@Maker_of_Things Interesting, not seen Scotch blocks before. Not sure they work well in soft ground?
The winch is primarily for forestry work and second for bailing me out when I get stuck on the steep hill with a load.
It's a tractor, so weight up front is highly desirable. Most have a front ballast or wheel weights. So a heavy winch + cable + lead battery up front is a bonus!
I do know about synthetic line (sailor thing 😉) and have chosen steel for a reason - abrasion resistance when dragging logs through the forest.
The boom is a good idea for loading logs, will consider it when making the mount, thanks.
Since I don't have a skid plate but plenty of old plows I was thinking a ground anchor on the rear hitch if needed or a sling around a nearby tree for less messing up the ground.