Post Hole Digger Showdown!

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  • čas přidán 25. 07. 2024
  • A test of a drain spade shovel, post hole digger, hand auger, and Earthquake power auger for the title of Post Hole Champion.
    1. Drain spade: amzn.to/3wZPPBS
    2. Post-hole digger: amzn.to/2UmC4ty
    3. Seymour hand auger: amzn.to/2zl9LVm
    4. Earthquake power auger: amzn.to/2ARfFhn
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    #postholes #postholedigger #diggingholes
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Komentáře • 792

  • @flooringspecialist4574
    @flooringspecialist4574 Před 2 lety +208

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety +3

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

  • @brian-classic
    @brian-classic Před 2 lety +76

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety +2

      Gotta dig those holes! Haha … thanks buddy

  • @sciwolf359
    @sciwolf359 Před 4 lety +241

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 4 lety +18

      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
      @katylucyb1 Před 3 lety +8

      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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +3

      Good luck!

    • @MauricioRafaelGonzalez
      @MauricioRafaelGonzalez Před 3 lety +2

      Good idea! Thanks for sharing!

    • @Freedom-Fighter1
      @Freedom-Fighter1 Před 3 lety

      @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
    @markpaterson6024 Před 2 lety +84

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety +19

      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
      @BB-tx8ty Před 2 lety +15

      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
      @keithpeczkowski5375 Před 2 lety +1

      Op

    • @markpaterson6024
      @markpaterson6024 Před 2 lety +9

      @@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
      @BB-tx8ty Před 2 lety

      @@markpaterson6024 definitely

  • @bristolpotman
    @bristolpotman Před 3 lety +23

    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!

  • @davevarga
    @davevarga Před 3 lety +9

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

  • @walligator1
    @walligator1 Před 3 lety +7

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

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

    • @coolcobrax
      @coolcobrax Před 3 lety

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      Yep it’s tough to run and a bit dangerous

  • @jethrom8702
    @jethrom8702 Před rokem

    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
      @metaspencer  Před rokem

      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.

  • @minoutv7347
    @minoutv7347 Před 3 lety +19

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +2

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

    • @steven.h0629
      @steven.h0629 Před 3 lety

      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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      @@steven.h0629 great point man

  • @charlescooper7534
    @charlescooper7534 Před 3 lety +2

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      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!

  • @williamsmith2919
    @williamsmith2919 Před 2 lety +1

    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.

  • @redtally1
    @redtally1 Před 3 lety +2

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

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

  • @markhooker8520
    @markhooker8520 Před 3 lety +21

    Thank you for taking the time to make this video.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

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

  • @steven.h0629
    @steven.h0629 Před 3 lety +49

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +11

      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
      @TWiz-iu4oq Před 2 lety +3

      Thanks for the warning, hope you are doing better.

    • @steven.h0629
      @steven.h0629 Před 2 lety +6

      @@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
      @BB-tx8ty Před 2 lety

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

    • @steven.h0629
      @steven.h0629 Před 2 lety +9

      @@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. 🥂

  • @daveallen924
    @daveallen924 Před rokem +1

    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
      @metaspencer  Před rokem

      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

  • @katylucyb1
    @katylucyb1 Před 3 lety +2

    Perfect timing! Thank you for sharing! 👏👍

  • @Organicagain
    @Organicagain Před 3 měsíci +1

    Great side by side comparison. Thank you!

  • @jeremyhenderson163
    @jeremyhenderson163 Před rokem

    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
      @metaspencer  Před rokem

      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
    @francisngoh4719 Před 11 měsíci +1

    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.

  • @smrt-e
    @smrt-e Před rokem +8

    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
      @metaspencer  Před rokem +1

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

    • @orangefacedbuddah1776
      @orangefacedbuddah1776 Před rokem

      completely agree.

    • @orangefacedbuddah1776
      @orangefacedbuddah1776 Před rokem +1

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před rokem

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

    • @orangefacedbuddah1776
      @orangefacedbuddah1776 Před rokem

      @@metaspencer thanks for that.

  • @johnmorrison8153
    @johnmorrison8153 Před 3 lety +3

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @jeffreyernst2067
    @jeffreyernst2067 Před 3 lety +3

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +2

      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!

