Are you a fisherman? An angler? How dedicated are you fishing? Do you go out in a boat in the summer? Well, if you are in the Southern United States, the answer is probably yes. It doesn’t get cold enough there to have to worry about ice obstructing your fishing trip, but in some areas, it does get cold. Very cold. In fact, so cold that ice forms. Not just inches of ice, but thick enough that it has to be measured in feet. I have a friend who is an avid angler. In fact, he loves fishing so much that one of his bucket list items included going ice fishing. He came to me for advice, but I’m southern too, so I, along with some of my team members, decided to carry out some research to find out the best ice augers to fit his needs. Read on to know the findings of our detailed research of about 36 hours.
AT A GLANCE
Why Should You Trust Us?
If I were in your shoes, I would probably be asking myself the same question. After all, I had just spent literally hours looking at different websites and online stores whose main goal was to sell something. But where was the documentation to back up all their claims? Where were their authentic ice augers reviews? I didn’t see any. Somehow, I felt like they were only trying to do one thing—convince me to purchase their product.
This is what that inspired us, the stuffoholics team, to come up with the best ice fishing auger reviews on the web. We are running product research on items for the last five years methodically, so we have experience. With a sole objective of helping our readers, we only pick the product, which suits your needs. We have put in over 36 hours of research online and involved several dedicated volunteers in the process. This eliminates the chances of any subjective reviews if there are any.
We have reviewed numerous ice augers brands. This demonstrates that we’re not biased toward to promote or sell any specific brand.
In total, we have reviewed 7 different brands and over 100 products before making a shortlist of 21 if the best. Then, we refined the list even further, selecting the 10 top rated ice augers available on the market. Whatever your needs are, we are confident that you would find the right kind of ice auger using this review.
Why Do You Need the Best Ice Auger?
Whether you’re a year-round fisherman, or like my friend, trying out ice fishing for the first time, you are constantly chasing fish – even if the lake is frozen. Those are the dedicated fishermen. The one who sees a thick layer of ice, but also an opportunity to land the big one! Absolutely nothing will keep from those enormous bluegills, bass, and pike just because they are trapped beneath the ice on a frozen lake.
To cut the right size hole at the right depth in the ice, you’ll need the right machinery and right equipment to get the job done. But how? Well, you’ll need the best ice wood screw for this. Yes, the answer to this conundrum exists in the market. They are called ice augers.
There are all kinds of them out there. Manuals, drillers, ion ice auger, and something called ice auger jiffy, just to name a few. We are going to explore these types and give you the best advice on build quality, features, and other factors to help you make up your mind. We will also give you our verdict on each one of our top ten best value ice augers list. How can you go wrong?
Types of Ice Augers: Which One Is Right for You?
As with most products these days, there are many different types of ice augers. They come with both positive and negative points, which mainly depends on your point of view. Of course, you also have to remember that the more bells and whistles you choose, the more the ice auger is likely to coast. Let’s briefly describe the three major types:
- Electric Ice Augers:
These maybe labor savers, but they have their drawbacks too. For instance, the batteries have to be charged, and that is not possible in the field. Charging is more time-consuming than just filling the tank with gas as you would do with a gas-powered model. You must also take into account the portability of the auger, its weight, and if it comes with extra batteries or an alternate way to charge it. - Gas Powered:
As the name implies, natural gas is required to run this type of ice auger. It does not require any preparation except you need to pick up a propane tank and the auger itself before heading out to the lake to catch any type of fish. The downside is that the gas tank is another piece of equipment you must carry out onto the ice with you. If you have only a partial tank, then you would have to take two, if you plan on staying on the ice for a while, or if you are drilling multiple holes. - Manual:
More physical effort is required, but these are still the most efficient at cutting holes and make cuts faster.
What to Consider for Ice Augers?
For fishermen who prefer their kayaks or canoes for fishing, harsh and cold winter with a foot or two of ice on the lake isn’t a reason to give up fishing for the season. Like other enthusiasts in other sports, it’s just an excuse to bring out the new stuff, like ice augers, and to get back on the lake. This is the literal truth, for they will be walking on the ice-covered lake to fish.
If you really want to enjoy the time out there, in the freezing cold, you need to make sure you have the right equipment for the right job. There probably isn’t anything worse than getting to set everything up, and then realize you forgot something. So, here are a few things to consider while choosing an Ice Auger:
Power Source: What power source do you want to use?
