A strong drop shank gives a weight distribution hitch the vertical adjustment needed to level a trailer, while matching the receiver and hitch head; the CURT 17123 is a versatile choice for many 2-inch setups. This comparison covers ten shanks with different drop and rise ranges, receiver sizes, lengths, and system compatibility. Several CURT models list 15,000-pound gross trailer weight and 1,500-pound tongue weight ratings, while the Blue Ox shank specifies the same limits for SwayPro use.
Other listings provide less complete rating or fit information, so verify the relevant details before ordering. Start with your receiver opening and hitch-head requirements, then compare the usable adjustment range with the height difference you need to correct.
The CURT 17123 is the best overall choice here because it fits a 2-inch receiver, works with CURT weight distribution hitch heads, and can be flipped for up to 7 inches of drop or 10-1/2 inches of rise. Its listed capacity is 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW, subject to the spring-bar capacity and the lowest-rated component. Choose it when that receiver and head compatibility suit your setup and its adjustment range meets your measured needs.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallFits 2-inch receivers and CURT heads, flips for 7 inches of drop or 10-1/2 inches of rise, and lists 15,000-pound GTW capacity.
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Deepest DropFits 2-inch receivers and CURT weight distribution hitches, with an 8-3/4-inch drop and listed 15,000-pound GTW and 1,500-pound TW ratings.
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Balanced RiseOffers a 6-inch drop and 10-1/4-inch rise for a 2-inch receiver, with multiple head-height holes and listed 15,000-pound GTW capacity.
View on Amazon- Longer Reach Husky 32554 Shank
- SwayPro Match Blue Ox BXW4002 Shank
Compare drop shanks by fit, adjustment, and capacity
| # | Product | Weight | Material | Compatible with Vehicle Type | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. CURT 17123 ShankBest Overall | 11.36 kg | Alloy Steel | Trailer | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. CURT 17124 ShankDeepest Drop | 32 lb | Carbon Steel | Trailer | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. CURT 17121 ShankBalanced Rise | 30.7 lb | Carbon Steel | Trailer | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Husky 32554 ShankLonger Reach | 10 lb | Alloy Steel | Trailer | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. Husky 32555 ShankLonger Husky shank option | 5 lb | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. Blue Ox BXW4002 ShankSwayPro Match | 2 lb | Metal | Car, Truck, Van | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. Reese 63971 ShankDrop-position-only Reese setup | 22.1 lb | Alloy Steel | Car, Truck | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. VODCACA 17123 ShankCURT-compatible replacement option | — | Metal | — | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. CURT 17132 ShankCURT 21⁄2-inch receiver fit | — | Alloy Steel | Trailer | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. BulletProof 3-Inch ShankThree-inch receiver shank buyer | 37 lb | Alloy Steel | Car, RV, Truck, Van | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Drop Shank For Weight Distribution Hitch

#1 · Best Overall
1. CURT 17123 Shank
- Weight: 11.36 kg
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer
Best for: Wide-range CURT height adjustment.
Why it ranks #1: Fits 2-inch receivers and CURT heads, flips for 7 inches of drop or 10-1/2 inches of rise, and lists 15,000-pound GTW capacity.
A reversible 7-inch drop and 101⁄2-inch rise give the CURT 17123 a broad height-adjustment range for matching a trailer to a tow vehicle. Its 2-inch receiver fit and compatibility with CURT weight distribution hitch heads make it a practical replacement shank for that system.
Flip the shank to choose up to 7 inches of drop or 101⁄2 inches of rise, then use the 3⁄4-inch head-mounting holes, spaced 11⁄4 inches apart, to adjust head height. The 2-by-2-inch receiver fit and 5⁄8-inch pin hole define the receiver connection. Solid steel construction is rated up to 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW, subject to spring-bar capacity and the lowest-rated component, so the whole setup remains the limiting factor.
- Reversible for up to 7-inch drop or 101⁄2-inch rise
- 3⁄4-inch adjustment holes spaced 11⁄4 inches apart
- Fits 2-by-2-inch receivers with 5⁄8-inch pin holes
- Solid steel rated up to 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW
- Compatible with CURT weight distribution hitch heads, not identified as universal across brands.
