I have used Harbor Freight for a lot of tools, but no winches. I go by a firm rule, if it sounds too good to be true it is. I wouldn't purchase a $300 winch and expect it to perform in a pinch when all other winches in that weight range are priced at $700 plus. I figure it's worth the extra money if it doesn't leave you stranded in a mudhole or on a mountain somewhere. Do the job right the first time and you won't have to do it a second time.