Forest & Arb Knowledge Hub

At ForestAndArb, we are thrilled to announce that the brand-new Portable Winch APW6000 has officially landed in our UK stores and is available in stock.

As one of the official Portable Winch dealers in the UK, we are delighted to be among the very first to offer this game-changing machine to British arborists, forestry contractors, utility teams, and estate managers.

The APW6000 represents a landmark collaboration between Canada’s Portable Winch Co. and STIHL. By combining Portable Winch’s capstan engineering with STIHL’s 36V AP battery platform, this unit delivers pure, zero-emission pulling power without the noise, fumes, or maintenance of a two-stroke petrol engine.

Key Performance Specifications

• Motor Output: 3.0kW (4.0hp equivalent) Brushless Motor
• Single Line Pull: 1500kg (3300lbs)
• Double Line Pull: 3000kg (6600lbs) using snatch-block system
• Max Line Speed: Up to 16m per minute (3 selectable modes)
• Power Platform: STIHL 36V AP Series Battery System (Recommended for AP500S)
• Drum Type: 76mm Ribbed MaxGrip Capstan Drum
• Recommended Rope: 12 mm Low-Stretch Double-Braid Polyester Rope
• Bare Tool Weight: 13.3kg (Excluding Battery)
• Weather Protection: IPX4 Rated (Weather & Rain Resistant)

Why the STIHL AP Collaboration Matters

If you already run STIHL AP battery tools—such as the MSA 220 / 300 chainsaws, FSA brushcutters, or HTA pole saws—the APW6000 fits into your existing ecosystem.

Battery Synergies: The APW6000 accepts the entire STIHL AP 36V series, including ALLPRO. For maximum pulling force and extended runtime during demanding timber extraction or directional felling, we recommend pairing it with the high-capacity STIHL AP 500 S.

What Makes the APW6000 Stand Out?

• 3.0 kW Instant-Torque Motor: Delivering equivalent performance to a 4 hp petrol engine, the brushless motor provides immediate torque under load without fuel mixing or pull-starting on slope gradients.

• 3-Speed Speed/Power Control:

  • Low (Eco) Mode: 10 m/min — Maximises runtime for steady, controlled tensioning.

  • Medium Mode: 13 m/min — Balanced speed and efficiency for general forestry work.

  • High Mode: 16 m/min — Rapid line retrieval for long-distance pulls.

• Unlimited Pulling Distance: Thanks to the open 76 mm capstan drum, you aren't restricted by the capacity of an internal spool. As long as your 12 mm double-braid polyester rope reaches, you can keep pulling.

• Integrated Safety & Progress Capture: Features a stainless-steel progress capture rope brake with quick-release cleat, centrifugal clutch, and anti-reversing clutch to prevent accidental load slippage or rollback.

• Lightweight & Ergonomic Frame: At just 13.3 kg, the tubular protective frame shields the aluminum alloy gearbox while offering comfortable carry handles for remote woodland access.

Frequently Asked Questions: Portable Winches in Forestry & Arboriculture

Can a battery winch replace a traditional petrol capstan winch?

In almost all mobile applications, yes. The APW6000 provides a 1,500 kg single-line pull, matching or exceeding popular petrol models like the PCW3000 or PCW5000. It eliminates the hassle of carrying mixed fuel into remote sites, runs silently enough for urban tree care near schools or residential areas, and starts instantly in sub-zero temperatures.

Can the Portable Winch APW6000 be used for overhead lifting?

No. Capstan winches of this design are strictly engineered for horizontal and angled pulling operations (such as directional tree felling, skidding logs, or recovering stuck equipment). They should never be used for lifting suspended overhead loads or human suspension.

How do I double the pulling force of the APW6000?

By incorporating a suitable snatch block (pulley) and anchor system, you create a 2:1 mechanical advantage. This increases the total pulling force from 1,500 kg up to 3,000 kg (3 tonnes), making light work of large hardwood timber or heavy machinery recovery.

What type of rope should I use?

This machine is designed to us a 12 mm low-stretch double-braid polyester (DBP) rope. Do not use steel wire cable or high-stretch nylon kinetic ropes, as capstan drums rely on the friction and grip characteristics of double-braid polyester for smooth, controlled pulling.

Secure Your APW6000 at ForestAndArb

ForestAndArb is proud to have units available for immediate dispatch across mainland UK.

Whether you need advice on matching rope lengths, anchor slings, snatch blocks, or STIHL AP batteries and chargers, our specialist team in Winchester is here to help guide your setup.

Explore the Portable Winch APW6000 on ForestAndArb or speak directly to our arboricultural equipment specialists today.

You can also explore the rest of the Portable Winch range HERE, or shop STIHL HERE