- Manpower: Which requires some muscle power or elbow grease? Are you up to the challenge?
- Battery: Battery powered ice augers require planning since the battery must be charged before going to the lake.
- Gas: Natural gas is needed to run gas powered ice fishing augers. Again, this is another extra step you have to take over the manpower mode. You have to make sure you have enough gas to run the auger. Plus, you have to carry the extra equipment on the lake.
Blades:
Auger blades are made in all different sizes from 4 inch ice auger blades to 10 inch ice auger blades. The blade you choose comes down, basically, to how big a fish you want to catch. The bigger the hole, the better.
Keeping the blades sharp is at the top of the to-do list when you start a new fishing season. The math is simple. The more holes you drill, the sharper your blade needs to be. Meaning, you may have to change blades frequently if you want to drill more holes.
You can do one of two things: replace the blades, or if you have the equipment, sharpen the ones you have. Most people have the jigs as ice auger sharpener. If you don’t, then you might want to invest in one, for it is relatively easy to do.
Maintenance and Repair:
If you use a gas ice fishing power auger, make sure to use the proper fuel mixture. Never overfill the tank, leave at least half an inch of air below the neck.
Never leave your auger standing upright in a partially drilled hole. Gravity will cause the blades to bend.
When storing, remove the battery pack to prevent leakage. Leave the auger attached and hang from a wall-mounted bracket.
Portability:
Remember that the old hand-held style auger will be the least heavy way to go. If it has batteries or an engine, it will weigh more. Added note: never leave the auger running (gas or battery) as you move from drill site to drill site. Doing so increases the risk of injury.
Ice depth:
Most augers come in a standard length. Of course, the thickness of the ice you need to drill through will vary, but most standard augers should be long enough.
How We Picked and Tested
You may be wondering how we chose the products. You may also be wondering how we determined the best ice auger for you. Let us explain the lengthy and time-consuming process to you. We did all of the following because we care about you, our readers, and want you to have the best information available about the Best ice auger for you.
We started with over 990 user reviews of different ice augers to determine the important features that user need, look for and got from the products. We then shortlisted 21 candidates from the researched products, went to their websites, went through all the descriptions on different pages, and scrutinized individual critic reviews to determine the features that this kind of products usually contain and for the reviews on seasonal purchase frequencies. Next, we analyzed this data and performed our product research on 7 different brands, doing a side-by-side comparison of their features.
Our group of volunteers used the products and provided feedback on those 7 models. Afterward, we compared their reviews and compared them against the research data we had gathered from the web. With all of this data in hand, we selected the best 10 ice augers and are now ready to present our verdicts.
Top 10 Ice Augers We Reviewed
While choosing and compiling our list of the best ice fishing augers, we followed the same procedure we did when reviewing other fishing equipment, including fishing rods. We analyzed 36 qualities an ice auger can have. These qualities were picked from the summary that the product manufacturers provide in their owner’s manuals. The rest of the features were the ones that had not been in the manuals but were ones found in the user’s comments. We also took into account the documented findings of our volunteers who used the product and reviewed their features.
We have used several measuring sticks to determine the 10 best ice augers to buy, including which of the augers will bring the best return on investment for the purchaser. In addition, we considered the opinions of the verified customers, determined and excluded obsolete products from the list so that new buyers can find an accurate review of the best products of 2019. We hope you enjoy this information and find it useful when looking for the perfect ice auger for you.
Best Electric Auger Pick: ION 19150 40V 3 amp-hour Electric 8-Inch Ice Auger
Why is this product our Best Electric Auger Pick?
Best Electric Choice
ION 19150 40V 3 amp-hour Electric Ice Auger
Impressive Features and Functions
ION 19150 40V 3 amp-hour Electric Ice Auger
This ice auger runs on battery and is packed with features that make it easy, convenient and efficient. It boasts of a reverse function so you can remove the slush at the same time extract the auger from the hole effortlessly.
- This auger has an 8 inch ice auger bit along with reverse. It can plow the ice at a good clip, expelling the slush and other debris as it goes. This model has many positive features and the product is in our list that offers intelligent tech. This battery operated ice auger is one of the 8 inch ice auger cordless drills available on the market due to its many features. However, the product is priced at around $450. This is certainly on the higher end of the ice auger price spectrum. But in comparison to other electric ice augers on the market, this is the most feature-rich product.