  • @susanmackay5165
    @susanmackay5165 Před rokem

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

  • @SteampunkSteve
    @SteampunkSteve Před 4 lety +5

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 4 lety +1

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

  • @jesusmtoro981
    @jesusmtoro981 Před 3 lety +1

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @garulusglandarius6126
    @garulusglandarius6126 Před 2 lety

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety +1

      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

  • @hugodelatorre9503
    @hugodelatorre9503 Před rokem

    Great video ! Thank you for showing the different options and pros and cons to all of them.

  • @sirraymondluxuryyacht8131
    @sirraymondluxuryyacht8131 Před 3 lety +31

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +7

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

    • @susanhawkes2519
      @susanhawkes2519 Před 2 lety +4

      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.

  • @vminifie837
    @vminifie837 Před 19 dny +1

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

  • @ronspruill1901
    @ronspruill1901 Před 3 lety +10

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +3

      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
      @sasquatchtv4157 Před 2 lety

      I want that job

  • @Bergarita
    @Bergarita Před 2 měsíci +1

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 2 měsíci +1

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

  • @CoCotheTurtle
    @CoCotheTurtle Před 11 měsíci +1

    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!

  • @markbabaotv
    @markbabaotv Před 3 lety +9

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @markgriffin7016
    @markgriffin7016 Před 2 měsíci +2

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 2 měsíci

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

  • @beez7005
    @beez7005 Před 2 lety +2

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety

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

  • @paulmvn5431
    @paulmvn5431 Před měsícem

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

  • @1118Brett
    @1118Brett Před 3 lety

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

  • @EdieBabeMonster
    @EdieBabeMonster Před 3 lety +2

    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!

  • @URmyAM
    @URmyAM Před 3 lety +1

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

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

  • @squeekhobby4571
    @squeekhobby4571 Před 3 lety +1

    Excellent demo! Great comparison

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks for checking it out! The ground is frozen here, but I'll be back out there digging holes in the spring

  • @Aden5store
    @Aden5store Před 3 lety

    Excellent comparison video. Great information. Awesome demonstration. Thank you.

  • @kaiandreasen766
    @kaiandreasen766 Před 3 měsíci +3

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

  • @MoneyMan28
    @MoneyMan28 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Good man helping people out

  • @silver60618
    @silver60618 Před 3 lety

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

  • @djs61909
    @djs61909 Před 2 lety +1

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

    • @djs61909
      @djs61909 Před 2 lety +1

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety

      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: czcams.com/video/aM7-rizAw_I/video.html

  • @VitorMadeira
    @VitorMadeira Před 2 lety

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for checking it out! obrigado :)

  • @sasquatchtv4157
    @sasquatchtv4157 Před 2 lety +1

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety

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

  • @4speed383
    @4speed383 Před 3 lety +4

    Going for the 3rd & 2nd weapon! Thanks

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +1

      that's a great combo! Good luck out there

  • @mrlaney62
    @mrlaney62 Před 3 lety

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      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
      @mrlaney62 Před 3 lety

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      @@mrlaney62 great idea!

  • @petermapp5988
    @petermapp5988 Před 3 lety

    i love your analysis...i always wondered about the comparative efficiency..

  • @milenkozivanovic1489
    @milenkozivanovic1489 Před 9 měsíci

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 9 měsíci

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

  • @johnathancarlton4202
    @johnathancarlton4202 Před 3 lety +6

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +2

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

  • @rafaelg4566
    @rafaelg4566 Před rokem

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

  • @championpestcontrol5332
    @championpestcontrol5332 Před 3 lety +1

    Man! This was EXACTLY what I needed! Thanks!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      Outstanding! Thanks for checking it out

  • @BlueSky-mo7dx
    @BlueSky-mo7dx Před 2 lety

    Thank you for the demo’s.Excellent 😊

  • @koticphreak
    @koticphreak Před 3 lety

    Awesome video, thanks for taking the time to make it!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for checking it out! It was a fun one to make

  • @GibClark
    @GibClark Před 4 lety +3

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 4 lety

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

  • @Youknewthatalready
    @Youknewthatalready Před 2 měsíci

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 2 měsíci

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

  • @MMPCTV
    @MMPCTV Před 3 lety +3

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @walterjordandavis3431

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před rokem

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

  • @RJ-je2hg
    @RJ-je2hg Před 4 lety +4

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 4 lety +1

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

  • @timsteiner1
    @timsteiner1 Před 3 lety +6

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

  • @maheshpatil4628
    @maheshpatil4628 Před 3 lety

    earthquake auger, nice ;-) ....good demo, gives a good idea on what to spend on...thanks a ton...

