So what does the OP do with the shackles you are suggesting he buy if he doesn't get shackle mounts (his original question)?
You can use the factory tow rings, I know I used them on my Big Bend?
That’s kind of my question - I assume the metal shackles will still work with the rings, they’re just rotated 90 degrees and the hole is much bigger than the bolt. Does that make them unsafe?
Well yes, obviously - but not an answer to my question.
If the reason for buying the shackles is because you like the look then buy all means get the shackle mounts. Hands down they look better.
For the factory tow points I would use a soft shackle, keep the metal shackles if you have to attach to a hitch (usually flat and will cut the soft shackle). These should be stored in your vehicle, hanging shackles on bumpers is just a trend(looks). The regulations for storage of hoisting equipment is stored out of the weather(my real job is to enforce this, nothing like cutting up wrongly stored straps, the $100 fine is a joke). Also it can be a pain to take apart shackles after they have been tightened and stored that way. If you want the look by all means get the shackle mounts, but still use soft shackles or they will look like crap after a couple of pulls. I always use a soft shackle if I can because if it goes flying its less weight.
Kinetic rope is what Matts Offroad uses, it stores energy and helps multiply the force to extract a vehicle. Uses-stuck in snow, mud, sand. Good for towing a broken vehicle as it has give.
It's also important to note that kinetic ropes reduce shock loads during pulls
