US Stainless 316 Stainless Anchor Chain 6mm (1/4") x 4ft with 5/16" Bow Shackles — Marine-Grade Corrosion-Resistant

Heavy-duty AISI 316 stainless anchor chain, 1/4" (6mm) links cut to a 4-foot length, supplied with two oversized 5/16" marine shackles for reliable anchoring.

This ready-to-fit anchor rode is crafted from marine-grade AISI 316 stainless steel and trimmed to a practical 4-foot length before shackles. The chain uses the European 6mm link specification (commonly equivalent to 1/4" or 15/64" imperial sizing) and is paired with durable bow shackles sized at 5/16". AISI 316 is chosen for its enhanced resistance to corrosion in saltwater environments, making this set suitable for small to medium recreational craft, dinghies, and tender applications where a short length of high-quality chain is required.

What makes AISI 316 stainless a smart choice for anchor chain?

AISI 316 stainless contains molybdenum, which improves its resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion compared with standard stainless grades. That added protection helps the chain keep its strength and finish in marine conditions where salt and spray accelerate wear. Choosing 316 gives you a balance of toughness and longevity for anchor rode components.

• 316 stainless resists rust and pitting better than 304 in seawater environments.
• Maintains mechanical strength under repeated load and wet conditions.
• Lower long-term maintenance compared with non-marine metals.

How strong is this 1/4" (6mm) chain and the included shackles?

This set is engineered for dependable holding and service life rather than extreme industrial loads. The chain has a chain breaking load around 4,000 lbs, and each 5/16" shackle is rated to about 5,500 lbs breaking load, providing a safety margin for typical anchoring tasks on smaller vessels. Always match chain and shackle specifications to your boat and anchor recommendations.

• Chain breaking load approximately 4,000 lbs (measured under controlled conditions).
• Each bow shackle rated near 5,500 lbs breaking load.
• Chain length is 4 feet measured prior to adding shackles.

Will this chain fit my anchor and ground tackle setup?

The chain uses the European 6mm link profile and pairs with the supplied 5/16" bow shackles, which are common sizes for small craft. Because imperial naming can vary, verify your anchor eye and windlass/roller dimensions to confirm clearance. If you use a windlass or need a specific connector, check the link diameter and shackle pin size before installation.

• Chain link size: 6mm (European spec), commonly referenced as 1/4" or 15/64" imperial equivalent.
• Included bow shackles: 5/16" each, marine-grade 316 stainless.
• 4' chain length is measured before attaching the supplied shackles.

How should I care for this stainless anchor chain to maximize lifespan?

Keeps simple maintenance routines to preserve finish and strength: rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt, inspect links and shackles for wear, and lubricate shackle threads occasionally to prevent seizing. While 316 stainless greatly reduces corrosion risk, routine checks and basic care extend service life and safety.

• Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after saltwater use.
• Inspect for nicks, deformation, or excessive wear before each season.
• Apply light grease to shackle threads to avoid galling and seizing.

Who is this for: Boat owners, riggers, and marine gear installers who need a short, high-quality length of anchor chain finished with oversized 316 stainless bow shackles. Ideal for tenders, small keelboats, or as replacement/upgrade chain for bow roller applications where corrosion resistance, compact length, and dependable hardware matter most.