I Tested the 5 Inch Drop Hitch: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When it comes to towing, having the right equipment can make all the difference between a smooth ride and a bumpy, stressful experience. That’s why I’ve been looking into the 5 inch drop hitch—a piece of gear that’s become essential for anyone needing that perfect balance of height adjustment and stability. Whether you’re hauling a trailer, a camper, or heavy equipment, understanding what a 5 inch drop hitch brings to the table can transform your towing setup. Join me as I explore why this seemingly simple component plays such a crucial role in making your towing safer and more efficient.

I Tested The 5 Inch Drop Hitch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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REESE Towpower 21794 Trailer Draw Bar Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2 Inch Square Receiver, 5.25 Inch Drop, 4 Inch Rise, 5,000 lbs. Capacity

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REESE Towpower 21794 Trailer Draw Bar Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2 Inch Square Receiver, 5.25 Inch Drop, 4 Inch Rise, 5,000 lbs. Capacity

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CURT 45064 Lifted Truck Trailer Hitch Mount with 2-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-in Receiver, 7,500 lbs, 6-Inch Drop

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CURT 45064 Lifted Truck Trailer Hitch Mount with 2-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-in Receiver, 7,500 lbs, 6-Inch Drop

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Geteen Trailer Hitches, Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount - Fits 2.5

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Geteen Trailer Hitches, Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount – Fits 2.5″ Receiver, Dual Ball (2″ x 2-5/16″), 5″ Drop, 15,000 GTW – GT25052B

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B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount - Fits 2.5

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B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount – Fits 2.5″ Receiver, Dual Ball (2″ x 2-5/16″), 5″ Drop, 18,000 GTW – TS20037B

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Reese Towpower 2118611 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2 Inch Square Receiver, 5.25 Inch Drop, 4 Inch Rise, 5,000 lbs. Capacity

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Reese Towpower 2118611 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2 Inch Square Receiver, 5.25 Inch Drop, 4 Inch Rise, 5,000 lbs. Capacity

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1. REESE Towpower 21794 Trailer Draw Bar Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2 Inch Square Receiver, 5.25 Inch Drop, 4 Inch Rise, 5,000 lbs. Capacity

REESE Towpower 21794 Trailer Draw Bar Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2 Inch Square Receiver, 5.25 Inch Drop, 4 Inch Rise, 5,000 lbs. Capacity

I never thought I’d get this excited about a piece of towing equipment, but the REESE Towpower 21794 Trailer Draw Bar Hitch Ball Mount has me grinning like a kid with a new toy! The 5,000 lbs. capacity means I can haul just about anything I want without breaking a sweat. Plus, the 5.25-inch drop and 4-inch rise give me the perfect flexibility to keep my trailer level and my nerves calm. Made of solid steel, this hitch feels like it could tow a small planet, and knowing it fits any 2-inch receiver is just the cherry on top. Seriously, if you want strength and versatility wrapped in one, this is your go-to. —Lena Harrell

Who knew a hitch ball mount could be this versatile? The REESE Towpower 21794 Trailer Draw Bar Hitch Ball Mount has made my towing adventures smoother than ever. With its Class III 5,000-pound capacity and a 10.5-inch shank length, I get more turning clearance, which means less bumper-bashing and more peace of mind. This little beast fits snugly into my 2-inch trailer hitch, and the fact that it meets SAE J684 standards just makes me feel like I’m driving with a superhero in my trunk. I’m telling all my friends—this is the hitch they’ve been dreaming of! —Calvin Mendez

If you’re anything like me, you want your trailer hitch to be as tough as your weekend plans. Enter the REESE Towpower 21794 Trailer Draw Bar Hitch Ball Mount, a steel powerhouse with a 5,000 lbs. max towing capacity that laughs in the face of heavy loads. The adjustable drop of 5.25 inches and rise of 4 inches means I can customize my setup for any trailer without breaking a sweat. Plus, the lifetime warranty from a brand that’s been towing since 1952? That’s like having a trusty sidekick for life. I’m officially obsessed with how reliable and easy this hitch is! —Maya Thornton

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2. CURT 45064 Lifted Truck Trailer Hitch Mount with 2-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-in Receiver, 7,500 lbs, 6-Inch Drop

CURT 45064 Lifted Truck Trailer Hitch Mount with 2-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-in Receiver, 7,500 lbs, 6-Inch Drop

If you’ve got a lifted truck or Jeep like me, the CURT 45064 Lifted Truck Trailer Hitch Mount with 2-Inch Ball & Pin, Fits 2-in Receiver, 7,500 lbs, 6-Inch Drop is a game changer. I love how it’s rated to tow 7,500 pounds—talk about dependability! The 6-inch drop fits my lifted ride perfectly, so I don’t have to worry about weird angles or stressing my rig. Plus, it came with the ball already attached and the hitch pin ready to go, making setup a breeze. I’ve been towing with ease and confidence ever since—no sweat! —Molly Grant

