If construction and industrial rigging had a class ranking system, lifting chains would definitely be the straight-A students—strong, reliable, and always ready to carry the weight (literally). But not all lifting chains are created equal. Grades matter, and today we’re breaking down the heavy hitters: G80, G100, and G120.

Whether you’re lifting steel beams, machinery, concrete blocks, or anything your crane can handle, understanding chain grades makes your lifting safer, smarter, and definitely more professional. So grab your hard hat; let’s decode these chain grades with zero boring textbook vibes.

What Does “Chain Grade” Even Mean?

A chain’s grade represents its tensile strength, aka how much force it can take before saying “nope, I’m done.” It’s measured in Newtons per square millimeter (N/mm²), and the higher the number, the stronger the chain.

So in simple, job-site language:

• Higher grade = higher strength

• Higher strength = higher Working Load Limit (WLL)

• Higher WLL = happier crane operator

Let’s look at the stars of the show.

G80 Lifting Chain – The Trusted Workhorse

The G80 lifting chain is the classic, the OG, the one construction sites swear by. It’s been around for decades and still performs like a champ.

Strength Level

Approx. 800 N/mm² tensile strength.

Why People Love G80

• Durable for most construction and industrial lifts

• Compatible with almost all rigging hardware

• Affordable and widely available

• Handles harsh environments

Best Use Cases

• Steel bundles

• Medium to heavy loads

• General construction lifting

• Low to moderate heat environments

If lifting chains had personalities, G80 would be the reliable friend who shows up on time, works hard, and never complains.

G100 Lifting Chain – The Upgrade Everyone Wants

The G100 lifting chain is like G80 but hits the gym twice a day. It’s stronger, more efficient, and capable of lifting heavier loads with the same chain size.

Strength Level

Approx. 1000 N/mm² tensile strength.

Why G100 Is a Fan Favorite

• Higher lifting capacity than G80

• Lighter chain, but stronger performance

• Better efficiency for multi-leg slings

• Works beautifully with chain slings and modern hooks

Best Use Cases

• Construction and mining

• Machinery lifting

• Heavy fabrication jobs

• Multi-angle lifts requiring higher safety factors

In short: G100 is the “upgrade package” every rigger loves.

G120 Lifting Chain – The High-Performance Beast

Now we’re entering elite territory. G120 lifting chain is the strongest commercial lifting chain available. Bright in color, insanely strong, and designed for the most demanding lifts.

Strength Level

Approx. 1200 N/mm² tensile strength.

Why G120 Dominates

• 50% stronger than G80

• Higher WLL with slimmer chain

• Great resistance to fatigue and abrasion

• Ideal for modern heavy-industry rigging

Best Use Cases

• Extreme heavy lifting

• Low-temperature environments

• Multi-leg chain sling systems

• Lifts that require the highest safety margin

Think of G120 as the superhero of lifting chains—strong, bold, and ready for missions others can’t handle.

G80 vs G100 vs G120 – Strength Comparison

Here’s a quick “cheat sheet” for busy riggers:

If your project involves massive loads, multi-leg chain sling systems, or harsh site conditions, upgrading to G100 or G120 is a game changer.

Which Chain Grade Should You Choose?

✔ Pick G80 if:

You need reliable, budget-friendly lifting chains for standard construction jobs.

✔ Pick G100 if:

You want more lifting power without increasing chain size (or weight).

✔ Pick G120 if:

You handle extreme loads and want the highest strength-to-weight ratio available.

When productivity, safety, and efficiency matter (which is always), higher chain grades help reduce strain on equipment and improve overall lifting performance.

Don’t Forget the Hardware

A chain is only as strong as its weakest link—and the same goes for the master links, clevis hooks, and connecting links you use.

Always make sure the hardware matches the chain grade.
Using G120 chain with cheap G70 hardware? That’s how you get fired.

Safety Tips for Using High-Grade Chains

✔ Inspect before every shift

Look for wear, cracks, stretch, or discoloration.

✔ Avoid shock loading

Chains hate sudden impacts.

✔ Use proper sling angles

The smaller the angle, the higher the load on each leg.

✔ Store chains the right way

Dry, clean, organized—like the opposite of your coworker’s toolbox.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re team G80, G100, or G120, one thing’s for sure: choosing the right lifting chain grade makes your rigging safer, more efficient, and way more professional.

Higher grade = higher strength.
Higher strength = higher productivity.
And higher productivity = early lunch break.
(It’s science.)

🎥 Want to See Real Lifting Gear in Action?

Check out our rigging videos here:
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