Skip it if you need a shank for a 21⁄2-inch receiver; CURT 17132 is listed for that receiver size.
Choose this for a CURT weight distribution setup needing substantial drop-or-rise adjustment and a 2-inch receiver connection. Its capacity figures remain subject to spring-bar capacity and the lowest-rated component in the towing system.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Trailer |
| Included Components | WD Shank |
| Item Weight | 11.36 kg |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 17123 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 17123 |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: CURT 17123 Weight Distribution Shank Only, 2", 7" Drop, 10-1/2" Rise
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#2 · Deepest Drop
2. CURT 17124 Shank
- Weight: 32 lb
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer
Best for: CURT 2-inch receiver replacement.
Why it ranks #2: Fits 2-inch receivers and CURT weight distribution hitches, with an 8-3/4-inch drop and listed 15,000-pound GTW and 1,500-pound TW ratings.
An 83⁄4-inch drop gives the CURT 17124 a distinct height-adjustment profile for a CURT weight distribution hitch. It fits a 2-inch receiver and uses multiple head-height holes, offering a replacement-shank option for buyers who need adjustable mounting rather than a single fixed head position.
The multiple head-height holes are 3⁄4 inch in diameter and spaced 11⁄4 inches center to center, letting the hitch head be positioned at different heights. The 2-by-2-inch receiver opening and 5⁄8-inch pin hole specify the receiver connection. CURT rates the shank for 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW, and lists it as an adjustable mount for CURT weight distribution hitches, helping buyers check system and capacity fit.
- 83⁄4-inch drop
- Multiple head-height adjustment holes
- 3⁄4-inch holes spaced 11⁄4 inches center to center
- Fits 2-inch receivers and is rated for 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW
- The listing identifies it as an adjustable mount for CURT weight distribution hitches.
Skip it if you need a 21⁄2-inch receiver shank; CURT 17132 is listed to fit that receiver size.
Pick this for a CURT weight distribution hitch using a 2-inch receiver and needing multiple head-height positions with an 83⁄4-inch drop. Keep its 15,000-pound GTW and 1,500-pound TW ratings in view when assessing the setup.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Trailer |
| Included Components | WD Shank |
| Item Weight | 32 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 17124 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Model Number | 17124 |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: CURT 17124 Replacement Weight Distribution Hitch Shank, 2-Inch Receiver, 8-3/4-Inch Drop
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#3 · Balanced Rise
3. CURT 17121 Shank
- Weight: 30.7 lb
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer
Best for: Reversible CURT height adjustment.
Why it ranks #3: Offers a 6-inch drop and 10-1/4-inch rise for a 2-inch receiver, with multiple head-height holes and listed 15,000-pound GTW capacity.
Flip the CURT 17121 to select up to 6 inches of drop or 101⁄4 inches of rise, giving a 2-inch receiver setup two directions of height adjustment. Multiple head-height holes further support positioning a CURT weight distribution hitch head for the towing arrangement.
The reversible shank provides up to 6 inches of drop or 101⁄4 inches of rise, while 3⁄4-inch holes spaced 11⁄4 inches apart let the hitch head move among adjustment positions. CURT lists the shank for its weight distribution hitches and rates it up to 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW. Those details help buyers assess height flexibility and capacity for a compatible setup; the title specifies a 2-inch receiver.
- Reversible for up to 6-inch drop or 101⁄4-inch rise
- Multiple head-height adjustment holes
- 3⁄4-inch holes spaced 11⁄4 inches apart
- Rated for up to 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW
- The maximum drop is 6 inches, less than its available 101⁄4-inch rise.
Skip it if you need more than 6 inches of drop; CURT 17123 provides up to 7 inches of drop.
