The 15 Best Deer Hoists Reviews & Buying Guide

So, you’re looking for the best deer hoists? Well, this article is for you!

Hauling a large deer out of the woods can be a cumbersome and backbreaking job. But with a deer hoist, you can easily hoist or transport your trophy to where it’s safe and secure.

Not to mention it helps you get the trophy onto a hanging position for field dressing, skinning, and quartering.

Whether you’re just starting as an avid hunter or you’re already experienced, you’ll want to own one of these devices.

But with so many brands, how can you tell which one will suit your needs best?

We’ve done all the hard work for you. In this article, we’ll give you a review of the top 10 best deer hangers on the market. In addition, we’ll tell you how to choose the right one for your needs.

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly deer hoist or one that has additional features, this article will help you find the perfect one.

15 Best Deer Hoist Reviews

1. Hunters Specialties Game Hoist Lift System

Hunters Specialties Mag Lift system is a nice little hoist that can clip onto the ceiling or tree branch.

Since it doesn’t come with a stand, this hoist is pretty light and compact. At just 4 pounds, you can say goodbye to hauling a heavy deer lift system on your next hunting.

But while compact, this deer lift can easily hoist 600 pounds. Hence, it can haul just about any big game animal you’re after, including whitetail and elk.

The best part? The pulley system has a 4:1 lift ratio that reduces the lift force dramatically.

With a lever braking mechanism, there’s no need to tie ropes. Instead, just lift the deer to the desired height and pull up the lever to lock the rope in place.

In addition, the pulley system has 40 feet of rope. So, there’s enough to let you lift from a high point. The rope, too, is tangle-free, meaning it’s less likely to jam the hoist system.

This deer hoist system also includes a 25-inch gambrel. Therefore, you to hang up deer by the hind legs for skinning and gutting.

Also, the gambrel comes in stout and strong mild steel. So, it can handle whatever a weekend hunter might throw at it.

Though plastic, the quality of the pulleys is still modest. Plus, they come in a steel housing for added protection.

Pros

✅ Attaches easily to branches or ceiling

✅ Ultra-light and compact

✅ Extra-long rot-resistant rope

✅ Tangle-free design

Cons

✖️ Plastic pulley wheels

2. HME Products Truck Hitch Game Hoist

HME Truck Hitch makes a wide range of hunting accessories. Among them is this truck-mount deer hoist that fits 2-inch hitch receivers.

This is a fully adjustable hitch-mount deer hoist system.

It has a 74-102-inch height adjustment that allows you to get your trophy high off the ground for loading or field dressing. Also, it’s high enough to clear most closed tailgates.

Moreover, it has an adjustable support foot. Hence, it provides more stability as well as relieves stress on your truck’s hitch and suspension.

The foot support also means it’s safe for use on light ATVs.

This hitch hoist also includes a 360-degree swiveling shaft for loading into a truck bed or ATV. Also, you can pin it into a position for field dressing.

The heavy-duty winch allows you to ratchet either way. So now you can lift and lower deer in a secure manner.

Also, the winch has 15 feet of cable, which is enough for what you need. Plus, the kit includes a gambrel to hold your trophy by the legs and prevent it from twisting.

With heavy-duty 2-inch steel construction, this deer hoist is stout enough to hold up to 400 pounds.

Moreover, it breaks down into two pieces, which include a retractable tower section. As such, it’s easy to store and transport.

Pros

✅ Adjustable height and foot support

✅ Easy to take apart for storage

✅ 360-degree swivel

✅ Includes a gambrel

Cons

✖️ The assembly instructions are a bit lacking

3. MAXXHAUL 70238 Receiver Hitch Mounted Crane 1000lb

MAXXHAUL Hitch Mounted Crane works more like a hydraulic jack system. Think of it as a semi-automatic deer hoist system.

When you compare it to manual pulley hoist systems, it gives you more lift power. Also, it allows you to hoist your trophy with the least amount of effort with just a few presses on the hydraulic ram.

This crane is rated to 1000 pounds. However, it depends on how far you attach the chain to the boom.

The boom has three attachment points. Far out of the boom 500 pounds, middle 750 pounds, close to the boom 1000 pounds.

Also, the base comes with an extender arm, allowing you to set up on either side of the truck bed. As a result, it provides 100% clearance from the truck bed, giving you more working room.

In addition, it includes two support legs that take most of the weight off the tow hitch. Plus, the supporting legs have extra wide feet for stability and to prevent digging into the ground.

The legs are adjustable too to accommodate different hitch receiver heights.

The crane part rotates on the base for easy loading and unloading. Still, it comes with an optional pin to keep it from turning too far. It has a lift range of 30 to 84 inches high.

