How to Use a Snatch Block

What is a Snatch Block?

If you’re an avid explorer of backroads and unknown terrains, you’re not afraid of getting stuck in a sticky situation pretty often. Chances are, your off-road rig is already equipped with a winch, shackles, and other recovery gear. A snatch block (also known as a pulley block) is an essential accessory that supplements the pulling power of your winch. 

This metal-cased heavy-duty pulley offers vital aid when increasing the pulling capacity of your winch when in both off-roading and overlanding circumstances.

A snatch block can be used for the following two situations:

1. Increasing the pulling force of your winch (when your vehicle is stuck)

2. Redirecting the pulling force of your winch cable (when your vehicle is stuck in an especially awkward or difficult-to-reach position)

How to Use a Snatch Block

So, you’ve got your vehicle stuck in a tricky spot on the highway or in the woods. First, let’s assess the situation.

• Are you able to connect your winch cable to a recovery point such as a tree, but just need a little bit of extra pulling power? Follow the steps provided in method 1.

• Is your vehicle stuck at an awkward angle that obstructs your ability to connect your winch cable? Follow the steps provided in method 2.

In addition to a snatch block, you’ll also need:

• A winch 

• Winch blankets

• D-ring shackles

• Gloves (optional, but recommended)

Method 1: Double Line Pull

1. Open the snatch block.

2. Loop your winch line around the pulley.

3. As soon as you have the wire rope secured, close the snatch block.

4. Connect a heavy-duty shackle to the snatch block.

5. Secure the shackle to your tree strap.

6. Thread the winch line back through the snatch block opening and connect the end fitting (usually a hook) to a secure location on the vehicle being recovered, such as the frame or bumper.

7. Once complete, you should have two parallel lines of wire rope running from your vehicle to your recovery point..Put weights on these taut wire ropes for safety.

8. Engage the clutch.

9. Winch in.

Method 2: Directional Pull

*This method works best for vehicles that need to be recovered in an offroading or overland setting.

1. If using a second vehicle as a recovery point, park the vehicle on as flat and stable of a surface as possible.

2. Start as you would with a double line pull, threading your winch line onto the spool of the winch block and attaching the block to your recovery point using the tree strap.

3. Instead of running the line back to your winching vehicle, run it to your secondary recovery point and attach it securely.

4. Weigh the line down with winch blankets to prevent damage in case of connection failure.

5. Engage the winch on your clutch.

6. Winch in.