What is a turnbuckle?

Turnbuckles have been around for a long time, and you might be surprised how often you see them once you know what to look for. They’re used to stretch material – usually cable, wire, chain or rod – tight between two points. Sure, they get a lot of use in places like shipping yards, construction sites and even boxing rings, but you can also find them on your own street!

For example: some cars have turnbuckles in the throttle body assembly, and motorcycles use turnbuckles to adjust the position of the shift lever.

Turnbuckles can also create tension in fences or other wire structures like this display barrier.

The Marriam-Webster Dictionary defines “turnbuckle” as “a device that usually consists of a link with screw threads at both ends, that is turned to bring the ends closer together, and that is used for tightening a rod or stay.”

Here at Gyford, we make rod and wire mounting systems, and if you want to make a sharp, modern design with them you’ll need to get familiar with turnbuckles (don’t worry, it’s easy). This video gives a thorough, step-by-step tutorial for each of our turnbuckles and can give you a better understanding of how they work.

Turnbuckles make very strong and simple structures possible, so don’t be afraid to use them and explore the possibilities!