- This product has an amazing star rating of 4.5. This is one of the most popular products among many people in the north, including America and Canada. This machine is a bit different since most battery-operated machines lose power when the battery starts to drain which is not the case with this machine. It gives you power-auger performance without the aggravating problems which can go with it. It is powerful and fast. The 8-inch version will drill more than 39 holes through 24 inches of ice on a single charge. It is also portable; so, if you are fishing alone, arguably this is one of the best electric ice fishing augers on the market.
Build Quality – Weight 21 pounds. Wing spaced handle design and larger starter button allow for easier starting. Has reverse option to clear slush and ice.
Features – Auger length is 34 inches but comes with a 12-inch extension. Includes battery charger and lithium battery. Auger is made of steel. Blade guard for transporting.
Other factors– Rather pricey at approximately $450.00. Does have a solid 4.5-star rating. Also has a feature which helps to propel the slush from drilling out of the way. The reverse is included to help prevent become stuck.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Wide spaced handlebars for ease of operation.
Cons:
- Costly at $450.00. May not be in the price range of occasional ice fishermen
Verdict:
This model comes with all the bells and whistles you would expect in an auger in this price range (as described above). It works fast, and you can dig multiple holes quickly on a single charge. There is a reverse option to help remove slush and ice from the blades and to help to extract the auger from the drilled hole. It also comes with a two-year warranty on the engine and a one-year warranty on the battery. So, for convenience and ease of use, this is the best model to purchase.
Best Gas Auger : Eskimo Quantum Gas Ice Auger Series, Mako 43cc Ice Auger (8″ or 10″)
Before we begin drilling into the review of this product, let me tell you why we have chosen this as our Best Gas Auger.
Why is this Product Our Best Gas Auger Pick?
Top Gas Ice Auger
Eskimo Mako 43cc Quantum Ice Auger
Feature-packed at Friendly Price
Eskimo Mako 43cc Quantum Ice Auger
This workhorse of an auger is lightweight and portable. Plus, it boasts of a dual-cycle engine and an automatic prime feature makes it a powerful ice auger that can cut through layers and layers of ice effortlessly.
- We have analyzed 36 features for every product that we have selected. The product has 20 of the desired features, which is the highest among all the products. Having the highest number of these desired features makes this product our best propane gas powered ice fishing auger.
- The price of the product is around $315, which is the median price when compared to the other gas augers in the market. This product is neither too expensive, nor loses any features due to being cheap.
- This product has a star review of (4.6) with over 185 users feedback which is not the highest among other ice augers in our list but its very good definitely.
- Mako cuts effortlessly through ice using their 43cc Viper engine. It has an exclusive system designed for quick starting. However, the product is slightly heavy compared to the other products but given that it’s a gas-powered auger, it can’t be considered that heavy, so portability is not an issue.
- This gas engine powered auger has a two-cycle engine, and also has an auto-prime fuel system as an added feature. For those of you who have used an auger which did not contain this feature, you know how difficult it can be to start when you have to prime the combustion chambers before the first use.
Build Quality – this auger is a workhorse among augers. It comes with blades in either 8-10 inches. Users gave it a 4.5 star rating on average. The powerful two-stroke engine with auto prime. Does need oil mixed with fuel? Use of pull rope to start.
Features – 8 to 10-inch blades. Auto prime for firing. Be sure to follow instructions to use the auto prime feature before attempting to start.
Other factors – Approximate cost of $370.00. Has a 4.6 rating on Amazon.com. Reports of cutting through 8-10 feet of ice with no problems.
This is indeed a workhorse of a motorized ice auger. According to the best propane ice auger reviews from verified users, it will cut through feet of snow and ice without problems. There were 1-2 reports of leakage of fuel, especially when first used. It does not have the automatic start facility since it requires a rope pull mechanism.
The automatic choke (or automatic prime) feature is a definite plus since it makes it easier to start without having to manually adjust the amount of fuel going to the motor during the starting process.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Electric engine with auto prime
- Uses gas and oil mix
Cons:
- Some users report leakage of fuel when first used.
If you are looking for a good ice auger at a reasonable price, this is the machine for you. At $315.00 – $370.00, you receive many features that even some of the higher priced models do not have. Verified users give this machine a solid 4.6 star rating out of 5.
Best Ice Fishing Hand Auger : Strike Master Lazer Ice Hand Auger
Why is This Product Our Best Ice Fishing Hand Auger?
