Do NOT Buy an Off-Road Winch || Watch First

[@michaeltuggle9602]

I am very tired of hearing about equipment that catches the ire of fellow hobbiests. Sticking a warn sticker over another brand of winch, people giving others a bunch of bs over smittybilt bilt winches, etc. Run what you want or can afford. Surround yourself with others who have respect for you and when something fails, they are there to help you get out of a pickle, not to scorn you over some particular piece of equipment. We all have some sort of resource limitation-mechanical ability, financial ability, etc. just help others, is that so hard?

[@jerryclleung]

FACTS!!!

[@kevinviperherbig7066]

That’s right, we are all out there to have a good time with our fellow 4x4er’s and to help each out of a jam, if we can.

[@matthewkirkland6497]

I can’t afford expensive I bought cheap 9500lb zesuper for 249 works fine on my sport gladiator. Can’t afford rubicon but built my sport almost as good as rubicon for 1000s less

[@jimmoss1738]

I have an 03 TJ and a 12K Badlands winch. I also carry a high lift Jack and some other recovery gear. I have a young son who likes to ride trail with me. I rarely have to use it but if I need it to get us home? I have it. Out on the trail, I’d be the first person to help someone in need. Not only is it the right thing to do, it’s a great lesson for our kids. Anytime someone spends much time off-road, it’s a just a matter of time before you’re gonna need help too. (Lol speaking from experience) Bottom line, get out there and make memories with your kids on the trail, in the woods or just in nature and don’t forget to be a good steward when the opportunity arises.

[@davids5006]

Harbor freight has came a long way 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@SuperDad1776]

I’m runnin the 12k badlands winch on my 93’ XJ and 100% regret not getting one on every 4x4 rig I’ve ever owned, I’ve used it to pull almost a dozen rigs from being stuck over this last winter alone. I’ve used it for my own rig several times of getting stuck or needing just a little extra support to not break stuff. The best investment I’ve ever made by far.

[@davids5006]

I've my eye on that one

[@Pixx4you]

And get a snatch block and an extra long wrap strap while you're at it.

[@bandjolyn]

I've also had my eye on this one for my TJ. Still running it and still loving it?

[@Zoroaster4]

I have cheaper vehicles so I think I'm gonna get a badlands and a mount that goes on a trailer hitch receiver. I'm gonna add a front hitch receiver too I think.

[@SuperDad1776]

@@Zoroaster4 that’s what I have as well now, it’s worth every penny. Winch hitch mounts are amazing, I build an upper tube receiver off my tow hitch that i can haul a trailer an use the winch to pull rigs onto the trailer. I’ve switched my hitch winch between my truck, van, and xj all in one day I love it. I do plan on having a dedicated front winch on my off-road XJ’s and swap the hitch winch between the backs when needed.

[@Jinx7red]

I believe it's better to have it and not need it vs. needing it and not having it. Great video!

[@justinsmith623]

From plucking zero turn mowers out of ditches on Saturday mornings to dragging a pickup truck back on the road that bottomed out turning around almost backing off the cliff, my winch always saves the day. It’s an incredible tool. Of all mods, I recommend getting a winch first. You’re better off thanking God for having a winch than praying someone comes along that does. I would go so far as to say that if you’re a homeowner that rarely goes offroad, a winch is still money well spent. These new-fangled synthetic setups really save on weight as well. Add a treesaver and a snatchblock and we now have a party. Safety is the name of the game.

[@NikkiTheOtter]

It's one of the reasons I'm adding a winch mount on my truck. I live on a 20 acre ranch, so there's a LOT of things a winch is better for than a come-along. Also I have yet to see a hand-winch method that exceeds the capability and efficiency of a 30,000lb winch bolted to a 1-ton truck.

[@jjcocca8804]

Totally agree man my dad helped a lot of people with his winch and if you own land it's one of the best tools to have.

[@weatherornotsubaru]

This makes me feel better about adding a winch to our family adventure vehicle. We have the money, so went with a WARN Axon 55-s. Our vehicle isn't really designed to have a winch on the front (Subaru Ascent), but Rallitek has done a bunch of them (welded to the crash bar I believe). I can think a few other uses for the winch when out overlanding/camping too. Could use the line to hang a tarp over, hang clothes, etc...if needed in a pinch. Or moving stuff off the road when way out in the woods/mountains, perhaps after shopping a fallen tree, stuff like that.

[@stephenwilliamson8012]

As a guy who is 100% new to 4x4 vehicles and wheeling, beyond driving a humvee in the military, I really appreciate these videos. There’s a lot of new things to learn about and it can be a bit overwhelming. I bought my Gladiator in December and it’ll be a slow process modding it out, as I have limited disposable income. But I’m excited about the possibilities.

[@dina254]

Thank you for your service.

[@jk-76]

I learned to wheel 8n HMMWVs and LMTVs. My XJ isn't much different.

[@bboness713]

That vehicle has amazing capability stock. Focus on getting experience driving and don't worry about buying all the cool toys. As long as you have a buddy with a rope or possibly a winch you'll be good to go.

