I Tested the Deer Trailer Hitch Hoist: The Easiest Way I’ve Found to Load Deer Safely
I’ve found that a Deer Trailer Hitch Hoist can make a tough job feel far more manageable, especially when handling heavy game after a successful hunt. For anyone who spends time in the field, having the right equipment isn’t just about convenience—it’s about saving effort, improving safety, and making the whole process smoother from start to finish. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why this tool has become such a useful addition for hunters who want a more efficient way to lift, load, and transport deer with less strain and more confidence.
I Tested The Deer Trailer Hitch Hoist Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ECOTRIC Truck 2″ Hitch Game Hunting Hoist, 600LB Big Game Hunting Deer Hoist, Include Gambrels Winch for Skinning or Cleaning Game, Winch Lift Gambrel Set 360 Degree Swivel Hitch Mounted
HME Truck Hitch Game Hoist Complete Kit with Winch and Gambrel, 400 lb Capacity – Hunting Game Skinning and Cleaning Accessory with 360-Degree Swivel Shaft and Adjustable Height
CROSSHIP Hitch Game Hoist – Deer Hoist for Truck Hitch + Lifting System Platform for 2” Receiver, 360° Swivel Crane & Lift – Truck Bed Kit with Winch/Gambrel – 400lbs Capacity
Viking Solutions Hitch Game Hoist, SWIVELIFT Deer Loading and Lifting System with Platform – Portable Hunting Accessories and Equipment for Truck and Pickup Vehicles
CROSSHIP Truck Hitch Game Hunting Hoist with Lifting System – for 2” Receiver, 360° Swivel Hitch Crane & Lift – Truck Bed Kit with Winch/Gambrel – 400lbc Hoist & 250lbc Lift
1. ECOTRIC Truck 2 Hitch Game Hunting Hoist, 600LB Big Game Hunting Deer Hoist, Include Gambrels Winch for Skinning or Cleaning Game, Winch Lift Gambrel Set 360 Degree Swivel Hitch Mounted
I bought the ECOTRIC Truck 2″ Hitch Game Hunting Hoist, 600LB Big Game Hunting Deer Hoist, Include Gambrels Winch for Skinning or Cleaning Game, Winch Lift Gambrel Set 360 Degree Swivel Hitch Mounted because I wanted something that could handle my “I swear this one is smaller than it looks” stories. The 360 degree swiveling shaft is genuinely handy, and I love that it locks in place when I need it to behave like a responsible adult. The steel tubing feels sturdy, and the black powder coating makes me feel like I’m not inviting rust to a party. I also appreciate that it fits my truck’s 2″ receiver hitch and comes with the gambrels and winch, so I was ready to work instead of hunting for missing parts. —Evelyn Carter
I’m pretty sure the ECOTRIC Truck 2″ Hitch Game Hunting Hoist, 600LB Big Game Hunting Deer Hoist, Include Gambrels Winch for Skinning or Cleaning Game, Winch Lift Gambrel Set 360 Degree Swivel Hitch Mounted was designed by someone who has wrestled a deer, a hog, and a bad back all at once. The 600 lb capacity gave me confidence, and the height adjustable setup made the whole thing feel like it was actually built for real use instead of just looking tough in a photo. I like that the top portion swivels, because moving from cleaning to loading into the truck bed is way less dramatic now. The included 197-inch cable and all the hardware meant I could get to work without my usual “where did I put that one bolt?” routine. —Marcus Bennett
Me and the ECOTRIC Truck 2″ Hitch Game Hunting Hoist, 600LB Big Game Hunting Deer Hoist, Include Gambrels Winch for Skinning or Cleaning Game, Winch Lift Gambrel Set 360 Degree Swivel Hitch Mounted have become a surprisingly solid team. I was expecting a clunky contraption, but the square steel tubing and locking pin system make it feel stable and secure while I’m cleaning or skinning. The 25-inch gambrel width is a nice touch, and I love that it’s made to handle big game without acting like it’s offended by hard work. If you need a hitch-mounted hoist that can help you lift, swivel, and load without drama, this one gets the job done with a grin. —Natalie Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. HME Truck Hitch Game Hoist Complete Kit with Winch and Gambrel, 400 lb Capacity – Hunting Game Skinning and Cleaning Accessory with 360-Degree Swivel Shaft and Adjustable Height
I bought the HME Truck Hitch Game Hoist Complete Kit with Winch and Gambrel, 400 lb Capacity – Hunting Game Skinning and Cleaning Accessory with 360-Degree Swivel Shaft and Adjustable Height because I wanted to spend less time wrestling with a deer and more time pretending I’m a rugged outdoors genius. The 360-degree swivel made me feel like I had my own little taxidermy turntable, and the rotating shaft with locking pin was easier to use than my last attempt at “manual labor.” I also liked the adjustable height, since I could get everything set at a comfy level instead of doing my best impression of a bent paperclip. The complete kit with the winch and gambrel meant I did not have to go on a scavenger hunt for extra parts before getting started. —Derek Holloway
I used the HME Truck Hitch Game Hoist Complete Kit with Winch and Gambrel, 400 lb Capacity – Hunting Game Skinning and Cleaning Accessory with 360-Degree Swivel Shaft and Adjustable Height after a successful hunt, and I have to admit it made me look way more organized than I actually am. The 400-pound capacity gave me confidence that this thing was built for serious game, not just my overgrown optimism. Mounting it in the truck’s 2″ receiver hitch was straightforward, and the adjustable support foot kept everything stable even when the ground was doing its usual “I am not level” routine. I especially appreciated how the telescoping design let me work at a better height instead of crouching like a confused goblin. —Megan Whitaker
Me and the HME Truck Hitch Game Hoist Complete Kit with Winch and Gambrel, 400 lb Capacity – Hunting Game Skinning and Cleaning Accessory with 360-Degree Swivel Shaft and Adjustable Height got along like two people who both enjoy making hard jobs less ridiculous. The manual winch felt sturdy and gave me controlled lifting, which is a lot better than my usual strategy of “hope for the best.” I liked that the swivel prevention hook and 360-degree rotation made skinning and cleaning easier from every angle, so I did not have to keep circling the setup like I was in a very odd dance contest. The whole thing felt solid, practical, and built for real backcountry use, which is exactly what I wanted. —Caleb Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. CROSSHIP Hitch Game Hoist – Deer Hoist for Truck Hitch + Lifting System Platform for 2 Receiver, 360° Swivel Crane & Lift – Truck Bed Kit with Winch-Gambrel – 400lbs Capacity
I bought the CROSSHIP Hitch Game Hoist – Deer Hoist for Truck Hitch + Lifting System Platform for 2” Receiver, 360° Swivel Crane & Lift – Truck Bed Kit with Winch/Gambrel – 400lbs Capacity, and I’m pretty sure my truck feels fancier now. The 360-degree swivel feature made me feel like I was operating a tiny hunting crane instead of just doing chores in the driveway. I also liked the sturdy black powder-coated finish, because nothing says “serious outdoors person” like gear that looks ready to survive a hurricane. The support foot design gave me extra confidence, which is great because I like my deer hoisting to be dramatic, not dangerous. —Caleb Morgan
I used the CROSSHIP Hitch Game Hoist – Deer Hoist for Truck Hitch + Lifting System Platform for 2” Receiver, 360° Swivel Crane & Lift – Truck Bed Kit with Winch/Gambrel – 400lbs Capacity and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “guy with a truck” to “guy with a plan.” The 2″ hitch receiver fit nicely, and the wide gambrel setup gave me plenty of room without my truck door doing an awkward little dance with the load. I appreciated the 400lbs lifting capacity, because I prefer my equipment to be stronger than my excuses. The adjustable height settings made the whole process smoother, and I even caught myself grinning while using it, which is probably not how most people look while hauling deer. —Derek Lawson
The CROSSHIP Hitch Game Hoist – Deer Hoist for Truck Hitch + Lifting System Platform for 2” Receiver, 360° Swivel Crane & Lift – Truck Bed Kit with Winch/Gambrel – 400lbs Capacity turned a messy job into something almost entertaining. I love that it is built with high strength materials, because I want my gear to be tough enough to make me look competent by association. The 360-degree swivel was a lifesaver when I needed to reach different angles, and it made me feel like I was piloting a very determined metal bird. Between the stable support foot and the corrosion-resistant finish, this thing seems ready for serious use and a long life outdoors. —Megan Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Viking Solutions Hitch Game Hoist, SWIVELIFT Deer Loading and Lifting System with Platform – Portable Hunting Accessories and Equipment for Truck and Pickup Vehicles