Best Hand Drill Auger
Strike Master Ice Augers
Simple Yet Efficient Tool
Strike Master Ice Augers
This simple hand auger needs no batteries or fuel to function, and boasts of razor sharp blades with powder coating that minimizes slush build-up, and best of all, the razor sharp ice auger blades stay sharp longer than the usual augers.
This is a precision ice auger with a simple design. This powdered coated hand drill reduces the slush build up, while allowing the specially designed blades to cut through the hard ice like a hot knife through butter. It has soft rubber grips on the handle which is adjustable to save your back and shoulders unnecessary strain.
According to our experience (when we tested this ice auger), this auger doesn’t need to be sharpened as often as other handheld or motorized augers, which is definitely a plus.
With a weight a little over six pounds, this unit is easily portable. The average customer review is around 4.5 stars out of 5 on popular online marketplaces. Priced around $80.00, it is certainly one of the best hand ice augers on the market.
Build Quality -comes in different blade dimensions. Weight is a little over six pounds. Adjustable handles. Has special blades developed by the company that stays sharper for longer.
Features – hand driven auger, so there is less probability of break down. Powder paint to help get rid of slush build up. Comes in 6-and 7-inch blades.
Other factors -not the cheapest hand driven augers at $80.00 but has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon.com. Site states to contact the manufacturer for warranty information.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Does not require gas or battery charge
- Blades stay sharp longer due to specialty blades manufacture red.
Cons:
- Few moving parts
Sometimes the simplest option is the best option to go for. In this case, it is true. There are no moving parts in this auger. You do not have to worry about carrying gas with you onto the lake. There are no batteries to recharge. Plus, the price is in the moderate range. This augur could give years of service with no problems.
Budget Pick: Eskimo Hand Ice Auger (6″, 7″ or 8″)
Why is this product our Budget Pick?
Value Choice
Eskimo Hand Ice Auger
Best Lightweight Ice Auger
Eskimo Hand Ice Auger
In terms of performance, this auger can easily compete with our top pick. The only thing that kept it from being the top pick is that it is not automatic. Plus, it doesn’t need fuel in order to operate.
This is the best affordable ice auger available on the market. It sells for approximately $50.00, which is not a bad price when compared to other products and among the hand-held augers. It has a Star Rating of 4.6 out of 5, which is the highest in the list. It has the highest number of positive features at 13, which is unusually high among the low-priced products in our list.
Even with this low price, this product gives great features when compared to other hand augers. The reason we had to place this best 6 inch hand ice auger in this position, is that it is not automatic. Moreover, there is no warranty issued for this product. However, the cost-to-performance ratio is very good. This will be a great choice if you are tight on budget or a beginner.
The overall reviews of this product are good. It can be taken apart to be stored in two separate pieces, making it easy to keep out of the way during the offseason. The blades are flat, while the included blade guard is curved to allow the drift of snow/ice to be easily moved out of the way while you drill.
This is a good model for the fishermen who do not ice fish very often, though we do that for the most part of the year at our ice house. Some verified users can drill with this in a few minutes. Of course, this would depend on how much effort the user puts into the drilling since this is a hand-operated auger.
Build Quality -weighing in at seven pounds, this hand-operated auger is lightweight and easily portable. Pin in the handle allows the shaft to be broken down into two pieces. Store from hanging bracket to prevent bending the blades.
Features – 6 inched of cutting diameter, x-bolt breakdown system prevents you from over tightening it while you drill. Pommel Knob and Handle for easy screwing and drilling. A Blade protector is included with this product.
Other factors – Other factors- At around $50.00 this is perfect for the first-time ice fishermen. No warranty on the product.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easily carried
- Hand operated—needs no fuel or charging
- Cross bolt system prevents sticking
Cons:
- Has no warranty
- Low cost
A good, low-cost ice auger. It would be a good purchase for those ice fishermen who do not ice fish often, or who are new to the sport. It comes without a warranty, but at this price, it would be easy to replace if something happened.
Verified purchasers gave this auger a high rating. So, if you are new to ice fishing, or looking for a good quality product, this could be the model for you.
Advanced Pick: ION X 29250 High-Performance Electric Ice Auger Reviews
Why is this product our Advanced Pick?
Best Lithium-Ion Auger
ION X 29250 High-Performance
High performance Auger
ION X 29250 High-Performance
This electric ice auger is perfect for frequent uses who like to fish in the early morning or at nighttime, as it comes with mounted LED lights to illuminate your area. It is battery-operated, and can cut ice up to 1600 inches on a single full charge.
