Self-Locking Hooks

In modern lifting operations, standard spring-latch hooks are often no longer enough. On dynamic lifts or busy construction sites, a standard latch can be snagged or bumped open, causing the sling to "roll out" and drop the load. Self-Locking Hooks are the engineering solution to this danger.

Holloway Houston Inc. (HHI) offers a premier selection of Self-Locking hooks. Whether you call them "Safety Hooks," "Positive Locking Hooks," or "Shur-Locs," the mechanism is the same: the hook closes automatically when the load is applied, and the trigger must be manually depressed to open it. We stock industry-leading models from Gunnebo, Crosby, Cartec, and Yoke, giving you access to the safest hardware on the market.

The Self-Locking Ecosystem

1. Gunnebo Industries (The "BK" Standard)

Gunnebo invented the modern self-locking hook.

• BK Series: The gold standard. The latch and hook body interlock to form a continuous ring, maximizing stability.
• Grip Latch (GBK): Features a recessed trigger design flush with the hook body to prevent snagging on obstacles.
• Clevis & Eye: Available with a Clevis connection (BKG) for direct chain attachment or an Eye (BK) for wire rope/synthetic slings.

2. Crosby "Shur-Loc" Hooks (S-1316 / S-1326)

The domestic leader in positive locking technology.

• Design: Features a large thumb access trigger for easy operation, even while wearing heavy gloves.
• Durability: The latch is fully protected by the hook tip when closed, preventing damage during dragging or impact.
• Platinum Line: Grade 100 alloy steel for higher capacity in a smaller size.

3. Swivel Self-Locking Hooks

For positioning the load under rotation.

• Positioning Swivel: Allows the hook to rotate 360° to align with the load before lifting.
• Bearing Swivel (LKB / S-13326): Features a ball bearing that allows the hook to rotate under load, preventing twist from building up in the wire rope.

4. Cartec & Yoke

High-performance European and International options.

• Cartec (CRFX): Italian-made Grade 100 hooks with a distinctive orange powder coat.
• Yoke: Grade 100 self-locking hooks offering exceptional value and DNV certification on specific models.

1. Prevention of "Roll-Out"

The #1 cause of hook failure isn't the metal breaking; it's the sling slipping out. If a standard hook snag on a beam or the load shifts, the sling can press against the spring latch and roll out.

• The Fix: A Self-Locking hook cannot open while under tension. The load itself keeps the hook locked. The trigger mechanism must be manually engaged to release the latch.

2. Durability

Standard latches are flimsy stamped metal. Self-Locking latches are heavy-duty forged steel components that are part of the load-bearing structure of the hook. They are designed to survive the rough handling of a job site for years.

3. Site Compliance

Many major construction firms, offshore operators, and mining sites now mandate the use of Self-Locking hooks for all overhead lifting. Upgrading your rigging fleet ensures you are compliant with the strictest site safety rules.

Technical Specifications

• Material: Grade 100 or Grade 80 Alloy Steel.
• Safety Factor: 4:1 (Design Factor).
• Standards: Meets ASME B30.10, EN 1677-3, and ASTM A952.
• Testing: Individually proof-tested to 2.5x Working Load Limit.

Where Self-Locking Hooks Typically Fit

Commonly selected for construction lifts with swinging loads, shipyard and platform rigging with vibration, and any setup where a bumped latch would drop the load. Standard sling hooks with spring latches are the alternative for controlled, routine overhead lifts.

Brands We Carry

• Crosby Shur-Loc : trigger-locking, Grade 80 and 100.
• Gunnebo BK : spring-loaded self-locking, Grade 80.
• Cartec : specialty self-locking designs.

Browse our inventory below to filter by Connection Type (Eye/Clevis/Swivel), Brand, and Chain Size.