rope.

Chain and shackle specifications

The chain is stainless steel 316, 5/16 inch in diameter, and 6 feet long, with an additional 4 inches (10 cm). 316 is the grade usually chosen for marine use, because the added molybdenum improves corrosion resistance in salt water compared with 304. VEVOR gives these load figures:

• Chain break load: 7,120 lb
• Shackle break load: 9,460 lb

A break load is the force at which a part fails, not a working load. Working loads are typically a fraction of that, so check the manufacturer's guidance and your boat's requirements.

Bow shackles

The two stainless bow shackles are 3/8 inch. A bow shackle has a rounded body, which suits connecting to lines and chains at slightly different angles. VEVOR says the threaded pins are designed to avoid coming loose and falling off the chain. In general, shackle pins on anchor systems are secured with seizing wire, or similar, as an extra step, so check the manual and good seamanship guides.

Compatibility

VEVOR says the chain suits nearly all boat anchors, naming claw, box and fluke types. It says the chain can stay in the water and sun for a long time. Check that the shackle and chain suit the eye on your anchor and the thimble or splice on your rope.

Who it suits

It suits owners of small to mid-sized boats who anchor in lakes, rivers or coastal water and want to add or replace a lead chain. The right chain size depends on the boat's size and the anchor, so look at your anchor maker's recommendations.

What to check before you buy

• Length and size: compare 6 feet with the length recommended for your boat and anchor.
• Anchor and rope fit: confirm that the shackles fit the anchor eye and the rope's thimble.
• Load needs: compare the break loads with your boat's weight and expected conditions.
• Material: 316 stainless is suited to salt water; rinse and inspect after use.
• Upkeep: check the pins and links regularly for wear, as the manual or your boating safety guidance suggests.

The short version

• A 6-foot (plus 4 inch) stainless steel 316 lead chain, 5/16 inch.
• Two 3/8-inch stainless bow shackles with threaded pins.
• VEVOR lists chain break load as 7,120 lb and shackle break load as 9,460 lb.
• Intended to keep the anchor shank low and help set and hold.
• Listed as compatible with claw, box and fluke anchors.

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