This CURT suits owners of a 2-inch receiver and CURT weight distribution hitch who need meaningful rise with reversible adjustment. Its maximum 6-inch drop is the key boundary when matching hitch and trailer height.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Trailer |
| Included Components | WD Shank |
| Item Weight | 30.7 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 17121 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Model Number | 17121 |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: CURT 17121 Weight Distribution Shank, 2" Receiver, 6" Drop, 10-1/4" Rise
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#4 · Longer Reach
4. Husky 32554 Shank
- Weight: 10 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer
Best for: Husky 8.75-inch-drop shank.
Why it ranks #4: Lists an 8.75-inch drop and a 10-inch length, making it a possible fit when that drop and shank length suit the setup.
An 8.75-inch drop is the defining dimension of the Husky Towing 32554 shank, offering a pronounced downward adjustment for a weight distribution hitch setup. Its listed 10-inch length and alloy-steel construction give buyers concrete dimensions and material information to consider when choosing a replacement shank.
The 8.75-inch drop is the key fit consideration for buyers whose trailer height calls for that downward adjustment. At 10 inches long, the shank also provides a stated length for planning the receiver-to-hitch arrangement. Alloy steel is specified as the material, and the listing identifies the component as a weight distribution hitch shank for a trailer. The supplied information does not provide receiver dimensions or a load rating, so those details cannot be assessed from this listing.
- 8.75-inch drop stated in the product title
- 10-inch shank length stated in the product title
- Alloy-steel material specified
- Identified as a weight distribution hitch shank
- The supplied product information does not state receiver dimensions or a towing-capacity rating.
Skip it if you need a stated 2-inch receiver fit and capacity rating; CURT 17123 lists both fit details and capacity figures.
This Husky suits a buyer prioritizing the specified 8.75-inch drop and 10-inch length in a weight distribution shank. The supplied listing does not establish receiver size or capacity, so those requirements remain important boundaries.
Full product details
| Brand | Husky Towing Products |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Trailer |
| Included Components | Weight Distribution Hitch Shank |
| Item Weight | 10 pounds |
| Manufacturer | HUSKY TOWING |
| Part Number | 32554 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 32555 |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including styrene which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Husky Towing 32554 10" L Shank W/8.75" Drop
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #5: Lists an 8.75-inch drop and 14-inch length; the longer shank may suit a setup needing more reach, though receiver and capacity details are not provided.
The Husky 32555 pairs a 14-inch length with an 8.75-inch drop, giving buyers two concrete dimensions to evaluate for their weight distribution hitch arrangement. Its listing identifies it as a Husky weight distribution hitch shank, with product dimensions also provided for planning space around the setup.
A stated 14-inch length and 8.75-inch drop help narrow the choice for a hitch arrangement that calls for those dimensions. The product dimensions are listed as 16.69 by 12.28 by 2.79 inches, which can help when considering the shank's physical envelope. The listing identifies the model as a weight distribution hitch shank, but does not supply receiver-fit or load-rating details, limiting what can be verified from the available product information.
- 14-inch length stated in the product title
- 8.75-inch drop stated in the product title
- Product dimensions listed as 16.69 by 12.28 by 2.79 inches
- Identified as a weight distribution hitch shank
- The supplied product information does not state receiver dimensions or a towing-capacity rating.
Skip it if you need a stated 2-inch receiver fit and load rating; CURT 17123 lists both receiver fit and capacity figures.
Choose this Husky when its stated 14-inch length and 8.75-inch drop match the intended arrangement. The listing offers physical dimensions, but receiver compatibility and towing capacity are not established in the supplied details.
Full product details
| Brand | Husky Towing Products |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 5 pounds |
| Item model number | 32555 |
| Manufacturer | HUSKY TOWING |
| Part Number | 32555 |
| Model | Weight Distribution Hitch Shank |
| Dimensions | 16.69 x 12.28 x 2.79 inches |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including styrene which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Husky Towing 32555 14" L Shank W/8.75" Drop
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#6 · SwayPro Match
6. Blue Ox BXW4002 Shank
- Weight: 2 lb
- Material: Metal
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Car, Truck, Van
Best for: Blue Ox SwayPro setups.
Why it ranks #6: Fits 2-inch receivers and is intended for Blue Ox SwayPro systems, with nine-hole adjustment and listed 15,000-pound GTW capacity.
