I have the 9k badlands winch. I've used it loads, from pulling out stuck Raptors, Z71's, bushes, my jeep, fence posts, etc... I can say that it's done its job 100% of the time since I bought it. I haven't waterproofed it in any way and I don't keep it covered. I bought the warranty for it for 2 years which I do with every HF thing I buy. So as far as comparing it to a Warn winch I have no experience, but as far as its use and me punishing it often, it's held up beautifully. I also don't use HF rigging, only crosby, but that's a whole other story.
So as far it being bumper jewelry..nah
A winch that's operated flawlessly for the year I've had it...yep
Don't get me wrong, HF has some crap, but in my experience, with this particular winch, I couldn't be more happier. And all for under 300 bucks