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10 Best Hand Crank Winches 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Fulton 142430 Boat Trailer Winch, 3,700 lbs. Capacity, Two-Speed Hand Crank Winch, High-Performance Zinc Finish

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,489
Load Capacity

Most important from
19 reviews

Load Capacity
Easily pulls an 8,000-pound boat up the trailer with no issues.

The Fulton 142430 Trailer Winch stands out with its impressive load capacity of 3,700 pounds, making it suitable for heavy marine and boating loads. It employs a two-speed mechanism, providing a fast speed for quick pull-in and a low speed for increased mechanical advantage, which can be particularly useful during strenuous tasks.

The shift lock design is another notable feature, allowing users to change gears seamlessly without moving the crank handle from shaft to shaft, enhancing ease of use. The 10-inch comfort grip handle is ergonomically designed, ensuring that users can operate the winch without discomfort over extended periods.

However, it should be noted that the winch does not come with a strap; users will need to purchase a wire cable separately, which can accommodate storage of up to 100 feet x 7/32-inch size. This could be seen as a drawback for those expecting an all-inclusive package. The high-performance zinc finish ensures durability, making the winch resistant to harsh marine environments. Its relatively heavy weight of 23.6 pounds may require more effort during installation and transport. The Fulton 142430 Trailer Winch is a robust and efficient choice for those requiring a reliable and high-capacity winch for marine applications.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,489
Load Capacity

Most important from
19 reviews

Load Capacity
Easily pulls an 8,000-pound boat up the trailer with no issues.
#2

GOLDENROD 14825 Hand Winch 2-Speed 2500-LB

Rating
8.8
Load Capacity
Gear Ratio
Cable Length and Material

Most important from
618 reviews

Load Capacity
The winch offers excellent build quality and solid two-speed functionality, delivering reliable performance for medium-duty pulling tasks.
Gear Ratio
The winch offers excellent build quality and solid two-speed functionality, delivering reliable performance for medium-duty pulling tasks.
Cable Length and Material
Changing the strap's rolling direction on the spool is simple and adds useful customization for different setups.
Brake System
The ratchet mechanism limits the low-speed crank to one turning direction; enabling both directions could improve versatility.
Handle Length and Ergonomics
The ergonomic 9.5-inch handle provides comfortable cranking, enhancing ease of use during extended manual operation.

The Goldenrod 14825 Hand Winch is a solid choice for manual winching tasks such as pulling watercraft or trailers. It has a load capacity of 2500 pounds, making it suitable for medium-duty jobs. One of its key features is the two-speed operation, offering a low gear ratio of 17.3:1 for controlled, heavy pulling and a higher gear ratio of 5.4:1 for quicker winding when less force is needed. The 9.5-inch ergonomically molded handle enhances comfort and ease of cranking compared to basic models.

Constructed from alloy steel with a TUFFPLATE zinc finish, this winch resists rust and is designed for durability in outdoor or marine environments. Weighing around 6 pounds, it balances portability with sturdiness. The product does not include a strap or cable, so users need to have a compatible cable or strap separately.

This Goldenrod model is practical for users needing reliable manual pulling power without complicated features. It is well-suited for moving moderate loads while providing ergonomic handling and durability. For those requiring longer cable lengths or an included strap, additional purchases may be necessary.

Rating
8.8
Load Capacity
Gear Ratio
Cable Length and Material

Most important from
618 reviews

Load Capacity
The winch offers excellent build quality and solid two-speed functionality, delivering reliable performance for medium-duty pulling tasks.
Gear Ratio
The winch offers excellent build quality and solid two-speed functionality, delivering reliable performance for medium-duty pulling tasks.
Cable Length and Material
Changing the strap's rolling direction on the spool is simple and adds useful customization for different setups.
Brake System
The ratchet mechanism limits the low-speed crank to one turning direction; enabling both directions could improve versatility.
Handle Length and Ergonomics
The ergonomic 9.5-inch handle provides comfortable cranking, enhancing ease of use during extended manual operation.
#3

Dutton-Lainson Company - Pulling Winch (DL2000) - Rust-Resistant Finish for Horizontal Pulling, Lifting and Hauling - 2000 lb Capacity, 2 Speed Plated, 12.4:1 Low Gear Ratio, Manual - Made in USA

Rating
8.8
Load Capacity
Gear Ratio
Handle Length and Ergonomics

Most important from
618 reviews

Load Capacity
Handles a 36-foot boat with twin engines just fine, showing no signs of rust after several months and significantly improving the look of the boat trailer.
Gear Ratio
The slower rate of the winch allows easy loading of a 17.5-foot boat with a 115 hp motor without tiring your arms or taxing your body.
Handle Length and Ergonomics
This robust winch installed right in place of the original, making it easy for both old and young to safely load a boat without spending a ton of money.

