Abstract: A butt hook having a main body defining a laterally open cavity within which is received a choker line ferrule. A sleeve on the main body is positionable therealong to open and close the cavity for release and retention of the ferrule. A winchline receiving, removable shackle on the main body confines the sleeve against opening movement to assure ferrule and choker line retention. The shackle is of the type manually removable enabling choker line detachment and replacement without the aid of tools. A modified form of butt hook utilizes a sleeve of reduced length slidably mounted on the main body to open and close a ferrule receiving cavity. A key on the main body prevents axial movement of the sleeve until a keyway in the sleeve is rotated into alignment with the key to permit axial sleeve movement.