Maxwell RC8-6
The step up from the RC6 for a 1/4 in rode when line speed matters, on a boat with locker room for the motor.
Amazon $1,473.98 eBay$1,473.98
The Maxwell RC8-6 rates 3.0 among vertical windlasses anchor windlasss; the Powerwinch Class 36 Free-Fall rates 2.9 among horizontal windlasses ones. The Powerwinch Class 36 Free-Fall costs $565.94 less ($908.04 vs $1,473.98).
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 36 Free-Fall
For a 28 to 36 ft power boat owner who wants to anchor from the helm without walking to the bow.
Amazon $908.04 eBay$908.04
Scores side by side
These two sit in different style classes (vertical windlasses and horizontal windlasses), and each is scored against the reference points for its own class, so a rating says how well each does among its own style peers. How we rank explains each factor.
| Factor weight | Maxwell RC8-6 | Powerwinch Class 36 Free-Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.0/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Pull 20% | 50 770 lb maximum pull | 50 775 lb maximum pull |
| Line speed 15% | 65 92 ft a minute | 50 80 ft a minute |
| Value 30% | 17 $1.91 per lb of pull ($1,473.98, 770 lb) | 47 $1.17 per lb of pull ($908.04, 775 lb) |
| Features 10% | 70 free fall, stainless deck parts | 35 free fall |
| Warranty 25% | 50 3-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| Maxwell RC8-6 | Powerwinch Class 36 Free-Fall | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | ||
| Style | Vertical windlass | Horizontal windlass |
| Maximum pull | 770 lb | 775 lb |
| Line speed | 92 ft/min | 80 ft/min |
| Motor | 600 W | - |
| Voltage | 12 V | 12 V |
| Fit | ||
| Boats up to | - | 36 ft |
| Rode | 1/4 in chain and 1/2 in rope | 1/2 in nylon rope and 1/4 in G4 chain |
| Free fall | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless remote | No | No |
| Stainless deck parts | Yes | No |
| Weight | 27.5 lb | 18.6 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |