Badland ZXR 12000 LB Capacity Off-Road Vehicle Winch Unboxing

There is no shortage of winches on the market for the off-road enthusiast. Unfortunately the name brand Warn is not in everyone's budget. That's not a problem since there are dozens of brands on the market that start at around $300. Some of the more common name brands are Barricade, Rugged Ridge and Smittybilt. One of the highest consumer rated brands is the Badland ZXR sold at Harbor Freight. It boasts a 98% approval rating according to the review section on Harbor Freights website. It also is well liked by many people that frequent the off-road forums. The Badland ZXR is available in a 9000 lb. and 12000 lb. version. Both versions only come with steel cable but the 12000 lb. version includes a spring tension rod that aids in keeping the line from bird nesting. The 9000 ZXR lists for $320 but can usually be found for $249 with a coupon. The 12000 ZXR lists for $399 and can be purchased for about $299 with a coupon.

The first thing you will notice when unboxing this winch is it is solid. This is not a toy. It weighs just under 87 pounds with 65' of 3/8" galvanized steel aircraft wire rope. The winch and controls are IP66 rated to be resistant to powerful water jets.

The Fairlead is a roller with nylon bushings. It is very solid with super smooth rollers. The base mounting plate is black to match most aftermarket bumpers.

The control box is prewired and has 6' cables to reach the vehicle battery. The wired controller has 12' of cable and easily plugs into the controller when needed. One of the great options for this winch is the ability to add a wireless controller. For about $30 you can purchase a wireless remote controller that simply plugs into the control box.

The clevis hook is 3/8" with a spring-loaded safety latch. It also includes a red hook safety strap.

All the hardware needed was included. It even includes a circuit breaker that connects directly to the vehicles battery. You can see the unboxing video below.