[@J-P88]

I went 8 years without a winch, didnt really need one, as soon as I did get one I used it probably 6 times within first year, 4 times helping mates and twice for myself. Recovery could of been done other ways but it was always safer and easier to just use the winch. And with budget options available it is a no brainer fitting one especially if you do technical tracks

[@naceks]

Similar for me - only difference is that i used mine 6 times in my first week 😂

[@killgoretrout877]

a witch saved my butt in two situations where there were no other recovery options

[@ctrlnull7228]

Really counts where and how much you wheel Really. East coast gets nasty. I used mine constantly on my first jeep when I was younger. Now I don't go out as much cause I hate the mud now 😂

[@gab4690]

Just like my conceal carry id rather have a winch and never use it then not have one when I need it.

[@davids5006]

Exactly

[@ivanpadilla9875]

perfectly said!!

[@makingmistakeswithgreg]

I ran without a winch for 7 years, been running with them for the last 10. Getting out of precarious situations was difficult without a winch. I have used a a highlift jack as a winch, it sucks. If there is any stretch in the rope/strap you hook it to it doesn’t work, you will burn up the whole length of the jack without rescuing your vehicle. They don’t give much control either. It sounded like a great idea until I did it a few times and realized it’s not. I have a bubba rope and I have pulled/been pulled out tons of times with it. Great tool as are most “stretching” recovery straps. They are useless unless you have a second vehicle and can’t be used with a manual jack to pull your vehicle out. A winch is a must if you plan on wheeling alone at all or want to be self reliant. This past weekend I went wheeling for 4 days and had to use my winch 3 times for myself and 2 times for others. What took 5 minutes to recover would have been hours by hand. Not to mention I have been stuck in situations before where I couldn’t be recovered by a snatch strap, and if I didn’t have a winch I wouldn’t have been able to get out. I wheel harder trails than probably 99% of people so my needs are obviously different, but if you off road you will be glad you have a winch the first time you need it.

[@TheSamuraieater]

I have a winch on my jeep, I've never needed it to get unstuck, but I have used it a ton of times. It's great for helping to redirect the way a tree falls when clearing them. The biggest use I've had for it so far has been getting animals out of gullies and valleys, I work with animals and it's amazing how many animals decide it's great to have a baby in the middle of a snow storm in the bottom of a valley and leave it or they go down there to die. Throw it in a sled and pull it up the hill with the winch rather than drag it up by hand

[@jonfurse3931]

My friends and I used a hammer, T-post, and tow strap wrapped around a driven wheel and anchored to the t-post more than once when we were too poor for a winch.

[@redneckwithajeep5001]

Bonus tip for a winch. If you are a deer hunter it makes hanging one up a lot easier

[@TrailBuilt]

That's a fact! 😂

[@DirtDicular]

A jack, and rope will do the same thing assuming you have a vehicle

[@redneckwithajeep5001]

@ yeah that’s true

[@JT_Adventures]

I run alone a lot so I got a winch. I’ve only used it to help others in the past 4 years but am glad I have it.

[@bobvedder2451]

When i put a winch on a vehicle, it's not just for self recovery or to help others. I use a winch to pull down "widow makers" when i am falling trees that hang up on other trees, as well as many other uses. I do use a "rope along" to pretension trees that are difficult to fall. I also have a chainsaw winch which is a good way to get exercise!

[@jameshuggins4300]

When I was much younger ie; 30years ago a hilift is all I had and I quickly learned how how to use it 😅. I don't know if I'm any wiser but I am alot older so...... you can have my winch when you pry it from my cold dead hands!🤣🤣🤣

[@lesterbaboolal886]

lol

[@DirtTravelAdventures]

Haha same here!

[@dadventuretv2538]

Lol. Right there with you. Still carry the Hi-Lift too.

[@jameshuggins4300]

@@dadventuretv2538 😆 yeah I still own the same one I started with 👍

[@FisFis86]

😅 So.. any day now? I’m just kidding sir.

[@sierramantrvlnus]

I have a built Jeep and an off-road teardrop. And I solo travel. I've made use with just about anything available you get me out of predicaments. I found the winch to be a awesome peace to my kit of recovery. 12,000-pound Warn with a snatch block can pretty much get me out of anything. And yes, I have used it many many times. And it's not just for myself it's for my fellow Travelers I run across on the off-road.

[@Will-W]

We get 2-5 feet of snow at a time depending on the storm here in the Tahoe/Sierra area. Moving a downed tree or just getting out of the driveway can be an exercise requiring heavy equipment. A winch is just a good insurance policy.

[@xanderunderwoods3363]

Alaskan here, heavy duty winches are used often, and are just a way of life here. Yes if you get one, make sure its mounted to a proper reinforced high quality steel bumper. Seriously, make sure the steel is of the proper grade for a winch and can be properly installed in the first place. A LOT of vehicles are not designed for steel bumpers to be installed in the first place, like basically any vehicle from Europe. European vehicles are rolling digital accessories designed for cities, except a number of older European vehicles, just none of the new ones.

