Post Hole Digger Showdown!

[@flooringspecialist4574]

The only guy on you tube who is really digging a hole just to show the difference, big respect and definitely a like.

[@metaspencer]

Big thanks! The ground is frozen out here right now ... no digging :)

[@foundbyferb2687]

Yes! I absolutely loved this video.

[@brian-classic]

I can't believe I watched your video all the way to the end. The best hole digging video I've ever watched.

[@metaspencer]

Gotta dig those holes! Haha … thanks buddy

[@DoyleShadduck]

All the way to the end, you’ve got potential brother.

[@sciwolf359]

A small trick we used to do when I was working on a fence crew, cut a large circle out of an old tarp or a piece of ground fabric, cut out a center hole, like a donut. place that over where you want to use your power auger. And when you drill your hole all the dirt stays on the plastic. Then when you set your post and backfill you just lift up the plastic and it’s like a funnel pushing all the dirt back to around the base of the pole, then lift your little circle up off the top of your pole and voilà cleanup was easy. We had four or five of them in varying sizes. Really came in handy when you’re doing a extremely large fence job. left a very clean finished looked that the customers appreciated. Especially if they weren’t growing behind us and putting mulch down for a grow bed or something along the fence line.

[@metaspencer]

I completely see what you're talking about -- well described and sounds like a great idea. I'm gonna try it for sure, as scraping up that soil is a big pain. Thanks so much!

[@katylucyb1]

Wow that’s exactly what I was thinking and I’ve never installed a fence before but I’m going to this weekend and probably all next week, I’m by myself 😅 Great video! Helped me decide on which tool to use, and not use. That gas auger was tempting but not after seeing you use it! I’m 66 years old and 5’1”! It probably weighs as much as I do. Manual hand auger and digging rod is my choice. Thank you!

[@metaspencer]

Good luck!

[@MauricioRafaelGonzalez]

Good idea! Thanks for sharing!

[@Freedom-Fighter1]

@Cruz Marc thanks for the info but I've red pilled after an ugly divorce. So no girlfriend, no worries!! Don't need to lose everything lol

[@markpaterson6024]

A word of caution using the two handled post hole digger. Two years ago I was building chicken run and coop, I had 20 holes to dig quite deep, around 3 foot into hard packed clay. I dug them all and concreted all the poles in 1 day! Biggest mistake in my life, my shoulders were killing that night and they have never come good since. After scans it turns out I now have chronic bursitis in them. A simple hand tool that does a good job but take care of your shoulders folks, you don’t want the constant pain and sleepless nights I now have.

[@metaspencer]

Oh wow, that's a major bummer. Yeah, I've since learned to run that power auger with two people: one holds the long end of a 2x4 that is strapped to the handle ... must steadier that way. Thanks for the lesson!

[@BB-tx8ty]

I doubt that trouble was due to just that one job but after doing this type of work after may years! The body needs rest and can't work all the time hard!

[@keithpeczkowski5375]

Op

[@markpaterson6024]

@@BB-tx8ty yeah probably right there, I have abused my body and joints constantly since a young age. It catches up with you eventually 🥴

[@BB-tx8ty]

@@markpaterson6024 definitely

[@minoutv7347]

I think a combination of the hand auger and the post hole digger is great for smaller projects. I have three 36” fence post holes to dig this season, and I’m a senior, so I truly appreciate the effort you made creating this video for us.

[@metaspencer]

Sounds like you're gonna get it done, and done well! Thanks for checking out the video and for dropping a note :)

[@steven.h0629]

Minou, when you buy your diggers, be cognizant of the tool size and weight.. the Post Hole Digger comes in a few sizes, some might be too large and heavy for the job at hand. I have three, one is so light it's practically useless in compacted soil.

[@metaspencer]

@@steven.h0629 great point man

[@bristolpotman]

This is just what I needed as I've got several posts to set in our allotment here in the U.K. and really had no idea how these tools worked and therefore had a great problem deciding which way to go. I finally plumped for a Draper hand auger after seeing your video and it's a great tool for the job. Thanks so much for posting this . Tom!

[@metaspencer]

Most excellent!!

[@walligator1]

Great Video! You helped me decide that all I needed was a post hole digger for a small job I have to do tomorrow. You saved me time, money and a big headache..Thanks!!

[@metaspencer]

Excellent. Yeah, can't go wrong with the old post hole digger. So versatile

[@coolcobrax]

Same! As a smaller lady I was a little scared to use a power auger

[@metaspencer]

Yep it’s tough to run and a bit dangerous

[@jeffreyernst2067]

Owned a power auger 35 years ago. Did 80 acres with it. Concept in smooth soil is great. Rocky soil not so much. Tore ligaments in elbow. Took 7 years to heal. Conclusion: few holes = ok. 2 man auger safer. Lots of posts... Get auger or post pounder for skidsteer/tractor. I still use the old standard 2 levered post hole digger in predicament situations. Jeff, WI.

[@metaspencer]

Lots of wisdom in that comment, man. A one-man power auger is an accident waiting to happen except in the softest of soils. I still do most of my holes with the old two handle shoulder buster. Thanks for commenting!

[@ronspruill1901]

I enjoyed watching you dig 4 holes. I only dig 1 or holes a week. I install mailboxes. I was wanting to find out if the manual auger would make it easer. After your demo I think I will stay with the post hole digger and 16 pound iron bar rock buster. These two work in all soils, clay or rocky. Thanks again.

[@metaspencer]

You're using the best and most versatile tools for the job. Tough work but at least you don't have to do 20 a day! :) Thanks for the note, man

[@sasquatchtv4157]

I want that job

[@charlescooper7534]

Very surprised to find that someone performed an experiment to demonstrate the different methods of digging post holes. Thank you so much! I only need to dig a few holes to replace old posts that have decayed over time. Other than hiring someone I wasnt really sure what I should do. Thanks again.

[@metaspencer]

Good to hear that it was useful! I replace a lot of posts, like what you're doing, and always like to see the fence spring back to life. Good luck with it!

[@SteampunkSteve]

Nice comparison of the tool options. My longest day as a Girl Scout Camp Ranger was when I had to rearrange the horse pasture. 87 post hole with a posthole digger. Only hit one rock. That part of Michigan is all sand

[@metaspencer]

That might be a world record number of posts! I can do about 20 in a good day but afterwards I'm like rubber :)

[@superflyguy218]

Ive seen 2 grown men thrown using one of those power augers and many pipes broken. The power auger isn't as good because you can't tell if you're spinning through any services/pipes/wires underground until you already have. The best and safest way I find is a clam digger(tool 2) and a 6' metal digging bar to break through the roots and shimmy any smaller rocks loose that you come across. Great video comparison of the different tools. CHEERS

[@metaspencer]

I've gotta agree with you about that power auger: it'll tear through wires and bust you up if you're not careful. It'll even bust you up if you ARE careful. Fortunately around here we mainly have soft soil free of rocks, so it's at least less dangerous in this area. Happy digging!

[@equipman811]

Call for locates before digging!

[@metaspencer]

Absolutely!!

[@jethrom8702]

I needed to know more about the Seymour hand auger. I loved how you described the challenge of each with rocks and roots, the bane of my existence. I did six holes with a sharpshooter and a post hole digger. I paced myself. Chopped the roots with the shovel and brought up dirt with the post hole digger. I could see how the power auger required so much lower back when bringing it up, great video. I want to add the Seymour hand auger to my toolset, not so much the power auger. Thank you so much!!!

[@metaspencer]

Pacing yourself is the way to go for sure! slow and steady wins the (post hole digging) race. Yeah, that hand auger is nice in certain situations.

[@Charliemmafan]

Great review and showing how everything works including their pluses and minuses, regarding the post hole digger I noticed if I dig a hole more than about 2 ft or 2 and 1/2 ft I literally can't open the 2 handles at the top to actually squeeze the dirt at the bottom of the holes to pull it out because the sides of the handles will actually hit the inside of the top of the hole when I'm trying to dig deep holes that are like 3 ft deep or 3.5 feet deep for example and trying to actually get the dirt out so the post hole digger works great if you have a shallow hole to help dig the hole and especially pull the dirt out like if I use my Harbor Freight Earth Auger to make a hole which is what I use primarily on most holes to actually dig the holes and I use an 8 in auger bit instead of the 6 in one that it came with because the one that it came with is just so much more narrow and a lot shorter at only 22" compared to 31" long on the 8" bit but you can also buy the extender arm thing that will help you dig a hole much deeper but sometimes there's a lot of dirt at the bottom of the holes so I try to use the post hole digger to remove the dirt from the bottom of the holes but then if the holes are deep I can't even get the dirt out with the post hole digger really just because of how they're made because when you try to squeeze the dirt the handles hit the insides of the hole so that's a problem and a shovel can't even get it out either often so there's this certain specific type of a shovel that's made for removing dirt or sand or whatever from the bottom of a hole that angles up more at the bottom that costs like $30 that I might buy from Home Depot only online but it's a little bit pricey but I think it's worth trying it for deep holes that have a lot of dirt and or sand at the bottom of them to remove that material so that I can put my posts in deeper than normal on my fence that I'm building but great video and thanks for showing how these different hole makers work because people need this type of information because if anyone's going to build any fence or anything beyond just a couple holes they need to know this type of information and how all these things work for sure and yeah if there's a lot of rocks in the ground for sure your earth auger will automatically stop working great and cease to function so that's when a shovel is needed and the other straight rock breaker thing like you have on the video are necessary and it will take a lot more physical work to try to break up and remove the rocks but when you have a lot of rocks in your ground or your hole it's going to take you much longer to dig holes and especially if you have a lot of them and you're going to need shovels and the other bar thing for sure but great video!

[@metaspencer]

Great insights there man -- I totally know what you mean. Some holes thus end up too wide, others crooked, and some just right. Always a struggle ... but great to get it done!

