A come-along, also known as a cable puller, is a hand-operated tool used for pulling objects together or for moving heavy loads horizontally. These devices employ a ratcheting mechanism to incrementally tighten a cable or chain, providing mechanical advantage for tasks requiring significant pulling force. Home Depot serves as a major retailer where these tools can be purchased, offering a variety of models with different weight capacities and cable lengths. For example, a homeowner might use this type of tool, purchased at a major home improvement retailer, to remove a stubborn tree stump or to winch a vehicle.
The importance of these tools lies in their ability to provide significant pulling power without the need for powered machinery. This makes them useful in situations where electricity is unavailable or impractical. Benefits include portability, ease of use, and relatively low cost compared to electric winches. Historically, similar lever-based systems have been used for centuries to move heavy objects, evolving into the modern, refined ratcheting come-along available today.