[@jamesmazurstudios]

#1 Reduce your tire pressure - This can get you out of most small situations. #2 Bring a shovel - Combined with nicely placed rocks your shovel and manual labour can get you out of most situations. #3 Talk to the approximately FIFTY 4x4 owners that I have winched out of bad situations over the years.

[@zainabe9503]

The term "most situations" can be tricky. You wouldn't know what would hit you. I was once an anti-wincher too, until the day I got stuck on a huge, extremely slippery muddy rut track (while raining!) not one, but TWO winches saved my truck. I was always leaning to the primitive simple things (heck I even carried shovel to dig it out), but no matter what we did, tyre pressure, diff lockers, momentum... all thrown out the window. Until those two recovery vehicles pulled one another, then pulled my truck, WITH THEIR winches. Their winches saved the day, and I'm a believer ever since.

[@johncole3010]

In the Philippines they dig a hole under the tire to change it. Mind over matter( if you don’t mind it don’t matter

[@MsKinnara]

I've have never used a Winch on ANY of my 4x4 vehicles I just carry a Long heavy duty tow strap and 2 short straps with D-Rings. I hook 1end to an object I know won't move and then use the short straps with the D-ring to attach the other end of the tow strap to my tire like you do with snow chains then just drive slowly letting the strap wind up around the tire center. It will get ANY vehicle out of a stuck situation without all the wheel spinning you see them do using a winch. it works going forward from front tires or backwards using rear tires NO digging needed. The tow strap will always wrap from the bottom as you go so it even helps lift the vehicle up out of deep holes as it's being wound around the tire. Just connect and slowly follow the line till your out.

[@JEEP-N-DIRT]

Great info, but in this day and age the availability of so many "budget" winches, it kinda makes it hard not to go ahead and just buy an inexpensive ($200) winch and have a snatch block or two. Sure beats the manual labor and saves ALOT of time. In addition, it's probably safer given that to use a manual extraction method especially if traveling alone, means having to be out of the vehicle that's not in park or someone holding the brake. Imagine being on a hill trying to "hi-lift" winch your vehicle and the strap or rope breaks and no one inside to hold the brake. Yikes!.

[@spuriouseffect]

And you don't need "aftermarket support" like he said. There is no need to purchase some fancy bumper to have a winch. They make receiver hitch plates, so all you need is a receiver mounted on the front and back of your vehicle. And as a bonus you can store the winch out of the elements so it lasts longer.

[@Soothsayer-rs5nb]

I’ve had winch for several years… absolutely love it. Pulled me out when wheeling alone and pulled out my trail mates also when wheeling in a group. Don’t leave home without one !

[@tugdrivinj]

I put a Harbor Freight 12000 on a brand new Gladiator. I was going to buy something else but it was the height of covid shortages and that was the only one I could get locally. Loved it. Used it for a ton of stuff never ended up needing it for getting myself unstuck. Now I traded for a one ton. I feel like I am going to be spending a ton more.

[@NikkiTheOtter]

Yeah, for a 1-ton you're looking at a 30,000lb winch. Quite a bit heftier. And VERY MUCH not something you can put on a hitch-caddy. Too heavy.

[@joealuise404]

I live in an area where all my offroading is literally dirt roads and puddles, that’s why I haven’t tried modding my jeep too far cuz Ik it’s a waste, it’s almost all stuff a stock wrangler sport could do, but when I installed a winch it did give me a sort of mental freedom to actually go looking for something that risks me getting stuck and actually caused me to need the winch once or twice, my mindset is even if you never use it, it’s still is there just incase and it gives you a sort of drive to find something gnarly to drive over

[@tomandhistruck]

Having a winch is a life saver! Especially when you have front and rear lockers. Adding lockers to your rig is almost an invitation to try to get your rig stuck haha Good times :) Proper recovery gear is paramount. Don't be a hero - just be amazing. I would NEVER hit a trail by my self or with friends without having a winch or proper recovery gear and tools. Here in the PNW, you can start the day in the high desert, run into some deep mud, rock fields, hill climbs and some tight, technical trails all in the same day. You never know what lies ahead of you if you are not familiar with the trails. Be ready for anything.

[@justinsmith623]

More true words have never been spoken. 😂

[@Scrambler85]

I have had a winch on the front of a vehicle for the last 30 years. I seldom do anything to get in a situation where I will need a winch. 95% of the time I have used my winches have been to rescue other people who were unprepared or did something stupid. I never go offroad without a 60" high-lift jack.

[@weatherornotsubaru]

For snow, Snow Socks are really nice. They also work great on ice, are super compact to carry, and far less harsh on your vehicle than tire chains ,etc. In some cases tire chains aren't should not be used at all (such as Subarus) since it can damage the drivetrain. I HIGHLY recommend carrying snow socks for your tires in the winter months.