Nine-hole adjustment and operation in either a raised or dropped position make the Blue Ox BXW4002 a flexible-height shank for SwayPro owners. It fits 2-inch receivers and carries stated limits of 15,000 pounds maximum trailer weight and 1,500 pounds maximum tongue weight.
The nine-hole, 9-inch adjustment arrangement gives SwayPro users options for positioning the hitch, while the stated ability to work raised or dropped supports different height setups. Its 2-inch receiver fit identifies the receiver size, and Blue Ox specifies use with its SwayPro weight distribution system. The 15,000-pound maximum trailer weight and 1,500-pound maximum tongue weight give buyers capacity figures to compare with their towing requirements.
- Nine-hole adjustment over a stated 9-inch dimension
- Works in raised or dropped position
- Fits 2-inch receivers
- Rated for up to 15,000 pounds trailer weight and 1,500 pounds tongue weight
- Intended for use with a Blue Ox SwayPro weight distribution system.
Skip it if you use a CURT weight distribution hitch; CURT 17123 is listed as compatible with CURT hitch heads.
Choose the BXW4002 for a Blue Ox SwayPro setup needing a 2-inch receiver shank with raised-or-dropped positioning. Its system-specific compatibility is the key boundary, alongside the stated trailer- and tongue-weight limits.
Full product details
| Brand | Blue Ox |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, Truck, Van |
| Included Components | Blue Ox BXW4002 SwayPro Weight Distribution Shank for 2" Receivers – 9-Hole Adjustment x 9", 15,000 lbs. GTW / 1,500 lbs. TW |
| Item Weight | 2 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Blue Ox |
| Part Number | BXW4002 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Please contact us if you experience any issues within 30 days of receipt. |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | BXW4002 |
Listed on Amazon as: Blue Ox BXW4002 SwayPro 2′′ Receiver Weight Distribution Shank | 9 Hole Adjustment x 9” | Works in Raised or Dropped Position | Maximum Trailer Weight 15,000 lbs
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#7
7. Reese 63971 Shank
- Weight: 22.1 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Car, Truck
Best for: Drop-position-only Reese setup.
Why it ranks #7: Lists 15,000-pound GTW and 1,500-pound TW capacity with a 14-inch length, but its listing says it is for drop position only.
The Reese 63971 is explicitly intended for drop-position use only, a key constraint for buyers whose weight distribution arrangement needs downward rather than reversible adjustment. Its 14-inch length and stated 15,000-pound GTW and 1,500-pound TW figures help define its physical and capacity profile.
The 14-inch length provides a concrete dimension for evaluating the shank's place in the receiver arrangement, while the drop-position-only instruction rules out using it in a raised position. The listing gives maximum figures of 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW in the title. A black powder-coat finish over A-Coat is also specified, giving buyers the listed finish information when selecting a shank for their setup.
- 14-inch length stated in the product title
- Specified for drop-position use only
- Title lists 15,000-pound GTW and 1,500-pound TW
- Black powder-coat finish over A-Coat
- Use is limited to the drop position; it is not specified for raised-position use.
Skip it if you need a shank that works raised or dropped; Blue Ox BXW4002 is listed for both positions.
This Reese suits buyers whose setup calls for a 14-inch shank used in the drop position and whose capacity needs align with the listed figures. Its drop-only use is an important boundary for height planning.
Full product details
| Brand | REESE |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, Truck |
| Included Components | 63971 |
| Item Weight | 22.1 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Pro Series |
| Part Number | 63971 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Includes manufacturer provided warranty |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 63971 |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including styrene which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Reese 63971 Weight Distribution Shank for 15000-Pound (GTW) and 1500-Pound (TW) 14-Inch Length
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #8: Offers 7 inches of drop and 10-1/2 inches of rise for a 2-inch receiver and claims CURT hitch compatibility, but gives no capacity rating.
The VODCACA shank combines up to 7 inches of drop with up to 101⁄2 inches of rise, giving compatible weight distribution setups room to adjust hitch-head height. Its listed 2-inch receiver fit and CURT hitch compatibility make it a replacement option for owners using that system.
