I have the same setup, but also haven't had the chance to use it. I figured that the hook connects to the same small metal loop, so the soft shackle shouldn't be any different, unless I'm missing something. I like the idea of removing as much metal out of the setup as possible. May get to try it out this weekend at a local club wheeling event.I have been purposely reeling in my soft shackle attached to the end of my winch line, the knot at the fairlead. My winch line terminates to a small loop and the soft shackle just goes through- basically a DIY bleeping jeep freedom line/yankum rope guide. So far, I'm able to just pull it out.
I've only used for reeling in under tension, never in a real recovery event. the weak point I think its the tight radius since it's really only the winch line diameter. My winch line is 3/8", soft shackle is 7/16".
I'm curious in experts' thoughts on this approach.