A strong hitch-mounted deer carrier combines a compatible receiver, a controlled manual lift, and enough stated capacity for the game you plan to move. The ECOTRIC Truck 2-inch Hitch Hoist is a leading choice for hunters who want a 600-pound rating and included gambrels, winch, and hardware. This roundup also compares a 600-pound swivel carrier with a locking pin, height-adjustable hoists, and platform-style lifters rated from 300 to 500 pounds.
Capacity is only part of the decision: products differ in receiver details, lifting arrangements, and whether their descriptions emphasize hanging game or supporting a load on a platform. Check your truck’s receiver and the product’s stated setup before buying, and treat the listed capacity as a limit rather than a target.
The ECOTRIC Truck 2-inch Hitch Hoist is the best overall deer carrier for a hitch in this group. Its listed 600-pound capacity, 2-inch receiver fit, and 360-degree swiveling shaft suit lifting game into a truck bed and positioning it for cleaning. The package also lists two gambrels, a winch, instructions, and hardware, giving it a useful combination of rated capacity and included components.
Buyers who specifically want a platform-style lift should compare it with the lower-capacity platform models.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallIts 600-pound capacity, 2-inch receiver fit, 360-degree swivel, and included two gambrels and winch make it a well-equipped truck-bed option.
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Best Locking CarrierThis 600-pound steel hoist fits a 2-inch receiver and rotates from hoist to carrier with a locking pin.
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Height AdjustableRated for 600 pounds, it includes a winch, pulley system, and gambrel, with an adjustable height and 360-degree swiveling shaft.
View on Amazon- Platform Lift NULTRUMA Hitch Hoist
Compare Hitch-Mounted Deer Hoists and Carriers
| # | Product | Compatible with Vehicle Type | Material | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. ECOTRIC Hitch Deer HoistBest Overall | Truck | Alloy Steel | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Kill Shot Deer HoistBest Locking Carrier | Truck | — | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. KNINE OUTDOORS Deer HoistHeight Adjustable | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 4 |  4. NULTRUMA Hitch HoistPlatform Lift | — | Iron | View on Amazon |
| 5 |  5. Mossy Oak Game HoistSelf-Locking 400-Pound Game Hoist | Truck | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 |  6. VEVOR Hitch Deer HoistFoldable 300-Pound Platform Hoist | Truck | Q235 | View on Amazon |
| 7 |  7. Viking Solutions SwiveLiftPortable Tailgate-Level Game Lifter | Truck | Blend | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Deer Carrier For Hitch
#1 · Best Overall
1. ECOTRIC Hitch Deer Hoist
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
- Material: Alloy Steel
Best for: Swivel Hoist and Cleaning Stand.
Why it ranks #1: Its 600-pound capacity, 2-inch receiver fit, 360-degree swivel, and included two gambrels and winch make it a well-equipped truck-bed option.
The ECOTRIC hoist’s 360-degree swiveling shaft moves game between cleaning position and truck bed, then locks in place as a stand. That paired lifting and hanging function suits hunters who want one hitch-mounted setup for field handling, with a 600-pound load capacity and fit for a 2-inch truck receiver.
Square alloy-steel tubing forms the hoist structure, while the swiveling top lets the operator turn a lifted deer or hog toward the truck bed. The locking system also holds the top in place for hanging the catch during cleaning, so the workflow can shift from loading to preparation without changing equipment. The set includes two gambrels, a winch, instructions, and needed hardware. Its stated load capacity is 600 pounds.
- 360-degree swiveling shaft for moving game
- Locks as a stand for hanging the catch while cleaning
- 600-pound load capacity
- Includes two gambrels, winch, instructions, and hardware
- The supplied details do not specify an adjustable height range, unlike the KNINE OUTDOORS hoist.
Skip it if you need a stated adjustable height range; KNINE OUTDOORS lists a range from 6'2" to 8'.
The ECOTRIC suits truck hunters who want to swivel game from lifting position to bed and lock it for cleaning. Its 2-inch receiver fit and 600-pound capacity are central considerations; no height range is specified.
Full product details
| Brand | ECOTRIC |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | 1 SET of Deer Hunting Hosit, including 2 gambrels, 1 winch, instruction and all needed harwares |
| Item Dimensions | 45.67 x 17.71 x 4.52 inches |
| Load Capacity | 600 pounds |
| Manufacturer | ECOTRIC |
| Part Number | CA-105N-F001 |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | VC-LYOM-039 |
Listed on Amazon as: ECOTRIC Truck 2" Hitch 600LB Big Game Hunting Deer Hoist,
View on Amazon#2 · Best Locking Carrier
2. Kill Shot Deer Hoist
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: 600-Pound Hitch Hoist Carrier.