Though a bit heavy, this deer hoist comes in two parts; the base and the crane part. Not to mention the base allows you to fold the legs flat. Hence, it’s easier to store and transport.

MAXXHAUL Hitch Mounted Crane comes in heavy-duty all-steel construction with a powder-coated finish. It also includes a robust forged chain and a hook to provide a hoist system that pretty much lasts a lifetime.

Pros

✅ Effortless hydraulic lift system

✅ Heavy-duty construction

✅ Adjustable weight limit

✅ Adjustable lift height

✅ Includes support legs

✅ 100% tailgate clearance

Cons

✖️ Takes a bit of time to set up

✖️ No gambrel

4. Guide Gear Deluxe Deer Hoist Hitch Lift System 300lb

Guide Gear Deluxe is a hitchlift system for standard 2-inch receivers.

It doesn’t have ground support underneath to take the weight. So, I wouldn’t recommend using lightweight ATVs, especially when hauling large deer.

Also, it doesn’t provide any height adjustments. Still, the top of the gambrel sits just over 5 feet from the receiver. So, it’s high enough to clear the tailgate in a closed position.

This deer hoist uses a lockable crank system. Hence, it allows you to lift the deer to just the right height for loading or dressing.

Likewise, it has a lockable gambrel to keep your game from twisting. So now you can skin, quarter, and butcher the deer with ease.

In addition, it swivels a full 360 degrees at the very bottom, making it easy to load and unload your trophy.

The main upright provides 24-inch clearance from the truck’s receiver, giving more room to work with the tailgate opened.

This deer lift system is advertised as a takedown unit. However, the cable attaches to both the top and bottom half, making separating the two halves difficult. Still, you can get around it by moving the winch to the top half, which might take some time.

The rugged 2-inch steel tube supports up to 300 pounds and has a powder-coated finish to prevent rusting.

Pros

✅ Rugged frame

✅ 360-degree swivel

✅ Comes with a gambrel

✅ Lifetime warranty

Cons

✖️ Fairly difficult to take down for storage

✖️ No height adjustments

5. Kill Shot DRC-DTP Tripod Game Hoist with Gambrel 500lb

Kill Shot DRC-DTP is a freestanding tripod deer hoist for processing game.

The legs are 60 inches apart; hence, they provide a wider, solid base for hoisting deer. The best part? It comes with ground stakes for even better stability.

The gambrel sits 93 inches from the ground. Hence, it can lift the largest whitetail high enough for processing. Also, it uses a ratchet winch that secures the game at the desired height.

The support frame comes in high-strength powder-coated steel. It easily supports up to 500 pounds and can withstand the elements without rusting.

Once done, you can disassemble the legs for compact storage and transportation.

Also, the package comes with two wrenches. Therefore, setting up and taking down shouldn’t be a problem.

Pros

✅ Heavy-duty steel construction

✅ Comes with a gambrel

✅ Grounds stakes for stability

✅ Easy to take apart

✅ Includes two wrenches

Cons

✖️ The two wrenches included in the kit are pretty cheap

6. Kill Shot Swivel Deluxe Hitch-Mounted Deer Hoist 500lb

This is a multi-use hitch-mounted deer hoist for skinning, cleaning, and loading game. It’s designed for 2-inch Class III or IV hitch receivers.

Unlike most hitch-mounted game hoists, it has an integrated handle. Therefore, it’s easier to swivel it around or carry it after use.

Depending on what height works best for you, you can adjust the upright from 86.25 to 95.75 inches high. Not to mention, it has a 4-position, 360-degree swivel so you can position your game where you want it.

This hitch-mounted deer hoist includes a heavy-duty gambrel too. It holds deer legs 24 inches apart for easy dressing and quartering.

Also, it has adjustable foot support to take the weight off the tow receiver. You can adjust the foot support from 5-17.25 inches high to fit both low and high truck beds.

This deer hoist provides a 26-inch clearance from the hitch receiver. So, it gives plenty of room to work around. Not to mention it doesn’t come in the way of your opened tailgate.

The winch allows you to lock the handle after getting your game to the desired height. With a durable powder-coated steel frame, it can lift up to a 500-pound deer.

Moreover, this deer hoist comes with quick-release pins. Hence, it’s easy to set up or break down for storage.

Pros

✅ Adjustable height and foot support

✅ 360-degree swivel

✅ Easy to break down for storage

✅ Includes a gambrel

Cons

✖️ A bit heavy

7. Viking Solutions Tree Attachment Kwik Hoist 300lb

Viking Kwik Hoist provides a fast and easy setup anywhere there’s a tree or post.