[@deeeeeeps]

I have a Wyeth Scott come along (great come along) and just got back from a hunting trip where I had to move 8 trees off the path. Come alongs have got me out A LOT of bad situations but the older I get the more I'd like it to be electric. Especially when I'm by myself.

[@jasonh4167]

I wheel alone most of the time in the canadian rockys and the first things i got was a hi lift and a smitybilt winch, straps & 6' 3/8 chain. I've been stuck to the frame in thick bog, but i got out on 12 hrs. The key is to know how to utilize the equipment.

[@wtpence4731]

Thing about 4 wheeling is... the unexpected seems to Always happen ! Having a winch is one of the Best ways to be able get yourself or others out of a Real jam.

[@gutajo01]

Thank you for a great video like all your videos!!! I do have a winch it's a harborfreight 12000lb and I am no ashamed of it is the other way around, those few times I when offroad with my sons and a dog and have a recovery system that can get myself out of most of the situation it's great... you feel a little more confident on your trip I believe it's a great upgrade!!!

[@carlossalazar2164]

Fkn winch is a work horse

[@ivanpadilla9875]

that harbor frieght winch saved atleast 10 stuck rigs on my homies 4runner!! its legit

[@GregOttersbach]

About 45 years ago I built an ultralight portal buggy designed to handle the tough trails of Moab. My portal buggy was extremely light being under 2000 pounds. Too keep weight to a minimum I installed a boat hand wench with a flat nylon pull strap similar to a Reese Towpower sold by Amazon today. The boat hand wench worked great, being less than 4 pounds! I used it a number of times to pull it out of snow in the La Sals and out of deep water when driving up Left Hand when that trail was open to wheeling. The deep water killed the engine so it would not start.

[@theninja9563]

Got a warrior bumper and APEX 12000 winch. Which has become a huge help in recovery and keeping myself out of trouble. Always keep a 20k pound tow strap that I use as a tree saver and a recovery tool to pull people our depending on the situation. Have not gotten myself stuck in my FJ Cruiser with lift and 33 KM3. Did 20+ snow recoveries within 2 days because a really bad snow storm. I use my rig for overlanding,ruff offroading with mud and pretty crazy terrain. No issues with the APEX winch

[@Josue-rd5gt]

I don’t go off road unless I’m hunting but I just started purchasing recovery gear, kinetic rope, D rings, soft shackles straps. I have a 4 x 4 truck and just paid it off and can finally afford to upgrade it. I’ve pulled out people from ditches with straps and figured I might as well buy the real gear in order to do it safely if I am able to help. I do plan on looking at a hidden hitch for the front of my ram 2500. I think what’s important is having recovery points I at the front and rear of your vehicle. Going to find out my truck doesn’t have any recovery points from the front bumper area.

[@EnhancedFocus]

Using high lift jacks is incredibly dangerous , make sure you know what your doing

[@keithmalmberg8395]

started with the HiLift and straps. After a few self recoveries put the winch on the jeep. The excuse that "U will spend the $$$ on the up grades and not need the winch" is just a lie you tell yourself and everyone on the trail knows it. All the up grades do is get you even more stuck in bigger badder places. I just couldn't go the Harbor Freight cheap so I put a Mile Marker on the jeep. Used it lots all over the place and even a couple times on the trail pulling me or others out of a jam.

[@sakomeow]

I'll always have a winch onboard, whether it's a bumper mount or a hitch cradle. There are too many uses to not carry at least a light-duty winch, self-recovery just one of them. A Warn Zeon wincher might look sideways at a Harbor Freight Badlands but as long as it pulls in a rope, it's worth something.

[@Jordan-ce7sf]

I have a Warn Industrial Series winch in a removable configuration for the front of my truck. I use it constantly, although never off road. You’ll be surprised how often you use it around your house/town

[@whiteorchid5412]

My 4x4 truck is a daily driver so my design goal is to set it up as a overland micro camper where much of the equipment I use off road can be removed when not in use to reduce dead weight, exposure to the elements and the possibility of theft. Consequently I'm considering installing a trailer hitch receiver on my from bumper that I can attach a easily removable electric winch to. So if I get into trouble I can break out the winch and plug it into the trailer receiver and I'll be good to go.

[@wayneherl1442]

i'm running a 09 Jk. I have a 9500 on the front bumper and an 8000 on the rear. They both have been life savers, I don't think I would do without the dual winches again.

[@KurNorock]

The very first day i put a winch on my jeep, i needed to use it 3 times. Not for me, but for other people on the trail who didn't have a winch. And before i had a winch, i had to make use of other people's winches. In short, if you think you don't need a winch, you aren't actually wheeling. You are just driving on dirt roads. And yes, you CAN use other methods like a hi-lift and straps. But that takes time. A lot of time. And sometimes the hi-lift isn't strong enough to do the job. They are only rated to 7000 pounds.

[@4wdtennessee459]

The only bad thing about the high lift jack or come a long as I’ve always called it puts you in the danger zone. And if you have to call a tow company to get you out then more than likely the winch is gonna cost the same as 1 recovery.

