I did a lot of reading before buying a winch for my 2013 JK. I do mostly dirt road and old logging trail stuff, no rock crawling, but often in snow and mud. Having been stuck with my ATV before I decided that a winch was good insurance. There are tons of choices depending on budget and needs, but I decided to go with the Harbor Freight line of Badlands winch. I decided on the 9000 since it is just over twice my vehicle weight BUT ended up buying the 12k winch because it happened to be on sale for less then the 9k one. I know this is overkill for the JK but the extra capacity means that the winch will have to work easier when needed. Also it allows me to possibly assist others needing help with proper setup. I also used HF universal mtg. plate and bought a snatch block and nylon strap for easier hookup around trees or? I do like the idea of synthetic rope as I have had steel cables damaged and kink some. I will probably change over sometime but for now I think I have what I need JUST IN CASE! In the meantime I will make sure I inspect the cable regularly to help avoid problems.

I do not like the idea of a hand winch just because it does put you in harms way should the cable snap or come loose for any reason.