I believe the side loads on a hitch pin by a strap, as the strap would tend to concentrate the force at the middle of the pin as it tightened, could bend/break the hitch pin...and the solid receiver mount distributes the load across the entire exposed pin section.

I agree that the d-shackle sticking out in back there is a departure angle nightmare (But apparently a good bumper lance...) ...and if I had my druthers, a simple frame mounted hook is fine.

I have D-shackles laying around my garage, so popping one in is the easy way out for a tow point in back...But I can't say I'm pleased with it, other than that it works great for recovery.



At least the new rear bumper carrier (I'll get soon) has tow points built into it.