okay i have a 96 2 door 4wd blazer with a curb weight of about 3900lbs, what size winch would be the best? im not looking to be spending a ton of money though.

 

8000 or 10000, you want something 2X the weight of your vehicle to keep it from burning out faster. Just make sure you read up on proper winching techniques or you could kill your new winch pretty quick.

 

Best advice I can give you..
Planetary drives rock
ALWAYS Use a Block.
Leverage is your friend.

If you cant pull safely, dont pull at all.
even a synthetic rope under stress can kill.