Winch Accessory Questions...

[Alphonse]

Ok, some major newbie questions since I am looking to get more educated on winch accessories. I have an All Pro front winch bumper coming and after much research have decided to go for a Warn M8000 winch. I have read some good articles posted here in the past regarding recovery safety and have now decided to go for synthetic line. Now I need to know what hardware I should get to go with the winch and have some questions...

I have noticed there are several brands of synthetic rope. Are they all comparable for a given size (5/16" in this case) or does one stand out as being better, and if so why?

Some winch lines seem to be "fire rated". What is the practical advantage to this?

Are hooks pretty much standard? I see a range of prices from $20 up to $50.

Hawse fairleads seem to be available in different types of aluminum, and even plastic. Contrary to what I would think, the plastic ones are some of the most expensive. Why would you choose one over the other?

Are a "Shackle" and a "D Ring" the same thing? I know this is a shackle, but is it also a D Ring?

http://www.offroadoverstock.com/ezca...tn/SPA0340.jpg

What would be the purpose of a D Ring if it is something different than pictured above?

If there is an article that explaines all this then simply pointing me in that direction would also be very helpful.

Thanks,
Alphonse