A strong deer winch for a UTV needs enough rated pull for the vehicle and load, a rope suited to field use, and a mounting pattern that fits your machine. For most UTV owners, a 4,500-pound electric model with synthetic rope offers a useful balance of capacity and practical features; heavier loads may call for a 6,000-pound option. This roundup compares ten products ranging from 600-pound manual units to 6,000-pound electric winches.
The listings vary in rope material, remote controls, weather protection, motor details, and mounting information, so check your UTV’s bracket and electrical setup before choosing. Rated pulling capacity is not the same as the weight of a deer or trailer: terrain, slope, and friction affect the force required.
The OPENROAD 4500 lb Winch is the best overall choice in this group for a UTV deer-hauling setup. Its 4,500-pound rating, 12V motor, 50-foot synthetic rope, wireless remote, and rubber stopper make it a capable, field-oriented electric option. Before buying, confirm its listed fairlead and four-hole mounting dimensions match your UTV bracket.
If you expect heavier pulls, the OPENROAD 6000 lbs Winch offers more rated capacity, while the Rough Country ProSeries is another 4,500-pound option with IP67 protection.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallIts 4,500-pound rating, 50-foot synthetic rope, wireless remote, and rubber stopper suit common UTV recovery and hauling tasks; verify its mounting pattern.
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Best WeatherproofingThis 4,500-pound electric winch combines 50 feet of synthetic rope, a 1.4 HP motor, and listed IP67 water and dust protection.
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Highest CapacityIts 6,000-pound rating and 50-foot synthetic rope suit heavier pulls; the included mounting plate and wired and wireless remotes add useful equipment.
View on Amazon- Powerful Motor Nilight 4500 lb Winch
- Long Rope Reach X-BULL 4500 lb Winch
Compare Deer-Hauling Winches for Your UTV
| # | Product | Dimensions | Weight | Size | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. OPENROAD 4500 lb WinchBest Overall | 7 x 7 x 7 in | 21.8 lb | 4500lb | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Rough Country ProSeriesBest Weatherproofing | 16.5 x 11 x 7 in | 23.2 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. OPENROAD 6000 lbs WinchHighest Capacity | 20.87 x 14.53 x 7.32 in | 31.7 lb | 6000lb | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Nilight 4500 lb WinchPowerful Motor | 10 x 8 x 5 in | 23.6 lb | 4500lbs | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. X-BULL 4500 lb WinchLong Rope Reach | — | 21.1 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. ZESUPER 4500 lb WinchDual-control off-road recovery | 16.5 x 11 x 7 in | 20 lb | 4500LBS | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. ORCISH 3500 lb Winch3500-pound remote-controlled pulls | 14.2 x 12.3 x 6.3 in | 16 lb | 3500 lb | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. TYT 3000 lb WinchCompact lighter-duty ATV winching | 9 x 7 x 6 in | 14.76 lb | 3000lb | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. AC-DK 2500 lb WinchCompact 2500-pound winch setups | 13 x 9.4 x 7.5 in | 16.19 lb | 2500lb | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. BIG RED 600 lb WinchManual trailer and UTV cranking | 7.68 x 4.72 x 5.43 in | 4.8 lb | — | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Deer Winch For Utv

#1 · Best Overall
1. OPENROAD 4500 lb Winch
- Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 7 in
- Weight: 21.8 lb
- Size: 4500lb
Best for: Wireless 4500-pound UTV recovery.
Why it ranks #1: Its 4,500-pound rating, 50-foot synthetic rope, wireless remote, and rubber stopper suit common UTV recovery and hauling tasks; verify its mounting pattern.
The OPENROAD winch combines a 4,500-pound rating with a 50-foot synthetic rope, giving UTV owners substantial line reach for electric off-road recovery. Its 12-volt permanent-magnet motor is rated at 1.9 horsepower, and the kit specifies standardized mounting dimensions for checking bracket compatibility before installation.
