A ratchet tiedown contains a mechanism that turns freely in one direction but locks if the direction is reversed. To use, open the ratchet and feed the long strap into the ratchet's end. With the ratchet partially closed, pump to tighten the strap against the load being restrained. Close the ratchet fully to lock it once the the strap is secure.
The much-simpler cambuckle tiedown opens to allow the longer strap to be fed through and closes to lock the strap in place. As the strap can only be as tight as you can pull it manually, this tiedown is best used for lighter loads.
The retractable tiedown is like the ratchet tiedown, but it contains a spring-loaded spool containing the longer strap. When the ratchet is opened, the long strap can be pulled out, the spool will take up the slack and the ratchet can be pumped to achieve a safe and secure tautness.