This new model of ION electric ice auger promises reliability and ease of use. It has a 5 amp-hour 40v battery, which boasts a greater capacity of storage. With its ultra quality best ice auger motor, you can cut 1600 inches of ice in a single charge.
This model has two LED lights which help to light up the surface of the ice making it good for night fishing as well. If you are fishing inside a shelter, this would be a plus also.
Build Quality – weight 21 pounds so it is easily carried by one person, Aluminum cast bottom on the unit enables smoother cuts. The handlebars have been redesigned so it can be used in tight quarters.
Features – battery has a longer power life. Also has reverse to help clear slush. Two LED lights can be used during the dark hours, so it makes it easier to see the cut. Also, good for tight spaces.
Other factors – one of the most expensive on the list at $580.00, Has extensions to lengthen the shaft. Has a 1-year limited warranty on the battery, and 2-year limited warranty on the rest.
Pros:
- No smelly fumes or gas
- Portable and lightweight
Cons:
- Pricey
This model does have some bells and whistles that make it attractive to the frequent ice fishermen. For instance, the dual LED lights mounted beneath the head will help to illuminate the area that you are drilling. It is also good for tight quarters since the redesigned handles are more compact than in previous models. It is pricey, being one of the highest costs on our lists, but if you are an avid ice fisherman, this is the model for you.
4.5 out of 5 stars with 26 customer reviews
A List of 5 Other Ice Augers We Tested
No 6: Strikemaster Ice Fishing Mora Hand Auger
Beginner’s Pick
Strikemaster Ice Fishing Mora Ice Auger
Best Rated Hand Ice Auger
Strikemaster Ice Fishing Mora Ice Auger
This hand-operated auger is perfect for lone or occasional fishermen or beginners who are not heavy users. It’s basic, needs no fuel or battery to operate, is very lightweight and affordable, too.
The Strikemaster Ice Fishing Mora Hand Auger has painted a beautiful blue. It is one of the best inexpensive ice augers, approximately at $61.00 and has a top handle knob and auger shaft rotary hand grip. This design makes it easier to use. It also has a soft rubbery material incorporated into the design which makes for a firmer grip when drilling.
It weighs 6 pounds, so it is perfect for the lone fishermen, or if you have other ice fishing equipment to carry since it is lightweight. Since it is hand powered, you don’t have to worry about charging a battery or carrying fuel.
The blade depends on what you order from the company. You can order 4, 6, or 8-inch blades, and they have a diameter of approximately 1 inch. A six-inch blade is the most common length sold and will work fine for just about any fish you plan to catch.
Build Quality -this hand driven auger weighs only six pounds. It has a rotary shaft hand grip and is covered with a soft rubbery foam substance which helps with drilling. High alloy blades. Ergonomically designed handles.
Features – Available in three different diameters from the manufacturer. It has wide palm gripe and uses a twisting motion with the other hand to work the drill. Powder coated to prevent getting stuck in ice.
Other factors -at approximately $61.00, this is a good drill for a single fisherman, a novice, or one who does not fish often. It has a solid 4.4-star rating on Amazon.com.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Padded hand grip
Cons:
- Reports of limited use due to welds breaking
Most users are satisfied with this simple hand-held auger. The price is reasonable. This would be a great auger for new ice fishermen or for those who do not ice fish frequently.
Check Customer Reviews on Amazon
No 7: Eskimo P1 Rocket Propane Auger Reviews
Fastest Ice Auger
Eskimo P1 Rocket Propane Auger
Cuts Faster than Most
Eskimo P1 Rocket Propane Auger
This propane auger features a cast bottom which can slice through the ice quickly and efficiently. It has an impressive cutting power and can drill through the ice faster than most augers, but it is also more expensive than the rest.
This is a quality ice auger with its engine running on propane. With such great products in our list, this had to come this low on our list, but this still is a great product.
Being a rocket auger, this product can break through thick layers of ice faster and better. The thing we didn’t like about this product was its hefty price tag of around $500, which returned only around 9 positive features that we have been looking for. Regardless, let’s look at some of the qualities of this Auger:
Build Quality – This one features a cast bottom to increase its cutting power and precision: It’s strong and smooth. It is light, weighing in about merely 26 lbs for the 8 inch power auger.
