smcavana:
I did a lot of research prior to my Rocna 15 install and this is what I found on Rocna's website:
"Your Rocna or Vulcan has a slotted attachment point, meaning that a
single shackle may be used. You should select the largest shackle size the
pin of which will fit through your chain end-link. Loop your shackle head
through the shank shackle attachment point, fastening the pin through
the end link in your chain.
We recommend the use of proof tested shackles, especially on anchor
sizes 15 kg (33 lb) and above. Stainless steel shackles are popular but care
should be taken. A forged type is preferable, and cast versions should
always be proof tested. Select the largest size possible given the maximum
pin diameter that the chain end link will accept. When using G40 or
stronger chain, appropriately rated high-strength alloy shackles should
be used."
I bought the best shackle I could find with the biggest pin I can fit through my chain end link. But you need to shop carefully! for example:
The Croby 209 series shackles are "Forged - Quenched and Tempered with alloy pins". WLL= 1 1/2 tonnes for a 7/16" shackle (Crosby P/N: 1018437).
The Crosby 209A series are "Forged Alloy Steel - Qenched and Tempered, with alloy pins". WLL = 2 2/3 tonnes for a 7/16" shackle (Crosby P/N: 1017472).
Big difference! The devil is in the details.
The specs on the Titan ISO High Test G43 5/16" Windless Chain give an inside link diameter of 0.51".
The specs on the Crosby 209A 7/16" shackle give a pin diameter of 0.50".
That definitely meets the "maximum pin diameter that the chain end link will accept" parameter! 🙂
As for swivels, I've seen evidence both ways, but to me the risks of it being the weakest link outweigh the benefits. I won't use one. I've never had my rode come up twisted. I've never anchored in one place long enough that I could swing around the anchor enough times to twist the rode hard enough to unset the anchor. Until I need a swivel, why tempt fate?
Personally, I enjoy doing the research and sorting the details. I sleep better knowing (or believing?) my ground tackle is the best it can be,
Good luck on your research. Hope this helps.
Ron