Chain size is generally expressed as the diameter of the steel at the bending area.

This can mean that steel bars of 78-79mm may be used to manufacture chain of 76mm diameter.

Chain can be fitted with open end links to enable shackle connections to be made. These end links are normally forged to the chain using an intermediate link also known as an enlarged link. These links are larger than the diameter of the chain to take into account the differing radii and the reduced strength of the links due the end link being studless.