The Factor 55 UltraHook vs Traditional Hooks
The basic hook was invented around 23,000 years ago. Winch hooks—well, not quite as long ago. But for as long as winches have been around, most have had a hook as standard equipment at the end of their line. Many winches include a forged steel hook and they’ve done the job. However, a more modern, advanced replacement is available, and you may want to seriously consider switching to it.
What is The Factor 55 UltraHook?
Every once in a while, a better mousetrap gets made, and the Factor 55 UltraHook is just that. It pairs the rigging ease and speed of a standard hook and couples it with Factor 55’s Closed System Winching™ to provide the best, fastest, safest, winch hook there is.
A pin is used to lock the safety latch, for a true “closed loop” configuration.
Originally developed to meet the needs of off-road racers who wanted the speed of a hook and functionality of closed-system winching, the low-profile UltraHook features an industry-first closed system shackle mount hole machined into the body of the hook and installs in minutes. A latch pin, which is stored in the hook’s body, can lock the safety latch securely into place for a true Closed Loop System™. Integrated finger grips promote proper “Hook Up” orientation. UltraHook is the first winch hook that can be stored neatly against a winch’s fairlead protecting it from a metal-to-metal connection, thanks to EPDM rubber pads, which also eliminate the UltraHook from rattling.
The UltraHook is a winch hook evolved.
How Does the UltraHook Differ from a Traditional Winch Hook?
The Factor 55 UltraHook is precision CNC machined from 7000-series military-grade aluminum for durability and low weight. They’re easy to install on a rope’s eyelet using the included aerospace-grade titanium double-shear pin and E-clip.
By contrast, most traditional winch hooks install using a steel retaining pin and a basic steel cotter pin to hold it in place. Yes, a cotter pin is primitive, but they’re easily field fixable and available nearly everywhere. However, the likelihood of the UltraHook’s pin and clip failing is extremely low.
Closed-system winching is a technique using rigging comprised entirely of closed link hardware. Soft and hard shackle connections are shown above.
The most important difference between the Factor 55 UltraHook and a traditional winch hook lies in the Closed System Winching experience. Closed-system winching is a technique using rigging comprised entirely of closed link hardware.
Most modern winch hooks have a safety latch between the hook’s base and tip. This is designed so the hook doesn’t fall off the rigging, especially during times of momentary slack. Cheap traditional hooks often use chintzy sheet metal safety clasps which are prone to damage and failure. Therefore, they don’t qualify as closed-system rigging. If the hook can fall off the rigging, it’s not a closed system.
While UltraHook also has a safety clasp, it’s very robust and can be locked in place for a true closed system. Additionally, UltraHook has a smooth-radius hole at the end, which can be used with a metal screw-pin bow shackle or soft shackles of varying diameters depending on which UltraHook is purchased. When used properly, this also creates a secure closed system.
Traditional hooks are much more of a one-trick pony. UltraHook is a multi-functional tool.
Closed-system winching is a technique using rigging comprised entirely of closed link hardware. Soft and hard shackle connections are shown above.
UltraHook Takes Winch Hooks to the Next Level
Good rigging gear not only gets the job done, but it also gets the job done quicker and easier. UltraHook does both with flying colors. (Speaking of, UltraHook is available in a host of colors to match your vehicle!)
When used as a hook, rigging the UltraHook is quick and easy—just like a traditional hook. The maximum load is clearly marked on the side, and there are a variety of other helpful bits of info such as the hook’s throat dimension, throat size, and reminders of how to orient the hook during the winching process. A good traditional hook may have the working load limit on it, but that’s about it.
Unlike a traditional hook, UltraHook can nest against a fairlead and won’t rattle thanks to built-in rubber pads. Additionally, all parts of the UltraHook are replaceable, so it can be rebuilt.
Can UltraHook Be Used with the Same Accessories as a Traditional Hook?
An UltraHook can be used with most accessories a traditional winch hook can be used with, and more. This includes hard shackles, soft shackles, straps, etc.
UltraHook can also be used with specialized accessories, too. For example, it’s made to be used with the Factor 55 HammerLoop. This simple, effective, ultra-fast way of rigging uses the UltraHook’s shackle mounting hole and makes attaching to an anchor point blazing fast.
So, Are Traditional Hooks Bad?
Like most things in life, not everything is created equal. There are cheap, junky hooks, and high-quality traditional hooks with good forging, beefier clasps, and durable finishes. Some are definitely better than others. Inherently, no, not all hooks are bad. But the UltraHook is definitely an upgrade in most buyers’ eyes.
UltraHook: Available in Various Sizes for Various Vehicles
The UltraHook is the top of the heap and a great addition to any winch setup for full-size trucks, powersports vehicles, or even large industrial or military-style rigs. All are individually serialized and engineered, tested, and made in the USA.
No matter which vehicle you have, the UltraHook is a versatile and durable product for any winch owner. They’re great upgrades over a traditional winch hook, and look great on any vehicle, too.