The shank fits a 2-by-2-inch receiver opening with a 5⁄8-inch hitch-pin hole, while the stated CURT weight distribution hitch compatibility identifies the intended hitch system. Flip between a maximum 7-inch drop and 101⁄2-inch rise to address different height needs. Its overall dimensions are 131⁄4 inches high and 11 inches long, useful measurements when considering the space the shank occupies. VODCACA describes installation as a sequence of a few steps.
- Up to 7-inch drop and 101⁄2-inch rise
- Fits 2-by-2-inch receiver openings with 5⁄8-inch pin holes
- Listed as compatible with CURT weight distribution hitches
- Overall dimensions are 131⁄4 inches high by 11 inches long
- The supplied specifications do not state a gross trailer or tongue weight rating.
Skip it if you need a published 15,000-pound GTW rating; CURT 17123 lists that capacity for its shank.
Consider this for a CURT hitch owner who needs a 2-inch receiver shank with both drop and rise adjustment. Its listing provides dimensions and fit details, but no towing-capacity rating to assess against a setup.
Full product details
| Brand | VODCACA |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | / |
| Manufacturer | VODCACA |
| Part Number | 17123 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 2 year manufacturer |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | 17123 |
Listed on Amazon as: 17123 Replacement Weight Distribution Hitch Shank | 2-Inch Receiver 7-Inch Drop, 10-1/2-Inch Rise
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#9
9. CURT 17132 Shank
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer
Best for: CURT 21⁄2-inch receiver fit.
Why it ranks #9: Provides an adjustable CURT hitch mount rated at 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW, but fits a 2-1/2-inch receiver rather than a 2-inch one.
The CURT 17132 is the listed choice in this group for a 21⁄2-inch receiver, paired with an 8-inch drop. Multiple head-height holes and stated capacity figures make it a replacement shank option for compatible CURT weight distribution hitch setups using that larger receiver opening.
Its 21⁄2-by-21⁄2-inch receiver fit and 5⁄8-inch hitch-pin hole specify the connection, distinguishing it from 2-inch receiver shanks. Multiple 3⁄4-inch head-height holes spaced 11⁄4 inches apart provide adjustment positions for the hitch head. CURT lists capacity up to 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW. Together, the receiver size, adjustment holes, and ratings help buyers evaluate connection, positioning, and capacity for a CURT weight distribution hitch.
- Fits 21⁄2-by-21⁄2-inch receiver openings
- 8-inch drop
- 3⁄4-inch head-height holes spaced 11⁄4 inches apart
- Rated for 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW
- The receiver fit is 21⁄2 inches, not the 2-inch size used by several shanks.
Skip it if you have a 2-inch receiver; CURT 17123 is listed for 2-by-2-inch receiver openings.
Choose this CURT when the vehicle has a 21⁄2-inch receiver and the hitch arrangement calls for an 8-inch drop. Its multiple adjustment holes and stated capacity suit CURT weight distribution setups, but receiver size is decisive.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Trailer |
| Included Components | WD Shank |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 17132 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 17132 |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: Curt Manufacturing 17132 Weight Distribution Hitch Replacement Shank (fits 2-1/2" Receiver, 8" Drop)
View on Amazon
#10
10. BulletProof 3-Inch Shank
- Weight: 37 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Car, RV, Truck, Van
Best for: Three-inch receiver shank buyer.
Why it ranks #10: Its listing describes a 3-inch solid-steel weight distribution shank and includes a pin and R-clip, but gives no drop range or hitch-head fit details.
A 3-inch solid-steel shank makes the BulletProof Weight Distribution Shank a specific option for setups requiring that shank size. It includes a corrosion-resistant pin and R-clip to secure the shank in the vehicle's receiver tube, keeping the listed fastening components together for installation.
