A telescoping hydraulic hoist which improves stability and rigidity in the extended position without sacrificing the maximum extension length of the hoist and with fewer machined parts which may be dislodged or damaged in operation. The base member has a recess into which intermediate and inner tube stages recede when the hoist is in a fully collapsed position, and a stop-collar on the gland nut bearings overlaps the exposed end of the next broader tube stage, defining a limit of retraction for each intermediate tube stage, so that a tube stage when fully retracted contacts the exposed end of the next broader tube stage, thus dispensing with the need for stop rings.