10 Best Hand Crank Winches 2026 in the United States

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.

The GOLDENROD Dutton-Lainson 14932 DLB1200A is a solid manual hand-crank winch, offering a 1,200 lb load capacity suitable for medium-duty tasks like boat launching, ATV loading, and trailer pulling. Its 5.4:1 gear ratio provides good mechanical advantage, making it easier to pull heavy loads without excessive effort. The winch features an automatic brake system that holds the load securely when you stop cranking, adding an important safety element by preventing slippage and free-wheeling—ideal for precise load control.

The 7-inch ergonomic handle is designed to reduce fatigue during extended use, which is a thoughtful touch if you expect to operate it frequently or for longer periods. The winch’s zinc construction with a matte black powder-coated finish resists rust and corrosion, making it reliable in wet and marine environments. This durability is reinforced by a 5-year limited warranty covering defects and corrosion, adding confidence in its long-term performance.

This winch is well suited for those who want a dependable, well-built manual winch for trailer or marine use featuring a strong automatic brake and comfortable handle. It is designed strictly for manual horizontal pulling and lowering tasks and is not suitable for lifting people or overhead lifting, so safety limits should be respected. Its size and weight make it portable but not ultra-light, making it best for users who need a tough, dependable winch rather than an ultra-compact option.

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.