Abstract: A small, light, portable winch having a small gasoline engine, a centrifugal clutch connecting the engine through reduction gears, sprockets, and a chain to a spool having a cable which can be wound on the spool. A positive clutch can be disengaged to permit cable to be withdrawn safely from the spool while the engine is running. A brake permits cable to be controllably unwound from the spool under load. A two-legged bridle attached to the spool-supporting frame and handles on the winch facilitate smoothly spooling cable on the drum. A lever connected to a throttle control cable is conveniently located within reach from one of the handles, while the brake is controlled by a lever conveniently within reach from the other of the handles, and is adjustable.