This deer lift comes with a bracket that straddles tree trunks and posts up to 6 inches wide. The chain is detachable too. Hence, you can swap with a longer one to go around larger trees.

The ratchet winch makes lifting up to 300 pounds painless.

It doesn’t come with a gambrel. Still, there’s a hook where you can attach your gambrel if you have one.

Depending on how tall the tree or post is, you can mount this deer hoist at any desired height.

The pulley system comes with 15 feet of cable. Still, the spool is large enough to hold up to 24 feet of cable should you want to buy an extension.

Kwik Hoist deer lift is also powder-coated for a long life. So, you don’t have to take it down after every use. You can leave it up without the fear that it will rust soon.

Pros

✅ Sets up in less than one minute

✅ Lightweight and easy to handle

✅ Doubles as a feeder hanger

✅ A large spool can accommodate extra cable length

Cons

✖️ Gambrel not included

8. ECOTRIC Truck 2-inch Hitch Game Hoist 400lb

The ECOTRIC game hoist is designed for pickup trucks and SUVs but can also be used with other vehicles with 2-inch receivers.

This game hoist allows you to easily haul big games while hunting! It can lift a 400-pound deer from the ground up into your vehicle without too much effort.

A 360-degree swiveling shaft is a great option. With the full range motion, it allows you to maneuver the carcass for easy loading and unloading.

Also, it comes with a locking pin so you can keep the deer steady at the desired position.

This deer hoist has ample tailgate clearance too. So, you can safely load large animals from the back of your truck.

Well, there’s no height adjustment for the upright. Still, the winch allows you to hoist the game up to 5 feet from the receiver.

The design of this game hoist doesn’t include foot support. So, the receiver has to bear all the weight.

Plus, the package includes a 25-inch gambrel to attach deer legs for dressing and cleaning.

Moreover, it’s built with steel, making it durable enough for any job. In addition, it has a heavier coat of paint, meaning it’s less likely to scratch or rust when left outdoors.

Pros

✅ 360-degree swivel

✅ Heavy-duty paint job

✅ Ample tailgate clearance

✅ Includes a gambrel

Cons

✖️ Poor assembly instructions

✖️ Not easy to break down for storage

9. Moultrie Hanging Feeder Hoist 300lb

The Moultrie Tree Feeder Hoist is a safe, easy way to feed wildlife.

But it’s not just for hoisting feeds. This hoist is also a safe and efficient way of lifting deer for dressing.

You can mount it onto a tree trunk with a chain and bracket system for fast and easy installation. In addition, it mounts onto any tree trunk or pole up to 6 inches in diameter.

Like other tree attachment deer hoists, it has no height limitations. You can hang it low or high enough to meet your needs.

This deer hoist uses a ratchet-style winch. So now, you can secure the game at the desired height without having to tie knots.

It includes a 12.25 feet stainless steel cable but has a spool large enough to accommodate an extension cable.

With durable steel, this hoist can hold up to 300 pounds.

Moreover, this deer lift system hangs and releases just as easily to save you time when setting up or breaking down for storage.

Pros

✅ Easy to attach to any tree or pole

✅ Large spool to accommodate extra cable

✅ No tying off required

Cons

✖️ Gambrel not included

10. Guide Gear Tree Mounted Deer Hoist 300lb

Guide Gear Tree Hoist is a deer lift that digs into the tree using serrated braces.

When you compare it to other tree-mounted deer hoists, it has more attachment points. It has serrated braces, a 1.5-inch ratchet strap, and a 58-inch chain to wrap around the tree.

So, with this tree hoist, you get more sturdy support.

The setup is ideal for tree trunks up to 6 inches wide. Also, you can attach it to a post or pole.

The top arm extends 29 inches from the tree trunk. Hence, it gives ample room to work on your trophy.

The winch lifts up to 300 pounds, strong enough for hoisting a whitetail or monster buck. However, the heavy-duty steel frame can take up to 600 pounds if you can get a heavy-duty winch.

With an extra-long 24-foot cable, there’s no need to purchase an extension.

This deer hoist breaks down easily when done. Moreover, it comes with a bag for easy storage and transportation.

Pros

✅ More attachment points

✅ Heavy-duty crank

✅ Extra-long cable

✅ Breaks down for easy transport

✅ Includes storage bag

Cons

✖️ Doesn’t include a gambrel

11. Rage Powersports Kill Shot Hitch-Mounted Deer Hoist 300lb

This deer hanger is a product of creative ideas from avid hunters. It’s a hitch-mounted deer hoist for Class III or IV 2-inch hitch receivers.