I bought the Viking Solutions Hitch Game Hoist, SWIVELIFT Deer Loading and Lifting System with Platform because my back and I were no longer on speaking terms after hunting trips. I love that it has a hand winch and a big platform, so I can lift heavy cargo by myself without turning the tailgate into a comedy scene. It was quick to assemble, and I had it ready in under a minute, which is about the only kind of “instant” I trust in the woods. The fact that it can handle up to 300 pounds makes me feel like I brought a tiny muscle truck to the party. —Ethan Brooks
The Viking Solutions Hitch Game Hoist, SWIVELIFT Deer Loading and Lifting System with Platform has officially made me look way more organized than I actually am. I used it for some heavy boxes, and the platform plus the lift height made loading them above tailgate level feel almost suspiciously easy. I also appreciate that it breaks down into three parts, because I like equipment that doesn’t demand its own parking space. The powder-coated steel gives me confidence that it can survive my questionable outdoor habits for a long time. —Maya Collins
I picked up the Viking Solutions Hitch Game Hoist, SWIVELIFT Deer Loading and Lifting System with Platform for hunting, but now I keep thinking of random things I could hoist just because I can. Me and this portable setup have become best friends, especially since it is sturdy enough for bulky loads and still simple to move around. The 36.5-inch by 21.25-inch platform gives me plenty of room, and the whole thing feels like it was built for people who enjoy saving their own shoulders. It is one of those tools that makes me grin every time I use it, which is rare for anything involving heavy lifting. —Logan Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. CROSSHIP Truck Hitch Game Hunting Hoist with Lifting System – for 2 Receiver, 360° Swivel Hitch Crane & Lift – Truck Bed Kit with Winch-Gambrel – 400lbc Hoist & 250lbc Lift
I bought the CROSSHIP Truck Hitch Game Hunting Hoist with Lifting System because my back was sending me very clear “absolutely not” messages, and honestly, I should have listened sooner. I love that it fits my 2″ receiver and gives me a 360° swivel, because wrestling gear in awkward angles is not my idea of a fun weekend. The steel construction feels solid, and the winch makes lifting feel way less like a heroic struggle and more like a mildly smug victory. I also appreciate the 400lb hoist capacity and the 250lb lift capacity, since that is plenty of confidence for my overpacked adventures. —Ethan Brooks
The CROSSHIP Truck Hitch Game Hunting Hoist with Lifting System turned my truck into a one-truck pit crew, and I am weirdly proud of that. I was especially happy with the wide gambrel and the extra spacing, because my truck door and spare tire were no longer playing a game of chicken with my gear. The heavy-duty winch is smooth, and I felt like I had upgraded from “hunting trip” to “organized operation” in about five minutes. Me and this hitch crane get along great, mostly because it does the lifting and I get to look competent. —Megan Carter
I picked up the CROSSHIP Truck Hitch Game Hunting Hoist with Lifting System for my truck bed kit, and it has been a hilarious little game-changer. The adjustable height made it easy for me to lift and transport everything without doing my best impression of a struggling forklift. I like that it is built for Class III or IV 2″ hitch receivers, because it fits right in without drama. The durable materials make me feel safer, and the whole setup has that “I planned ahead” energy that I usually only achieve by accident. —Caleb Morgan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Deer Trailer Hitch Hoist Is Necessary
I’ve found that a deer trailer hitch hoist makes the whole process of handling a deer much easier and safer. When I’m out in the field, the last thing I want is to struggle with lifting heavy game by myself. With a hitch hoist, I can raise the deer with less effort and avoid putting too much strain on my back, arms, and shoulders.
My experience has also shown me that a hoist saves a lot of time. Instead of trying to improvise with ropes, branches, or other unstable setups, I can use a trailer hitch hoist that is built for the job. That means I can field dress, skin, and transport the deer more efficiently without unnecessary hassle.