A 1.9-horsepower, 12-volt motor supplies the listed 4,500-pound pulling capacity, while continuous power output is specified for sustained operation. The 50-foot synthetic rope and included wireless remote support recovery without requiring the operator to stand at the winch. OPENROAD lists a 4 7/8-inch fairlead mounting pattern and a 3-by-4 7/8-inch four-hole mounting pattern, so compare those dimensions with the bracket before installation.
- 4,500-pound capacity
- 1.9-horsepower 12-volt motor
- 50-foot synthetic rope
- Wireless remote and rubber stopper
- Mounting requires matching the listed hole patterns to the bracket.
Skip it if you need a lower-capacity compact setup; the TYT PP3PL170017 is rated at 3,000 pounds and lists a compact body.
Consider it for a 12-volt UTV needing 4,500-pound electric pulling and remote operation. The specified mounting patterns are a key fit check, so verify the bracket dimensions before installation rather than assuming compatibility.
Full product details
| Brand | OPENROAD |
|---|---|
| Color | 4500lb Black |
| Included Components | 4500lb atv winch |
| Item Weight | 21.8 pounds |
| Item model number | 4500lb with synthetic rope |
| Manufacturer | OPENROAD |
| Material | 4500lb with synthetic rope |
| Dimensions | 7 x 7 x 7 inches |
| Size | 4500lb |
Listed on Amazon as: OPENROAD 4500 lb ATV/UTV Winch,12V Towing Off-Road Electric UTV Winch with 1/4"×50' Synthetic Rope,Wireless Remote and Rubber Stopper (4500lb with Synthetic Rope)
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#2 · Best Weatherproofing
2. Rough Country ProSeries
- Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 7 in
- Weight: 23.2 lb
Best for: Higher-capacity electric recovery.
Why it ranks #2: This 4,500-pound electric winch combines 50 feet of synthetic rope, a 1.4 HP motor, and listed IP67 water and dust protection.
A 4,500-pound rating paired with a 1.4-horsepower motor gives the Rough Country ProSeries winch substantial pulling capacity for UTV recovery and utility work. Its 50-foot synthetic rope reaches beyond the immediate mounting area, while the listed IP67 waterproof and dustproof protection suits rough outdoor conditions.
The 166:1 gear ratio works with the 1.4-horsepower motor to provide the pulling power Rough Country specifies for recovery and hauling. Its 50-foot synthetic rope extends the available line, and the product description says synthetic rope is lighter than steel and safer under tension. IP67 waterproof and dustproof protection addresses exposure to dirt and water on off-road trips. The unit is a 12-volt system, so buyers should plan around that vehicle power requirement.
- 4,500-pound pulling capacity
- 1.4-horsepower motor and 166:1 gear ratio
- 50-foot synthetic rope
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating
- Requires a 12-volt power source for electric operation.
Skip it if you want a hand-operated winch without vehicle power; the BIG RED ATRT1061CR is a manual 600-pound option.
This suits UTV owners seeking a 12-volt electric winch for recovery, hauling, or utility tasks, especially where a 50-foot line helps reach the anchor. Check vehicle power and mounting compatibility before choosing this system.
Full product details
| Brand | Rough Country |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 23.2 pounds |
| Item model number | RS4500SA |
| Manufacturer | Rough Country |
| Part Number | RS4500SA |
| Model | Rough Country 4,500LB UTV Electric Winch | 1.4HP | Synthetic Rope – RS4500SA |
| Dimensions | 16.5 x 11 x 7 inches |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Rough Country 4,500 LB UTV/ATV Winch – ProSeries 1.4HP Electric Winch with 50 Ft Synthetic Rope, Remote, Waterproof 12V Off-Road Recovery System
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#3 · Highest Capacity
3. OPENROAD 6000 lbs Winch
- Dimensions: 20.87 x 14.53 x 7.32 in
- Weight: 31.7 lb
- Size: 6000lb
Best for: Higher-rated UTV recovery system.
Why it ranks #3: Its 6,000-pound rating and 50-foot synthetic rope suit heavier pulls; the included mounting plate and wired and wireless remotes add useful equipment.
A 6,000-pound rating separates this OPENROAD electric winch for UTV owners who need more listed pulling capacity than a 4,500-pound system. It pairs a 2.7-horsepower, 12-volt motor with 50 feet of synthetic rope, and includes both wireless and wired remote controls for operating the winch.
The 2.7-horsepower permanent-magnet motor and continuous power output support the stated 6,000-pound capacity, while the 50-foot synthetic rope gives the line useful reach during recovery. Wireless and wired remotes offer two control methods, and the included mounting plate, hawse fairlead, and solenoid support installation planning. OPENROAD specifies a 6.6-inch fairlead pattern and a 3-by-6 5/8-inch four-hole pattern; check those against the vehicle bracket before fitting.
- 6,000-pound capacity
- 2.7-horsepower 12-volt motor
- 50-foot synthetic rope
- Wireless and wired remote controls
- The 31.7-pound unit is heavier than compact winch options.
Skip it if you need a lighter 4500-pound setup; the ZESUPER USAM-SPEW016 weighs 20 pounds and carries that rating.
Choose this for a UTV where the listed 6,000-pound capacity and dual remote options suit the recovery plan. Its 31.7-pound weight and specific mounting pattern make weight and bracket fit important installation considerations.
Full product details
| Brand | OPENROAD |
|---|---|
| Color | 6000lb Black |
| Included Components | 6000 lb Winch, Hawse Fairlead, Installation Manual, Solenoid, Wireless Remote control and Wire Remote control |
| Item Weight | 31.7 pounds |
| Item model number | 6000lb |
| Manufacturer | OPENROAD |
| Material | 6000lb with Mounting Plate |
| Dimensions | 20.87 x 14.53 x 7.32 inches |
| Size | 6000lb |
Listed on Amazon as: OPENROAD 6000 lbs UTV Winch, Waterproof IP67 Electric Trailer 6k Winch with 1/4"×50ft Synthetic Rope,Wireless Remote and Winch Stopper (6000lb with Mounting Plate)
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#4 · Powerful Motor
4. Nilight 4500 lb Winch
- Dimensions: 10 x 8 x 5 in
- Weight: 23.6 lb
- Size: 4500lbs
Best for: 4500-pound synthetic-rope recovery.
Why it ranks #4: The 4,500-pound model lists a 3.2 HP motor, synthetic rope, and IP67 protection, making it a capable choice for demanding UTV use.
A 3.2-horsepower pure-copper motor gives the Nilight winch a substantial power specification alongside its 4,500-pound single-line pull rating. The 12-volt electric system uses synthetic rope and is presented for ATV and UTV recovery, with a dynamic brake specified to help prevent the rope from sliding.
Nilight’s pure-copper permanent-magnet motor is rated at 2.4 kilowatts and 3.2 horsepower, with the product citing heat resistance and strong power as operating benefits. The 4,500-pound single-line rating sets the recovery capacity, while synthetic rope is described as lighter and stronger than steel cable. An IP67 rating addresses water and sand intrusion, though Nilight specifically does not recommend underwater use; the dynamic brake helps keep the rope from sliding.
- 4,500-pound single-line pull rating
- 2.4-kilowatt, 3.2-horsepower motor
- Synthetic rope
- IP67 rating and dynamic brake
- Not recommended for use underwater.
Skip it if you need a 6,000-pound rating; the OPENROAD 6000lb winch provides that higher listed capacity.
This suits 12-volt ATV and UTV owners seeking a 4,500-pound synthetic-rope winch with an IP67 rating and dynamic brake. Keep the stated boundary in mind: Nilight does not recommend operating it underwater.
