Recovery gear - best hand-powered options?

[MichaelAngelo]

I started looking at learning how to build a flip-flop winch in a jam:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFDGGht3CQU

I was wondering what you guys usually carry with you for emergencies in case you are alone and stuck. I've read everything from Hi-lift jacks to actual ratchet straps (yikes!) being used for vehicle recovery.

Since I don't plan on installing a powered winch, I wanted some real-world advice for what to pack in case a situation like this does arise. Safety first... last thing I want is a ratchet strap hook flying at me.

[Gipper]

What vehicle are you potentially pulling?

the most versatile is a Tirfor hand winch, not too heavy and can be stored in a plastic tote, can be used on all 4 sides of the vehicle and for lifting etc.

[url=http://www.tractel.com/ca/series.php?id_serie=47]TRACTEL

[MichaelAngelo]

Originally Posted by Gipper

What vehicle are you potentially pulling?

the most versatile is a Tirfor hand winch, not too heavy and can be stored in a plastic tote.

[url=http://www.tractel.com/ca/series.php?id_serie=47]TRACTEL

Probrably pulling a 4Runner or Xterra-sized SUV... 4-5000 lbs of vehicle weight.

I looked into the Tirfor - seems to price out at about $1000...

Is there a more economical option?

[Gipper]

Those particular ones are expensive, there are much cheaper ones around, but you generally get what you pay for.

Manual Hand Winch (w/ Handle and Cable) | GoWesty

unless you start messing around with hi lift jacks and chains - which are incredibly slow and annoying a hand winch is the most versatile option.

[grizzly7]

Tirfors are lovely, bombproof, use however long a (specific type of) rope you are carrying, don't mind mud which alternative hand winch/hoists might but are slow and can be hard work. Can pull either end, up or sideways.

Hilifts are cheaper, lighter, simpler but you don't get much pull. You might want something like a Rescue 42 Jackmate to get more out of one.

An adjustable length chain would be good to have with both as well as a recovery rope.

You probably won't use either unless you are not paying attention or trying to get stuck?!

[Lovetheworld]

I've bought the Australian bog-out system, that is just a like a bunch of ropes that you attach to your wheels (front or rear) and climbs around your wheel, allowing you to use engine power to pull you out.
Haven't used it yet.

https://www.bogout.com/