Why it ranks #2: This 600-pound steel hoist fits a 2-inch receiver and rotates from hoist to carrier with a locking pin.
A locking pin lets the Kill Shot rotate from hoist to carrier, giving hunters a single hitch-mounted setup for lifting and transporting a load. Its manual crank winch and snap-hook strap handle the lift, while the powder-coated steel construction and 600-pound capacity define its core role for truck use.
The 2-inch receiver fit places the hoist at the truck, and the manual crank winch provides a hand-powered way to raise a load. Once lifted, the locking pin allows rotation from hoist to carrier, supporting a transition from loading to transport without removing the assembly. A snap-hook strap secures the load, and powder-coated steel forms the structure. At 52 pounds, it is a substantial component to handle during installation or storage.
- Rotates from hoist to carrier with a locking pin
- Manual crank winch and strap with snap hook included
- 600-pound weight capacity
- Powder-coated steel construction
- At 52 pounds, it is a substantial assembly to handle when installing or storing.
Skip it if you need a lighter listed option for handling; Viking Solutions SwiveLift weighs 48 pounds, though its capacity is 300 pounds.
Choose the Kill Shot if you want a 600-pound hitch-mounted hoist that converts to a carrier for truck transport. Its 2-inch receiver requirement and 52-pound weight are important considerations for installation and storage.
Full product details
| Brand | Kill Shot |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Item Weight | 52 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Kill Shot |
| Part Number | DEER-HOIST-CARRIER |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 600 pounds |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Deer Hoist & Carrier, Hitch-Mounted, 600 lb Cap
View on Amazon#3 · Height Adjustable
3. KNINE OUTDOORS Deer Hoist
Best for: Adjustable Height Gambrel Hoist.
Why it ranks #3: Rated for 600 pounds, it includes a winch, pulley system, and gambrel, with an adjustable height and 360-degree swiveling shaft.
Height adjustment from 6'2" to 8' gives the KNINE OUTDOORS hoist room to adapt its hanging position, while a 360-degree swiveling shaft turns the load. The included winch, pulley system, and gambrel support solo lifting and stable preparation at a truck hitch.
The winch and pulley system lift loads up to 600 pounds, with the listing stating that one person can operate the lift. Once raised, the included gambrel helps keep the catch stable for preparation. The swiveling shaft can turn the load, and the adjustable 6'2" to 8' height range supports different hanging positions. The hitch mount is described as fitting standard truck trailing systems, connecting the setup to truck use.
- 600-pound lifting capacity
- Winch and pulley system for solo lifting
- Height adjusts from 6'2" to 8'
- 360-degree swivel shaft and included gambrel
- The supplied specifications do not state a receiver size, unlike products explicitly listed for a 2-inch receiver.
Skip it if you need an explicitly specified 2-inch receiver fit; NULTRUMA lists that size alongside its adjustable frame.
This KNINE OUTDOORS hoist suits truck hunters who want height adjustment, swiveling, and a gambrel for lifting and preparation. Its stated hitch fit is for standard truck trailing systems; a receiver size is not provided in the supplied details.
Full product details
| Brand | KNINE OUTDOORS |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 35.5 x 22 x 6 inches |
| Manufacturer | KNINE OUTDOORS |
| Package Weight | 22.36 kg |
Listed on Amazon as: Deer Hoist for Truck Hitch, 600lbs Capacity Deer Hanger with Winch Gambrel
View on Amazon#4 · Platform Lift
4. NULTRUMA Hitch Hoist
- Material: Iron
Best for: Adjustable Platform Loading Hoist.
Why it ranks #4: Its 500-pound rating, hand-crank winch, platform, and adjustable frame offer a platform-based alternative for truck, ATV, or UTV loading.
A 45-inch rack lift height and adjustable support frame let the NULTRUMA hoist position a load without moving the vehicle. Its hand-crank winch and platform support one-person loading away from power, making it a practical hitch-mounted option for trucks, pickups, ATVs, and UTVs.
The hand crank, rope, and platform provide a manual lifting workflow, so operation does not depend on power at a remote hunting location. An adjustable support frame allows positioning before loading, while the listed 45-inch rack lift height connects the lift to truck, ATV, and UTV use. The 500-pound capacity sets a clear load boundary. Q235 steel with a powder coat is specified for the frame; the product is listed for a 2-inch receiver.
