I keep a few carbiners, pulleys, webbing, ice screws & about 100' of 1/2" static rope in a bag in back when I'm on skis. It's a little heavier than some of the stuff mentioned, but easier to grip & plenty strong. Like mike said, when you start adding mechanical advantage, be careful not to bend stuff, forces add up quick.

. Wow, lots of good ideas. I had a small block and tackle, carried it all last winter and never used it. It's in the Atv now. This comalong is more confidence inspiring, plus I like the click at a time control. I can see uses for it way beyond a gentle tug on my small aircraft. Those involved with the aircraft recovery at Mi Hi last year will know what I mean. I really like the beaner/mule tape idea,. another thing learned , in fact i like it so much I'm going to buy 2 more to go with the 1 I have and throw tthem in the plane along with the comalong, that should cover most conceivable situations!

The current version of this is made by Petzl - called the Ultralegere - only $5. Having used these a little bit - I don't think they are worth the 5-spot - a straight up carabiner is only a little bit less friction:

http://www.rei.com/product/799043/petzl ... ere-pulley

wannabe wrote:Back in the days...! when I was involved with climbing in Yosemite and other areas, there was available a small lightweight plastic piece that slipped onto a standard oval carabiner. It instantly turned the carabiner into a pulley.

Those rope ratchets are the cat's pajamas. We have every piece of climbing and rigging gear known to man at work but the things that get worn out are the maasdam ratchets, big shots, and 200 foot 3 braids. Sticking with your simple and cheap theme, I'd suggest a retired sling (works good for hanging the ratchet on trees) and a 24" loop of 18 braid 12 mil. to use as a prusik (saves a lot of knot tying and re-rigging).