[@JiansYogaandDancing]

I use post digger to make a 4.6’ deep hole now so I understand what you said about post digger.

[@DoyleShadduck]

I have the Seymour Industrial 6 to 8 inch auger, but I paid like $170 bucks for mine during the pandemic. I noticed that they’ve come down substantially to around $130. Where I live in upstate New York it’s mostly sandy soil and this thing is a miracle for digging holes. I’ve already dug 3 shallow wells down to 20 plus feet for hand pumps. Plus I dug another one that I set a sand point in with just pea gravel around it. I didn’t have to pound it in at all. If you need a shallow well, then the Seymour Industrial is your Huckleberry, it’s fast in sandy loam soil. However be warned that all your neighbors will be asking to use it when they see your new sexy hand pumps! I’m lucky to be in a good glacial area where most of my rocks are massive sized, some as big as 8 feet tall or more. If you do hit a rock it’ll stop you in your tracks though. Primarily the rocks here are very near the surface and can be removed. To extend the Seymour to reach down I just add 3/4” inch pipe and couplings to get down around 20 feet or so. With any luck you’ll have a 20 foot hole in around 15 minutes or so. Also, when you get into the water I wrap my auger basket in duct tape to hold the soil because the water makes it harder to get the soil out without it falling out of the auger. Trust me, duct tape is your friend if you want a good deep column of water in your well. It’s slower digging but worth the extra effort to get as deep as you can get. I thought i was the only nut that liked digging holes..lol Great video btw!

[@metaspencer]

I've long thought about digging a well that way ... cool idea as long as the rocks behave :)

[@DoyleShadduck]

It’s been awesome. If I hit a rock I just move it a little bit and have had great success. Getting water at my camp has been great, I was buying water weekly by the gallons and it was a welcome relief to have my own water for a change. I just used 1 1/4 inch foot valves and a toilet flange with a hunk of 2x6 pressure treated lumber to bolt my pumps to. I use 6 inch pvc pipe in the ground with slots cut in the base. I get crystal clear water.

[@markgriffin7016]

I like the power auger. I usually use it with another pair of hands. My wife and I are a pretty good team. I agree, I bring everything to the job site.

[@metaspencer]

good thinking -- we sometimes strap a 2x4 to the handle and my gal holds it for stability

[@davevarga]

Excellent review of the four options, great commentary. Thanks for creating this video! Now I know what tool I will rent.

[@metaspencer]

Most excellent! Happy digging

[@michaeljames8408]

Thanks for taking the time to make this Video.. I am building a Shelter and didnt know which Post Hole Digger to use... Now I have my Answer,, I think I will buy the Hand Auger for what I need it for.... Thanks again...

[@metaspencer]

Good luck with the project! You're gonna love that shelter

[@jeremyhenderson163]

I was actually looking for design ideas for a diy earth auger for the diy 3 point hitch I built for my 2002-2003 Stanley GT when I stumbled upon your video, :) and your demonstration provided A LOT MORE helpful information than I would have received from any 1 "diy 3 point earth auger" would have. :) Thank you so much; I've got an idea that combines the concepts of the power auger, the hand auger, and the manual well version of the hand auger. Post hole diggers have always been my go-to for holes. I had 2 OLD sets my great great grandpa bought in his time and they are beasts, :) I have the upper body to prove it. Lol they are made out of 1/8" steel and are pretty heavy compared to modern post hole diggers. The bolt broke in 1 set last year and I put off replacing it because I still had the other set, but then decided not to replace the bolt because I discovered that a half of a post hole digger was the perfect companion tool for a complete set. The half is perfect for shimming the sided of the bottom of the hole in order to get the post hole diggers deeper (and lighter than a whole set.). Just my take.

[@metaspencer]

Good luck with that auger project! I have an auger on my tractor and the biggest challenge with it is getting a good plumb angle when drilling ... yours sounds great

[@francisngoh4719]

Good demos of the various methods. The sharpshooter shovel is the easiest for me because I could leverage my weight by jumping on top of it and dig by rocking to and fro. I remove the loosened earth by hand as appropriate.

[@Bobbyyybob]

Boring subject but make a lot of sense, u know you’re getting old when u watch a post hole digging video all the way to the end and don’t get bored 😂

[@metaspencer]

haha ya got me laughing there ... thanks for tuning in!

[@DoyleShadduck]

Hey, that’s between you, me and the fence post…that I dug btw.😝

[@Bergarita]

Dude. Thank you for such an informative video. I need to replace large chunks of fence around my house. This video was priceless.

[@metaspencer]

You're gonna get it done! You've got this!

[@Youknewthatalready]

I agree with most people here, great video.👌 One thing from experience I have to add is that blue hand auger you have is so underrated to what it can do. Even with awful hard packed dry clay of Colorado. I helped my brother-in-law dig some deep holes for a gate and we found once you get some dirt on the top of it on starting your hole it will chew through anything but big rocks no problem. It just takes some adjusting and you can really make it do the work for you

[@metaspencer]

You said it man. Sounds like you got it done!