- 500-pound load capacity
- 45-inch rack lift height
- Adjustable support frame for positioning
- Hand-crank winch, rope, and platform operate without power
- The listed capacity is 500 pounds, below the 600-pound ratings of several hitch-hoist options.
Skip it if you need a 600-pound capacity; ECOTRIC's 2-inch-receiver hoist is rated for that load.
Choose NULTRUMA if adjustable positioning and a 45-inch rack lift height suit your truck, ATV, or UTV loading routine. Keep the 500-pound limit and 2-inch receiver requirement in view when deciding whether it fits your load.
Full product details
| Brand | NULTRUMA |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | Loading Assistant Deer Hoist for Large Game Animals |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 45 x 19 x 6.5 inches |
| Manufacturer | NULTRUMA |
| Material | Iron |
| Model | Hunting Hoist |
| Package Weight | 13.06 kg |
| Warranty Description | No |
Listed on Amazon as: Hitch-Mounted Deer Hoist with Platform – 500 lbs Load Capacity, 2-Inch Receiver, Winch Lift Game Carrier for Trucks, Pickups & SUVs, Ideal for Safely Loading Large Game Animals
View on Amazon#5
5. Mossy Oak Game Hoist
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Self-Locking 400-Pound Game Hoist.
Why it ranks #5: The 400-pound capacity and included gambrel target solo game lifting, while its self-locking hand winch and galvanized steel cable support controlled operation.
A self-locking hand winch helps control the load while raising or lowering, giving the Mossy Oak hitch hoist a defined solo-loading workflow. Its 400-pound capacity covers deer, hogs, and other harvested game for field dressing, skinning, and truck-bed loading with less manual handling.
The hand winch’s self-locking control helps prevent slippage as game is raised or lowered, while its non-slip rubber handle supports controlled cranking. The hitch-mounted setup is described for lifting from ground level, then swiveling and loading into a truck bed, connecting the lift to field dressing and skinning tasks. Its 400-pound capacity sets the load boundary. A galvanized steel cable is listed, but the supplied details do not state its length.
- 400-pound capacity for solo loading
- Self-locking winch helps prevent load slippage
- Non-slip rubber handle for controlled cranking
- Hitch-mounted lift supports swiveling and truck-bed loading
- Its 400-pound capacity is lower than the 600-pound Kill Shot hoist.
Skip it if you need a 600-pound rating; Kill Shot's hitch-mounted hoist is rated for that capacity.
The Mossy Oak fits hunters seeking a controlled, solo lift for game up to 400 pounds and a workflow spanning field dressing to truck-bed loading. Check that the listed capacity suits your load before choosing it.
Full product details
| Brand | Mossy Oak |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Manufacturer | HANGZHOU GREATSTAR INDUSTRIAL CO.,LTD |
Listed on Amazon as: Mossy Oak Truck Hitch Game Hoist with Gambrel, 400 LB Capacity Deer Hanger
View on Amazon#6
6. VEVOR Hitch Deer Hoist
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
- Material: Q235
Best for: Foldable 300-Pound Platform Hoist.
Why it ranks #6: This 300-pound platform hoist fits a 2-inch receiver and adds a hand crank, 360-degree swivel, and foldable design.
The VEVOR hoist combines a foldable hitch-mounted platform with a 360-degree swivel shaft, letting users lift and reposition game using a hand crank. Its 300-pound capacity and 2-inch receiver fit suit truck owners who want manual operation away from electrical power.
The hand crank, rope, and platform allow lifting in remote areas without power, while the support frame rotates 360 degrees to help position items. The foldable structure supports storage after use, and the 2-inch receiver specification ties installation to a matching truck hitch. Q235 material is listed for the hoist. At 300 pounds maximum capacity, it is aimed at loads within that limit rather than heavier game or equipment.
- Foldable design for storage
- 360-degree rotating support frame
- Manual hand crank, rope, and platform work without power
- 2-inch receiver fit and 300-pound capacity
- Its 300-pound capacity is half the 600-pound rating of ECOTRIC's hitch hoist.
Skip it if you need a 600-pound load rating; ECOTRIC lists a 2-inch-receiver hoist with that capacity.
Pick the VEVOR if foldable storage, 360-degree positioning, and manual lifting meet your truck-based needs. The 2-inch receiver fit is specified, but its 300-pound capacity is the key boundary for heavier game or cargo.
