Jon Hertov - Using a 2:1 Winch Recovery with the Saber Ring

Out on the trail, recoveries rarely happen in perfect conditions. Steep angles, soft ground, or heavy loads often challenge both driver and equipment. That’s where a 2:1 winch recovery becomes one of my go-to techniques – and the combination of the Saber Ring, soft shackles, and bridles makes it safer and efficient.

What I like most about the Saber system is that it creates a fully closed setup. That means I don’t have to worry about open hooks or metal parts that can turn dangerous if something fails. Every piece of gear is clearly rated and marked, which gives me confidence in the field – I know exactly what I’m working with. 

Using a 2:1 setup also halves the load on the winch and rope. It’s not just about getting unstuck; it’s about extending the life of my gear and reducing the chance of a breakdown when I need it most. And because Saber focuses on soft gear – like the Ring and soft shackles – the risk of flying metal projectiles is dramatically reduced, which makes a huge difference for safety. 

While I really value how Saber focuses on innovation and safety, it’s also clear that this is premium gear. The investment is higher compared to some alternatives, but for me the durability, safety, and confidence it brings is worth it. Like with all recovery equipment, maintenance and inspection are key. Synthetic gear is lighter and safer, but it also requires some care: keeping it clean, avoiding sharp edges, and regularly checking for wear. That’s a small trade-off for the safety benefits it offers. 

The only real challenge I’ve personally faced is that the markings on soft shackles can wear down with heavy use. My workaround is simple – before putting a shackle into service, I take a photo of it with its markings. That way, I always have a record of its rating, even if the tag fades with time. 

Saber gear is safe, smart, and reliable – that’s why it’s always in my kit.