After much research this wall mounted split reel (double rope) winch has won our'seal of approval'. It is silent in operation, will lift up to 680 Kg and will 'stop and hold' in any position through the lifting cycle, which makes it totally safe in operation. The worm gearing allows the heavisest loads to be raised with minimal effort albeit a little slow in operation, but this merely adds to the fun - 10cm off the floor is the same as 10 metres if the victim is hooded. Another advantage is that as the handle operates at right angles to the winching mechanism it can be fitted direct to the wall, and takes far less space than a conventional ratchet winch which needs to spaced sufficently off the mounting to allow the handle to turn.

The split reel allows two ropes to operate simultaneously thus keeping the both ropes operating at exactly the same level. These are a must where a long lifting bar is used, as there is nothing more frustrating than a horizontal lift that is out of level.