An eye bolt is a type of fastener featuring a looped head, or "eye," typically used for securing ropes, cables, chains, or lifting loads. It serves as an anchor point for attachments and is often installed into wood, concrete, or metal. Eye bolts come in various types, including shoulder and non-shoulder versions, making them versatile for different load-bearing and directional force applications. Commonly used in construction, rigging, and industrial lifting, eye bolts can also be found in everyday objects like swings or fitness equipment where load-bearing support is essential.

Eye bolts are commonly made from materials such as stainless steel, carbon steel, galvanized steel, and even brass. Each material affects the bolt's durability, corrosion resistance, and suitability for specific environments. Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust, making it ideal for outdoor or marine use. Carbon steel provides strength but is more susceptible to rust, whereas galvanized steel combines strength with moderate rust resistance. Brass is less common but offers good corrosion resistance in low-strength applications.

Yes, but only shoulder eye bolts are designed for angled or off-center loads. The shoulder provides added support that reduces stress on the shank when forces are not applied directly vertically. Non-shoulder eye bolts, however, should never be used for angular loads, as they are prone to bending or breaking under uneven force. Even with shoulder eye bolts, users should minimize the angle as much as possible and reduce the load proportionally, as the effective load capacity decreases with an increase in angle.

Forged eye bolts are made from a single piece of metal, which is heated and formed into shape, giving them superior strength and reliability for heavy-duty and industrial uses. Bent eye bolts, on the other hand, are formed by bending a straight piece of metal into a loop, which can create weak points in the bolt. Bent eye bolts are generally more economical but are limited to lighter loads and applications. Forged bolts are preferable for lifting and high-stress uses, while bent bolts work well for securing light fixtures or guiding ropes.