Full product details
| Brand | Nilight |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | Electric Winch kit |
| Item Weight | 23.6 pounds |
| Item model number | 4500lbs Electric Winch |
| Manufacturer | Nilight |
| Dimensions | 10 x 8 x 5 inches |
| Size | 4500lbs |
| Style | Modern |
Listed on Amazon as: Nilight ATV UTV Electric Winch 12V 4500 lb w Synthetic Rope Remote Control
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#5 · Long Rope Reach
5. X-BULL 4500 lb Winch
- Weight: 21.1 lb
Best for: 4500-pound farm and trail recovery.
Why it ranks #5: This 4,500-pound kit includes 50 feet of synthetic rope, a mounting bracket, and wireless remotes, with a listed 1.5 HP motor.
A 4,500-pound capacity and 50-foot synthetic rope give the X-BULL winch a clear role in UTV recovery and farm tasks. Its 1.5-horsepower motor works with a three-stage planetary gear system, while a dynamic brake is specified to hold a vehicle securely during uses such as feeding farm animals.
The 136:1 gear ratio and three-stage planetary system accompany the 1.5-horsepower motor, supporting the stated 4,500-pound capacity and a full-load line speed of 8.6 feet per minute. The 50-foot synthetic rope includes a 3.2-foot protective sleeve, and the kit lists a fairlead, wireless remotes, and mounting bracket. A dynamic brake holds the vehicle in place during farm tasks, while the listed 12-volt supply defines the power requirement.
- 4,500-pound capacity
- 50-foot synthetic rope with 3.2-foot protective sleeve
- 136:1 gear ratio and three-stage planetary system
- Dynamic brake and wireless remotes
- Full-load line speed is 8.6 feet per minute.
Skip it if you need a faster specified full-load line speed; the listing does not provide one for the Nilight 4500lbs Electric Winch.
This suits 12-volt UTV owners handling trail recovery or farm work who want 4,500 pounds of capacity and a 50-foot line. Consider its specified 8.6-foot-per-minute full-load speed when planning recovery time.
Full product details
| Brand | X-BULL |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 21.1 pounds |
| Item model number | AM0004 |
| Manufacturer | X-BULL |
| Part Number | AM0004 |
| Package Dimensions | 16.5 x 11.38 x 7.17 inches |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
Listed on Amazon as: X-BULL 4500 lbs Winch 12V Electric Winch Kits with Fairlead, ATV/UTV Winch with Waterproof Synthetic Rope Winch with Wireless Remotes and Mounting Bracket
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#6
6. ZESUPER 4500 lb Winch
- Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 7 in
- Weight: 20 lb
- Size: 4500LBS
Best for: Dual-control off-road recovery.
Why it ranks #6: Its 4,500-pound capacity, wired and wireless controls, mounting plate, and auto-brake address core recovery needs, though rope details are less specific.
Wireless and wired controls give the ZESUPER 4500-pound winch two operating options for ATV, UTV, boat, and trailer applications. Its three-stage planetary gearing multiplies torque for heavy loads, while an auto-brake system is specified to lock loads during power outages, adding a defined holding function to recovery work.
The 4,500-pound rating and three-stage planetary gears target heavy-load pulling across the listed vehicle and trailer uses. Wireless and wired remote options let the operator choose between control methods, while the auto-brake system is specified to lock a load during a power outage. The winch is rated IP67 for water and dust protection. A fairlead, mounting plate, and mounting hardware are included, giving buyers components to consider during installation planning.
- 4,500-pound capacity
- Wireless and wired remote options
- Three-stage planetary gears
- Auto-brake locks loads during power outages
- The product listing does not specify a synthetic-rope length.
Skip it if you require a specified 50-foot synthetic rope; the X-BULL AM0004 lists that rope length.
This is a fit for off-road users who value dual controls, a stated auto-brake, and a 4,500-pound rating across ATV, UTV, boat, or trailer work. Check the listing and mounting needs against your rope requirements.