The Goldenrod 14725 Dutton-Lainson DL2000A is a solid hand-crank winch designed for pulling heavy loads up to 2000 pounds. This makes it quite capable for various towing and lifting tasks, such as hauling boats or trailers. It has a two-speed operation with gear ratios of 12.4:1 for low gear and 5.4:1 for normal use, meaning you can adjust it based on the weight and resistance of what you're pulling. This versatility can be quite handy in different situations.

The quick-attach handle is 9 1/2 inches long and features an ergonomic molded grip, which should make it comfortable and easy to use, reducing hand strain during operation. The winch is treated with a Tuffplate zinc finish to protect against rust, which is crucial for outdoor and marine use where exposure to moisture is common. This winch does not seem to have a sophisticated brake system, which might be a downside for those needing precise control during load handling.

Being relatively lightweight at 9 pounds and compact in size (9 x 7 x 7 inches), it is easy to store and transport. This product seems well-suited for general towing needs and users looking for a dependable and versatile winch.

Rating
8.8
Load Capacity
Gear Ratio
Handle Length and Ergonomics

Most important from
618 reviews

Load Capacity
Handles a 36-foot boat with twin engines just fine, showing no signs of rust after several months and significantly improving the look of the boat trailer.
Gear Ratio
The slower rate of the winch allows easy loading of a 17.5-foot boat with a 115 hp motor without tiring your arms or taxing your body.
Handle Length and Ergonomics
This robust winch installed right in place of the original, making it easy for both old and young to safely load a boat without spending a ton of money.

Buying Guide for the Best Hand Crank Winches

Hand-crank winches are versatile tools used for lifting or pulling heavy loads. They are commonly used in various applications such as boating, off-roading, and construction. When choosing a hand-crank winch, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you select the right model for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and ensure the winch performs effectively for your intended use.
Load CapacityLoad capacity refers to the maximum weight the winch can safely lift or pull. This is a crucial spec because it determines the winch's ability to handle the weight of the objects you need to move. Load capacities can range from a few hundred pounds to several thousand pounds. To pick the right load capacity, consider the heaviest item you plan to lift or pull and choose a winch with a capacity that exceeds this weight to ensure safety and efficiency.
Gear RatioThe gear ratio indicates the relationship between the rotational speed of the handle and the drum. A higher gear ratio means more mechanical advantage, making it easier to lift heavier loads with less effort. Gear ratios can vary widely, from low ratios like 3:1 to high ratios like 10:1. If you need to lift very heavy loads, a higher gear ratio will be beneficial. For lighter loads, a lower gear ratio may suffice and allow for faster operation.
Cable Length and MaterialCable length and material are important for determining how far you can pull or lift an object and the durability of the cable. Common materials include steel and synthetic fibers. Steel cables are strong and durable but can be prone to rust, while synthetic cables are lighter and more resistant to corrosion but may wear out faster. Choose a cable length that suits the distance you need to cover and a material that matches your environmental conditions and usage frequency.
Brake SystemThe brake system ensures that the load remains securely in place when the winch is not in operation. This is vital for safety, especially when lifting heavy objects. There are different types of brake systems, such as automatic and manual brakes. Automatic brakes engage when the handle is released, providing immediate security, while manual brakes require the user to engage them. For frequent and heavy lifting, an automatic brake system is recommended for ease of use and safety.
Handle Length and ErgonomicsThe handle length and ergonomics affect the ease of use and comfort during operation. A longer handle provides more leverage, making it easier to crank, while ergonomic designs reduce strain on your hands and wrists. Handles can vary from short and simple to long and padded. If you plan to use the winch frequently or for extended periods, opt for a model with a longer, ergonomic handle to minimize fatigue and improve efficiency.

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