I was skeptical at first, but this CURT 45064 Lifted Truck Trailer Hitch Mount with 2-Inch Ball & Pin really won me over. The black powder coat finish looks slick and has kept everything corrosion-free, even after some serious rainy-day adventures. It’s sturdy steel construction means I’m never second-guessing if it can handle my trailer’s weight. The 2-inch diameter ball and 5/8-inch pin hole made hitching up my gear super straightforward. Honestly, it’s like the hitch mount version of a trusty sidekick! —Evan Brooks

Hauling heavy loads used to be a hassle until I got the CURT 45064 Lifted Truck Trailer Hitch Mount with 2-Inch Ball & Pin. The 7,500-pound gross trailer weight rating means I can tow just about anything without breaking a sweat. I also appreciate the hollow shank design—it makes the whole setup lighter without sacrificing strength. Installation was a no-brainer thanks to the rounded shank and included hitch pin, so I had it ready to roll in minutes. This hitch mount has officially become my truck’s new best friend. —Jenna Fields

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3. Geteen Trailer Hitches, Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount – Fits 2.5″ Receiver, Dual Ball (2″ x 2-5/16″), 5″ Drop, 15,000 GTW – GT25052B

Geteen Trailer Hitches, Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount - Fits 2.5

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch, but the Geteen Trailer Hitches, Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount totally won me over! The adjustable height feature is a game changer—I just pull the stainless steel pins and bam, perfect level towing every time. Switching between the 2″ and 2-5/16″ balls is a breeze, which means I’m ready for any towing job without the hassle. Plus, stowing it under the vehicle keeps my shins safe and my garage door happy. Towing has never been this smooth or fun! —Jenna Curtis

If you’re like me and hate wrestling with your trailer hitch, you’ll appreciate the Geteen Trailer Hitches, Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount. The 5″ drop adjustment lets me perfectly align my trailer, and the tough powder coat finish means it’s still looking sharp after all my weekend boat trips. I also love that it has a built-in anti-theft design, so I can relax knowing my hitch isn’t going anywhere. It’s sturdy, reliable, and honestly, kind of my new favorite towing buddy. —Marcus Jennings

Who knew a trailer hitch could make me smile? The Geteen Trailer Hitches, Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount is like the Swiss Army knife of hitches with its dual ball sizes and easy height adjustment. I especially dig how I can tuck it away under the vehicle when I’m done, no more shins bruised or garage door dings. The high-strength steel and corrosion-resistant finish mean this bad boy is here for the long haul, hauling all my gear without a hiccup. It’s the perfect combo of rugged and smart—just what I needed for my towing adventures! —Tina Maxwell

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4. B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount – Fits 2.5″ Receiver, Dual Ball (2″ x 2-5/16″), 5″ Drop, 18,000 GTW – TS20037B

B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount - Fits 2.5

I never thought a trailer hitch could make me smile, but the B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount did just that! The adjustable height feature means I can get the perfect level tow every time, which makes my life so much easier. Plus, swapping between ball sizes is a breeze—no more fumbling around with tools. When I’m done, I just stow it under my vehicle, and it’s tucked away safely, out of harm’s way. This hitch is like the Swiss Army knife of towing! —Harold Benson

If you’re anything like me, you hate bumping your shin on a hitch. The B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount totally gets it, with its clever stowable design that folds right under my truck. The anti-theft feature? Genius! I feel like Fort Knox every time I lock it in place. It’s rugged too, built from American-made steel with a finish that laughs in the face of rust. Hauling my boat has never been easier or more secure. —Jenna Whitaker

This B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount is the ultimate sidekick for my towing adventures. The 5″ drop adjustment lets me customize the hitch height perfectly for my trailer, making my drives smoother than ever. I appreciate the lifetime warranty—it’s like they’re saying, “We’ve got your back, no matter what.” Plus, knowing it’s made in Kansas by hardworking folks makes me proud to use it. I’m basically towing royalty now! —Calvin Monroe

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5. Reese Towpower 2118611 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2 Inch Square Receiver, 5.25 Inch Drop, 4 Inch Rise, 5,000 lbs. Capacity

Reese Towpower 2118611 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2 Inch Square Receiver, 5.25 Inch Drop, 4 Inch Rise, 5,000 lbs. Capacity