Full product details
| Brand | ZESUPER |
|---|---|
| Color | Synthetic Rope |
| Included Components | Fairlead, Mounting Plate, Mounting hardware, Winch, Wireless Remote |
| Item Weight | 20 pounds |
| Item model number | USAM-SPEW016 |
| Manufacturer | ZESUPER |
| Material | Steel |
| Dimensions | 16.5 x 11 x 7 inches |
| Size | 4500LBS |
Listed on Amazon as: ZESUPER 4500 lb Electric Winch 12V Waterproof IP67 for ATV UTV Boat Trailer
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#7
7. ORCISH 3500 lb Winch
- Dimensions: 14.2 x 12.3 x 6.3 in
- Weight: 16 lb
- Size: 3500 lb
Best for: 3500-pound remote-controlled pulls.
Why it ranks #7: The 3,500-pound synthetic-rope kit includes wired and wireless remotes and gloves; its listing also cautions that terrain friction affects pulling force.
Both wired and wireless remotes come with the ORCISH 3,500-pound winch, giving buyers two listed ways to control its electric synthetic-rope system. The kit also includes gloves, while ORCISH’s safety guidance clarifies that rated pulling capacity applies at the final rope layer and requires multiple wraps to remain on the drum.
A 3,500-pound rating gives this kit a defined capacity for ATV and UTV tasks, but ORCISH cautions that terrain friction and incline affect the actual pull required. Its guidance says maximum capacity applies with rope on the final drum layer and recommends keeping at least five to ten wraps to protect the drum and rope. Wireless and wired remotes support alternative control methods, and gloves are included with the winch kit.
- 3,500-pound rating
- Synthetic rope
- Wired and wireless remotes included
- Gloves included
- The 3,500-pound rating requires careful load and terrain assessment.
Skip it if you need a higher listed pull rating; the X-BULL AM0004 is rated at 4,500 pounds.
This suits buyers wanting a 3,500-pound electric winch with both remote types and a clear operating safety reminder. Assess terrain and load carefully, and retain the recommended five to ten rope wraps on the drum.
Full product details
| Brand | ORCISH |
|---|---|
| Color | Orange |
| Included Components | 3500 lb Winch, Gloves, Specification, Wired remote control, Wireless remote control |
| Item Weight | 16 pounds |
| Item model number | 3500 lb Synthetic Rope |
| Manufacturer | ORCISH |
| Dimensions | 14.2 x 12.3 x 6.3 inches |
| Size | 3500 lb |
Listed on Amazon as: ORCISH 3500 LB 12V Electric Winch, ATV/UTV Winch Kit with Synthetic Rope
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#8
8. TYT 3000 lb Winch
- Dimensions: 9 x 7 x 6 in
- Weight: 14.76 lb
- Size: 3000lb
Best for: Compact lighter-duty ATV winching.
Why it ranks #8: A 3,000-pound rating, synthetic rope, wired and wireless controls, and a mounting plate make it a compact-capacity option for lighter UTV tasks.
A compact 11.5-by-4-by-4.2-inch body makes the TYT winch a space-conscious choice for smaller outdoor vehicles, while its 3,000-pound rating targets lighter-duty pulling than higher-capacity recovery systems. The kit lists both wireless and wired controls, plus a mounting plate with dimensions intended to fit many winch brackets.
TYT specifies a 1-horsepower pure-copper permanent-magnet motor and a 3,000-pound capacity, pairing a modest rating with a compact body for smaller platforms. The standard 4 1/2-inch fairlead pattern and two-hole plate measurements of 3 or 3.10 inches help buyers compare bracket fit before installation. Wireless and wired control options offer flexibility at the operating point, and the synthetic rope and fairlead are included in the listed kit.
- 3,000-pound capacity
- Compact 11.5-by-4-by-4.2-inch body
- Wireless and wired controls
- Mounting plate and fairlead included
- 3,000-pound capacity may be insufficient for higher-load recovery.
