For many years, on several different Jeeps and pickups, I used a Reese fixed arm/adjustable width 5000 lb. capacity towbar.
To hear some people on these forums tell it, such a bar was the worst thing ever invented, impossible to hook up by oneself, and often impossible to disconnect.
Oddly enough, I seldom had a problem with it. It just did the job it was designed to do, and did it quite well!
IMO, it all boils down to two issues:
1. The budget one has to work within (that Reese towbar is now about $165 at Walmart).
and
2. Personal preference.
When the day came when I needed more than the 5000 lb. capacity, I was lucky enough to find a Roadmaster Stowmaster 6000 lb. capacity telescoping arm unit on CL for $250. It did exactly the same job as the inexpensive Reese unit did. It was slightly easier to hook up and unhook, but, IMO, nothing to get excited about. The fact that it folded up on the front of the truck was nice, though.
I still have it, hanging on the wall in the shop. I suppose I should sell it, but I might need it again! It isn't taking up much space out there...
CM1, USN (RET)
2017 Jayco TT
Daily Driver: '14 Subaru Outback
1998 Dodge QC LWB, Cummins, 5 speed, 4X2
2 Kawasaki Brute Force 750 ATVs.
Pride Raptor 3 wheeled off-road capable mobility scooter
"When seconds count, help is only minutes away!"