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

[@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

[@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. 🥂

[@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!!

[@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.

[@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

[@aSMARTwomanLOL]

Mechanical auger with 2 people wins every time in efficiency, foot print, and strain on the body. Post diggers and manual augger are mehh Sharp shooters dont work with your feet.. purely a hand tool to loosen material. I love using them for exactly that.. otherwise its annoying to use a tool that cannot move material

[@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!

[@sirraymondluxuryyacht8131]

That 3rd tool, the hand auger is amazing. I had to dig 4 3-foot deep holes last week and it took me ages with just a shovel

[@metaspencer]

Yep it's a good one ... and they come in different sizes/widths

[@susanhawkes2519]

I have my grandfather's hand auger. Have dug at least 40 holes. I wait for 3 days after a good rain. It's downright relaxing sometimes.

[@dougjones917]

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

[@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

[@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 :)

[@smrt-e]

NEeeeever thought I'd be interested in watching a 15 minute video on how to dig a hole. But here we are. Great video man - this is the type of thing that everyone will completely overlook and take for granted. But for people who haven't dug a lot of holes (like me) - this is absolutely critical. Well done and thank you so much.

[@metaspencer]

Funny! I guess the phrase "not all holes are created equally" comes to mind. happy digging! you'll get it done

[@orangefacedbuddah1776]

completely agree.

[@orangefacedbuddah1776]

i was recently digging a hole , i made zero progress.Wrong equipment ,wrong idea.These videos are so helpful.

[@metaspencer]

@@orangefacedbuddah1776 hang in there and you'll get it done!

[@orangefacedbuddah1776]

@@metaspencer thanks for that.

[@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".

[@kaiandreasen766]

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

[@metaspencer]

Happy digging out there! haha

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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!!

[@JohnBrinkPhoto]

They don't call them the Rocky Mountains for nothing. If I dug a posthole and didn't hit a rock within the first six inches I'd think I'd died and gone to posthole heaven. When we buy steel "T" posts out here first thing I do is take a grinder with a cutoff wheel and sharpen the down end of each post into a point to drive it through the rock. We also have to use a large power hammer drill with a long bit to drill and then break rocks with a heavy rod if digging a hole becomes a problem.

[@metaspencer]

Wow, I've never heard or thought of sharpening a post like that -- awesome idea. Well, at least ya have the views and, as I recall, good fishing. :)

[@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

[@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.

[@stevedeguire4141]

Clam shovel n flat bar

[@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.

[@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! :)

[@markhooker8520]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video.

[@metaspencer]

happy to do it! It was a fun comparison and I learned from it myself

[@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

[@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!

[@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!

[@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!

[@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

[@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!

[@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

[@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!

[@davidmatute7830]

Fence guy here anybody interested in using any type of gas auger you need something like a little beaver that comes with the stability bar it only requires one person to operate is easy to maneuver in tight spots and comes with different bits for all soil types

[@metaspencer]

Got a link? Sounds promising

[@davidmatute7830]

Most fence contractors use them in my area of NC and they have them for rent at most united rental, herc rentals, ect

[@metaspencer]

@@davidmatute7830 COOL design ... torque elimination on those little beaver units is nice

[@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

[@RJ-je2hg]

Top notch vid as always thanks a ton! Also throw us an EDC video! We wanna know what a person as handy as yourself carries on your person on the daily.

[@metaspencer]

Oh yeah, an EDC would be a lot of fun ... thanks for that idea. :) thanks for the support

[@4speed383]

Going for the 3rd & 2nd weapon! Thanks

[@metaspencer]

that's a great combo! Good luck out there

[@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

[@alpinealpine2793]

You definitely need 2 blokes when using the 2 stroke auger in dry clay. Even then it's a struggle to control.

[@metaspencer]

2 blokes for sure! 4 arms is the way to go

[@briantruck2284]

Missing the drill Garden Auger.

[@metaspencer]

I’ve always thought they were gimmicks

[@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

[@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! :)

[@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

[@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!

[@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!

[@vminifie837]

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

[@Stickmantree]

What hat you got dude ? I like it

[@metaspencer]

That one is the Patagonia Duckbill cap ... kinda hard to find these days

[@EdieBabeMonster]

Oh my God thank you this is exactly the video I needed right now because I’m struggling just to dig a damn hole in my rocky backyard so I can stick my rotating laundry dry line thing up yay you’re the best!

