Imagine this: you’ve had a successful hunt, but now you’re faced with the biggest challenge – getting your harvest out of the field and onto your truck. Lifting a large deer by yourself is tough, and it can even lead to injuries. That’s where a truck deer hoist comes in, but choosing the right one can feel like another hunt itself. There are so many different kinds, and figuring out which one will work best for you and your truck can be frustrating.
This is why understanding truck deer hoists is so important for any hunter. You want a hoist that is strong, easy to use, and fits your specific needs without causing more hassle. Don’t worry, we’re here to help! By reading on, you’ll learn exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the different types of hoists, what features matter most, and how to pick the perfect one to make your post-hunt experience much easier and safer.
Our Top 5 Truck Deer Hoist Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Truck Deer Hoist Detailed Reviews
1. HME Truck Hitch Game Hoist Complete Kit with Winch and Gambrel
Rating: 8.7/10
The HME Truck Hitch Game Hoist is a game-changer for hunters. This complete kit makes field dressing and cleaning big game much easier. It attaches right to your truck’s hitch, giving you a strong and stable lifting point. This hoist helps you work smarter, not harder, after a successful hunt.
What We Like:
- The 360-degree swivel lets you move the animal easily to get to any spot for skinning and cleaning.
- It can hold up to 400 pounds, so it’s strong enough for large animals like deer and elk.
- You can change the height from 74 to 102 inches. This means you can set it at a comfortable level for you, making the job easier on your back.
- The kit comes with everything you need: a manual winch, a gambrel, and a hook to keep the animal from turning.
- It attaches securely to your truck’s 2-inch hitch and has an extra leg for stability, even on bumpy ground.
What Could Be Improved:
- The manual winch can be a bit slow for very heavy loads.
- While stable, assembling it can take a little time for the first setup.
This hoist makes a tough job much more manageable. It’s a valuable tool for any hunter who needs to process game in the field.
2. ECOTRIC Truck Hitch Game Hunting Hoist
Rating: 8.5/10
The ECOTRIC Truck Hitch Game Hunting Hoist is a sturdy and versatile tool for hunters. It easily attaches to your vehicle’s 2-inch hitch receiver. This hoist helps you lift and dress your game after a successful hunt. It’s built to handle tough outdoor conditions and makes a big job much easier.
What We Like:
- It adjusts from 74 to 102 inches high, so it works for many game sizes.
- The steel construction is strong and can hold up to 400 pounds.
- The black powder coating protects it from rust and damage.
- The hand-operated winch makes lifting and lowering game smooth and simple.
- The 360° swivel lets you move the game to the best position for cleaning or skinning.
- It comes with everything you need for assembly, including clear instructions.
- Installation is easy and doesn’t require special tools.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, some users might wish for a slightly lighter material for easier portability.
- The manual winch, while functional, could be replaced with an electric option for even greater convenience for some users.
This ECOTRIC hoist is a solid investment for any serious hunter. It simplifies the post-hunt process, making field dressing and preparation much more manageable.
3. Highwild Truck Hitch Game Hoist & Gambrel – 500lbs with 360 Degree Swivel – Complete Hoist Kit (Included Winch/Gambrel)
Rating: 9.1/10
The Highwild Truck Hitch Game Hoist & Gambrel is your ultimate partner for processing your harvest. This complete kit makes lifting and field dressing big game a breeze. It fits right into your truck’s hitch, so you can set it up almost anywhere.
What We Like:
- It’s built tough with strong steel that won’t rust, so it will last a long time.
- It can hold up to 500 pounds, which is plenty for most game animals.
- You can easily adjust the height from 81 to 106 inches to find the perfect working level.
- The special foot at the bottom keeps it steady when you’re lifting heavy loads.
- The hoist can spin all the way around (360 degrees), making it super easy to move your game.
- It’s simple to put together and starts working right away.
What Could Be Improved:
- While strong, the winch mechanism might be a bit basic for extremely heavy lifting.
- The 500lb capacity is great, but for truly giant animals, you might need something more robust.
This hoist kit is a fantastic tool for any hunter. It takes the hard work out of processing your game, letting you focus on the enjoyment of the hunt.
4. Game Hoist Kit with Winch & Hang Gambrel-500lbs Capacity/2″ Truck Receiver Hitch/Adjustable Height/360° Swivel/Support Foot/Gambrel-Hunting Deer Hoist Hanger Rack-Lifting/Skinning/Cleaning Game
Rating: 8.7/10
The Game Hoist Kit with Winch & Hang Gambrel is a robust and versatile tool designed to make lifting and preparing game, or any heavy cargo, a breeze. Built for the outdoorsman and the DIYer alike, this kit offers powerful lifting capabilities and thoughtful features for ease of use and durability.
What We Like:
- It boasts a powerful 500lb load capacity, perfect for lifting deer, hogs, or other heavy items.
- The sturdy carbon steel construction with anti-corrosion powder coating means it can handle tough weather.
- You can adjust the height easily, fitting it to your needs from 81.23 to 103.09 inches.
- The 360° swivel allows for smooth rotation, making it simple to position your load.
- Operation is safe and easy with a lockable manual winch and a strong steel cable.
- Installation is quick, and it comes with all the necessary accessories.
- Its multi-purpose design makes it useful for more than just game; it can lift engines, furniture, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- It might not fit trucks with downward flaps on the receiver hitch.
This hoist kit is a fantastic investment for anyone needing a reliable and powerful lifting solution. It simplifies tough tasks, making game processing and heavy lifting much more manageable.
5. ECOTRIC Truck 2″ Hitch Game Hunting Hoist
Rating: 9.4/10
If you’re a hunter who needs to easily load, clean, or skin big game, the ECOTRIC Truck 2″ Hitch Game Hunting Hoist is a game-changer. This strong steel hoist attaches right to your truck’s 2-inch receiver hitch. It makes lifting deer or hogs up to 600 pounds a breeze. Plus, it swivels 360 degrees, so you can move your harvest from the ground to your truck bed or a cleaning station without a struggle. It’s built tough for the outdoors and comes with everything you need.
What We Like:
- Super strong square steel tubing makes it very durable.
- The 360-degree swivel lets you move your game easily.
- It locks in place, giving you a steady spot for cleaning.
- Fits any 2-inch truck receiver hitch.
- Adjustable height and a good cable length are great for different situations.
- The black powder coating fights off rust.
- Comes with the winch, gambrels, and all hardware.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions could be clearer for some users.
- While strong, it’s still a bit heavy to move around when not on the truck.
This hoist is a solid investment for any serious hunter. It makes tough jobs much simpler and safer.
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Truck Deer Hoist
Hunting season is an exciting time! After a successful hunt, you need a reliable way to get your prize from the ground to your truck. That’s where a truck deer hoist comes in. This handy tool makes a tough job much easier. Let’s explore what makes a good deer hoist.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a truck deer hoist, keep these important features in mind:
- Lifting Capacity: This is the most crucial feature. Make sure the hoist can handle the weight of the largest deer you expect to hunt. Most hoists list their weight limit. Always choose one with a capacity well above your needs to be safe.
- Reach and Height: Consider how high you need to lift the deer. A taller hoist lets you lift the animal higher off the ground. This makes it easier to load into your truck bed. Also, check how far the hoist extends from your truck. This helps with positioning.
- Ease of Use: A good hoist should be simple to set up and operate. Look for smooth winches or pulleys. You don’t want to struggle when you’re tired after a long day in the field.
- Portability and Storage: Some hoists are designed to attach permanently to your truck. Others are portable and can be stored when not in use. Think about your storage space and how often you’ll need to move the hoist.
- Safety Features: Look for hoists with secure locking mechanisms. This prevents accidental drops. A strong hook that won’t bend or break is also essential.
Important Materials
The materials used in a deer hoist affect its strength and lifespan.
- Steel: Most durable truck deer hoists use strong steel. This material can handle heavy loads and resists wear and tear. Look for powder-coated steel to prevent rust.
- Aluminum: Some lighter-weight hoists use aluminum. While lighter, aluminum might not be as strong as steel for very heavy game.
- Rope and Cables: The lifting mechanism often uses strong nylon rope or steel cables. Ensure these are rated for the hoist’s weight capacity.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a deer hoist better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built hoist feels sturdy. Welds should be clean and strong. Moving parts should operate smoothly without jamming. A poorly made hoist might bend or break under pressure.
- Corrosion Resistance: If you hunt in wet or humid conditions, a hoist with good rust protection is vital. Powder coating or galvanized steel helps prevent rust. Rust can weaken the hoist over time.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making reliable hunting gear. Researching a brand can give you an idea of the quality you can expect.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a truck deer hoist is straightforward.
- How to Use: You typically attach the hoist to your truck’s hitch receiver or a dedicated mounting point. Then, you use a winch or pulley system to raise the animal. Once lifted, you can swing it over your truck bed for loading.
- Who Needs One: Any hunter who harvests large game, like deer, elk, or wild hogs, can benefit from a hoist. It’s especially useful if you hunt alone or if you have a high truck bed.
- Beyond Deer: These hoists are also great for lifting other heavy items around a farm or workshop. You can use them to lift engines, feed bags, or anything else that’s too heavy to lift manually.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the weight capacity I should look for?
A: You should aim for a hoist with a weight capacity of at least 500 pounds. For larger game, consider one that can handle 1000 pounds or more. It’s always better to have extra capacity.
Q: How do I attach a deer hoist to my truck?
A: Most hoists use your truck’s hitch receiver. Some may require a special mounting bracket. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Can I use a deer hoist for other animals?
A: Yes! If the animal’s weight is within the hoist’s capacity, you can use it for various game animals like bears or wild boars.
Q: Are there different types of truck deer hoists?
A: Yes, there are basic manual hoists, electric hoists, and hoists that permanently mount to your truck. Some are portable, while others are more fixed.
Q: How do I maintain my deer hoist?
A: Keep it clean and dry when not in use. Lubricate moving parts regularly and check for any signs of wear or damage before each use.
Q: What if my truck doesn’t have a hitch receiver?
A: Some hoists come with universal mounting kits or can be adapted to other sturdy points on your truck frame.
Q: How much do truck deer hoists usually cost?
A: Prices can range from around $100 for basic models to $500 or more for heavy-duty or electric versions.
Q: Is it difficult to assemble a deer hoist?
A: Most hoists are designed for relatively easy assembly. They often come with clear instructions and necessary hardware.
Q: Can I use a deer hoist in muddy conditions?
A: Yes, but ensure the ground is stable. You might need to place a sturdy board under the hoist’s base for added stability if the ground is soft.
Q: Where can I buy a truck deer hoist?
A: You can find them at outdoor and sporting goods stores, farm supply stores, and online retailers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.