This model is ideal for boats and other jobs up to 2,000 lbs. The comfort grip takes the burden off your hands. The corrosion-resilient zinc keeps it sturdy and well-protected for years on end.

Cons

The included strap falls apart too quickly. No mounting hardware.

Best Bang for the Buck

TR Industrial

600 lb hand winch

Best for Small Jobs

The anti-slip surface safely secures your straps and steel cables and the large load they bear.

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Best for Small Jobs

Bottom Line

The anti-slip surface safely secures your straps and steel cables and the large load they bear.

Pros

This affordable winch works well for ski boat towing and volleyball nets. Two-way ratchet adjusts to the job at hand. The curved handle with an anti-slip grip makes it easier to crank.

Cons

Some reports of the handle coming loose.

TYT

1200 lb Boat Trailer Winch with 8M Steel Cable

Small Yet Durable

This dark-black trailer winch with a versatile drum keeps holds small loads well out of the box.

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Small Yet Durable

Bottom Line

This dark-black trailer winch with a versatile drum keeps holds small loads well out of the box.

Pros

Designed to resist standard wear and tear you find in nature. The ergonomic anti-slip handle makes cranking the unit feel comfortable and secure. It can be mounted out of the box.

Cons

People have a hard time installing the winch.

Favorite Trade

3500 lb hand winch

Strongest Capacity

This rugged, carbon steel winch with solid construction and a 2-way ratchet system displays every gear.

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Strongest Capacity

Bottom Line

This rugged, carbon steel winch with solid construction and a 2-way ratchet system displays every gear.

Pros

This winch's versatile design works for cars, boats, and yard equipment alike. The steel wire cable is included in the box. The anti-slip handle is extra long for more support as you go. Works 2 ways.

Cons

The included strap and hook are low quality.

Reese Towpower

Compact hand winch

Simple Yet Solid

A compact winch, 20-ft strap, and hook that holds up to 1,500 lbs with this rugged and powerful option.

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Simple Yet Solid

Bottom Line

A compact winch, 20-ft strap, and hook that holds up to 1,500 lbs with this rugged and powerful option.

Pros

The zinc-plated winch is built to keep its shiny finish longer. The comfort grip won't irritate your hands. Built to require minimal maintenance for years to come.

Cons

Buyers complain about the lack of proper nuts and bolts out of the box.

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First Reviewed

November 26, 2021

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Updated January 2023

If you find yourself frequently needing to lift heavy objects, a hand winch is a good tool to have. It’s a device with a handle and a spool that has a thick cable with a hook at the end. You hook the cable onto the heavy item, crank the handle, and the rope pulls it up. Probably the biggest consideration when buying a hand winch is the weight it can handle. Heavy-duty winches can take up to 12,000 lbs., but most do 2000 lbs. or less. Most have a finish that’s meant to prevent corrosion. Some, but not all, hand winches include the cable. If you use a winch frequently, make sure to get one with an ergonomic handle.

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