[@davids5006]

That's way I look at it, tow truck probably cost more then a good winch

[@ironjeeps6592]

I do majority of the time rock crawling or playing in the mud a little bit, I haven't gotten a winch yet but the people I go with have winchs. I do have kinetic ropes, hi lift, and straps I'm just waiting to get a new bumper then gonna buy winch. I got a 2015 jku Rubicon! You guys are awsome Jeep up the good content!

[@kendramckenna7312]

I put a winch on all 4x4 I own not just for hitting the trail but to help local people in my community if they end up in a ditch or one case a landscaper stuck in a medium on a major road.

[@richfarfugnuven6308]

When I was young and broke, I often got out of trouble with a cheap come along from Harbor Freight...

[@GONAVYCHIEF]

I have had a winch on at least one vehicle for the last ten years. We live on 10 acres, and we get stuck from time to time also we have a Bronco that we explore trails in the Sierra Nevada's. When you get stuck and there is no cell service you will be happy you have a winch. Great Video. Thank you.

[@TrailBuilt]

Happy it was helpful!

[@eddiesaur5206]

2020 Escape 1st high centered 3 times on snow 1st time payed $$$ to get out now i have better tires and a 20 foot strap saved me , I am going to start carrying a come along ramps thanks

[@robsterTN]

The first time I went off-road I got stuck and was glad I had a winch to pull myself out of a precarious situation. Well worth the investment if you’re going off-road.

[@TrailBuilt]

A winch will always be a top 3 upgrade I will do every time on my rig! Saves my butt way too much haha!

[@masterdriveroftoyotazupr4164]

Met some of the Coolest dudes this past weekend in Big Bear. They were setting up to go on a night run on John Bull Trail. Out of the group only 2 guys had winches and none of them worked. They laughed about it. These were built rigs too. 40s, 4-links, SAS, etc.

[@Mikeyg9096]

I have a Bad Land apex on mine, it's more than paid for it's self. I have used it to pull trees out of the road, I have used it once to keep from turning over backwards and one time to finish getting up a trail! It's the peace of mind of knowing you get out!

[@Beary98]

Wife's xj got the apex 12k with synthetic... Tracker might get the apex 5500 long drum, only a 3200 vehicle... "Budget" winches die because of a poor voltage supply, lower voltage means more amps for the same pull annd loads more heat... good battery (or two) and good wiring goes a long way

[@Beary98]

We carry kinetic ropes too, pulled a TON of people out this past winter with kinetic rope and blizzaks.

[@KTMcaptain]

Traction boards are amazing. Literally crawled up a soft sand hill with them. Just feel the grip, then off the board truck sank.

[@possessedjake13]

Personally for me I have the receiver style because I can switch it from vehicle to vehicle and use on the trailers. Was also the most cost effective way for me even though there is huge aftermarket support for my truck

[@bishop5537]

I am the kind of guy that doesnt really go anywhere that might need a winch. Call me boring, fine, but I cant afford to tear up my daily driver. I do have a winch on my truck, though, for all the idiots out there that do dumb shit and get stranded somewhere, and need recovery. I also have it because I live in northern Canada. We get some nasty weather up here. When the highways turn into hockey rinks, people slide off the road real easy! The last time the highways froze like that, I just cruised up and down the highway and pulled people out of the ditch because the tow trucks were running flat out and it was gonna be hours before they got rescued. Some of them would run out of fuel before then and freeze to death. Not gonna let that happen on my watch... Everyone I pulled out was incredibly grateful for me being out in such shitty weather, and everyone of them asked if they could give me some money for it. I gave them my email address and said they could etransfer whatever they liked. No one sent less that $50. My winch paid for itself several times over the first winter I had it. Ive lost count of how many vehicles Ive recovered in the last few years, including ambulances and police cars.

[@johnnymula2305]

I had a 90 wrangler that was built for rock crawling AZ trails. It had a V8 swap. 4 speed auto, locked front and rear. Ford 8.8 out back. 35’s and a Warn 9k winch. With a locked vehicle, I rarely, if ever needed it. I used it maybe a dozen times for myself in the 5 years of wheeling. Obviously different terrain will dictate more or less need.

[@willlindsay6753]

You said it’s best upgrade for 4x4. I always new what 4x4 could handle didn’t need winch. I have massive 2wd and I’m getting winch.

[@mychan3734]

One thing you forgot….. A dead man sling anchor for when no trees are available. And let me tell you…it saved my butt multiple times!!

[@campsimple1757]

Great video. I have a old 3/4 ton suburban with a G80 locker. I Mainly disperse camp on forest roads in my area. The forest roads do get pretty bad some times and the snow can get to 10"s in that area. That being said I carry tire chains, recovery straps, highlift snatch blocks and a chainsaw. I don't go out to go wheeling or test my vehicle but I have been stuck a number of time and my gear has got me out. When I get stuck I normally double back and camp elsewhere. Since I normally turn back I need to winch from the rear and mechanical gear is just me just fine for now. Great video and thank you

[@Gzus]

I threw a Warn VR-EVO 10S Warn on my Wrangler JK and its saved me a twice already while wheeling solo. It sits underneath a cover most of the time, but it's great for the peace of mind and has paid for itself already.