Full product details
| Brand | VEVOR |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | 1 x Bearing, 1 x Installation Parts, 1 x User Manual |
| Item Weight | 40.1 pounds |
| Manufacturer | VEVOR |
| Part Number | Deer hoist 300 lbs |
| Material | Q235 |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 300 pounds |
| Model Number | HXCZDJ-17 |
#7
7. Viking Solutions SwiveLift
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
- Material: Blend
Best for: Portable Tailgate-Level Game Lifter.
Why it ranks #7: Its platform and hand winch raise loads slightly above tailgate level, but its 300-pound capacity is the lowest listed tier in this lineup.
A large platform and hand winch raise loads slightly above tailgate level, enabling one-person loading of hunted bucks or heavy boxes into a truck. Viking Solutions’ SwiveLift supports up to 300 pounds and is presented as a portable hitch-mounted system for bulky post-hunt lifting.
The hand winch provides a manual way to raise a load, while the large platform supports game or boxes as they reach slightly above tailgate level for loading. That arrangement targets truck-bed transfer without requiring another person to assist. The system handles up to 300 pounds and weighs 48 pounds, figures that matter when assessing both load needs and carrying or storage. The supplied specifications identify truck compatibility but do not state a receiver size.
- Large platform supports game and heavy boxes
- Hand winch raises loads above tailgate level
- Supports one-person loading
- 300-pound capacity and 48-pound item weight
- The supplied specifications do not state a receiver size for checking hitch compatibility.
Skip it if you need a stated 2-inch receiver fit; VEVOR lists that size for its foldable 300-pound hitch hoist.
The SwiveLift suits truck owners moving game or heavy boxes to tailgate level without assistance, within its 300-pound limit. Its 48-pound weight and unspecified receiver size are relevant handling and fit considerations.
Full product details
| Brand | Viking Solutions |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | Swivel lift |
| Item Weight | 48 pounds |
| Manufacturer | GSM Outdoors |
| Part Number | VSL001 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | One year from date of purchase |
| Material | Blend |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 300 pounds |
| Model Number | VS-VSL001 |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Viking Solutions SwiveLift Durable Lightweight Foldable Easy to Use Portable Big Game Hitch-Mounted Lifting System
View on AmazonCheck receiver fit and loading clearance
A stated 2-inch receiver fit does not by itself confirm that a hoist will clear your truck’s tailgate or sit at a useful loading height. ECOTRIC and Kill Shot explicitly list compatibility with a 2-inch receiver, and VEVOR’s title also specifies a 2-inch receiver. Other listings use broader language: KNINE OUTDOORS says its mount fits standard truck trailing systems, while the NULTRUMA description names trucks, ATVs, and UTVs.
Verify the receiver opening and the hitch arrangement on your vehicle against the product instructions before purchase. Also consider the distance from the receiver to the lift point and the height of your bed; the listings do not supply a universal clearance measurement.
A hoist that fits the receiver can still be awkward if the load cannot swing over the bed or tailgate. Do not assume stated lift height equals usable clearance on your particular vehicle.
A carrier’s swivel and lock affect load handling
A swiveling lift helps position a suspended load, but it also makes the locking method important. ECOTRIC describes a 360-degree swiveling shaft that locks in place, and Kill Shot specifically uses a locking pin when rotating between hoist and carrier positions. KNINE OUTDOORS also lists a 360-degree swiveling shaft.
These features address positioning, not whether a load is safe in every orientation or on every surface; follow the manufacturer’s instructions and secure the assembly before handling game. Platform products have a different trade-off: NULTRUMA and VEVOR list platforms, while Viking Solutions describes a large platform that raises a load slightly above tailgate level.
Platforms may suit bulky items, but they are not described as a substitute for the included gambrels on ECOTRIC, KNINE OUTDOORS, or Mossy Oak. Choose the lifting arrangement that matches how you plan to support and transfer your load.
How to Choose a Hitch Deer Carrier
Rated lifting capacity
Choose a listed capacity that leaves room between your expected load and the hoist’s stated limit. ECOTRIC, Kill Shot, and KNINE OUTDOORS each list 600 pounds; NULTRUMA lists 500 pounds, Mossy Oak 400 pounds, and VEVOR and Viking Solutions 300 pounds. The higher-capacity end is more suitable when you need the largest stated margin for heavy game or other loads, while 300- or 400-pound models may suit buyers whose loads remain comfortably within those ratings.