Well, it doesn’t have foot support. Still, it provides a stable platform for hoisting deer up to 300 pounds.

This deer hoist swivels 360 degrees, making it easier for hunters to load and transport their prize catches. In addition, you can lock it in four different positions for dressing or cavity irrigation.

Also, it includes a 25.75-inch gambrel, which fits into two grooves on the bracket to prevent twisting.

The main upright is 27 inches from the tow bar. So, it provides ample clearance to open your tailgate while the hoist is mounted in position. Also, it’s height-adjustable from 82-92 inches.

While this deer hoist has a 300-pound lifting capacity, this winch is overbuilt to take up to 800 pounds. Hence, it gives you something less to worry about regarding the lifting capacity of this deer hoist.

Pros

✅ Adjustable height

✅ Heavy-duty winch

✅ Anti-twist gambrel

✅ Includes all necessary hardware

Cons

✖️ A bit tricky to take apart for storage

12. Guide Gear Portable Tripod Game Hanger 500lb

This tripod hanger is a great addition for any deer hunter who wants a durable and convenient way to dress their prized catch on the go.

The tripod is portable and lightweight, making it easy to use in any outdoor setting. Also, with a three-legged design, you can anchor in any location.

The legs are over 60 inches apart. For this reason, it provides better stability when hanging heavy game like deer and elk.

Using this tripod deer hoist, you can lift up to 500 pounds. So, whether you have a small or large kill, this tripod game hanger will suit your needs!

In addition, the tripod is tall enough to lift deer up to 8 feet in the air. Such height range makes it perfect for any size deer. Not to mention you can use it with a variety of different animals.

Furthermore, it’s coated with self-cleaning powder, so you never have to worry about any rust getting on it.

When not in use, you can break it down for compact storage. Plus, it weighs only 35 pounds, making it easy to transport.

Pros

✅ Sets up in minutes

✅ Breaks down easily for storage and transportation

✅ Extended feet for stability

Cons

✖️ Doesn’t include the gambrel

13. Viking Solutions Rack Jack II Hitch Mounted Hoist

This all-new Viking Rack Jack plugs into the 2-inch hitch receivers of your truck.

This truck hitch hoist comes in a 3-piece construction: Vertical post, hitch connector tube, and boom.

So, it’s easy to break down for storage and transportation. In addition, it doesn’t need a ridiculous amount of setup.

Moreover, this deer hoist uses a strap-on bracket. Therefore, it’s easy to slide the pieces into place.

The boom swings 360-degree rotation making for easier loading and unloading. Still, you can pin it in place for field dressing.

The winch comes with a reversible ratchet. Hence, easy to control up and down by flipping the direction lever.

For your attention, this deer hoist has a lift height of 108 inches or 9 feet. As such, it’s high enough to clear a full-sized tailgate. Also, with 25 inches between the vertical post and the truck bed, there’s ample clearance for opening your tailgate.

This deer hoist comes with a nice hook to attach a gambrel. However, you’ll have to buy the gambrel separately.

Thanks to the rock-solid steel frame, this deer lift can support up to 300 pounds.

Pros

✅ Swivel design

✅ 3-piece design for easy setup and storage

✅ Reversible ratchet for safe hoisting and lowering game

✅ Ample tailgate clearance

Cons

✖️ Omits the gambrel

14. AUSCAMOTEK Deer Hoist Gambrel Hanging Triangle

Do you have a game hoist but lack a gambrel? Well, consider this high-end tringle gambrel.

It’s designed to fit any game hoist, whether tripod, hitch-mounted, or tree attachment deer hoist.

Most conventional gambrels have a hook that requires you to cut the tendons to fit through. But with this particular gambrel, you don’t have to make any cuts or incisions to hold deer up.

Instead, it has loops that fit into the deer’s legs to hold it up for dressing or loading. Hence, it saves you time and creates less mess.

In addition, it comes in all-stainless steel, making it a more sanitary product. It keeps deer meat as clean as possible. Plus, it doesn’t rust.

The steel tube has adjustable widths of 20, 24, and 28-inch. Therefore, you can choose how wide to spread deer legs for dressing. Not to mention it accommodates different deer sizes.

The 5mm steel cable is highly durable for a lifetime of use. Moreover, it’s strong enough to hoist up to 550 pounds.

Pros

✅ Rustproof and sanitary all-stainless steel construction

✅ No need to make incisions to hang up deer

✅ Adjustable width for different game sizes

✅ Takes seconds to tie and untie

Cons

✖️ Tends to twist a bit

15. Highwild Game Hanging Gambrel & Hoist Kit

Like Hunters Specialties Mag Lift, this deer hoist makes it easier for one person to lift large-size deer.

