Drums are available in hard anodized aluminum, chrome bronze, and polished bronze. 17-4 stainless roller bearings ride in metal cages preventing efficiency robbing distortion and allowing more bearings for the same diameter.
Large diameter spindles form a large load carrying surface.
Stainless ball bearings carry vertical loads of drum. Gears on winches from 42 feature 4 pawls to minimize back lash, winches from 48 feature roller bearings in every gear. Self tailers have a ball bearing roller on feeder arm to reduce friction. Larger winches use two gears to drive drums. High load gears on winches form 32 are 17-4 stainless for strength and durability.