Skip it if you need a 4,500-pound rating; the OPENROAD 4500lb with synthetic rope offers that higher listed capacity.
Choose this for a smaller ATV or similar platform where compact dimensions and a 3,000-pound rating suit the task. Check the fairlead and plate measurements against your bracket, particularly if fitting it to a UTV.
Full product details
| Brand | TYT |
|---|---|
| Color | Green |
| Item Weight | 14.76 pounds |
| Item model number | PP3PL170017 |
| Manufacturer | TYT |
| Dimensions | 9 x 7 x 6 inches |
| Size | 3000lb |
Listed on Amazon as: TYT 3000 lb ATV Winch with Wireless Remote and Wired Switch,12V DC Electric Winch Synthetic Winch Rope with Fairlead and Winch Mounting Plate
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#9
9. AC-DK 2500 lb Winch
- Dimensions: 13 x 9.4 x 7.5 in
- Weight: 16.19 lb
- Size: 2500lb
Best for: Compact 2500-pound winch setups.
Why it ranks #9: This 2,500-pound electric kit includes synthetic rope and wired and wireless controls, but its lower rated pull limits suitability for heavier hauling.
Standardized mounting dimensions are the AC-DK kit’s practical draw: its 4 1/4-inch fairlead pattern and two-hole plate measurements let buyers check bracket fit before installation. The 12-volt electric winch is rated at 2,500 pounds and uses synthetic rope for lighter-duty ATV, UTV, trailer, or boat towing tasks.
The 2,500-pound rating helps define this kit’s suitable workload, while the synthetic rope keeps the setup aligned with buyers seeking a rope-based electric winch. AC-DK lists a 4 1/4-inch fairlead pattern and two-hole plate measurements of 3.10 or 3 inches, giving concrete dimensions for bracket checks. The included mounting plate and winch accessories support installation planning, but compatibility still depends on matching the mounting holes to the vehicle bracket.
- 2,500-pound electric winch rating
- Synthetic rope
- 4 1/4-inch fairlead mounting pattern
- Mounting plate included
- 2,500-pound capacity is lower than higher-rated UTV recovery systems.
Skip it if you need a 4,500-pound recovery rating; the ZESUPER USAM-SPEW016 is rated at 4,500 pounds.
This fits buyers with a lighter-duty ATV or UTV towing need who can use its 2,500-pound rating and supplied plate. Treat the listed fairlead and plate dimensions as essential bracket-fit checks before installation.
Full product details
| Brand | AC-DK |
|---|---|
| Color | 2500 lb – Synthetic Rope |
| Included Components | winch Mounting Kit |
| Item Weight | 16.19 pounds |
| Item model number | 2500lb |
| Manufacturer | AC-DK |
| Dimensions | 13 x 9.4 x 7.5 inches |
| Size | 2500lb |
Listed on Amazon as: 2500 lb ATV/UTV Winch Kit, 12V Electric Winch with Synthetic Rope, Wireless & Wired Remote, Mounting Plate for Off-Road Trailer, Boat, RV Towing
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#10
10. BIG RED 600 lb Winch
- Dimensions: 7.68 x 4.72 x 5.43 in
- Weight: 4.8 lb
Best for: Manual trailer and UTV cranking.
Why it ranks #10: The manual unit has a 26.3-foot steel cable and two-way ratchet, but its 600-pound rating is far below the electric UTV options.
A 26.3-foot steel cable gives the BIG RED manual winch useful reach for trailer, ATV, and UTV tasks without relying on a powered winch motor. Its two-way ratchet allows forward and reverse cranking, while the 600-pound capacity sets a clear boundary for the loads it can handle.
The 7.3-inch anti-slip handle provides a secure grip while you crank, and the two-way ratchet lets you work the cable forward or back to suit the pull. A zinc-plated, heavy-duty carbon-steel body is specified for resistance to rust and bad weather, which suits outdoor trailer use. At about 4.8 pounds, the winch is portable for moving between jobs; its 600-pound capacity is a modest limit for UTV recovery.
