The black rat manual winch is a good product. And this unit can also lift physical objects vertically as well(Thats why it is actually called a hoist and not a winch). Several other manufacturers also make this type of winch, Tractel(Known as Griphoist, Turfor) and Jet Equipment.

I have the Jet Equipment hoist with 100Ft of wire rope and it appears to be a capable unit. Its rated with with the same specs as the Black Rat item. I'll be doing a live test with it within a few weeks so I'll keep you posted on the results.

Cheers,