[@peternorthrup6274]

There are 5 or 6 winches on the market that are all built at the same factory in China. They are the same. Just a few cosmetic changes. Spend some time. Look for yourself. I bought the 13000lb firey red unit. I can buy 5 of these for the price of 1 warn unit. Buy 2 and keep a spare in the back of your rig. What a cool idea.

[@martins4401]

I decided on the X-Bull 13,500 lbs winch. Looks just like the Warn and performs just as well... Only time will tell if it will pass the test of time but for $400 on Amazon I'm willing to take a chance.

[@thescottishhammer7570]

I've run Warn winches on every 4x4 I've owned and will continue to do so. Gotta pay to play. That being said, I won't shame anyone who buys a cheaper winch. Everyone has a different budget, but we all have the same love of offroading.

[@TrailBuilt]

We agree!

[@AaronBond007]

Having a winch is like having insurance... you hate paying for it, you *hope* you never need it, but you are sure darn glad when you do. I've had three Jeeps each with a different "tier" of winch, and even used the poor-man's winch (come-along) until I got a proper one installed... if you are going to be off-roading on any sketch trails at all, I always recommend having one.... especially if you are solo (something I do a lot). If you go with a buddy (especially if he has a winch lol) you can get by with out one for a while.

[@ryanblacker6406]

I’ve bought things as I could afford them starting with a come along a highlift jack there’s a small winch in a box but I got super cheap and then sold that after I installed my warn winch. It doesn’t matter what you have as long as you have options to save yourselves especially if you are out alone at any time. When wheeling alone you must always think of what you have with you if something were to happen and choose what you do based on that. I installed a sticker on my dash that reads remember stupid you have to drive this home. That thought has saved me thousands of dollars over the years

[@laurencefahey3132]

Iv just ordered a grenadier which I can add a winch to my final build (factory fitted) . You think factory fit is my best option. Even though I don’t do lots of off roading but i know it’s something I want to get into .

[@calhiser8265]

I'm 66 and on my 2nd two door. My first a 1961 cj5 from age17-23 years old. No winch on it. I did have to get rescued twice with the cj5 once it was mud and in town. The other time It was high centered. Believe me there isn't a better test than a teenager doing things, like running a couple of miles of trail. Two feet deep in water and breaking a couple of inches of ice the hole way. And that with no lockers. My 2009 is a stick Ruby with the stock mud & snows. That i got last year. It's probably not going to get stuck. But it is much heavier and if it does, its going to be in deep. I am shopping for a winch now.

[@dadventuretv2538]

Winch is super important to me. Put it on my JT Rubicon before lift and wheels and tires. I do a lot of solo though. In addition to getting me out I’ve used it to move a tree across the road and a boulder in middle of road. Of course have to look for winching attachment points if about to enter an obstacle where you might get stuck, or it’s as useful as tits on a bull. Traction boards, shovel, straps etc are standard equipment too. Did the Hi-Lift poor man’s winch for years also, but man an electric winch sure is nice.

[@lostagain2992]

You don’t need a winch until you need a winch. Kinda like that spare tire thing.

[@laddiegill]

Great information and also, the comments by others. I have been going off road for quite some time in northern Canada with just 33-inch mud tires, three locking differentials and two pairs of heavy-duty snow chains. . Learning from everyone's experience before I get a winch. Thank you for your video.

[@johneden7975]

Buy whatever winch your lifestyle allows if you go in the woods alone to wheel. And not only do I use while exploring, i pull stumps with it, I pull logs up a gnarly hill at camp(so I don’t have to buck and roll up one by one)you can straighten a bumper with one, help set a bead on a wheel by choking the line around the tire. The possibilities are endless. I’ve got a 12k Zeak on a Lex. Bought it from Walmart for like $379. It’s been great! Side note; GX460’s are beastly workhorses!

[@dougkennedy6452]

All the above usages .. for many years didn’t run winches, but relied heavily on friends .. but the last 25 plus years everything has winches.. once discovered kinetic ropes.. I was hooked..

[@WayneKDolik]

I live in Idaho 5000 ft. elevation central Id. I use my f150 4x4 for hunting, fishing etc. I carry a few stout tow straps 20/30 feet each. I and a buddy got stuck 3 times on an unplowed road in snow. The straps got both on our 4x4s out.

[@SkylinersYeti]

In my youth I had a rig with a winch and I got stuck more often. I took more risks because I knew i could winch myself out. Today I am much more mature and in the past 40 years I have only had to be towed out twice. Both times I just screwed up. I do carry considerable self recovery tools but the best recovery tool is to know what your rig can do and NOT GET STUCK!