[@metaspencer]

You bet!! Good luck with your hole

[@sungmohwang181]

Thank you

[@sungmohwang181]

Now I know what I need to buy

[@metaspencer]

Excellent! Happy digging

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@Organicagain]

Great side by side comparison. Thank you!

[@dougo5673]

He’s panting the hardest on the power auger and the pole digging tool.

[@zoartontheprotector9198]

I feel like the power auger would tire you out faster than the manual ones

[@metaspencer]

In soft soil it’s a time saver but I know what you mean

[@zoartontheprotector9198]

@@metaspencer I get flashbacks from using a compactor in construction

[@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!

[@URmyAM]

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

[@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

[@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 :)

[@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

[@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

[@zemtek420]

I have dug so many holes in my life its not even funny. Best tool there is the power auger by far. Then the manual auger is leaps and bounds better than the last 2 choices. But its a hard choice between the spade and that other thing. I hate digging post holes with either one. I just came to check to see which tools you were talking about. If anyone wants to see a dog that knows over 60 tasks go to Pawsuasive Dog Teaching. If owner of metaspencer subs to our we will return the favor. Also a straight spade is what I use to first start a hole usually like 3 inches deep before I use the augers. Augers do not like the sod layer. The power ones likes to jump around a just a little bit and your hole might be slightly off but if you start the hole with the spade to take up the sod then use either auger works so much better. I also have levels on the handles to ensure my holes are straight. I also use a tarp with a hole in the center and a slit to the hole to place around the hole so when I auger the dirt piles up on the tarp which makes for easy to take care of the dirt no matter what you plan to do with it later.

[@zemtek420]

PS I will give you 2 more tips about power augers if you reply. Clean hole and how to prevent that kick back.

[@metaspencer]

Sounds like you've found some methods that work for you!

[@jamestwine958]

nice ! thank you

[@metaspencer]

Yep You bet

[@thebordernow]

Great informative video! (Nice narration voice and "trustworthy" character comes through, too.)

[@metaspencer]

Big thanks and happy digging :)

[@katylucyb1]

Perfect timing! Thank you for sharing! 👏👍

[@metaspencer]

Excellent!

[@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!

[@harryhoesch3793]

Think I'd power auger 2 inch bit starter test holes and see if that's the fence line I'm sticking with, before powering my way through rock or roots with the 6, 8, or 12 inch auger bits. If frostline depth isn't the problem, going wide on a shallower hole might adequately stabilize the post. But: I keep an arsenal of auger bits, in case. Or stick a mole in a metal tube.

[@metaspencer]

Sounds like a process that just might do it!

[@mumbaimanchgareema1720]

Thankyou for posting this video. Really informative and helpful.

[@metaspencer]

Good to hear!

[@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

[@Dragon-Slay3r]

The story before? Or was it after? Nobody knows

[@Pallidus_Rider]

With the power auger, you want to step up bits and not just go for the big gun I still use my Dad's 50 year old shovel

[@metaspencer]

Haha excellent

[@rshutterbug47]

Good Video 👍👍👍

[@metaspencer]

Big thanks!

[@Sethhaun78]

Just dug electric lines and sewer with ditchwitch. But had to so most by hand ..should be calked pain hole diggers..last winter broke my foot knuckles..kicking trench shovels..didnt know but there hurt still to thiscday ..

[@metaspencer]

Sounds tough dude! gotta get healed up man! haha

[@bmfitzgerald3]

Great video man. Subbed. I saw in another comment you mentioned strapping a 2x4 to a 2 person power auger. Can you explain that in more detail by chance? Sounds interesting, but trying to picture exactly how that works... I have 50+ post holes to dig so hoping to find a method that is safe and not to much wear on the body

[@metaspencer]

Yeah so we've just ratchet strapped the end of the 2x4 to both handles so one end sticks way out. The second person can hold that handle and completely control the torque. Even then it's jumpy. In rocky soil be super careful as it'll POP on ya ... in soft soil I've done 30 holes single handed in a day

[@mikeburke1348]

smart man. Got to just figure this stuff out.

[@miman-ck9jv]

The hand auger doesn’t need to be slammed into the ground just set it down and turn it if you keep slamming it down you bend the cutters and F it all up 👍

[@metaspencer]

Yeah good point … I’m too tough on tools

[@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 :)

[@joelberry2608]

Great video

[@metaspencer]

Thanks buddy!