Features – It comes with 1 pound Propane Capacity, mitten grips, and an aluminum handle. This product is comfortable to use and can run for a long time.
Other factors – This product has a 5-year warranty and comes with a price tag just below $500.
Pros:
- The Rocket Nozzle AugerAuger can cut faster
- Ball-Bearing Transmission offers smoother rotating blades.
Cons:
- Required gas to use, piling up on the usage costs.
- Expensive
This ice auger is definitely a great product. But for the extortionate price tag, we won’t place it above the number 9 spot on our list. But if money isn’t a concern, you won’t go wrong with this Auger.
Check Customer Reviews on Amazon
No 8 : Eskimo High Compression with 8 or 10 inch Blades
Quiet Pick
Eskimo High Compression
Best Propane-powered Auger
Eskimo High Compression
This Eskimo High Compression Auger boasts of a 40cc high compression engine that runs on propane. Compared to other models that run on gas, this is relatively quiet and works efficiently even in cold weather.
This propane powered ice auger has a 4.2-star rating out of 5 on Amazon.com. It is pricey too, with a cost of $429.00 (the lowest price of several different sizes of augers to choose from). It uses propane gas to run the high compression 40cc motor. Many users relate that this model runs much quieter than other gas-powered ice auger machines. It also works well in cold weather since you do not have to worry about the battery getting too cold to start. We believe you can rely on this auger without any confusion when going ice fishing.
There were some negative comments though, such as difficulty with assembly, the unit refusing to start initially, and the time it took to finally get the machine into a runnable condition.
Build Quality -one of the heavier models on our list. Weight is listed as 33 pounds. It has a plastic cover for the blades, which is held on by a strap mechanism. It does require maintenance as any other engine would, including spark plugs and oil.
Features – runs quieter than other gas-powered units. Has dual handles. Painted fire engine red, so it might be hard to see in the dark. It does not have slush reverse listed as a feature.
Other factors -The one we looked at was $429.00 for an 8-inch blade. Comes with a 2-year warranty.
Pros:
- Runs quieter than other gas models
- It is reportedly hard to assemble by some users
- 2-year warranty
Cons:
- Red color may be hard to see in the dark
This unit has a 4.4 star rating on Amazon.com. There seem to be more positive than negative reviews, even though many verified purchasers did comment that it was difficult to put together or that they had trouble with the initial starting. If you are mechanically inclined this would be a good choice for you.
Check Customer Reviews on Amazon
No 09: Eskimo S33Q8 Sting Ray 33cc with 8-Inch Ice Auger
Tough Pick
Eskimo S33Q8 Sting Ray 33cc Ice Auger
Loaded with Useful Features
Eskimo S33Q8 Sting Ray 33cc Ice Auger
This 33cc gas powered auger features a transparent gas tank, foam-padded handles, a two cycle engine and an 8-inch auger. It’s quite the heavy duty auger, and also commands a big price at over $300.
This machine has many features you may want in an ice auger, and it is light on the bank account. It is built to take the rough and be dependable at the same time. Powered by a 2-cycle, 3 cubic centimeter engine, it will start even in the coldest winter weather. It has wide tubular handlebars made of steel, covered in foam which will be easy on your hands. Also, it has fingertip throttle control and a see-thru gas tank, so you can see if fuel is running low. Also has guards to keep you from touching hot spots. We once caught a large catfish after drilling a hole with this one, though the fish finder we used first also deserves some credit!
There is no mention of a warranty but in several reviews, verified purchasers raved about the customer service. They related that parts were replaced, no questions asked. There were also a few comments that it is a little hard to start after being on the ice for a few hours. Also, extensions are available for this model if needed.
Build Quality – 42x17x12 inches. Weight 28 pounds. 8 inch hand ice auger. 49:1 Gear ratio, Has padded handles so that it is easy on the hands.
Features – 2-cycle, 3 cc engine. Padded handles made of tubular steel. See-thru gas tank.
Other factors – $315.00. 4.4 stars rating. Many verified purchasers state they would by the same machine again if the need arose.
Pros:
- See thru gas tank to tell fuel level
- Does not require gas or battery charge
- 2 cycle engines
Cons:
- Needs fuel to take with you to lake
Has many bells and whistles that some may find useful, but you still have to take fuel and oil with you, in addition to the machine itself. It also tends to cause heat. May be a little pricey for those who do not ice fish frequently or for novice fishermen.