- 26.3-foot steel cable
- Two-way ratchet supports forward and reverse cranking
- 7.3-inch anti-slip handle
- Zinc-plated carbon-steel construction
- 600-pound capacity is limited for demanding UTV recovery.
Skip it if you need powered recovery or a higher pull rating; the Rough Country RS4500SA offers a 4,500-pound electric system.
Choose this for light trailer positioning or other manual pulls where portability and a long cable matter. Its 600-pound rating and hand-cranked operation make it a poor match for demanding UTV recoveries or buyers seeking powered pulling.
Full product details
| Brand | BIG RED |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 4.8 pounds |
| Item model number | ATRT1061CR |
| Manufacturer | Torin |
| Part Number | ATRT1061CR |
| Model | ATRT1061CR |
| Dimensions | 7.68 x 4.72 x 5.43 inches |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: BIG RED 600Lbs Manual Winch – 26.3FT Steel Cable, Two-Way Ratchet Crank, Heavy-Duty Boat Trailer Winch for ATV/UTV/Jet Ski/Marine Use
View on AmazonWhy rated pull is not the deer’s weight
A winch’s rated pull does not tell you the maximum deer weight it can safely haul in every situation. The ORCISH 3500 lb Winch listing specifically warns that friction from terrain and incline changes the force required, and that rated maximum applies at the final rope layer with at least five to ten wraps left on the drum. A carcass moving across flat ground is not equivalent to one being dragged uphill through mud or brush.
Leave a suitable reserve rather than selecting capacity by animal weight alone, and follow the winch and vehicle manufacturers’ limits. The products here range from 2,500 to 6,000 pounds of stated pull, but none of those figures guarantees a particular load will move safely in your terrain.
Use appropriate rigging and a secure anchor, keep people clear of a tensioned line, and stop if the setup shifts or the winch strains.
Check the bracket before choosing a winch
A winch can have adequate pulling capacity and still fail to fit your UTV because mounting patterns vary. The OPENROAD 4500 lb Winch lists a fairlead pattern of 4 7/8 inches and a four-hole mounting pattern of 3 by 4 7/8 inches. The AC-DK 2500 lb Winch lists a 4 1/4-inch fairlead pattern and a two-hole plate, while the TYT 3000 lb Winch describes a 4 1/2-inch fairlead pattern and a two-hole plate.
Those measurements are not interchangeable by assumption. Compare the winch dimensions with your UTV’s mounting plate, bumper, fairlead opening, and available space before ordering.
Also confirm the electrical requirements and control-box placement on your specific vehicle; the product listings do not establish compatibility with every UTV. A supplied plate or hardware is useful only if it matches your installation.
How to Choose a UTV Deer Winch
Rated pulling capacity
Look for a rated pull that leaves headroom for terrain and friction rather than matching the deer’s weight alone. These listings span 2,500 pounds for the AC-DK 2500 lb Winch, 3,000 for TYT, 3,500 for ORCISH, 4,500 for several electric models, and 6,000 for OPENROAD. The ORCISH listing cautions that incline and terrain affect required force and that its rating applies at the final rope layer.
Lighter tasks and a compatible small UTV may favour a 3,000- to 3,500-pound option; buyers expecting difficult recoveries or heavier pulls may prefer a 4,500-pound model or consider the 6,000-pound OPENROAD. Capacity alone does not establish safe working load for every setup.
Rope material and length
Choose rope material and length with the field conditions and rigging distance in mind. Several electric options list 50 feet of synthetic rope, including the OPENROAD 4500 lb Winch, Rough Country ProSeries, and X-BULL 4500 lb Winch. The BIG RED 600 lb Winch instead has 26.3 feet of steel cable and requires manual cranking.
Synthetic rope avoids adding steel cable weight, while the BIG RED’s cable and manual mechanism serve a different, low-capacity purpose. Buyers who need an electric UTV recovery setup should focus on the synthetic-rope kits; those considering steel cable should account for its distinct handling and care requirements.
