I was just wondering what you call the tow straps used in off-road recovery? They're called recovery straps here.

Someone I know is asking someone there to buy one for him. However, the person buying might have zero knowledge on cars let alone off-road equipment.

So where does one go to buy this in the U.S.?
What do you say to the person at the counter?
Any tips (length, type, etc.)?

Does it include those metal D-shackles at the end?

Thanks!

Your average have it all shopping center like Wal-mart will carry tow straps (where I picked up mine actually). They are called tow straps yes, and as far a d-ring ends that changes store to store. The Wal-mart I picked up mine from only had ones with hook connectors. So any shopping center with an "automotive section" is likely to have them, you don't have to go to a 4x4 Shop or Auto shop. And I am guessing any hardware type shop would have them also. But I will say your likely hood of finding things like d-ring ends increases by stopping by such places (Auto Zone, Advance Auto Parts, 4 Wheel Parts etc).

As far as lengths, brands, etc I really cannot give any specific advice. I looked at the towing capacity and the length and picked the longest one. And I have used this thing to be pulled out of mud, pull people out of mud, and even tow a Volvo (using just the strap) about 10 miles early in the morning (not advised to anyone). And it was just your generic tow-strap. If you want to get into full recovery kits (include a tow strap, gloves, etc etc) that would be an online purchase. Other wise to my knowledge using commmon sense in a purchase (getting one rated with enough towing strength, and length) should get you a good strap. Maybe die hard tow strap enthusiast's will disagree... I don't know <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" />. But I hope this helps some. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Thanks. Tow straps are also available here. However they're kinda flimsy (don't seem tough enough for off-road use) and my pal doesn't really want the one with hooks at the end (which could fly and damage rigs).

Are tow straps without metal hooks available in most big stores?

I have seen them at home depot.

Yes, stay away from straps with metal hooks on them; they can be deadly when the hooks come loose and fly around. Just get one with the loops on the ends. I'd look for one with about three times the rating of the weight of whatever you are going to try to pull. Remember that these straps are designed to stretch before they transfer the full weight of the pull to the towing vehicle - - not like a metal cable, etc. They are available at most auto parts stores, warehouse super centers, etc. here.

John B.

We got em here at Carquest.

Recovery Straps or Snatch Straps. They do not want to simply buy tow straps unless they are 15k lbs or higher straps. Don't buy 5k lbs straps and expect them to work. As was noted, you do not want the kind that has hooks at the ends. D-Ring Shackles are usually separate purchaseable items.

Where are they going in the US? IMHO, if there's an off road / 4x4 parts store in their area, they're better off buying these items there instead of a warehouse store or even a regular auto parts store unless they know exactly what they're buying.

Like Ray said Recovery straps have flex like a rubber band to assist in pulling a stuck vehicle.Tow straps are more rigid and are made for pulling/towing on a smooth road.
Russ <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/patriot.gif" alt="" />

as he said recovery straps are diferant then tow straps.i got mine at a local parts store but i knew what i was looking for.it has a 20,000 lb capasity and has loop ends.and it is nice for towing also since i have a stick it has a little give for when i shift.never try to yank someone out with a strap that has any kind of metal ends,they can kill bystanders.

Or if it's not already obvious yourself. At minimum it will take out all sorts of things in its path if it lets go under full tension. Especially if you've got 10k of force behind it. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />