Badland Apex 12,000 winch
Smittybilt Jeep Wrangler Gen2 X2O 10,000 lb. Winch with Synthetic Rope and Wireless Control 98510 (Universal; Some Adaptation May Be Required) - Free Shipping
This might be a better option with the Smittybilt XRC Winch Bumper
This might be a better option with the Smittybilt XRC Winch Bumper
That Smitty winch is what I have had for over a decade. Jeesh, think that was ~$529 back in the day. It's been fine for me, but like I mentioned in the other thread, it seems I've heard decent things about the Badlands winches, and I don't think I could say either is better than the other. Couple things I notice immediately is that the Badlands having the hook you can easily remove is nice. First thing I did was chop that dumb hook off the smitty line. You're also getting a higher weight rating with the Badlands, and it's still wireless control. The only thing I think that stands out as being better about the smitty is the smaller control box. I actually relocated my control box into the engine bay this last year in an effort to free up more airflow through the grille and that was pretty easy for me to do since the control box is pretty small.
In regard to pairing the smitty winch to a smitty bumper, not sure that matters much. whatever you decide to purchase you should seriously consider a winch cover to protect that synthetic line from the UV in your area. The bartact covers aren't too pricey and really nice.
In regard to pairing the smitty winch to a smitty bumper, not sure that matters much. whatever you decide to purchase you should seriously consider a winch cover to protect that synthetic line from the UV in your area. The bartact covers aren't too pricey and really nice.
Most winches are made in China - even some Warns. For the time being, Chinese imports are all but stopped. Whatever you decide, my opinion is you decide quick because prices are already going up.