[@steven.h0629]

I ended up with permanent nerve damage in my dominant wrist when my Earthquake grabbed a large root. Can't bench press anymore, no more curling bar, no free weights.. it's hell just turning a door knob. 🤜💥🤛

[@metaspencer]

Oh that's horrible. They are super dangerous -- no doubt about it. I was using mine today to drill some holes down to 4' and was reminded of how much damage that thing can do. Hang in man

[@TWiz-iu4oq]

Thanks for the warning, hope you are doing better.

[@steven.h0629]

@@TWiz-iu4oq .. well, many doctors and lots of $ later, it's not better, in fact at times much worse.. door knobs and coffee cups have been my daily challenge.. I'm not complaining much, just an occasional agonizing silent scream when I touch something I know better.. take care friends.

[@BB-tx8ty]

@@steven.h0629 wear bandages, put alcohol where it hurts and bathe in luke warm water, you will recover

[@steven.h0629]

@@BB-tx8ty Five years later.. no that doesn't work my friend. Nerves don't reconnect the way I'd hoped. Good news.. my non-dominant hand is doing fine. 🥂

[@djs61909]

Great job! Very helpful. Loved seeing that heavy bar at the end. A must have!

[@djs61909]

Rock bar! So THAT'S what it's called!

[@metaspencer]

yep, it'll wear you out but does the job in really hard ground. I had to use it a lot in this recent job: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l36aXqWfr6aqlas

[@daveallen924]

I grew up using a rock bar (I've heard them called San Angelo bars too) and a similar post hole digger. I think I'd like to try that manual auger. The only other auger I was exposed to was tractor mounted and the owner ran it. I still had to cleanout the holes with the post hole digger. Thanks for taking the time to make this video!

[@metaspencer]

Yeah we have one of those tractor augers and it's like you describe: gotta get in there with a post hole digger afterwards. I like that "San Angelo bar" name! Cool to hear

[@davfinport]

The hand auger is great, only problem is when you are digging close to something else (tree, house, old fence) you can't spin the handle. Great if you are in the open though.

[@metaspencer]

Yep, I encountered that problem just today ... clunk clunk clunk every revolution of the handle

[@davfinport]

metaspencer the ole post hole digger to the rescue, man how many banged up knuckles pushing that thing together over and over through the years

[@russellschulz9601]

Loosen the handle so that it can slide back & forth in its yoke.

[@timgutter2708]

In clean damp soil the hand anger is a great tool.

[@DoyleShadduck]

The handle can be slid from side to side on my Seymour Industrial auger and I have used it right by my cabin wall.

[@mrgreene3290]

appreciate the comparison, as well as the comment about the post hole unit requiring more power/mass to make it work. Replace my mailbox will require a post set in concrete, and as a woman, it's good to know which tool will require more strength when doing home repair. Also lower half of the lot at the street level has more clay in soil.

[@metaspencer]

You can do it! That post doesn’t need to be more than a foot or two deep

[@CoCotheTurtle]

Waiting for Part II: The Post Show Digger Hoedown, haha! Would like to have seen what the working end of the hand auger and the rock bar looked like. As you noted with the post hole digger, _you_ supply all the power. So the comment at the end about how that tool cuts through the roots and rocks... well, that is _you_ (or me) doing all the work. Machine auger 100% for me!

[@kenk3102]

...i just turned 77 and I've got to repair a wooden fence that will include numerous post holes to be dug....your DIY video will help me a lot....thanks for sharing... 🙂

[@metaspencer]

Good luck with the project! Take it slow and it'll go great

[@paulmvn5431]

I bought a used hand auger after watching your video. It works really well. Thank you!

[@metaspencer]

Good to hear! happy digging

[@prod671]

I love the video! This is the most comprehensive, instructional and comparative video I have seen. Exactly what I was looking for. Who has the time and energy to do exactly that on their own?

[@metaspencer]

Most excellent! I’m glad it worked out. My wife asked the other day “looks like there were some holes here” hahaha

[@billy6166]

Helpful! Thank you!!!

[@metaspencer]

@@billy6166 Oh good!

[@michaelforansich8090]

@@metaspencer you... "yeah the kitchen tiles were a bit hard".

[@johnathancarlton4202]

The power Auger on 4 wheels helps stabilize the twisting on your back and arms

[@metaspencer]

Sounds great. I haven't used one like that but it sounds MUCH more stable and safe. Thanks man

[@martinsstraupmanis3476]

Thanks for the review! Will help me to chose tool for diiging 90 holes for my fence.

[@metaspencer]

90 holes! That's a big one ... good luck out there!

[@metaspencer]

You bet

[@andreafalconiero9089]

Excellent video. You answered all my questions about these tools! For my job, the hand auger will be the best option.

[@metaspencer]

Good to hear! happy digging

[@Gary21H]

Picking up my post hole digger & rock bar tomorrow after struggling with a spade in a rocky yard - thanks for the video!