Check Customer Reviews on Amazon
No 10: Nils Master UR600C Cordless Drill Auger
Smart Choice
Nils Master UR600C Auger
Loaded with Useful Features
Nils Master UR600C Auger
This ice auger runs on battery and is packed with features that make it easy, convenient and efficient. It is one of the lightest augers with which you can make ice fishing holes effortlessly.
This is the last ice auger to make our best ice auger list. Imported from finland, it is one of the best quality fishing products you could ever have. This product is very lightweight and useful in terms of practicality. With this auger you can drill automatically with the help of battery power, as well as manually if the situation requires it.
Powered by an 18v battery, you can drill upto 15 to 20 holes in 6-8 inch thick ice, with this 6 inch ice auger. Its stainless steel holder is very light and ergonomically designed to facilitate manual drilling.
Pros:
- Very Lightweight
- Padded hand grip
- Versatile, can be used as a hand auger
Cons:
- Limited battery power, have to carry spare batteries if you move around a lot.
This product offers great versalitility within a reasonable price. You can use this auger as both electric and hand auger, an unique feature in comparison to other augers on the market. Certainly worth the price!
Check Customer Reviews on Amazon
A List of Other Products We Tested
- Eskimo Silvertip Curved Blade Hand Auger, Black/Red (6″ or 8″)
- HT Ice Fishing Tackle HT POLAR HAND ICE AUGER
- ION X 29300 10-Inch Complete Electric Ice Auger 40V 5 amp-hour
- Strike Master Ice Augers Lazer Pro 3 H.P. Auger
- Strikemaster Electra Lazer 12000DP Power Ice Fishing Auger Reviews
- Strikemaster Mora Blade Hand Auger (5-Inch)
- Trophy Strike 106475 Ice Auger – Gas Powered 52CC 2-Cycle, 8″ Cutting Diameter, 31.5″ Depth
- XtremepowerUS V-Type 55CC 2 Stroke Gas Ice Post Hole Digger W/8″ Ice Auger Bit
- StrikeMaster Honda-Lite Power Auger, 10-Inch
- StrikeMaster Lazer Synthetic Hand Auger (4-Inch)
Glossary:
Auger: A name given to any of the tools made in a helical shape, usually one that aids in conveying materials or boring screwable holes.
Black Ice: Black ice is a thin coating of ice that is glazed over a road or sometimes meant to refer to the hard transparent ice forming on a lake (Black color due to the bottom of the lakes not emitting any light).
Jigs: Also known as Sharpening Jigs, are tools made out of flat pieces of metals with a handle, used to sharpen the quantum blades of an Ice Auger.
Quantum Blade: Blades used for ice augers that cut through the ice on a frozen lake. They are different from other types of blades is because they are made from a harder aluminum and rust-proof stainless steel. Quantum blades are usually used on ice, whether it is on the end of an ice auger or the bottom of an ice skating shoe.
CC: In raw definition, CC refers to Cubic Centimeters. When used for an engine or a motor, CC actually refers to the Capacity of the Combustion engine in Cubic Centimeters. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the CC, the more fuel it’s going to consume, but at the same time, higher power output.
Additional Information
There are many things to consider when looking to purchase an Ice Auger. A large part of the information you need to gather will come from your perspective, such as where you are going to be fishing (what part of the country), how thick the ice may be for setting up your fishing line, how often you are going to be using the auger, etc.
You must also take into consideration the cost, and the physical activity included in the use of these devices. Hand augers, for instance, requires one to be able to manually drill through the thickness of the ice. Motorized or electric models are less labor intensive, but still have to be carried to and from the lake, so weight is important as well.
If you are a novice, you may opt for a simple, less expensive model until you have tried ice fishing and can better determine what your needs maybe.
Wrapping it Up
So, today we have taken a look at Ice Augers. We have looked at the manual models, the motorized models, and even the different type of motorized models. We’ve explored the cost and the features these machines have. We have even given a verdict on each one to help you decide which might be best for you.
If you remember at the beginning of this article, we discussed my friend who had a bucket list item of going ice fishing. That is what prompted us to even start looking at ice augers, and what might be the best one for him.
My friend did go ice fishing. Since he knew he more than likely would not go again, he opted for the hand held, manual model. He said that even drilling through the ice was enjoyable, and that he would love to go back again.
We at Stuffoholics hope that we have helped you to find the perfect ice auger for you, and we wish you good fishing no matter what time of year!