Dyneema Soft Shackle Calculator & DIY Guide (Save Money!)
In this post, you’ll discover how to make your own super strong Dyneema soft shackle. Plus, we’ve included a handy Dyneema Soft Shackle calculator to take the guesswork out of your projects. One of the trickiest parts of any knotting endeavour is knowing precisely how much cordage you need, but our tool makes sure you’ll have just the right amount for your shackle.
How to Make a Dyneema Soft Shackle with Quick Release Lanyard
In this video you will learn how to make an extremely strong Dyneema Soft Shackle. Also, when making this Soft Shackle, the video also includes a short tutorial on how to add a quick release lanyard to your Soft Shackle.
The above DIY Soft Shackle video is laid out in chapters, so if you want to jump strait into the section you need then these timestamps may be helpful:
0:00 – DIY Dyneema Soft Shackle: Easy Guide
0:26 – Understanding & Using Soft Shackles
2:12 – Let’s Start Knotting: Making Your Shackle
4:50 – Step-by-Step: Using the D-Splicer Tool
9:08 – Tying the Strong Diamond Knot
19:34 – Adding a Quick Release Lanyard
30:08 – Testing Your Completed Soft Shackle
32:30 – Final Thoughts & Soft Shackle Overview
Additional Security for Your Soft Shackle Diamond Knot
One of the biggest problems with Dyneema is that it is well known for not being a good material in which to tie a knot. The Diamond Knot has become the go-to knot for securing the loop of your Soft Shackle. However, if you feel that you want to add some additional security to your diamond knot, you can also give the knot a quick dunk in what I call my Rope Finishing Solution, which is basically a mixture of PVA glue and water,
Dyneema Soft Shackle Length Calculator
Enter your desired soft shackle diameter to estimate the Dyneema cordage needed.
inchesNote: This calculation is an estimate based on the provided video’s example using 6mm diameter Dyneema (3-inch diameter shackle requiring 22 inches for the loop) and assumes a constant 24 inches for the Diamond Knot. Actual cordage needed may vary slightly based on Dyneema thickness, knot tightness, and personal preference. Always have a little extra!
What can you use soft shackles for?
Dyneema soft shackles are incredibly versatile and have become a popular alternative to traditional metal shackles in a wide array of applications, primarily due to their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, flexibility, and reduced risk of damage compared to their metal counterparts.
Here are some of their most common uses:
- General Fastening: Quick, strong connections for everyday tasks, bundling items, or securing tarpaulins.
- Automotive & Off-Road: Safer, lighter alternative for connecting tow ropes, recovery straps, or winch lines.
- Marine & Boating: Ideal for sails, rigging, securing fenders, and anywhere lightweight, non-corrosive connections are needed.
- Camping & Outdoors: Perfect for hammocks, securing tents, and lightweight gear attachment.
- Dog Leads: Convenient for quickly securing a dog’s lead to various objects.
- Securing Loads: Excellent for strapping down equipment in vehicles or on roof racks without scratching.
- Hobby Rigging: Useful for non-critical rigging tasks, but always consult experts for life-safety applications or critical loads.
Essentially, if you need a strong, light, flexible, and safer connection that won’t scratch or corrode, a Dyneema soft shackle is often the perfect choice.
What are some of the disadvantages of using Dyneema Soft Shackles?
While Dyneema soft shackles offer many benefits, they do have some limitations to consider:
- Abrasion: Easily damaged by rough surfaces or sharp edges, which can weaken them.
- Heat Sensitive: High heat (from friction, exhaust, flames) can melt or weaken the fibres.
- UV Degradation: Prolonged sun exposure can gradually reduce their strength over time.
- Cutting Risk: Can be cut relatively easily by sharp objects, especially under load.
- Cost: Dyneema cordage is generally more expensive than traditional ropes or basic steel hardware.
- Easy to Misplace: Their light weight and small size make them easy to lose or potentially steal.
- Tying Skill Required: Needs practice to tie securely; an improperly tied shackle can slip.
- Silent Failure: Unlike metal, Dyneema can fail suddenly without warning if overloaded or damaged.
- Not for Critical Loads: Not suitable for life-safety or acrobatic uses unless specifically certified by experts.
Understanding these points helps you decide when and where to use Dyneema soft shackles safely and effectively.
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