[@rajneeshsaseendran]

Bdjdh

[@metaspencer]

Good luck with it! You'll get it done for sure

[@Gary21H]

@@metaspencer phew it's still a good workout, but much better than using only a spade! 😅

[@metaspencer]

Exactly

[@bfoss55]

I finally bought a rock bar, wish I hadn't waited. On hint, my bar has a flat blade at one end. I used a grinder and a file to put a real edge on it. Best way to cut through a tree root at the bottom of your hole.

[@InquisitiveSearcher]

I grew up on a farm in the 60s and 70s and we always used a combination of three hand tools, the auger was preferred, in combination with the shovel, to dig the primary hole. The auger to do the digging and the shovel to cut the roots and move small rocks. The 2 bladed "post hole" digger was used to "shape/shave" the edged of a hole, in case you run into a really BIG rock. We didn't have the option of that little powered post hole digger. When we did finally get a powered post hole digger it attached to a 3-point hitch on a 60hp tractor. It could get through just about anything, except big rocks! At that point, the ol' 2-blade post hole digger still came in handy. If you're putting in a privacy fence, where pole location needs to be exact, the bigger hole of the powered unit comes in handy for a little wiggle room in setting each post.

[@metaspencer]

Sounds like some valuable experiences out there! I have a 3-point hitch auger for the tractor, like you describe, and it does well until it hits those rocks. Nothing beats rocks until you get out that rock bar :)

[@ForsterMortgages]

First time commenting on any video. You sir could have a show. Excellent video.

[@metaspencer]

Woah that's huge! Big thanks for checking it out :)

[@walligator1]

I agree...you should seriously think about this metaspencer

[@chrisduffield884]

Mate, and me to the list of people surprised they've watched a 10 mins video on digging a hole. Thanks for the Intel 👍

[@metaspencer]

Sometimes it's the simplest things that draw out attention :)

[@sasquatchtv4157]

Drain shovel is great for evening out the bottoms and sides of holes, and is great because it’s usually about 42 inches up to the handle, which is code for posts. Great to also make a starter divot for augers, d handle allows you to drive the shovel through roots better, saws-awl as well, crucial digging tool, or hook machete.

[@metaspencer]

You said it! Great points and perspective ... from an experienced digger. :) Thanks man

[@randomfeller]

Thank you for such a badass video! Major props to ya for putting in the work to give knuckleheads like me some direction for our projects!

[@metaspencer]

Thanks for that buddy … happy digging!

[@honest1966]

Thank you so much for this video, I have to dig some holes for 4 shrubs and now I know what I am facing. I do have the long shovel and the whole digger, I'm going to need prayer.

[@metaspencer]

You're going to get it done for sure! good luck out there :)

[@garulusglandarius6126]

I use a combination of a manual spiral auger, spade, post chisel and post hole digger and occasionally a concrete breaker if digging a hole with an existing concreted post. Not all are necessary every time but good to have them all, never needed a power auger. Works very well without too much effort . Enjoyed your video 👍🇬🇧🇺🇸

[@metaspencer]

I like your style: gettin' it done with a variety of tools that you use when you need them. I tend to think it's more effort that you, but maybe I'm just wimpy! thanks for checking it out man

[@MoneyMan28]

Good man helping people out

[@susanmackay5165]

This is probably the most useful video about a really difficult job. Much appreciated and thanks so much.

[@metaspencer]

Good to hear and happy digging!

[@Organicagain]

Great side by side comparison. Thank you!

[@MMPCTV]

Very nice review. Thanks. Personally I use the post hole digger, followed by the trenching shovel to shape the post hole. I want to try using an auger next. I wonder if you use the auger with a longer arm and two people if digging would be easier and faster.

[@metaspencer]

Good to hear your technique: sounds good. Auger with two people could be cool -- haven't tried that yet

[@isovideo7497]

I use a Ryobi 40V battery auger for most of the work, and a post-hole digger only when I hit rocks or roots. The Ryobi works fantastically well - I can dig around 16 x 2 foot post holes on one charge, and with a couple of spare 4Ah batteries and a fast charger, I can get a lot done in a day. The Ryobi doesn't need any maintenance either, so it's much easier than a gas auger. Also the torque is better, and it has a reverse for when it locks onto roots.

[@metaspencer]

Sounds like a good setup. I haven't tried that Ryobi ... seems too work for your soil!

[@Country_Gentleman]

I own and use a power auger.. I have a 12" and 6" bit..Living in Missouri with extremely rocky soil , I have all but retired the 12" due to the rocks. My suggestion is real simple when using a gas power auger..Dig slow , and take small bites before lifting and lettin the auger clean itself of loose dirt..If you try and power down through the soil real fast (my mind set when I bought it) , when it catches a root , or baseball size rock , mine will snatch you nearly off your feet , twisting your wrists , elbows and shoulders. DO NOT try and be more manly than the auger , and hold on to it - turn it loose !!!. I'm hard headed , it took me 3-4 lessons to understand I wouldn't win , and I'm not a little man...I hold a tight grip but 'stay ready' to turn it loose . They are great machines to use , just respect the FACT they will permanently hurt you IF you get careless or in too big of a hurry..That said , I wouldn't want to do without mine ....