The 3-inch solid-steel construction identifies the shank size and material, while the included 15⁄8-inch corrosion-resistant pin and R-clip provide the stated hardware for securing it in a receiver tube. Compatibility is listed for cars, RVs, trucks, and vans. Those facts help buyers assess the receiver connection and vehicle category, but the supplied information does not state drop, rise, or weight ratings, so the shank's adjustment range and capacity cannot be evaluated here.
- 3-inch solid-steel shank
- Includes a 15⁄8-inch corrosion-resistant pin
- Includes an R-clip to secure the shank in the receiver tube
- Vehicle compatibility lists cars, RVs, trucks, and vans
- The supplied product information does not state drop, rise, or towing-capacity ratings.
Skip it if you need listed drop-and-rise measurements and capacity figures; CURT 17123 specifies both adjustment range and ratings.
This fits buyers seeking a 3-inch solid-steel shank with its securing pin and R-clip included. Confirm that its stated shank size suits the intended receiver; drop, rise, and towing capacity are not provided in the supplied details.
Full product details
| Brand | BulletProof Hitches |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, RV, Truck, Van |
| Included Components | 3" Weight Distribution Shank and 1 5/8" Corrosion Resistant Pin and R-Clip |
| Item Weight | 37 pounds |
| Manufacturer | BulletProof Hitches |
| Part Number | WD3SHANK |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | WD3SHANK |
Listed on Amazon as: Bulletproof 3" Weight Distribution Shank
View on AmazonAvoid receiver and hitch-head mismatch
A shank can have the right drop and still be incompatible with the receiver or weight distribution head. Most clearly specified options here fit 2-inch receivers, including the CURT 17123, CURT 17124, CURT 17121, and Blue Ox BXW4002. The CURT 17132 instead requires a 2-1/2-inch receiver.
The BulletProof listing identifies a 3-inch shank but does not specify a receiver opening or hitch-head compatibility, so do not infer a match from the product title alone. Head compatibility matters too: CURT describes its shanks as adjustable mounts for CURT weight distribution hitches, while Blue Ox identifies its shank for SwayPro systems.
Confirm the receiver opening, hitch-pin hole, head connection, and any brand-specific fit requirements against your existing equipment before purchase. A dimensional mismatch can prevent installation, regardless of how suitable the listed drop appears.
Treat capacity as a system limit
A shank’s listed capacity does not establish the capacity of the complete towing setup. The CURT 17123 listing specifies 15,000 pounds GTW and 1,500 pounds TW, but also says capacity is limited by spring-bar capacity and the lowest-rated component. CURT 17124 and 17121 list the same figures.
Blue Ox lists 15,000 pounds maximum trailer weight and 1,500 pounds maximum tongue weight for its shank, while the Reese listing gives matching figures. By contrast, the VODCACA listing supplies adjustment dimensions but no capacity figures, and the Husky listings do not provide capacity details in the supplied information.
Compare the shank rating with the receiver, hitch head, bars, and trailer requirements rather than selecting by one number alone. Where a listing omits a decisive rating, verify it before relying on that shank for your intended load.
How to Choose a Weight Distribution Shank
Drop and rise range
Choose a shank whose adjustment range covers the measured height difference while allowing the hitch head to sit in a usable position. The CURT 17123 offers up to 7 inches of drop or 10-1/2 inches of rise; the CURT 17121 offers a 6-inch drop and 10-1/4-inch rise. CURT 17124 and both Husky listings specify an 8-3/4-inch drop, while the VODCACA 17123 lists 7 inches of drop and 10-1/2 inches of rise.
The CURT 17124 or a Husky model may suit a setup needing more drop, while a flipped CURT 17123 or 17121 suits a setup needing rise. Confirm the actual adjustment positions with the hitch head and trailer attached as directed by the hitch manufacturer.
Receiver size and system fit
Match the receiver opening and weight distribution system before comparing other features. The CURT 17123, CURT 17124, CURT 17121, Blue Ox BXW4002, and VODCACA 17123 specify a 2-inch receiver. The CURT 17132 specifies a 2-1/2-inch receiver, so it is the wrong fit for a 2-inch opening.
