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.