[@metaspencer]

Great wisdom and advice gathered from experience! We've recently found, when drilling into rocky soil, that strapping a 2x4 to the auger handle and having a second person hold an end of the 2x4 takes the kick and torsion out of the auger. Just a stabilizing thing ... but still: slow is the way to go

[@Country_Gentleman]

@@metaspencer Thank you. I will give this a try. I had not thought about this.

[@jesusmtoro981]

Very good comparison. have a project in which i need to make a choice on the most efficient tool to use. You hit it right straight to the nail...Thank you!

[@metaspencer]

Efficiency is the way to go when you're out there. Good luck with the project!

[@redtally1]

Very helpful. Exactly what I needed to make an armchair decision on the best tool for this w/o the mess!

[@metaspencer]

Excellent to hear! I was digging some holes this week and using all of these tools -- rocky soil. Good luck!

[@rafaelg4566]

Great video. I was thinking of what tool I would use to dig a hole for a retaining wall project.

[@metaspencer]

Happy digging!

[@winstonsmith11]

I'm glad I bought the post hole digger. No maintenance, and it's versatile.

[@metaspencer]

Absolutely. Great tools!

[@whoolph]

I bought my post hole digger back in the late 70s . . . . my favorite tool. Getting ready to move to a senior friendly home so I guess I won't be needing her anymore (maybe I can talk my daughter into taking custody of her so I can visit and reminisce. ") . . . . Rog

[@janellekean9055]

I'll give her a good home! ❤

[@metaspencer]

The darned tools just keep on going! Yep, very effective ... good luck with the move! I hope you like the new place

[@zoartontheprotector9198]

Have them refurbish it

[@steverahe]

I appreciate that you identify all positives and negatives for each. Fiskars makes a lightweight post hole digger (12#) that I'm trying next time. Ever use a shop vac to pull dirt out of the hole?

[@steverahe]

you should give this a video! Looks like your manual auger meets a vacuum extractor cat6tools.com/product/holey-moley-post-hole-digger/

[@metaspencer]

Wow, interesting design! In dry soil I bet it’s amazing

[@metaspencer]

I’ve heard of the shop vac but I dig too many holes for it to be practical

[@mrlaney62]

I bought the hand auger after seeing this video. It made easy work of my 4 holes for garden arbors. Thanks!

[@metaspencer]

I'm glad it worked out! In rocky soil that hand auger can get hung up, but when it's working it's really great, safe, and easy on the body.

[@mrlaney62]

@@metaspencer I used it in compacted clay (no roots or rocks). The key was pouring water in the holes as I went.

[@metaspencer]

@@mrlaney62 great idea!

[@sungmohwang181]

Thank you

[@sungmohwang181]

Now I know what I need to buy

[@metaspencer]

Excellent! Happy digging

[@GibClark]

Thanks 👍👍👍👍 always daydream of a power augers while using a post hole digger.....then jobs done and I get cheap lol

[@metaspencer]

I know that way of thinking so, so well! :)

[@williamsmith2919]

Thank you for your information and the time you have spent helping us know what to use digging holes. I’m going to put a fence up. Good health and happiness to you.

[@metaspencer]

Big thanks and good luck!

[@4speed383]

Going for the 3rd & 2nd weapon! Thanks

[@metaspencer]

that's a great combo! Good luck out there

[@lannyplans]

I learned a few things, and I do not learn to much anymore, because I already know most everything. This was a well done video, I am impressed!

[@metaspencer]

Good to hear! Thanks for checking it out, man

[@vminifie837]

Very useful and informative. You really covered all the details .

[@mikegrok]

I would recommend a slight variation. Get a 2 foot drill bulb planter with a 2 inch diameter. I stick it on a cordless drill. When using most of the manual tools drill out the center of the core, then use on of the other tools. It is much easier to collapse a hollow core than a solid core.

[@metaspencer]

Interesting approach!

[@moneensworship]

We used a jack hammer with a 4inch paddle bit and scooped the dirt out with a traditional post pole digger. Works great when you have a lot of fence and rocky ground.

[@metaspencer]

Woah, great idea and lots of power! Smart

[@benmiller3358]

That power auger is really best used with two people for both ease of use and safety. Ive seen people get hurt using those by themselves going too hard on the gas.

[@metaspencer]

Yep you said it -- lots of torque on those things

[@kaiandreasen766]

This was exactly the video I was looking for. Thank you!

[@metaspencer]

Happy digging out there! haha

[@markbabaotv]

This is a great video, Your putting a lot of effort making this kind of content. Now we know how to use all those hole post tools. Thanks..👍👍👍

[@metaspencer]

Most excellent! I'm glad you found it useful!

[@dannycondori97]

For me the most versatile is the second in test, the Post-hole digger, sometimes the earth tends to get stuck in the metal arms and for that it is important to also use a piece of board in the area to shake the earth and that's it. not be kicking to get it out, there were a few seconds less, hehe.

