10 Best Hand Crank Winches 2025 in the United States

The AC-DK 600lbs Heavy Duty Boat Trailer Winch is a solid choice if you need a portable hand crank winch for towing boats, ATVs, or trailers up to 600 pounds. It features a 19-foot steel cable, which is strong and well suited for outdoor use, especially with its galvanized steel build that helps resist rust and corrosion from sun and saltwater exposure. The 3.2:1 gear ratio offers good mechanical advantage, making it easier to pull heavy loads without much effort. Its standout feature is the two-way ratchet system, allowing you to smoothly switch between pulling and releasing, which is handy when loading or unloading.

The 8.6-inch ergonomic handle is designed for comfort, with an anti-slip grip to reduce hand fatigue during use. However, the winch doesn’t have a dedicated brake system, so controlling the load when lowering requires extra caution. Also, while the 600-pound capacity fits most small boats and trailers, it may not be suitable for heavier loads. The winch is lightweight and compact, making it easy to install and carry around.

This winch presents a dependable and user-friendly option for light to medium towing tasks, especially for boat trailers and smaller vehicles, though users should remain aware of its load limits and the absence of a braking mechanism.

The OPENROAD 1600lbs Hand Winch is a solid choice for those needing a reliable tool for lifting and towing heavy loads, such as boats or lawn equipment. With a robust pulling capacity of 1600lbs, it can handle substantial weight efficiently. The construction is durable, featuring heavy-duty steel and hardened gears, which resist wear and corrosion, enhancing longevity.

The 10m (32.8ft) cable length provides ample reach for various tasks, and the high carbon steel material ensures strength and durability. The gear ratio of 4.1:1 strikes a good balance between speed and power, making operations smoother and less strenuous. Additionally, the two-way ratchet mechanism allows for both forward and reverse operations, adding versatility to its use.

The handle is ergonomically designed with an 8.2-inch length, making it comfortable to grip and reducing hand fatigue during extended use. The compact body size means it won't take up much space, making it easy to store and transport. Users should be cautious not to pull out the entire cable to avoid tangling and delay in usage. This winch is best suited for those who need a reliable, heavy-duty manual winch for occasional to moderate use. Some drawbacks include the need for careful cable management and the relatively small handle, which might be less comfortable for larger hands.

The GOLDENROD Dutton-Lainson DL3200A hand-crank winch boasts a robust 3200 lb load capacity, making it suitable for a variety of hauling and pulling tasks. It features two-speed operation with gear ratios of 17.3:1 for low gear and 5.4:1 for normal use, giving users flexibility and efficiency in different situations.

The 9-1/2 inch quick-attach handle with an ergonomic molded grip ensures comfortable and easy operation. Additionally, the winch has a TUFFPLATE zinc finish, which offers solid protection against rust, enhancing its durability, especially for outdoor use.

Given its capacity and features, this winch is well-suited for users needing a durable and flexible hauling tool.