Lifting Chain Slings come in several configurations (how the chain is assembled):

Single Leg, 2-Leg, 3-Leg, and 4-Leg.

With several diameters and lengths to choose from, the most basic and most popular sling is the Single Leg Chain Sling. If more stability and weight is needed than another leg will be added. Choosing the correct lifting sling and sling grade for your specific application will depend on many factors such as weight, load, and environmental surroundings.

Understanding Chain Sling Acronyms:

The first letter is how many legs the chain has:

S - single
D - double
T - triple
Q - quad

Single Leg Chain Slings will only have two ends with a hook on each end.

The most common hooks are: Cradle Grab Hook, Oblong Hook (sometimes called a Master Link), Foundry Hook, and Sling Hook.

The second letter of the acronym refers to the hook. In single legs it will be the top attachment, while the third letter will be the bottom hook

G - Grab Hook
S - Sling Hook
O - Oblong Ring (also known as a master link)
F - Foundry Hook

Example:
SGF - Single Leg with Grab Hook & Foundry Hook

SGG -Single Leg with Grab & Grab Hook

The 2, 3, 4-Leg chains will have some kind of master ring, such as an Oblong Ring, to hold them all together.

Therefore the second letter will be:
O - Oblong Ring (also known as a master link)

And the third letter will be the hooks on the bottom of the legs.

Example:

DOG - Double Leg Oblong with Grab Hooks on the ends of each leg

TOS - Triple, 3-leg chain, with Oblong and Sling Hooks

QOF - Quad, 4- leg chain, with Oblong and Foundry Hooks

In double, triple, or quad slings if you add shorteners, usually grab hooks (for adaptability) you would add an ‘A’ at the end of the acronym (example picture below)

If, for example, you added a Crosby Eliminator Oblong Link as your main collector ring, you would add an ‘E’ at the beginning of the acronym (example picture below)

Such as:

DOSA - Double Chain Legs with Oblong and Sling Hooks each & Adjustable Grab Hooks

ESOS - Single Chain Leg with Crosby Eliminator Oblong Ring and Sling Hook

When choosing the right chain sling, make sure to know the total weight and how you plan to connect it to the load being lifted.

- Chain slings should only be used by trained professionals
- Always check your slings
- Start from top to bottom
- Distribute loads evenly
- Avoid jerk movements. Sudden stops.
- Make sure tags are on slings with visible information
- Twist and turn chain links as you check them for stretched links, bent, or distorted.
- Inspect your hooks - Never use distorted, gouged, or bent hooks.
- Check for bends, heat damage, wear, corrosion, breaks or gauges
- Make sure slings have not been modified
- If any damages remove sling from service

If you are using grade 80 make sure it is made of alloy steel and certified for overhead lifting.

Never exceed working load limit.

All gear should be thoroughly inspected before each and every use. Worn or unsafe rigging and safety gear should never be used. Inspect chain slings regularly and to keep a record of all chain inspections. Products by professionals only and should be used in strict accordance with all industry and OSHA standards.