[@metaspencer]

I tend to agree and use that one the most. Thanks for the tip of the board! Thanks man

[@JiansYogaandDancing]

I agree!

[@FoxMoonz]

I have two types of post hole diggers on my truck. One is like a regular one but I replaced the fiberglass handle with 6½ft 20 weight 1⅝pipe. Now the second digger is ment to be heavy. I've got the thickest spade tips we had and put 5ft 80 weight 1⅝pipe. And that beast goes through frost and gravel really well. And pulling rocks out

[@metaspencer]

That weight sounds excellent! Nice modifications man. Brilliant

[@wemcal]

Great video... the post hole digger and shovel is what we use the most... the gas auger makes you fight with the machine too much

[@metaspencer]

yeah, that dang auger seemed like a great tool when I bought it but is usually more trouble (and pain) than its worth. Thanks for checking it out!

[@holywaterandgreentea]

Thanks

[@metaspencer]

you betcha!

[@beez7005]

Great video. I loved the maintenance needed on the post home digger

[@metaspencer]

Thanks for checking it out. Yeah, the old post hole digger is meant to be abused :)

[@chrism9219]

My preferred tools are a 4in auger bit for a drill and a post hole digger. I start with the post home digger to remove surface grass oots. Then the drill auger to loosen up the soil down an be pull some dirt out. Then clear the home with the post hole digger and then deeper with the drill auger again and clear again with the post hole digger. I put holes in, between a minute to two per hole. The drill auger is a lot cheaper than a power auger, so it's more reasonable for someone that doesn't drill a ton of holes. The smaller auger bit diameter also makes for less severe kick back when you hit a root.

[@metaspencer]

Sounds like a good back-and-forth system. Good stuff man!

[@Devo491]

I live with lots of rocks and roots, and I keep a shop-vac on hand to clear the hole, so I can see exactly what I'm dealing with. Also a reciprocating saw to deal with the roots.

[@metaspencer]

great ideas!

[@VitorMadeira]

Very, VERY nice comparison. Excellent video. Thank you and greetings from Portugal.

[@metaspencer]

Thanks for checking it out! obrigado :)

[@blizteredthumbs7911]

The drill always frightened me in regards to potential injury. I honestly think the manual twist is the way! Great video. I'm glad you got your hole anyway 🥴

[@metaspencer]

I agree with ya about that power auger: it can be risky if not braced with a long 2x4 and a second person.

[@blizteredthumbs7911]

@@metaspencer I bought manual. Got there. Glad wasn't powdered. I jammed many times due to stones.

[@metaspencer]

@@blizteredthumbs7911 Those stones are tough! Sounds like you did a good job

[@BillyPurta]

Great video! Saved me from going to rent a power auger. I know I have pretty rocky ground and only 12 holes to dig so the post hole digger is the winner 🤘🏻

[@metaspencer]

Thanks for checking out the vid ... you'll get it done!

[@johnkearney7443]

Thanks for the video and your hard work! One quibble: A quality spade that will last costs more than twenty to thirty bucks. And TBH it should, given the material and labor involved.

[@metaspencer]

I see your point there -- a good spade is worth a lot. Great point

[@tressagraham4936]

Thank you. your video let me know what tool to use for the job.

[@metaspencer]

Excellent! Good luck with the project

[@potteryjoe]

Having our property in the sand fields, I gotta tell you, the hand auger is super. Dug 8, 6' deep holes, no problem

[@metaspencer]

Wow, that's interesting! I've never dug in an area like that but have seen really sandy land in New Jersey ... cool to hear

[@joeannwashington1944]

@@metaspencersgu gfggg

[@cdvax11]

This was great. I have to dig four holes to install a barbeque canopy. I'm not a DIY kinda guy but I wondered if I could even do this. I can see that with the right tools, I probably can.

[@metaspencer]

You can do it! That BBQ structure will be great

[@silver60618]

thanks for your time. very useful info. too old for manual labor, I'll be going with the power tool

[@metaspencer]

Excellent!

[@abdultairu]

Exactly what I was looking for. By what I learned looks like the manual hand auger is the best for my project, however, it is rather costly now between $90-140! What I planned on doing is rent a gas powered auger at home improvement store and use for my 9-10 holes which should come to about $70.

[@metaspencer]

Sounds like a plan. Just be careful with that gas auger as they can quickly break a wrist. Good luck!

[@milenkozivanovic1489]

Thanks for all your examples. This is really helpful. I have to dig through very hard soil.

[@metaspencer]

You'll get it done! just take your time in that hard ground

[@georgesimpson3113]

OK, I've got the post hole digger and power auger and the narrow shovel. I think it's where you live. I can do a hole with the power auger in less than 30 seconds. (yea, I timed it several times plus I'm on the larger size) But we have no rocks and very little roots where I was putting the posts. Post hole digger is fine too. went down 2.5-3' in a minute or so. Again, my size helps plus it's technique and soil conditions. The shovel is a PITA. A post hole digger is just two shovels that can also grab the soil to lift it out.