It comprises a gambrel and a hoist system that you can attach to a ceiling, branch, or stand.

With two sets of pulleys, this deer hoist reduces the pull force by up to four times. Hence, you can hoist deer, even if you don’t have enough arm strength.

The pulley system comes with an extra-long 40-foot nylon rope. Hence, there’s enough to hoist deer to most heights with some to spare.

In addition, the pulleys have an automatic locking mechanism. So now you can hang deer to the desired height without worrying that it will disengage by accident.

The gambrel comes in heavy-duty steel with a protective powder coating. It has two hooks that attach through the tendons. Moreover, you can break it down into two pieces for easy storage.

This deer hoist kit is available in two colors. Plus, it has a 600-pound weight capacity, which is more than adequate for most deer hoisting needs.

Pros

✅ Lightweight

✅ Folds for easy storage

✅ You can use the hoist and the gambrel separately

✅ High lift ratio for one-person use

✅ Self-locking mechanism

Cons

✖️ The supplied rope doesn’t have burnt ends, hence prone to fraying

How To Choose The Best Deer Hoist

While there are many things to keep in mind when purchasing a deer hoist, we’ve compiled a list of the most important factors to make your decision process easier. This way, you can find the perfect deer hoist without having to spend hours reading reviews or scouring forums.

Type of Hoist

The first thing you’ll need to decide is what type of deer hoist you need.

There are three types of hoists, depending on the mode of operation.

There are electric hoists, manual hoists, and semi-automatic hoists. All three types of hoists will work well, but the type you choose will depend on your personal preference and the amount of time you want to spend on the process.

Electric

An electric hoist will allow you to raise and lower deer with minimal effort, making it easier on your back and arms.

Manual

A manual deer hoist requires more effort but is easier on your wallet.

Semi-Automatic

A semi-automatic deer hoist is a hybrid between the other two types and offers a little of each.

In addition, there are three types of deer hoists, depending on the application.

We have a tree attachment hoist, tripod deer hoist, and vehicle or hitch deer hoist.

Vehicle/Hitch Deer Hoist

If you’re looking for something to use for transporting deer, then a hitch-mounted deer hoist is the best. It attaches to your truck’s hitch receiver, allowing you to transport the game from one place to another.

If you’re looking for a deer hoist to use primarily for processing the game, consider a tree attachment hoist or tripod deer hoist.

Tripod Deer Hoist

Tripod tripod-style hoist is a portable option for instant field dressing. It’s strong enough for a big game and perfect for anyone who loves hunting multiple game.

Tree Attachment Deer Hoist

A tree hoist, often with a cable and brake system, is a handy choice for raising and lowering game. As the name suggests, it attaches to a tree to pull up the game.

Lift Capacity

The next thing to think about is the hoist’s lift capacity. This is an important factor as it helps you determine what size deer you can lift.

So, take into account the weight of the animal you’ll be lifting. Remember, large deer breeds will require a stronger hoist.

Height Adjustment

With this feature, you can adjust the height to hang your game at the proper level. A deer hoist with height adjustment also gives deer hunters of all sizes an extra edge while processing the game. It ensures your line of sight is clear and gives more reach, no matter how short or tall you are!

Material

You want to ensure the deer hoist you purchase is durable. The most common material for deer hoists is steel, which is sturdy and very durable. However, there are also aluminum models available.

Budget

Consider how often you’ll need to use the deer hoist. If you need something for a once-in-a-while project, you probably don’t want to spend a lot of money on a deer hoist. On the other hand, if you plan to use it frequently or need something that will last a long time, it’s worth investing a little more money.

After considering these factors, you should have a good idea of what deer hoist will work best for your needs. You can then compare models side-by-side to find the perfect deer hoist for your needs.

Best Deer Hanger FAQs

What’s the best deer hoist for the truck?

Hitch-mounted deer hoists are the best choice for trucks. It mounts on the tow bar, allowing you to load and transport the game with ease.

How tall should a deer hoist be?

It depends on how tall you are and what deer size you plan to hang.

Essentially, it should be high enough to hang deer off the ground. Also, it should allow you to work on the entire deer while standing.

Conclusion

We hope that this article has helped you in your journey to find the best deer hoists. We also hope that you found it informative and it helped you make an informed decision.

All of the products we reviewed are excellent, and we know that you’ll be happy with any of them.

The best deer hanger will depend on your needs. So, the most important factor to keep in mind is what you plan to use the deer hoist for.

No matter what your needs are, there is a deer hoist for you! Good luck with your hunt!