I wouldn't even use a shackle to connect two straps. A shackle is also a missile.
I use a knot with some twigs in it so it can be pulled apart afterwards.
Exactly.
Having a "trail recovery hook" as a connection point between two straps is incredibly dangerous as a missile hazard and entirely unnecessary when such a simple solution exists.
Step one: You need to extend a recovery strap. A good example of this is in mud, where the stuck vehicle is too far from ground with sufficient traction for the recovering vehicle. It is entirely acceptable to extend a kinetic rope with a non-kinetic rope, as the damping and kinetic effect of the recovery strap is still present. This is for a dynamic recovery scenario.
Step Two:
You need a sturdy magazine (or similar, like a dowel). Its purpose will be described later. Overland Journal makes a thick, sturdy magazine
Step Three:
Pass the primary rope/strap through the eye of the extension rope/strap. This is where high-quality straps are important, with large loops and reinforced eyes. Both ropes should be similar in capacity and eye construction.
Step Four:
Now, pass the end of the extension rope/strap through the primary.
Step Five:
Here is where the magazine comes in. Ropes/straps/cables are most susceptible to damage/failure on an extreme bend, or when wrapped around a small diameter. There is also a smearing effect caused by the connection above, which is created by the constricting of the eyes into a smaller and smaller knot as the load increases. The reason to use the magazine is to reduce the radius of the knot and limit the constriction. The magazine also makes it super easy to separate the connection at the knot.
Roll the magazine.
Step Six:
Insert the magazine into the knot, where the two straps touch between the eyes
Step Seven:
Set the knot with some pressure, which will prevent the magazine from sliding out.
Ready to rock!