[@metaspencer]

You said it man … nothing beats good soil to dig in

[@walterjordandavis3431]

Great job! I am going with the traditional post hole digger given the results from your hands-on experiment. Thanks.

[@metaspencer]

Good choice. It's the best all-around tool

[@ChristnThms]

With the post hole digger... there is a "big kid" version thats worth finding if you are going to use it a lot. To start with, the handles are longer, much longer, and thicker too. Not only does this make your leverage better, but it makes the tool much heavier. The extra weight is a big deal, as it lets the weight of tool bite in deep. For reference, we used these on a line crew, digging holes for power poles. The standard for performance is a 3ft wide, 8ft deep hole in an hour, and a good grounds an should be able to do 4 or 5 of those every day. I'd equate that to 15+ regular post holes per day.

[@metaspencer]

Oh man, I've never used a big one like that! I'll have to find one. Sounds like some rough work on that crew but you got it done

[@ChristnThms]

@@metaspencer yeah, it was hella hard work. But, the good tools actually do make it better.

[@mrd6093]

THANKS FOR THE DEMO CAUSE I WAS THINKING OF RENTING THE MACHINE FOR JUST FOUR HOLES. BUT INSTEAD JUST USE THE POST HOLE DIGGER I HAVE .

[@metaspencer]

Oh yeah! You'll have those 4 holes dug before lunch. ... good luck with it

[@sawdustadikt979]

The narrow shovel sharpened up in combination with sharpened up post hole diggers. I’m in glacial packed New England so the soil is similar. As well as a trust stone rod. I build decks solo so I’ll spend a day or two just digging those 42 in deep holes for 12 in tubes. I keep an angle grinder close by, it really seems to make a difference keeping things sharp.

[@metaspencer]

New England soil can be rocky and tough! That deck building gig sounds like a good one. I should sharpen more often ... thanks man

[@sawdustadikt979]

@@metaspencer thanks man! btw, that hand auger was awesome, dunno if it well it would work here but I’ll find one and give it a try for sure.

[@metaspencer]

You can find them used sometimes

[@jingyuexi740]

Great! I am about to install my fence and looking for the tools. I’ll use the post hole digger

[@metaspencer]

Good luck with it!

[@TehBIGrat]

Just purchased a post hole digger for a small project. So far so good. No hand augers in stock anywhere.

[@metaspencer]

it's a great tool ... unstoppable!

[@timsteiner1]

Really great video! totally comprehensive and straightforward. Love the side by side comparision!

[@metaspencer]

Oh great! Big thanks

[@montanawhite5699]

I got a post hole digger, the long skinny shovel, and a oh oh bar. Which is key for my back yard. All rocks. Oh oh bar breaks through those rocks, letting you scoop them out. 1 hole took me about 20 minutes for a 2’ hole. Only 10 more holes to go.

[@metaspencer]

Sounds like you're bustin' some hard stuff out there! Keep it up and you'll shave that time down to 19 minutes :) Hey, thanks for checking out the video and for dropping a comment

[@1118Brett]

Well done Sir. I'm a handyman and have dug too many holes...Luv your comparison of tools!

[@metaspencer]

Thanks man! Great hearing from ya

[@WILL09.studenteacher]

The video is fantastic. I would definitely choose the third one.

[@metaspencer]

Excellent!! Happy digging

[@johnmckechnie2493]

Good comparison of the tools. I once rented a power auger in the 1980 s that was attached to lawn mower type base with an 8 foot bar. It was really cool because when you hit a rock it could not twist on you like the two handed ones. I have never been able to find one again.

[@metaspencer]

That sounds like a great design. I've seen one with a long bar behind it, limiting the twist ... great idea to displace that energy into a frame. Thanks man

[@trackmader]

Little beaver....

[@toddt0606]

Very helpful, thanks for the video. I think the only tool missing is a drill bit auger but this is very comprehensive nonetheless. Thanks!

[@metaspencer]

Thanks for checking it out!

[@BirdWings360]

Thanks for making this 5 start video and comparing it for occasional users for DIY home projects. To the point and very good review video..... Nice.....

[@metaspencer]

Thanks for checking it out. Yeah, it was a fun one to put together as a test

[@mrpace6905]

Best post hole video on the internet. Thank you!

[@metaspencer]

Woohoo! Thanks

[@jimamtrak]

Heck, it's best, most honest, thorough, efficient yet enjoyable review of any product. Nicely done. Now.... please compare cars as honestly & well!! 😀

[@metaspencer]

Cars! Just have to get a few 👌

[@johnmorrison8153]

I really appreciate the video! I'm looking for a lower-usage tool to dig garden raised bed posts as well as transplanting holes (and other needs as the arise), and it looks like the classic post hole digger is the right answer, especially for lower use, lower budget, and versatile soil types.

[@metaspencer]

You can't go wrong with one ... just go slow and it won't wear you out! :)