How to Choose the Right Chain Sling for Your Lift | Advantage Rigging

Posted by Advantage Rigging on 14th Apr 2025

How to Choose the Right Chain Sling for Your Lift | Advantage Rigging

When you're lifting heavy loads, having the right chain sling isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. The right equipment makes every lift safer, smoother, and more reliable. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just learning the ropes, this guide will help you choose the right sling for your job.

At Advantage Rigging, we’ve been supplying industry-trusted rigging gear since 2008. From single-leg slings to custom-built multi-leg solutions, everything we offer is built to meet or exceed ASME standards—so you can lift with confidence.

What is a Chain Sling?
A chain sling is a piece of rigging equipment made from alloy steel chain, used for lifting and securing heavy items. Unlike wire rope or synthetic slings, chain slings offer unbeatable durability and strength—especially in harsh environments.

Different Types of Chain Slings
Let’s break down the most common configurations:

  • Single-Leg Sling
    Best for vertical lifts with balanced loads. Simple, strong, and straightforward.

  • Double-Leg Sling
    Offers more stability and load distribution. Ideal for uneven loads.

  • Triple-Leg Sling
    A step up for added support. Great for handling bulkier items with three anchor points.

  • Quad-Leg Sling
    The go-to for heavy-duty lifts requiring maximum balance and control.

All these types can be customized with different hooks and adjusters. Not sure which leg configuration is best? Give our team a call at 480-502-2225 and we’ll walk you through it.

Why Grade 100 Alloy Chain Is the Gold Standard
At Advantage Rigging, we build all our chain slings with Grade 100 alloy chain. Why?

  • It's 25% stronger than Grade 80

  • It’s lighter without sacrificing durability

  • It supports higher Working Load Limits (WLL)

  • It’s ASME B30.9 and OSHA compliant

Translation: It’s built to handle the tough stuff—and last longer while doing it.

Choosing the Right Hook Style
The right hook makes the job safer and easier. Here are your main options:

  • Sling Hook – Includes a latch for secure connection. Most versatile.

  • Positive Locking Hook – Best when safety is top priority. These hooks won’t open under load.

  • Foundry Hook – Extra-wide opening. Useful in special applications but requires careful use.

We stock all these hook types at AdvantageRigging.com and can help you match the right hook to your chain sling.

When Adjusters Matter
If you’re dealing with uneven loads or changing lift conditions, look for slings with built-in adjusters. These allow you to fine-tune the length of each leg, keeping your load level and reducing stress on the gear.

Chain Sling Tags: Why They’re Not Optional
Every sling we build comes tagged with:

  • Chain size

  • Grade

  • Working Load Limit (WLL)

  • Serial number

  • Manufacturing date

Why? Because guessing your WLL in the field is a safety risk you can’t afford. Plus, tags keep you compliant with OSHA and DOT inspections. Need replacement tags or custom specs? Email us at info@advantagerigging.com.

Proof Testing for Peace of Mind
All of our slings are proof tested at our Gilbert, AZ facility. Proof testing verifies each sling meets the load ratings and structural integrity standards. It's just one more way we make sure you’re lifting with gear that’s 100% ready to go.

Need a custom test certificate? We’ve got you covered.

Your Environment Matters Too
Will your sling be exposed to high heat, chemicals, or abrasive conditions? Chain is the most rugged option, but choosing the right configuration and material still matters. Talk to our team about your job site, and we’ll recommend the best gear for your conditions.

Why Advantage Rigging?
Here’s what makes us different:

  • We build chain slings to spec using Grade 100 alloy chain

  • All products are tagged, tested, and ASME B30.9 compliant

  • We proof test in-house for full control over quality and safety

  • You can call, email, or stop by our Gilbert warehouse any time

Contact Advantage Rigging
Need help picking the right chain sling? We’re here to make it easy.

From custom-built chain slings to fittings, hooks, and proof testing—we’re your one-stop shop for gear that works as hard as you do.

Lift with confidence. Lift with Advantage Rigging.

Sources:

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): https://www.osha.gov

  • ASME B30.9 Sling Safety Standards: https://www.asme.org

  • Crosby Group Rigging Manual (for industry best practices)

  • AdvantageRigging.com product specs and testing procedures