Maxwell HRC FF8
An on deck free fall windlass for a 5/16 in chain and 9/16 in rope rode, for boats with little room below.
Amazon $1,263.99 eBay$1,263.99
The Maxwell HRC FF8 is the better anchor windlass overall, rated 3.3 to 3.1. The Maxwell HRC FF8 leads on warranty and line speed. The Powerwinch Class 41 Free-Fall wins on value. The Powerwinch Class 41 Free-Fall costs $361.66 less ($902.33 vs $1,263.99).
Prices were last checked November 9, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
Powerwinch Class 41 Free-Fall
For a 35 to 41 ft power boat owner who wants to anchor from the helm without walking to the bow.
Amazon $902.33 eBay$902.33
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Maxwell HRC FF8 for warranty (3-year warranty vs 2-year warranty) and line speed (108 ft a minute vs 75 ft a minute).
- Choose the Powerwinch Class 41 Free-Fall for value ($1.03 per lb of pull ($902.33, 875 lb) vs $1.40 per lb of pull ($1,263.99, 900 lb)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every horizontal windlasses anchor windlass; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Maxwell HRC FF8 | Powerwinch Class 41 Free-Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 3.1/5 |
| Pull 20% | 61 900 lb maximum pull | 59 875 lb maximum pull |
| Line speed 15% | 85 108 ft a minute | 44 75 ft a minute |
| Value 30% | 36 $1.40 per lb of pull ($1,263.99, 900 lb) | 55 $1.03 per lb of pull ($902.33, 875 lb) |
| Features 10% | 35 free fall | 35 free fall |
| Warranty 25% | 50 3-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| Maxwell HRC FF8 | Powerwinch Class 41 Free-Fall | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | ||
| Style | Horizontal windlass | Horizontal windlass |
| Maximum pull | 900 lb | 875 lb |
| Line speed | 108 ft/min | 75 ft/min |
| Motor | 600 W | - |
| Voltage | 12 V | 12 V |
| Fit | ||
| Boats up to | 55 ft | 41 ft |
| Rode | 5/16 in chain and 9/16 in rope | 5/8 in nylon rope and 5/16 in G4 chain |
| Free fall | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless remote | No | No |
| Stainless deck parts | No | No |
| Weight | 25 lb | 23 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |