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A ratchet puller, commonly referred to as a “come along,” is the outdoorsman’s second, third, or fourth hand. The force-multiplying effect of this easy-to-use tool allows one person to get far more done than would be humanly possible without it. They are great for pulling stumps, felling trees, tensioning fences, or even pulling your own vehicle out of a ditch when no one else is around. Carry a length of chain to anchor around a stationary object, hook the other end to virtually any object that needs a little persuading, and get things moving!
Weight Capacity
Commercially available ratchet pullers generally range from about a one- to five-ton pulling capacity. Anything rated for two tons or more will handle most situations, right up to hauling a full-size pick-up truck back onto the road.
Pull Length
A standard come along usually has only about a 7- to 10-foot pull length. That means your anchor point needs to be relatively close to your towing object, or another length of strap or cable will be necessary. A basic come along with a 30-foot length of braided steel cable stored in the truck is a powerful and versatile combination.
Long-Range Pulling
For pulling power at a distance of up to 100 feet, a ratchet puller meant to work with a long rope can get the job done. Roper pullers generally have a lower weight capacity, unless you get into specialized synthetic ropes, such as Amsteel.