[@mjoelnir1899]

I have a receiver mounted winch. As I have a receiver mounted in the front and the back and installed a power connection at both places,i both do not need to have the winch with me all the time. I also have more options when winching. When you are afraid to get stuck, you have the winch in the receiver before the attempt.

[@thedarkslide]

5:42 Commenting from WA, USA. There are certain WA roads/highways that require you to have chains in your car during winter or you get fined.

[@Llama052]

The first time you need to use a come along or hi lift jack to get out of something terrible you'll understand why having a winch makes sense. No reason to take a terrible situation you could be in and add more work to it, Especially when reliable winches can be found for $400-600.. and honestly I've seen more people trapped with non working Chinese Warn winches than other brands.

[@charlesnickell7257]

I run two rough country winch on my jeep gladiator when I go out cause I most the time either on my own or with a few ppl and this way I can get my self out of a spot or to help out someone with out having to turn my truck around or whatnot

[@KTMcaptain]

I got the Badland Apex for $480 pictures in the Jk GnG clip you showed. Seems to have very good reviews. Luckily Jeep bumpers aren’t expensive and easy to install. Easily would have spent more having someone install the setup on a Toyota than I spent in total. I’m not comfortable cutting up the plasteek bumper on suck a nice vehicle. Jeep did I right making it so easy to RnR it.

[@dirf554]

My club offered great advice in the order of things to do first. A winch was last. Never go out alone. My order stock size mud tires. Skid plates, lift new tires and then bumpers and a winch. This all took about three years little by little and scoring some wicked good deals on marketplace 🎉

[@micktaylorwolfcreekmechanical]

I put a cheap Tungsten 12V 12000lbs synthetic winch with wireless controls on my 80 series about 8 yrs ago it cost me nothing as i had eftpos cards that came with a phone plan. I didn't expect much from it or it to last very long its gets used about 15 times a year tops and still going strong. Before that i always spent big money on warn winches or had pto winches this winch I've been using is maintenance free fully sealed and if it dies I can grab another for under $400aus. Also cheap recovery tracks work as good as the expensive maxtrax I use xbull recovery tracks and paid $120 for a set of 4 and if you are using recovery tracks chance are your bogged in mud or sand and will loose them, do you want to spend 3 hours digging your expensive maxtrax out or just leave your cheapo recovery tracks in the mud and buy another set.

[@kobayashimaru8114]

Newby here but starting to do more trails in the last year or so that are just hairy enough to require the occasional recovery. Right now we're using straps or kinetic rope but a winch and snatch block are next on the list. Just last week I needed to be winched a few feet back onto the trail due to ice. No one in my group had one so we were lucky that other folks on the trailer did.

[@jlsgarage872]

To me a winch gives you the ability to have more fun, I was throwing my jeep into icy mud pits I knew I might not be able to get through last winter because I had a winch and plenty of trees, without one you and maybe your friends cant have as much fun because you dont have that security

[@Azusa-dn7mi]

It isn't uncommon for people to get injured along with their rigs, when things go wrong on remote trails. Having a recovery option that doesn't depend on either the force generated by the vehicle being recovered, or the driver of that vehicle, just makes good sense. You may not be physically capable of using a come along or other manual recovery option after a wreck. Following that logic, hitch mounted winches aren't a great option, either since they are heavy. Does any of this matter to weekend warriors types on well worn trails? Probably not.

[@deanhuffman48]

If u are using a come along or a jack might as well have a winch keeps me away from the wire when it does snap too

[@KurNorock]

Hi-lift Jack's are only dangerous if you are dumb. Use your head and you'll be fine. The offroading community really needs to stop vilifing the hi-lift. It is one of the most useful tools you could possibly have in your rig.

[@daleburton1788]

I’ve never used my winch on myself, however I have used it lots on others. With that said. We have a name for people who go wheeling and don’t have a winch. We call them “Pedestrians”!!!

[@andymckane7271]

I've been driving 4-wheel drive vehicles since April 1964. I've owned mostly Land Rovers, the series vehicles, both 88" & 109". I've also owned two Jeeps, a JK Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon and a Grand Cherokee Overland diesel. The ONLY one of these vehicles I didn't have a winch on was the Grand Cherokee. Who drives a Grand Cherokee into rough areas when he or she also has a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon? My wife and I didn't! I used PTO winches on my Series IIA & Series III Land Rovers. The Koenig PTO winch was my winch of choice. My Wrangler Rubicon has a Warn electric winch. I would not drive off road without a winch. Andy McKane, 23 May 2022, Molokai, Hawaii.

[@805gregg]

Look up Prodigal Offroad, he takes his Grand Cherokee where ever Wranglers go,with no problem, the stock Grand cherokee Trailhawk actually has more clearance than a stock Wrangler

[@az4running469]

I don't have a winch at this time and don't have immininent plans to do so. I always roll with at least one other vehicle when doing any serious off-road travel. I do carry a snatch strap, a tow strap, soft shackles, a tire plug kit, a shovel, and axe and fire extinguisher, and tools at all times. When going off road, I bring traction boards air pump and tools for airing down. Actually the air pump is usually in the car anyhow.