Check that the rope’s length reaches an appropriate anchor point without unsafe extensions.
Controls, protection, and fit
Prioritize controls, weather protection, and mounting details that match your UTV and how you work. The OPENROAD 4500 lb Winch and Nilight 4500 lb Winch list synthetic rope and remote control, while ZESUPER describes both wired and wireless controls. Rough Country and Nilight list IP67 protection; the Rough Country also specifies a 1.4 HP motor.
Mounting details vary: OPENROAD gives four-hole and fairlead measurements, while AC-DK and TYT list two-hole plate dimensions. Buyers who operate in wet or dusty conditions may favour a listing with a stated ingress rating, and those wanting control flexibility should look for both remote types.
Confirm bracket measurements and electrical fit first; a feature list cannot guarantee compatibility with a particular UTV.
Which UTV Deer Winch Should I Choose?
For most UTV owners seeking an electric winch for deer hauling and general recovery, choose the OPENROAD 4500 lb Winch: it combines a 4,500-pound rating, 50-foot synthetic rope, wireless remote, and rubber stopper. If you expect heavier pulls and your UTV can accommodate the larger setup, consider the OPENROAD 6000 lbs Winch, which includes a mounting plate and wired and wireless remotes. For wet or dusty conditions, the Rough Country ProSeries lists IP67 protection and a 1.4 HP motor.
The Nilight 4500 lb Winch is another 4,500-pound option with synthetic rope and listed IP67 protection. For lighter-duty applications, the TYT 3000 lb Winch offers a lower capacity and mounting plate.
Avoid treating the BIG RED 600 lb Winch as a primary UTV deer winch; its manual 600-pound rating is substantially lower. Confirm fit and safe capacity before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much winch capacity should I choose for hauling a deer with a UTV?
Choose capacity with the deer’s weight, added gear, terrain, and pull resistance in mind, and follow the winch maker’s guidance. The OPENROAD 4500 lb is the group’s overall pick; consider the OPENROAD 6000 lbs for heavier pulls if your UTV accommodates it. The BIG RED 600 lb manual winch is not a primary UTV deer winch.
Will a standard ATV/UTV winch mounting pattern fit my UTV?
Do not assume it will fit; compare the winch’s listed mounting and fairlead dimensions with your UTV bracket before buying. The OPENROAD 4500 lb listing provides dimensions to check, and the editorial verdict specifically advises confirming its fairlead and four-hole mounting dimensions. A mounting plate does not by itself guarantee compatibility.
What safety steps should I take when winching a deer on a slope?
Keep people clear of the cable path, secure the UTV on stable ground, and avoid standing downhill or in line with a tensioned rope. Use the winch according to its instructions, pull steadily, and stop if the vehicle shifts or the load snags. Reassess the route rather than forcing an unsafe pull.
Does synthetic rope make sense for a UTV deer-hauling winch?
Synthetic rope is a practical option in this group: several listed electric winches include it, including the OPENROAD 4500 lb, Rough Country ProSeries, and Nilight 4500 lb. Check the product instructions for inspection, care, and handling, and make sure the rope and winch are suitable for the load and conditions.
Should I choose a wired or wireless remote?
Choose based on the control method you can use safely while keeping clear of the load and cable path. Product configurations vary: the OPENROAD 4500 lb lists a wireless remote, while the TYT 3000 lb lists both wireless and wired controls. Confirm the included controls in the specific product listing before purchase.
Final Words
For most UTV owners hauling deer and handling general recovery, the OPENROAD 4500 lb is the practical pick, provided its mounting and fairlead dimensions match your bracket. If heavier pulls are expected, consider the OPENROAD 6000 lbs only if your UTV can accommodate the setup. For wet or dusty use, compare the listed IP67 options.
Verify capacity, fit, and safe operating instructions before choosing.