The Blue Ox model is specifically intended for SwayPro systems; the CURT shanks describe compatibility with CURT heads. The VODCACA listing claims compatibility with CURT systems, but provides less capacity information.
A buyer with a 2-inch receiver and CURT head should start with the CURT options; a SwayPro owner should consider the Blue Ox. Verify the exact head connection and pin-hole requirements for any other setup.
Length and capacity information
Consider shank length and listed capacity together, and do not treat a single component rating as the whole system limit. The Husky 32554 is listed as 10 inches long and the Husky 32555 as 14 inches long, both with an 8.75-inch drop. Reese 63971 also lists a 14-inch length and 15,000-pound GTW and 1,500-pound TW ratings, but specifies drop-position use only.
CURT 17123, 17124, and 17121 list 15,000-pound GTW and 1,500-pound TW figures. Longer Husky or Reese options may suit a setup that specifically needs that length, while CURT models make sense when their stated ratings and adjustment fit.
Check all component limits; CURT notes its capacity is constrained by spring bars and the lowest-rated component.
Which weight distribution shank should I choose?
For a typical 2-inch receiver and compatible CURT head, choose the CURT 17123 Shank first: it provides both drop and rise adjustment and lists 15,000-pound GTW capacity. If you need a deeper listed drop, the CURT 17124 Shank offers 8-3/4 inches; if your setup needs a 6-inch drop with substantial rise, consider the CURT 17121 Shank. SwayPro owners should look at the Blue Ox BXW4002 Shank, which is specified for that system.
Choose the CURT 17132 Shank only when your receiver is 2-1/2 inches. The Husky options may suit users targeting an 8.75-inch drop and a particular 10- or 14-inch length.
Before buying, confirm receiver, head, adjustment, and complete-system capacity.
Related Buying Guides
- Best Weight Distribution Hitches
- Best Weight Distribution Hitch Bars
- Best Weight Distribution Hitch For Camper
- Best Weight Distribution Hitch For Travel Trailer
- Best Weight Distribution Hitch For Lifted Truck
- Best Sway Control Weight Distribution Hitch
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure the drop needed to level my trailer?
Measure on level ground with the trailer loaded as you normally tow it. Compare the trailer coupler height with the hitch’s ball height when the tow vehicle is loaded. The difference indicates the adjustment needed; check the shank’s stated drop or rise range and confirm the trailer maker’s leveling guidance.
Can I use a weight distribution shank with a different brand of hitch head?
Only if the shank and head are explicitly compatible. Matching receiver size alone does not establish that their attachment geometry or use is approved. Check both manufacturers’ compatibility information; for example, the CURT 17123 is specified to work with CURT weight distribution heads, while the Blue Ox BXW4002 is specified for SwayPro.
How can I tell whether my receiver and hitch components are rated for my loaded trailer?
Compare your loaded trailer’s gross weight and tongue weight with the ratings for the receiver and every hitch component, including the shank, head, and spring bars. The complete setup is limited by its lowest-rated component. Do not treat a shank’s listed capacity as proof that the rest of the system has the same rating.
Does flipping a shank change its available adjustment?
It can, but the available drop and rise depend on the specific shank’s design and listed range. The CURT 17123, for example, can be flipped for up to 7 inches of drop or 10-1/2 inches of rise. Check the product details and confirm that the resulting ball height levels your loaded trailer.
What should I check before choosing a replacement shank?
Confirm the receiver size, hitch-head compatibility, needed drop or rise, shank length where specified, and complete-system capacity. Match the shank to your measured setup rather than choosing by one feature alone. If any rating or fit detail is unclear, verify it with the hitch or vehicle manufacturer before towing.
Final Words
For a typical 2-inch receiver and compatible CURT head, the CURT 17123 is the strongest starting point when its adjustment range matches your measurements. Choose the CURT 17124 for its listed 8-3/4-inch drop, the CURT 17121 when its 6-inch drop and substantial rise suit your setup, or the Blue Ox BXW4002 for SwayPro. Use the CURT 17132 only with a 2-1/2-inch receiver, and verify every component’s fit and rating before towing.