These figures do not establish the safe capacity of your vehicle’s receiver or any other component. Check the complete setup and product instructions, and do not treat a hoist’s rating as permission to exceed the limits of the truck, hitch, or lifting accessories.
Lifting support and included gear
Look at how each hoist supports and controls the load, not just whether it includes a winch. ECOTRIC lists a winch and two gambrels; KNINE OUTDOORS lists a winch, pulley system, and gambrel; Kill Shot specifies a manual crank winch with strap and snap hook. Mossy Oak includes a gambrel and describes a self-locking winch, while NULTRUMA, VEVOR, and Viking Solutions emphasize platforms.
A hanging-game setup may favor the gambrel-equipped options, while a platform may better match buyers moving bulky items as well as game. Compare the included parts with your intended lifting method and check the full package contents before ordering; not every listing provides the same level of detail about accessories.
The right configuration depends on whether your priority is hanging, supporting, or loading the item.
Receiver fit and adjustment
Confirm the receiver size and the adjustment range that your loading situation requires. ECOTRIC and Kill Shot explicitly say they fit a 2-inch receiver, and the VEVOR title specifies a 2-inch receiver; KNINE OUTDOORS describes its mount as fitting standard truck trailing systems. NULTRUMA lists an adjustable frame and a 45-inch rack lift height, while KNINE OUTDOORS describes an adjustable height and 360-degree swivel.
Buyers with a known 2-inch receiver can start with the listings that state that size; those considering another receiver should seek confirmation rather than infer compatibility. If the load needs precise positioning, an adjustable or swiveling design may be more useful than a fixed setup.
The listed information does not give every product’s complete adjustment range, so check manufacturer details against your bed height and hitch location.
Which Hitch Deer Carrier Should You Choose?
For a high-capacity, well-equipped hunting setup, choose the ECOTRIC Hitch Deer Hoist: it combines a 600-pound rating, stated 2-inch receiver fit, swivel, and two gambrels. If you want a 600-pound model that changes from hoist to carrier with a locking pin, pick the Kill Shot Deer Hoist. The KNINE OUTDOORS Deer Hoist is another 600-pound option, with a winch, pulley system, gambrel, and adjustable height.
For a platform and a 500-pound rating, consider the NULTRUMA Hitch Hoist; Mossy Oak Game Hoist offers a 400-pound rating and self-locking winch. Choose VEVOR Hitch Deer Hoist or Viking Solutions SwiveLift when a 300-pound platform-style setup matches your load.
Before deciding, verify receiver compatibility and the capacity of the complete vehicle setup.
Related Buying Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I confirm a hitch-mounted deer hoist will clear my tailgate?
Check the hoist’s receiver fit and measure how far its shaft and lifting point extend from the hitch. Compare that position with your open tailgate and truck bed. If the product information does not give the dimensions you need, confirm them with the seller before buying; do not assume a swivel alone ensures clearance.
What should I inspect on a manual winch and cable before lifting game?
Inspect the winch, cable, hook, and connections for visible damage, wear, corrosion, kinks, or loose parts. Check that the cable winds and unwinds smoothly and that the winch holds under control before lifting. Follow the product instructions, keep people clear of the suspended load, and do not use damaged components.
Can a hitch deer hoist be used safely on uneven ground?
Uneven ground can make a raised load less stable, so choose firm, level ground whenever possible. Secure the vehicle, follow the hoist instructions, and keep the load controlled while lifting or lowering. Do not exceed the capacity of the hoist or the complete vehicle setup, and stop if the rig shifts or feels unstable.
How do I check whether the hoist’s capacity suits my setup?
Compare the hoist’s listed capacity with the expected load, then verify the capacity of the complete vehicle setup, including the receiver and hitch arrangement. The article lists models rated from 300 to 600 pounds, but a hoist rating alone does not establish what your vehicle can safely support.
Should I choose a platform-style lift or a hoist with a gambrel?
Choose based on how you plan to lift and position game. The listed platform models offer platform-style lifting, while the ECOTRIC package includes two gambrels and a swiveling shaft for positioning game. Compare each model’s stated capacity, included components, receiver fit, and instructions with your intended use.
Final Words
For a well-equipped setup with a stated 600-pound capacity, 2-inch receiver fit, swivel, and two gambrels, the ECOTRIC is the strongest overall match in this group. Choose the Kill Shot if its hoist-to-carrier conversion suits your needs, or compare the platform models when that lift style is your priority. Before purchase, confirm receiver compatibility and the capacity of the complete vehicle setup.
