The basic kit
- Rated recovery points on the vehicle. Recovery guides warn against using tow balls, tie-downs or suspension parts.
- A recovery strap rated for your vehicle. Kinetic straps and static tow straps do different jobs.
- Rated shackles to join strap and recovery point.
- A tree saver strap, which several Ozark parks require for winching.
- Gloves, traction boards and a shovel.
- A recovery damper over any loaded strap or winch line.
Winching
- Wrap the tree saver low on a sturdy tree, never the winch line itself.
- Keep the pull as straight as you can.
- Follow your winch maker's rules for minimum wraps on the drum and line handling.
Ratings
Recovery guides size straps and shackles to the vehicle's weight. Know your truck's weight (the door-jamb label has GVWR) and buy gear rated for it. We do not give rating multiples here; follow the gear maker's guidance.
Where this comes from
- 4WD Council: Guidelines for safe use of vehicle recovery straps (PDF)
- RACQ: How to use snatch straps for vehicle recovery
- BFGoodrich: Off-road recovery gear and safety guide
- ARB: Recovery techniques and equipment
- Byrd's Adventure Center: 4x4 trails, rates and rules
- Hot Springs Off-Road Park: Park rules
- Flat Nasty Off-Road Park: Rules
Last reviewed 2026-10-19. General information only: the official site and posted rules always come first.