Having the shackle vertical puts less stress on the shackle pin when you arent pulling from straight on

 

Okay I can live with that theory. Makes sense.

 

What purpose are you going to use it for? Jerk strap for mudding or are you going to try to pull something with it?

 

Just pulling people outmod ditches and what not. No mudding for me lol

 

Then I would use the shackle that is welded. Without seeing the thickness of both, the one with a weld should actually be stronger than the solid piece.

On a side note, make sure the shackle is rated for 3 times the weight of the vehicle you are trying to pull out. To small and you risk it breaking sending shrapnel into the other car and driver.

 

Thats why you always use a strap, never a chain to pull

 

Completely agree. Chains are for securing a load or lifting a load, not for pulling. Have people done it and come out ok? Sure. Has there been a lot of unnecessary damage due to the chain breaking? My opinion is yes.

Depending on which strap you can get ahold of I would recommend either a 3 or 4 inch double eyelet. You can find them on military auctions or military supply stores fairly cheap. I would also recommend a good quality highlift jack to go along with your shackle and strap.