I used these to increase my 50 x 16 deck. I also used 2 Big Red Jacks for the same project - especially in the middle of the deck where I used all 4 Jacks to lift more of the deck. I ended up preferring these Pro-Lift jacks as I felt they did a little more powerful work - lifting a load with minimal effort. I had no trouble lowering the load onto the prop smoothly. I don't know why other reviewers had such problems. Proper technique is to turn the trigger counterclockwise very slowly, no more than 1/5 of a full turn. Then remember to tighten it for the next lift. I like that the handle locks in place with a spring clip. A great idea. Very happy with them and would have no hesitation in recommending them.