The present work has arisen from a continuing need to improve the performance of round-steel lifting (hoist) and mining chains, and the hypothesis that this might be done by modification of the link geometry. The finite element (FE) method has been used to analyse the stresses in the chain links. The effects of link length and the bend radius in the crown were considered. The effect of maintaining link length constant and departing from the conventional straight sided (standard) geometry by changing the link shape from eight shape (pinched), through straight sided, to elliptical has been examined. Mining chains made from non-circular section rod have also been investigated. The finite element work has been supported by practical investigations using through-yield strain gauges.