Placing posts on your property can be a physically demanding task, but using a reliable and effective post hole digger can help get the job done quickly and efficiently. These diggers come in two different styles, both of which do essentially the same task. Traditional handheld models use two blades to manually cut and scoop out dirt, while automatic versions use a rotating auger to displace and pull the dirt out of the hole. Although their primary job is digging holes for posts, post-hole diggers are also useful for other landscaping projects, like tilling soil, creating planting holes for bushes and trees, and some automatic versions can even drill holes for ice fishing.
What to Consider
You should take the time to consider exactly what you’re going to be using your post hole digger for; otherwise, you could end up with an expensive tool that may not be as useful as it could be. If you’re only going to be digging a couple of holes at a time, you should probably go with a simple manual option. Anything more than that, we would probably recommend going with gas, electric, or battery-powered model. Keep in mind, if you’re going to be securing your posts in place with concrete, the general rule of thumb is to dig holes three times as wide as the post.
How We Selected
We’ve used manual and automatic post-hole diggers in our careers and used this experience to curate our list of options. We stuck to higher-end diggers when it comes to manual models, which may cost a bit more, but after snapping handles on cheaper models in the past, we think it’s definitely worth the investment. We also made sure to include a range of power supply options for our automatic diggers, including battery, corded electric, and gasoline-powered machines. Since users will have a range of fuel preferences and limitations to consider, we wanted to make sure our list included at least one option for everyone.
DCHOUSE 63CC Gasoline Auger with 4 pcs Auger Bits is its versatility, with four different auger sizes to choose from, 6 to 12 inches in width, as well as the tools and hardware needed to switch them out easily.
This is also a relatively powerful machine, with a robust 63cc 2-stroke gasoline engine, allowing it to power through holes quickly, back-to-back.
It also includes three extension rods, allowing you to adjust the depth of your holes precisely.
Pros
Multiple options
Go through holes quickly
Adjustable depth
Alloy steel blades
Ideal for rocky and rough soil