A joining shackle or link is provided for joining link chain sections and comprises a link shaped assemblage of members including a detachable member or members enabling the joining link to be fitted on the chain sections. Opposed U-shaped parts (1, 2) of the assemblage have abutting flanges (3) provided with wedge surfaces (4) and the assemblage is held together by coupling means (5) which preload the wedge surfaces and the flanges. This preloading of the joining shackle enables the shackle to better withstand cyclic loading. Two separate U-members (1, 2) are preferably present and provide opposed pairs of abutting flanges (3), and the coupling means comprise half shells (6) fitting over mid-portions of the U-members and drawable together by screws (8) for preloading of the flanges.