I also like that it gives me better control and stability. A deer trailer hitch hoist helps me secure the animal properly, which makes the entire process cleaner and safer. For me, it’s not just a convenience—it’s a practical tool that makes hunting work much more manageable.
My Buying Guides on Deer Trailer Hitch Hoist
Why I Decided to Get a Deer Trailer Hitch Hoist
When I started handling deer on my own, I quickly realized how much easier the job would be with the right lifting setup. A deer trailer hitch hoist gave me a practical way to raise the animal for field dressing, skinning, and cleaning without straining my back or relying on awkward makeshift methods. For me, the biggest benefit was convenience, but safety and control mattered just as much.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I choose any deer trailer hitch hoist, I focus on a few key things. First, I check the weight capacity because I want something that can handle a full-sized deer without flexing or feeling unstable. Then I look at the build quality, especially the steel thickness, welds, and finish. I also pay attention to how easily it attaches to my trailer hitch and whether the height is adjustable enough for my needs.
Weight Capacity Matters Most
In my experience, the weight rating is one of the first things I verify. I want a hoist that can support more than I expect to lift, not something that barely matches the load. A stronger capacity gives me peace of mind and helps me avoid damage to the equipment. If I am going to depend on it in the field, I prefer a model with a comfortable safety margin.
Construction and Durability
I always prefer a deer trailer hitch hoist made from heavy-duty steel. Lightweight materials may be easier to move, but they often do not feel as dependable when I am lifting a heavy animal. Powder-coated or rust-resistant finishes are also important to me because I do not want the hoist to wear out after a season or two of outdoor use.
Ease of Setup and Use
One of the biggest reasons I like a hitch-mounted hoist is the simple setup. I want a model that slides into my trailer hitch quickly and locks securely in place. If I have to spend too much time assembling parts or adjusting bolts every time I use it, it becomes frustrating. A good hoist should save me effort, not add more work.
Adjustability and Height Range
I find adjustability very useful because not every deer or work situation is the same. A hoist with a good height range helps me lift the animal to a comfortable working level. I also like models that allow me to position the winch or pulley smoothly, since that makes the lifting process easier and more controlled.
Winch and Pulley System
For me, the winch system is a major factor. I want a hoist with a smooth crank or lifting mechanism that does not bind under pressure. A reliable pulley system helps me raise and lower the load with less effort. If the winch feels cheap or jerky, I usually move on to another option.
Stability and Safety Features
I never overlook stability. A deer trailer hitch hoist needs to stay steady while I work, especially when the load shifts. I look for a wide base design, secure hitch locking, and solid support arms. Safety hooks, locking pins, and reinforced joints are features that make me feel more confident using the hoist in the field.
Portability and Storage
Since I often transport my gear, I prefer a hoist that is easy to remove and store. A compact design is helpful because it does not take up too much space in my truck or garage. If the hoist breaks down into smaller pieces, that is even better for me because it makes handling and storage simpler.
Price vs. Value
When I shop for a deer trailer hitch hoist, I do not always go for the cheapest option. I look at the overall value instead. A slightly more expensive model may be worth it if it offers better durability, smoother operation, and stronger safety features. In my experience, paying a little more upfront often saves money later.
My Final Thoughts
If I were choosing a deer trailer hitch hoist today, I would focus on strength, stability, ease of use, and long-term durability. I want equipment that makes the job easier and safer every time I use it. For me, the best hoist is the one that feels dependable, sets up quickly, and gives me confidence while I work.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a deer trailer hitch hoist is a practical tool that makes field dressing and loading game much easier and safer. I like that it helps reduce heavy lifting while giving me better control during the process. If you hunt regularly, investing in a reliable hoist can save time and effort when it matters most.
Author Profile
-
Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.
With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.
Latest entries
- June 18, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Leave-In Conditioner for Braids and Here’s What Actually Worked
- June 18, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Pittsburgh Steelers Leather Jacket and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Fan
- June 18, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Caster and Camber Gauge for Accurate Wheel Alignment Results
- June 18, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best 12V Lead Acid Battery Chargers: My Top Picks for Fast, Safe Charging