[@chipschleichardt5641]

I would buy a Bubba rope with some recovery gear first, then buy a winch later. I have both and the rope is used way more often.

[@johnmarcus2324]

You completely over looked a manual chain hoist. Ample lift length range and unlimited (almost) tonnage ....they get big over 10 or 20 tons. Little ones are very handy :)

[@banno6938]

Better to have it & not need it then to need it & not have it !

[@jamesmeadrs9309]

I believe in having several different types of recovery methods not just a winch. I carry traction boards, recovery straps and have a winch mounted. You never know what situation will work best with what method so it’s best to not rely on just one.

[@CalebErosa]

Shamelessly use the harbor freight 12000lb winch with synthetic line… it’s saved my ass on several occasions and helped a buddy of mine make it home safe as well. For what it is, I’m very pleased with the $400 purchase

[@davids5006]

The 12,000lb they have is looking pretty good too me

[@ElectricDanielBoone]

I’ve used my little Warn drill winch, along with a few snatch blocks, to get myself out of a few sticky situations. I just picked up two offset rings from Yankem, that have really simplified my drill winch setup too. An arborist 3/4T rope come-along is my backup for the drill winch.

[@locomotivebreth1910]

I own a silverado 4x4 and on certain off-road trips in Utah i often carry a wyenth--scott hand winch that has 35 feet of blue rope plus I carry some straps, a diy ground anchor etc. Its lighter and cheaper then a custom bumper and elec winch.

[@rscott6512]

I enjoyed your video. Only an FYI, I am not familiar with any locations in Canada requiring 4WDs/SUV to use chains by law or regulation during winter. Province of BC does mandate that large transport trucks utilize chains during treacherous conditions in the mountains. Deploying chains can be a real pain. I do it every winter season for a tractor (trygg chains studded).

[@makingmistakeswithgreg]

As a word of advice the highlift jack as a winch, that only works if the straps you use to hook it up don’t stretch. I used a snatch strap that stretches, and ran out of range on the jack before I was able to pull my vehicle out. You need to carry atleast a 30’ tow strap with no stretch to use it for that purpose. Even then your less than half the distance most winches will reach so you better hope a tree or big rock is close. It also only works decent if you’re just hung up on something. If you’re buried in mud bad, good luck. One of the benefits of a winch is you can spin the tires while pulling in, which helps chew through mud. You can’t exactly do that with the highlift (especially alone) which limits you. I do carry a highlift in my setup but I use it for popping tire beads mostly.

[@pigeonsniper667]

Lets look at the cost of things. Extraction by off road towing company....You are 1/4 mile from road high centered in ruts. Truck drives 20 miles to you ( 19.75 on road $69.13 1/4 off road $1.25) is $70.38 plus tax( 13% here) 70.38 X 1.13= $79.53. Not bad. But your still in the rut. Winch extraction $480( single line for light vehicle) $560( for heavy vehicle). So a jeep is 480 X tax $542.40 + $70.38= $612.78 and a pickup( F150/1500 size) is $5660 X tax $632.80 + 70.38 = $703.18. If it takes more then an hour you start to pay an hourly rate, second line, second recovery vehicle/crew-member. Just the cost on the one recovery pays for a winch.

[@jamespaul3622]

No winch on my 2019 Pro4X frontier. I do trail and snow wheeling but never go alone. A winch and bumper is on my wish list.

[@joma13344]

Love my ARB on my frontier, though I had to modify the bumper to fit my ironman 4x4 12k winch. I also had a Wam winch mount I liked before I got the ARB bumper. If you want to save a little money, I would recommend it.

[@ailo4x4]

As a guy with decades of experience overlanding and off roading in North America, Europe, and Africa, a winch is usually not necessary. In fact, if you have one you will usually spend more time rescuing others than yourself (not that that is a bad thing!). But the weight penalty is real if you are planning on crossing 1000km or more before being able to refuel. Traction boards, a good jack (Hi-Lift, air bag, etc) to get solid stuff under your wheels, go a long way to self rescue. If you are a rock crawler, serious mud dog, etc., then yes, you need one. If you are an adventurer/overlander and exercise some good judgement, then you don't. Well, that's my tuppence worth anyway!

[@paulkleinkramer5065]

I agree about the Hi-Lift jack (or farm jack). I carried one for decades and used it only twice on the trail. Once at Moab and once on The Rubicon; both times a simple small lightweight floor jack would have worked as well or better. I'm tired of hauling and carrying that heavy-ass Hi-Lift around for little to no reason. But... The do look cool strapped on your rig!

[@TrailBuilt]

Agreed, but sometimes you have to sacrifice functionality for those good looks! lol

[@HyadumHH]

Exploring, no winch. WJ Overland, OME suspension and Cooper Discoverer ATs, never got stuck, never went into a situation where I could get stuck alone.