Cobra 3/8" X 25 ft. Drain Pipe Auger - Review & Demonstration (Please read video description below)

[@3rdTrickGang]

Im not a plumber, but I've been working in construction my my whole life, and always been on DIY Guy. Unclogged probably hundreds of drains at this point and what I found is if the 25ft snake doesn't get it. Try the 50ft version. More times than not when I put the 50 in there. I'll end up getting it eventually. Nonetheless it takes a ton of elbow grease unless you have an auto feed snake but I can't afford that. And for anybody that's still wondering what the handle does it just locks the cable down while you manually spin the cable to get around corners or break up clogs, takes a lot of elbow grease and effort.

[@heliflyer7]

Thanks for sharing your experience and insight! I get a lot of negatives on my video because I don’t show what the handle is for, I suppose I took it for granted that people would realize that it was to steady the cable. In any case, thank you for pointing that out as well.

[@brendakell4304]

This does not show what I am searching for: how does the handle work? Some camera work that showed the helper working the handle as well as the main person feeding the line would have been perfect.

[@heliflyer7]

My apologies. Please read the description which explains the handle operation.

[@allisonlitwak2530]

Explanation still doesn’t answer how the handle works which was why I watched the video. Is it just turning it clockwise or bicycle peddling?

[@melindagibson6358]

I am also clueless about what the handle does - how does feeding the cable through this help me get it down the sink?

[@heliflyer7]

Please read the description which explains the handle operation.

[@wackjob7]

I zip tied mine to my drill and it worked good.

[@heliflyer7]

That's a great idea, thanks!

[@maicolf384]

Como lo hicistes

[@fancybam]

You should make a video

[@cameriqueTV]

Ok, I got one and dealt with it. Got a Menards bucket, and a lid from HD, since Menards didn't sell the cheap ones. Built a rotation rig like shown in another video. The stupid design of the handle was worthless. I bent some conduit 2' long with exaggerated bends for leverage. Took the thumb screw off and tapped a hole in the new conduit for the same function. That worked ok. This 3/8 auger is very difficult to get past 90deg bends in 2.5 PVC. Going in under the sink, I couldn't get past the 4th bend, which was about 15' down. Went back to the old canister, 1/4" auger, 25 ft., and fortunately got the drain cleared.

[@heliflyer7]

Thanks for the great info! Glad you got it cleared.

[@conniejeanconklin5364]

Oh and mine didn't say anything about gloves and safety glasses. But I knew to hold onto a coiled wire, thank goodness.

[@thirdrobot]

Thank you for the video. I bought one of these and couldn't figure out how to use it! Maybe not the best design but worked for my needs.

[@heliflyer7]

You're welcome, glad it helped!

[@supermainiac7075]

Pulled out hair it works so far thanks for the help

[@heliflyer7]

You're welcome, glad it helped!

[@stacy4422]

Review & Demonstration? how do you turn it? whats the handle for?

[@heliflyer7]

Thread the wire through the handle and lock it down with the thumbscrew, then, turn the handle like an old fashioned hand drill.

[@bbrack123]

well then like every other single person apparently who have bought one of these things HOW DOES THE HANDLE WORK!!!!

[@heliflyer7]

Good question! The handle has a thumbscrew that tightens down on the flexible cable. Then, since the handle is offset, it can be used to turn the cable. In my experience, as well of the case of others, it is not a very efficient design. Having a better clamping mechanism for the cable and more offset to the handle to generate greater torque would certainly help.

[@arrobinson2191]

To be completely honest the handle is a slow down & unnecessary

[@wemcal]

The black ends are on rollers, once the wire is in you tighten the screw, grab each end and start paddling the bar. The auger will catch or bore through the clog. JUST DON'T LOSE THE BAR

[@wendyyu1977]

@@wemcal : just bought one, hard to do anything with it. Can you please help?...

[@heliflyer7]

The handle has a thumbscrew that tightens down on the flexible cable. Then, since the handle is offset, it can be used to turn the cable. In my experience, as well of the case of others, it is not a very efficient design. Having a better clamping mechanism for the cable and more offset to the handle to generate greater torque would certainly help.

[@v8pilot]

My version only has a hande at the end of the spring. Any advice would be gratefully received.

[@heliflyer7]

Sorry, but I don’t know exactly how that might work. Hopefully someone else has experience with that.

[@jamesearljones1519]

Lot of exposed pvc..just cut it closest to the impass, snake it from there and buy a coupling to reconnect the cut pipe

[@heliflyer7]

Thanks for the idea!

[@pius222]

I think changing the title adding something like "doesn't work", "don't buy" would help.

[@heliflyer7]

Actually, not a bad idea.

[@lojoha7214]

I watched another video from a lady that used a bolt in the end to turn it so I shoved a 3/8" drill bit in the ass end and used my drill. Smaller bit woulda been better but didn't have one. Also, I was on the roof snaking the vents so I had plenty of room to stretch the snake and the weight of the snake helped dig. Bit works likes charm. I even used the worthless crank by backing it all the way to the end where my drill was, locking the set screw, and using the plastic sleeve as a handle. There's also a video from a guy who makes an electric auger out of a 3 gallon bucket but my way worked so I ain't goin there just yet.

[@heliflyer7]

Awesome Tip, perhaps others can try this as well. Thank you!

[@Azza662]

Can't get a handle on this www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M21O34U?ref=cm_sw_em_r_lb_dt_ZID9J30SzvzZ1

[@heliflyer7]

Yep, poor design.

[@blendflow5752]

Attach a single vise-grip to handle. Don't go overboard on pressure. Use VG to turn and push forward. Will now work as you'd expect it to. I plowed through clog w/o problem.

[@heliflyer7]

Thank you for the tip!

[@blendflow5752]

@@heliflyer7 You're welcome.

[@jim21jam]

Just cut in a 2" wye with a cleanout adaptor, simple to do, easy access to cleaning out line in future!!

[@heliflyer7]

Awesome, thanks for the tip!

[@louislamboley9167]

Turning the handle is a real bear since your twisting 50 ft. of cable. Would be great cable to use with a motor.

[@heliflyer7]

I believe some people do just that by chucking a drill motor to the end of the cable.

[@benjamineskildsen9649]

This video is terrible, but I figured out the way to actually use them when they have a handle like this: Make sure to lock the handle so close to the entrance of the drain that the end of the handle itself is partially in the drain. Then you don't need to hold the handle with two hands as one end is steadied by the entrance of the drain itself. With this pressure you should be able to crank it fast AND press down into the clog as hard as you can at the same time. When the handle is pushed too far into the drain to make more progress, unlock the thumbscrew while keeping pressure on the free end of the snake, and then pull the handle back out until just the tip is in the drain again, then lock, then resume cranking.

[@heliflyer7]

Thank you for your insightful idea. No, certainly not the best video on this. Please look at the video description where I tried to make sense of it.

[@suicunesolsan]

Just want to add that it does work. It requires patience, persistence, and luck. It may not work the first time, or the second, and maybe even the third. But it does work eventually. I have a giant clump of hair to prove it right here. Buy this augur if you have more time than money. Also make sure you got the right size/length augur. If you're getting absolutely nothing on the other end, the clog might be even deeper. Even if you don't clear the clog the first few passes, as long as you're pulling out some kind of gunk, you're on the right track.

[@heliflyer7]

Thank you for your constructive and informative reply!

[@richardlapera77]

Sounds like you learned how to work it but did not take the time to explain it. Anything may help someone.

[@techniquephysique]

​@@richardlapera77exactly lol

[@kefeccefek8661]

I still dont get it what's the handle for?

[@heliflyer7]

To rotate the cable, to help it auger through the pipe.

[@the415giant]

Could you explain exactly what and how you zip tied it? Thanks.

[@heliflyer7]

@wackjob7 Please help @the415giant

[@the415giant]

@@heliflyer7 I think I can figure it out, I’m gonna use a root killer and see what happens, then in a few days I’ll get this auger and have a nice workout.

[@heliflyer7]

Hope you get it cleared!

[@jenniferbmendezful]

same here, I got stuck, no matter how hard i turned could not get it through.

[@zacharysmith8068]

You didn't show how the handle works

[@heliflyer7]

You're correct. Please see the video description.

[@zacharysmith8068]

@@heliflyer7 thanks man !! I

[@AJK7D0oM]

you should also try 1. to pour vinegar down the drain pipe 2. use a wet dry vac to see if you can unclog it. It could be also that the vent pipe itself is badly design and gravity is working against it. (should be at a higher point - add a extender to it can solve your problem)

[@heliflyer7]

Thanks for your comment!

[@kenclark9652]

I wish you would have shown how to twist the handle.

[@heliflyer7]

I’ve gotten so many comments and thumbs down about this, I added an explanation in the description. To tell the truth, I honestly thought when I made the video that would be self evident. Apparently not.

[@kenclark9652]

@@heliflyer7 If the cable is 50' long, does the end of it just flail around in the room when you turn the handle? I've also seen some people feed the snake through a hole in a bucket; wouldn't it just get all twisted up inside the bucket when you spun the handle?

[@heliflyer7]

Yes, any excess cable will be flailing around. If you aren't using most of it to clear the drain, a second person to deal with that part will probably be required. I'm not sure how the "hole in the bucket" part would work.

[@kenclark9652]

@@heliflyer7 Thanks for the feedback. It sounds like a mess. Have you tried an electric auger? Which would you recommend? I'm looking to clear a floor drain in my basement that routinely clogs, and I'm getting sick of paying roto-rooter to come clean it. But I have no idea what condition the pipe leading to the street is in, so I'm a little hesitant to get an electric one, for fear of punching a hole in the pipe.

[@heliflyer7]

I have not tried an electric auger. In your case, as you stated, you could be causing much bigger problems. I don't know exactly what your clogs consist of, but is it possible some high powered chemical solvent would help?

[@Andy-jb8ek]

Nice, I got a LEShop drain pipe auger which could be better, there is a auger which can protect you.

[@cameriqueTV]

So that loose spring is supposed to just flop all over the house splattering filthy slime after you pull it?

[@heliflyer7]

I'm afraid so.

[@transflowmation6676]

Hahahahha yes!! That’s exactly what Ir does! It’s sooo gross!!

[@Infictive23]

This product is useless. The screw will not hold the snake in place. The handle does not really twist the snake. Cobra should be ashamed of themselves for selling junk that basically has to go to the land fill. I don't know why Ace Hardware would even carry this except they just don't care.

[@heliflyer7]

I agree, hope watching this prevented you from buying one. Got mine at Lowes, makes me wonder how many are returned.

[@Andy-jb8ek]

LEShop drain auger can protect you, and just use the thumb screw button to adjust this. Hope this could help you. Thanks.

[@HelloHello-hk4sx]

Mine snapped in my face & got tangled up around my arm. 😕

[@heliflyer7]

Better yet, ask for a refund!

[@edwardturpin6544]

LOL. Good review. Had the same problem with a Husky badged one. Looked for a video to see if I was doing something wrong. Guess they just suck.

[@heliflyer7]

Thanks for the comment. Agreed, it certainly seems simple enough, but at that, it didn't live up to my expectations either.

[@terry7893]

You should have gotten a Drain King. It would have fixed your problem in about 3 minutes and cost $20. Accept no knockoff substitutes! Drain King is the king!

[@heliflyer7]

Thanks for the tip, I’ll know better next time!

[@DougHinVA]

bare skin tnot fiberglass insulation is a bad idea... use cheap FABRIC GLOVES for a better grip and no fiberglass strands to irritate the SKIN

[@Saint696Anger]

You tighten the screw and twist

[@rickee1962]

I should have played this video before I bought it 10 minutes ago. Now I can't return it .

[@elsasolis7031]

Omg!

[@shipstershipy2601]

Me too😔

[@bryannastader2750]

Same

[@mariatupai8811]

Thank you so much!

[@heliflyer7]

You're welcome!

[@robertschaaf7192]

Good try, I might have just cut the pvc drain for straight shot access then used a coupling to re-plumb.

[@heliflyer7]

I appreciate the tip, thanks!

[@michaelraichel6058]

It’s all plastic drain. At some point you cut your losses.cut the pipe in half. Put in a t for the next time. Snake it or just replace it. Might be cheaper to put in new pipe than the cost of the snake.

[@heliflyer7]

Good advice, thanks for the tip!

[@cameriqueTV]

Yep, but put in a Y with a clean-out.

[@blackpine6693]

These snakes need time and patience....the auger can not be forced through...constant even pressure while spinning to the right.....some times back off then continue......may be stuck going through but eventually it will......not a five minute job......to remove pull gently twisting auger to the left......may get stuck if you try to yank it out..... This guy should have cut his loses in the beginning and installed a clean out.......

[@brendakell4304]

what do you spin to the right? the handle closest to the pipe or the handle furthest? what is the helper doing with the 2nd handle while spinning the other?

[@HelloHello-hk4sx]

Mine didn't come with a tube or a locking screw.

[@heliflyer7]

Take it back and ask for a replacement.

[@robertfrapples2472]

Those are good for two jobs ONLY! Dropping through a roof vent to clear debris and running straight through a yard. They are awful for turns of any kind.

[@rkgsd]

I think 3/8" is too thick of a snake for a pipe that small. I would've used a 1/4" auger.

[@heliflyer7]

Thank you.

[@paulhubbard1747]

Anyone know where I can find just one fucking video of this tool actually being used the way it was made to be used? Nothing I hate more than never finding a how to video on common things. Such a waste of time. This guy should've stated at the beginning of the video what the end result and reason For it was. Anyone else watch it to figure out how to actually use it? I know how to take it out of the package without poking my eye out buddy thanks for the advice but I'm trying to actually use it.

[@heliflyer7]

Please read the video description. I was remiss in not demonstrating on screen.

[@TejasToolMan]

wished I'd have seen this video before I bought it lol 26.00 down the clogged drain an can get this tool in since there is no real way to crank down on it

[@heliflyer7]

It's certainly not as useful as I hoped it would be, either.

[@DougHinVA]

you tighten the thumbscrew at the handle and use the black handles to crank clockwise so the augur end spokes into the clog.... then pull back to retrieve... use cheap gloves

[@ztube39]

helped somewhat, finally got it to work, but the video wasn't as informative as it could have been: doesn't show both people at once, specifically. I will make a better video!

[@heliflyer7]

Sorry it wasn't as informative as you and others might have liked. Check out the description as well. BTW, there wasn't a second person.

[@dashriprock8596]

Cant see what you're doing.

[@heliflyer7]

Please check the video description for more info.

[@lilymeerkat7391]

I watched this because I can’t figure out how/what is meant by turning the handle and of course you didn’t show it. :(

[@heliflyer7]

Please read the video description, my apologies.

[@redsalem7686]

Hmmmm maybe next time point the camera at ehat you’re doing so we can see it.

[@heliflyer7]

Check!

[@run2thefight]

Can it be used on a toilet

[@heliflyer7]

Don't know why not, except for the potential mess.

[@soleil2269]

Why not show how you set it up🥴

[@heliflyer7]

I know, I’ve gotten tons of comments regarding that, my fault. Basically, clamp the handle to the wire with the thumbscrew and crank it. It’s actually a pretty poor set up.

[@ignoranceisnotatrend4669]

​@@heliflyer7once you screw the clamp to the snake I heard that you then twist it like a screwdriver

[@heliflyer7]

@ignoranceisnotatrend4669 Actually, you turn it like an old fashion hand drill with the offset handle.

[@cameriqueTV]

What a dumb design. How does that handle even have enough torque to crank?

[@heliflyer7]

Barely, under the best of circumstances, With a serious clog, not really.

[@MillionaireLaketa]

Can’t see how to use this lol

[@heliflyer7]

Please read the video description, I explain there. Sorry, it's not the best video.

[@MillionaireLaketa]

Will do , got ya

[@joemothadots857]

sorry...... this is not a vent pipe you're running this through

[@heliflyer7]

Thanks for the info.

[@godessesoflatinamusicdioasas]

HELLO, u didnt show how to use the auger AT ALL. how do you turn the handle? if youre "demonstrating" how to use the product- shouldnt you show just that? find another situation in which you can use the product. KINDA 1000% useless video- dont you think? ~ lil bro

[@heliflyer7]

I realize that, please read the video description.

[@evangolding5520]

What a disapointing ending.

[@heliflyer7]

It was for me too.

[@evanspark1510]

bro that was 4 looong minutes il never get back! need a camera man cause for 1 you never showed the turning of the snake and the contraption that was made for turning! so all this was was you shoving something in a pipe!🤣

[@heliflyer7]

I know it could have been better. Please read the video description, thank you!

[@mgtevolution]

I want my money back. This worthless tool is a scam.

[@heliflyer7]

The reviews on this have been less than favorable, for sure.

[@stevemorvay8178]

This is B.S. don't buy it. 😝

[@dontask2844]

Threw this piece of shit in the trash shortly after wasting my money on it. Should've known better. Wish I'd seen this first.

[@Travis-oy1hn]

Not a helpful video of explaining how the auger works, misleading title, just trying to advertise a brand

[@heliflyer7]

I don't advertise anything, I simply try to provide reviews that I feel may be helpful. Granted, this could have been more instructional as I stated in the video comments.

[@mohamedalkaboom]

Useless video, doesn’t show how to rotate it

[@heliflyer7]

I apologize for the oversight. Please read the video description.

[@kendalgee5808]

Why don't you measure 25 feet and see where your auger stopped. Then cut a piece of the PVC off so you can access that entry point. And continue down the line. All it would take to fix it is PVC piping of the same size and some PVC primer/glue.

[@heliflyer7]

That’s a great idea, thank you!

[@the415giant]

What if it’s cast iron?

[@DYIIdeas]

This does not show what I am searching for: how does the handle work? Some camera work that showed the helper working the handle as well as the main person feeding the line would have been perfect.

[@heliflyer7]

I’m well aware that this video has some shortcomings. Please read my comment in the description regarding this. Thank you.