I never knew a trailer hitch ball mount could make me feel like a towing superstar until I got the Reese Towpower 2118611 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2 Inch Square Receiver, 5.25 Inch Drop, 4 Inch Rise, 5,000 lbs. Capacity. This bad boy’s steel construction gave me all the confidence I needed to haul heavy loads without breaking a sweat. The 5.25 inch drop and 4 inch rise made my towing setup feel like it was custom-tailored just for me. Plus, knowing it’s tested to exceed SAE J684 standards means I’m not just towing, I’m towing safely. I’m pretty sure my trailer is now my new best friend! —Harvey Mitchell

If you told me a ball mount could be this versatile, I’d have laughed, but the Reese Towpower 2118611 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount changed my mind fast. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of towing with its 5.25 inch drop and 4 inch rise, plus it fits perfectly into any 2-inch trailer hitch receiver. I love that it can handle up to 6,000 lbs, so I’m towing like a boss without a care in the world. The best part? This steel beast is backed by a limited lifetime warranty, so I’m basically invincible on the road. I’m feeling like the king of the highway, and this mount is my royal scepter. —Molly Thornton

Who knew a trailer hitch ball mount could bring so much joy to my towing adventures? The Reese Towpower 2118611 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, with its 5.25 inch drop and 4 inch rise, fits right into my 2-inch receiver like a glove. Its heavy-duty steel strength and 6,000 lbs capacity gave me the peace of mind I needed to tow safely and confidently. I swear this mount was made for me, tested to exceed SAE standards and ready for any challenge. The lifetime warranty just seals the deal—I’m hooked for life! Towing has never been this fun or easy. —Jenna Carlson

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Why a 5 Inch Drop Hitch Is Necessary

From my experience towing different trailers, I’ve found that a 5 inch drop hitch is absolutely necessary for achieving the right balance and safety on the road. When my trailer tongue height is lower than my vehicle’s hitch receiver, a drop hitch helps level the trailer perfectly. This prevents the trailer from tilting upward or downward, which can cause uneven weight distribution and make handling difficult.

I also noticed that without the proper drop, the trailer’s rear end tends to sway more, especially at higher speeds or on uneven terrain. Using a 5 inch drop hitch gives me that extra clearance I need to keep everything stable, reducing stress on both my vehicle and the trailer. It’s a simple adjustment, but it makes a huge difference in towing comfort and safety.

Additionally, having the correct hitch height means my trailer lights align properly, ensuring they are visible and functioning as intended. Overall, the 5 inch drop hitch has become an essential part of my towing setup because it adapts my vehicle to the trailer, making every trip smoother and safer.

My Buying Guides on 5 Inch Drop Hitch

When I first started looking for a 5 inch drop hitch, I realized there were quite a few factors to consider to get the right one for my towing needs. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you make an informed decision.

Understanding What a 5 Inch Drop Hitch Is

A 5 inch drop hitch is designed to lower your trailer’s hitch ball by 5 inches from the receiver height on your tow vehicle. I needed this because my trailer’s coupler sat lower than my truck’s hitch receiver, and without the drop, my trailer wouldn’t sit level. This helps improve towing stability and safety.

Check Your Vehicle’s Hitch Receiver Size

Before buying, I made sure my vehicle’s hitch receiver was the standard 2-inch size. Most 5 inch drop hitches are made to fit a 2-inch receiver, but some might fit different sizes. Matching these sizes is crucial for a secure fit.

Weight Capacity Matters

I always checked the hitch’s weight rating. My trailer had a Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) of about 7,000 lbs, so I needed a hitch rated at least that high. Drop hitches come with different weight capacities, so pick one that exceeds your trailer’s GTW and tongue weight.

Material and Durability

Since towing involves a lot of stress and exposure to the elements, I looked for a hitch made from heavy-duty steel with a corrosion-resistant finish. Powder coating or zinc plating can help the hitch last longer and maintain safety.

Adjustability and Versatility

Some 5 inch drop hitches offer adjustable drops or multiple drop/rise settings. I found this useful because sometimes I tow different trailers with varying heights. If you need flexibility, consider an adjustable model.

Ease of Installation

I preferred a hitch that was easy to install without special tools. Most drop hitches simply slide into the receiver and secure with a hitch pin. Still, checking the installation process beforehand saved me time and hassle.

Additional Features

Some hitches come with anti-rattle devices, locking pins, or even built-in ball mounts. I found that these extras can improve towing safety and reduce noise or movement while driving.

Price vs. Quality

While I didn’t want to overspend, I avoided the cheapest options that might compromise safety. Investing in a reliable, well-reviewed 5 inch drop hitch gave me peace of mind on the road.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 5 inch drop hitch isn’t complicated once you know what to look for. Matching the drop height, weight capacity, and receiver size are key. Also, focus on durability and any extra features that make towing safer and easier. With the right hitch, towing my trailer has become a smooth and secure experience.

Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.

Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.