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Rating |
Image |
Products |
Score |
Price |
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1 Best |
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XtremepowerUS 2 Stroke Gas Post Hole Digger Editor’s Choice |
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2 |
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3 |
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4 |
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Seymour AUA2 Auger |
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5 |
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Electric Earth Auger |
If you’re looking for an efficient means to dig holes for various purposes like fence posts or potted plants, you will need a post hole digger. It’s a great tool meant for digging applications, allowing you to create holes of just the right size so that you can quickly finish your maintenance or gardening projects.
In this article, we’re going to review some of the best post hole auger products out there. We’ll also talk about some useful tips that you can use to pick the right tool for your needs.
With a post hole auger, making holes such as this one is relatively easy
What’s a Post Hole Auger?
A post hole auger, likewise known as a digger, is a tool specifically designed for earthmoving tasks. It’s a must-have tool if you are more of a DIY person for maintaining your garden. The tool, which can either be automatic or manual, comes with a metal head made up of two blades or a drill bit which digs deep into the earth.
What makes a post hole digger a must-have tool is that it’s a powerful and precise tool that will make any digging task extremely quick and easy. This means you can save a lot of time and energy just to dig a few holes.
5 Best Post Hole Auger Products 2018 Reviews
You can choose to rent a post hole digger from a local rental service if you are only planning to tackle one-time digging jobs. However, if you need an auger every now and then, the best decision is to buy one. I have created earth auger reviews of the top five diggers on the market. They are as follows:
Types Of Post Hole Augers In The Market
Generally, you can find three types of post hole auger, namely manual, gas-powered, and electric.
Manual Post Hole Auger
A manual post hole auger is the right choice if you have soft soil. This is operated by hand to help you create the post holes you need. A manual digger is ideal for use in light to medium digging task. Moreover, it is relatively easy to use, so there’s no need to worry if you don’t know how to use an auger to dig a hole. All you need is a bit of strength to pierce the tool into the earth. Afterward, simply scoop the earth you’ve dug and keep on digging until you reach your desired depth.
Gas-Powered Post Hole Auger
A gas auger style post hole digger operates through the use of gasoline. This is often the preferred choice when working on a harder ground. With a gasoline post hole auger, you can easily bore a hole into even the hardest soil out there. Since it has a lot of digging power, it can easily dig into the rocky soil and move the rocks out of the way.
Electric Post Hole Auger
Lastly, we have the electric post hole auger. It’s actually quite similar to a gas model, except there are no smelly gas fumes to deal with. It is the ideal option if you have a nearby power source. Moreover, it runs significantly quieter than a gas-powered tool. The only problem with an electric auger post hole digger is that you can’t use it if there’s no power or outlet nearby.
Electric diggers can’t operate without a nearby power source. However, they are a more eco-friendly and quieter option
To figure out which is the best post hole auger you need, it’s best to test the soil in your area.
How To Use a Post Hole Auger
The best post hole auger products normally come with a user manual detailing the proper way to use their digging tool. However, before you dig holes with a digger, you have to gather the following:
After you have gathered all these items, you need to learn the proper ways to operate a digger:
1. Analyze the Soil
One of the most important factors you need to consider is to analyze the soil before you dig. This will allow you to assess whether you should use a powered digger or just a manual one. If you have rocky or heavy clay soil, it’s ideal to use a gas or electric-powered digger for rocky soil.
To dig holes with a manual digger, you have to thrust the blade into the ground, then perform series of twists and turns
2. Measure the Hole
Once you’ve completed soil analysis, the next step is to measure the hole locations and mark them with a fabric marker. This will ensure that everything is aligned perfectly. The best time to dig holes is right after a bit of rain, as this will dampen the soil, thus making it easier to dig.
3. Decide the Hole’s Size
To start, simply pierce your digger into the ground to create a hole. Then you have to decide on the hole’s size by dropping down the auger in and out. A good start is to create a hole 1-foot diameter wide before you continue digging deeper. Don’t forget to lift the dirt out every time you dig.
4. Flatten the Bottom of Hole
Upon reaching your desired depth, make sure to flatten the bottom of the hole using a flat-bottomed post. This will make it easier to balance the poles you want to place in the holes.
A 3 or 4 feet deep hole is enough for most poles. However, you can go even deeper into what your digger will allow
Features To Consider When Looking For a Post Hole Digger
To find the best post hole auger for your needs, you have to consider some features depending on the type you prefer.
1. Manual Post Hole Digger
Although a manual digger is a basic piece of equipment, there are still several features to look for. The most important consideration for a manual digger is its handle. A lot of manual diggers on the market feature wooden handles, which are prone to wear and tear as time goes by. Fortunately, there are quality products that feature fiberglass handles that improve the tool’s overall strength. This is something you should consider, especially if you’re going to dig into the rocky soil.
It is recommended to choose a manual hole digger with a long handle for easy leverage
Another thing to consider is the handle’s length. The length will determine how you can get enough leverage on your post hole digger. Typically, the longer the better – and it’s because of two reasons. One, a longer handle will provide you with more leverage. Two, a longer handle will allow you to dig deeper holes.
2. Gas Post Hole Digger
Without enough power, your gas-powered digger won’t be able to dig deep enough holes. Ideally, you want a digger with around 2 to 2.5 HP engines. Don’t settle with an auger that has an engine with less than 2 horsepower.
Also, the bit, which is attached to the motor, should be made of high-carbon steel. Anything other than carbon steel will also cause the bladed bit to snap and might even damage your post hole digger.
You should also consider durable handles for your digger. After all, you will have to hold on to them when operating the machine. Handles with anti-vibration padding are ideal if you plan to work for long periods of time. They will significantly reduce the levels of vibration which allows you to work even longer.
Lastly, you have to take note of a gas-powered digger’s weight. There are plenty of one man post hole augers out there that are lightweight enough for one person to use. However, harder soils might require the help of another person to operate your digger.
3. Electric Post Hole Digger
Most electric-powered diggers have a 1200 watts motor. Any product that has less power is not recommended. Since an electric digger relies on a nearby power source, you can use an extension cord if you want to dig holes in your area. If you don’t have any extension cord, you can just opt for a manual or gas-powered option.
Like a gas hole digger, it’s also recommended to choose an electric model that has at least 1,200 watts of motor power
Like a gas-powered digger, you should also consider high-carbon steel bit. You will also need sturdy handles and anti-vibration padding.
The Verdict
My top pick for the best post hole auger goes to XtremepowerUS 2 Stroke Gas Post Hole Digger. If you want to erect a new fence or plant a number of trees around your property, the XtremepowerUS digger has more than enough power that you need. With its 2-cycle engine, high powered motor, sturdy construction, durable handles, and a lot of torque, this machine is a must-have for all types of digging activities.
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