I agree that the Hi Lift jack is not the safest tool in the world.
I realize that a winch or a buddy in the right spot gets you out of this dilemma.
I also realize that it might not be the right tool for some trails, like the Hammers.
But I would like to stay away from discussing that.
I don't have a winch. I don't always have another Jeep in front or in back of me, and can't always reposition that other Jeep (if it's there). I can't always go forwards, or go backwards.
I have gotten into this situation enough, and the solution is so simple.
What I'm asking, is given these conditions (which happen enough to me), is there a better way?