[@kimchee94112]

I have all those tools. The power auger never worked right, its a two man auger. I never use the post hole digger since I purchased the hand auger. I have two hand augers, the one shown and another one with a telescoping bar to reach way deep down. The telescoping one is heavy, don't use it either don't need holes that deep. I use the spade a lot for big holes like 3 foot wide holes for planting trees and removing stumps in conjunction with the digging bar, rotary hammer, jack hammer, hydraulic jacks, cherry picker, come alongs, etc. The jack hammer is a must for breaking out existing post hole concrete and we have compacted dirt with rocks and almost boulder size rocks.

[@metaspencer]

sounds like a great loadout of equipment! I like the idea of that telescoping auger in some situations

[@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!

[@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

[@thelastjohnwayne]

I would also really like to stress the use of a Digging Bar which you referred to as a Rock Bar. You have to have one. It is a must.

[@metaspencer]

Absolutely. A digging bar is needed on just about every job. Great tool. Tough to use all day, but gets it done

[@kcgunesq]

I challenge you to dig a post hole with that post hold digger with the hard pack clay we have. Its damn near impossible to get much below 12 inches even with a spade. Never tried the hand auger though.

[@metaspencer]

in hard ground I always use a rock bar ... slow going but that dang thing will black through everything short of solid rock

[@matthewhuszarik4173]

You needed to include a Universal Erie Post hole digger. Best manual post hole digger. Hard to find any more though. Also who only puts fence posts down 2’? I have never done less that 3’.

[@metaspencer]

Yeah 3’ is best! I’ll have to look up that tool

[@humanbeing1065]

Thank you! This is a great demo... How about someone like me who has to put in 4 t-posts and NO DIGGER? Rubber mallet?

[@metaspencer]

Rubber mallet! I like your style!

[@SHAD0WKNITE]

I got some posts to dig I only have a spade shovel, pickaxe, post hole digger, and a huge rock bar. It's been done before, but man here in Texas, 100° and the ground is all rock hard dirt, rocks, and roots. Big pain🤣

[@metaspencer]

Sounds like a tough job! But it sure will be nice to get it done :)

[@robertsleight4376]

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!

[@newengresearch1287]

informative video- and nicely done. If you add labeled tick marks on your wooden handled hole digging tools (with a sharpie) you'd know how deep the hole is while you are working

[@metaspencer]

Great advice. I tend to leave those marks in black marker, and then they wear off after a few fence jobs. So I'll go for the tick marks! thanks for that tip

[@saral161]

🙏🙏

[@MrTgrasshopper]

your power auger, is it a fiching one? trying to find out if I could just by a new bit for my fiching hauger. I have a Rapala® Vortex 33cc Power Drill

[@metaspencer]

Mine is branded "Earthquake" ... hard to know if a new auger would be compatible but that would be a good way to go

[@snort455]

Dude, thats a trenching spade. Sure u can dig a hole but its not designed for it. Theres an improved clamshell post hole digger made by Fiskar worth putting in your video.

[@metaspencer]

I’ll have to check out that clamshell design

[@arturasnesakysiu1684]

Petrol auger is bad, in a year it will have problems as most of the time you will not use it, you wont use it at all :D. And rocks seems main problem. AT first you think maybe more powerful engine, but than it will be even bigger force hit after hit rock. Maybe electric one which is not as big wasting space in garage? Like makita dear god dont buy other crap.

[@metaspencer]

That gas auger works better and more safely with a 2x4 strapped to it and another person holding the 2x4 ... only really great in soft ground

[@FrancoisduToit]

I intend to buy a Stihl or Husky power auger. Living on a small homestead, O have lots of holes to dig - fence posts, holes for trees, etc. The soil here is black clumpy, sticky clay. My shovel clogs up real quickly while diging. Diging a hole with a shovel and a pick is an extreme workout, and takes realy long. In your opinion, do you think that a power auger would still be faster than a shovel and a breaker bar?

[@metaspencer]

I've dug 20+ holes in a day in agreeable soil with a power auger ... in the right soil it's a dream. If you happen to have a tractor a PTO auger is even more powerful and less dangerous to run (no twisted wrists). Be careful with the power auger!

[@BadDadio]

How did you bend that digging bar? I have one just like yours and have done a lot of prying with it and never bent it.

[@metaspencer]

I have a habit of putting all my weight on it -- should probably take it easy on the dang thing :)

[@Sethhaun78]

You never disappoint 😅😮