Winch wisdom: Let’s find the best winch for you

If you're a regular off-roader, a winch is not just a tool; it's your best friend. Without one, you might find yourself spending a frustrating afternoon trying to dig out your vehicle from mud or sand. To save you from that fate, we've whipped up a handy guide to help you choose the ideal winch that'll pull you out of any pickle. And in fact, their use doesn’t stop there; they’re also great for pulling other heavy items.

Hand winch or electric winch: making the smart choice

Choosing between a hand winch and an electric winch can be tricky. Both have their merits, so here’s the lowdown to help you decide:

Cost and efficiency

When weighing your options, consider the cost and efficiency of a winch to ensure you get the most out of your adventures.

• Hand winches: These are generally more wallet-friendly but require a bit of elbow grease.

• Electric winches: While more costly, they offer quicker and more effortless operation.

Load capacity and battery life

When selecting a winch, considering its load capacity and battery life is also important for sustained performance and convenience.

Which winch rope to choose

The choice between steel cables and synthetic ropes can significantly affect your winching experience.

Steel cable

Steel cable is a robust choice for winching and is known for its strength and durability in challenging environments.

• Durability: Steel cables are tough and ideal for rugged terrains peppered with rocks and debris.

• Safety: They are prone to fraying, so handling them with protective gloves is a good idea.

• Cost: Typically less expensive than synthetic options and proven over time for reliability.

Synthetic rope

Explore the benefits of synthetic rope, a lightweight and strong alternative that enhances safety and usability in your winching operations.

• Handling: Lighter and easier to manage.

• Maintenance: Synthetic ropes are very durable but require protection from harsh elements when not in use to prevent fraying. 

How powerful should your winch be?

When choosing a winch, the winch rating is a key figure to consider. It tells you the maximum weight the winch can handle under ideal conditions. But remember, real-world performance can vary. Factors such as the cable angle and engine size play a role.

One of the most significant factors affecting your winch’s muscle is the number of layers of cable wrapped around the drum. More layers mean reduced power; in fact, you could see up to a 40% drop in strength if the drum is fully spooled. Keep this in mind, especially if you're tackling heavy-duty tasks.

Exploring mount options: which one fits your ride?

How you mount your winch can impact its efficiency and ease of use. Here’s three popular options to consider.

Bumper mount: The go-to for most adventurers, bumper mounts are straightforward to install and incredibly versatile.

Multi-mount: Offering flexibility, the multi-mount allows for a winch on both the front and back of your vehicle. Though versatile, it's slightly less durable than other options.

Winch bumper: Integrated seamlessly into your vehicle, the winch bumper serves as a sturdy mount for your winch and protects your vehicle's front end.

Additional features to watch out for

When shopping for a winch, don’t overlook these essential features:

Cable length: Typical winches have a cable length ranging from 24 to 40 meters. You should stick to the manufacturer's guidelines if purchasing separately to choose the right length.

Waterproofing: Given that your winch often faces the elements, opting for a model with waterproof features can be smart. This helps ensure longevity and reliability.

Remote control: For added safety and convenience, look for winches that come with a remote control. Available in both corded and cordless forms, a remote allows you to operate your winch from a safe distance, enhancing your winching experience.

Need a hand?

Within our extensive help centre, you'll discover a wide range of frequently asked questions about delivery, shipping, product information and more.

For more personalised assistance than the help centre, feel free to contact our customer service team. Our dedicated experts are ready to address any of your concerns, whether general inquiries or product-specific questions.