Everything You Need to Know About Eye Bolts: Sizes, Safety, and Applications | Advantage Rigging

When it comes to lifting, securing, or anchoring heavy loads, eye bolts are one of the most versatile and reliable pieces of rigging hardware out there. At Advantage Rigging, we provide only the highest-quality eye bolts, including the durable Ken Forging Standard Eye Bolts, proudly made in the USA.

But not all eye bolts are created equal. Choosing the right type, size, and material can make a big difference in safety and performance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about eye bolts, including the different types available, weight limits, safety tips, and why Advantage Rigging is your trusted source.

Why Eye Bolts Matter on the Job

An eye bolt might look simple, but it plays a big role in your rigging setup. It provides a strong, secure attachment point for ropes, cables, chains, or slings. Poor-quality or incorrectly chosen eye bolts can fail under load, risking injury, equipment damage, and downtime.

That’s why Advantage Rigging carries Ken Forging Eye Bolts, crafted from high-grade materials and precision-engineered to handle the toughest jobs. They meet strict safety standards, offer consistent performance, and are built to last.

The Three Main Types of Eye Bolts

You might be wondering, what are the three types of eye bolts? Great question. The main types are:

1. Shoulder Eye Bolts: These are designed for angular lifting (but only up to a certain angle) and are reinforced with a shoulder to handle side loads.

2. Plain or Non-Shoulder Eye Bolts: Best for vertical lifting only. They should never be used at an angle because they’re not reinforced for side loads.

3. Swivel Eye Bolts: These are designed to rotate, allowing more flexibility and alignment with the load. They reduce stress on the bolt and the load.

At Advantage Rigging, we offer a variety of eye bolts to match your specific application.

Eye Bolt Sizes & Dimensions: Quick Reference

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular Ken Forging Standard Eye Bolts:

View the full size chart at advantagerigging.com.

How Much Weight Can an Eye Bolt Hold?

This is one of the most common questions we get at Advantage Rigging, and the answer depends on the size, type, and material of the eye bolt. Each bolt has a Working Load Limit (WLL) stamped or rated, which tells you how much weight it can safely support.

Always refer to manufacturer specs and never exceed the WLL. Factors like lifting angle and wear can also affect capacity.

What Is the Strongest Eye Bolt?

In general, shoulder eye bolts made from forged alloy steel tend to be the strongest. However, the most secure eye bolt for your operation depends on proper installation, load angle, and matching the correct size to your task. For the toughest jobs, you may also want to look at swivel hoist rings as an alternative—they offer even greater flexibility and strength.

Advantage Rigging stocks a full range of heavy-duty eye bolts and hoist rings to fit your load needs.

Choosing the Right Eye Bolt: What to Consider

Wondering how to choose the right eye bolt? Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Load Weight & WLL: Match your bolt to your expected load.

2. Material: Choose stainless steel, galvanized, or alloy based on your environment.

3. Thread Size & Length: Fit matters.

4. Application Type: Are you lifting, anchoring, or securing at angles?

5. Angle of Use: Shoulder eye bolts can handle angular loads up to a point, but angles beyond 45 degrees are not recommended.

Need help? Contact Advantage Rigging at 480-502-2225 or info@advantagerigging.com.

Eye Bolts vs. Ring Bolts: What's the Difference?

Eye bolts have a closed loop (the "eye") and are designed for secure attachments. Ring bolts are similar but often feature a movable ring instead of a fixed loop. While both have lifting and securing uses, eye bolts tend to offer more stability for vertical and angular loads.

What Is an Alternative to Eye Bolts?

Depending on your application, alternatives include:

• Swivel Hoist Rings: Greater flexibility and strength.

• Shackles: For removable, high-capacity connections.

• Lifting Points or Pad Eyes: Fixed, welded lifting points.

Advantage Rigging carries all these options, and we can help you decide what's best.

Why Advantage Rigging for Eye Bolts?

We carry high-quality, American-made Ken Forging Standard Eye Bolts. Our team has the experience to recommend the safest, most efficient hardware. Competitive pricing and fast shipping. Local service at 1482 W Scott Ave Suite 101, Gilbert, AZ 85233 and online availability at advantagerigging.com.

For personalized advice or bulk orders, call 480-502-2225 or email info@advantagerigging.com.

When it comes to safety, don’t cut corners. Advantage Rigging provides top-quality, OSHA-compliant eye bolts built to keep your operation running smoothly and safely. Shop online or stop by—we’re here to help you lift smart and secure every time.