Believe it or not, I haven't bend stuck enough to use my winch for that yet. But, I can tell you, it's all math. Math is how much pulling power you'll need when your stuck to get out. Like said above, if your in deep mud you may need three times the weight of you machine to pull it out. This will bring you to another point. What's your winch line rated for. I used large winches and have no real knowledge of these small electric winches. I would say if you plan on really needing a winch your going to have to spend at least $300 to $500 on extra gear. You'll need a couple snatch blocks, extra winch line, tow rope, shackles, etc. The winch is just part of what you need. My 2 cents is to buy a top quality winch. One that you can get parts for if needed. Winches don't like water so the better they're sealed will help but you should still unspool your winch at every oil change and rewind it. Even if you don't use it. This will help keep it dry inside. I must also say, and I can't help it, buy American if you can.