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      Just be careful if you buy that power auger! Good luck out there

  • @martinsstraupmanis3476
    @martinsstraupmanis3476 Před 3 lety +3

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

  • @prod671
    @prod671 Před 3 lety +12

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +3

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

    • @billy6166
      @billy6166 Před 3 lety +2

      Helpful!
      Thank you!!!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +1

      @@billy6166 Oh good!

    • @michaelforansich8090
      @michaelforansich8090 Před 3 lety +2

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

  • @michaeljames8408
    @michaeljames8408 Před 12 dny

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 12 dny

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

  • @honest1966
    @honest1966 Před 3 měsíci

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 měsíci +1

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

  • @toddt0606
    @toddt0606 Před 3 lety +4

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

  • @asksule
    @asksule Před 3 lety +1

    Good job , just what i was looking fore. Thank you.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      Good to hear! Thanks for checking it out, man

  • @dougjones917
    @dougjones917 Před 3 lety +8

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

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

    • @walligator1
      @walligator1 Před 3 lety +1

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

  • @cdvax11
    @cdvax11 Před 2 lety

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety

      You can do it! That BBQ structure will be great

  • @Gary21H
    @Gary21H Před 3 lety +4

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

    • @rajneeshsaseendran
      @rajneeshsaseendran Před 3 lety

      Bdjdh

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

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

    • @Gary21H
      @Gary21H Před 3 lety

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      Exactly

    • @bfoss55
      @bfoss55 Před 3 lety

      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.

  • @michaelblack3429
    @michaelblack3429 Před 3 lety

    great tips, big help ,thanks for taking the time to make video

  • @zacccy89
    @zacccy89 Před 3 lety +2

    Thanks dude, much appreciated!

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      The ground is frozen here in Illinois right now ... so no holes are being dug. Thanks for checking it out

  • @yechihast
    @yechihast Před 3 lety

    Man, you saved me heaps of time and buck, thanks a million.

  • @johnmckechnie2493
    @johnmckechnie2493 Před 3 lety

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      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
      @trackmader Před 2 lety +1

      Little beaver....

  • @buddhistsympathizer1136

    Excellent review - Gave me the information I needed.
    Superb - Thank you

  • @winstonsmith11
    @winstonsmith11 Před 2 lety

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

  • @isovideo7497
    @isovideo7497 Před 2 lety +2

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety +1

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

  • @moneensworship
    @moneensworship Před 3 lety

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      Woah, great idea and lots of power! Smart

  • @potteryjoe
    @potteryjoe Před 4 lety +5

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 4 lety

      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
      @joeannwashington1944 Před 2 lety +1

      @@metaspencersgu gfggg

  • @InquisitiveSearcher
    @InquisitiveSearcher Před 3 měsíci

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 měsíci

      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 :)

  • @wemcal
    @wemcal Před 3 lety +1

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

      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!

  • @mumbaimanchgareema1720

    Thankyou for posting this video. Really informative and helpful.

  • @Charliemmafan
    @Charliemmafan Před rokem +2

    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
      @metaspencer  Před rokem

      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
      @JiansYogaandDancing Před rokem

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

  • @gloriamenchero1926
    @gloriamenchero1926 Před rokem

    Thank you for this video. It was exactly what I needed to make up my mind.

  • @kenk3102
    @kenk3102 Před rokem

    ...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
      @metaspencer  Před rokem +1

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

  • @fortheearth
    @fortheearth Před 2 lety

    Wonderful demonstration thanks!

  • @johnnyhatesjazz7434
    @johnnyhatesjazz7434 Před 2 lety

    Great information and comparison. Thank you for sharing.

  • @timallen6025
    @timallen6025 Před 2 lety

    Perfect comparison hands on thank you

  • @RussVd
    @RussVd Před rokem

    Great review! Thanks a lot!

  • @robertwillis4029
    @robertwillis4029 Před rokem

    I was undecided, thanks man.

  • @jingyuexi740
    @jingyuexi740 Před 2 lety

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

  • @elizabethwoods8883
    @elizabethwoods8883 Před rokem

    Thank you metaspencer for very helpful tip post hole diggers

  • @chucke756
    @chucke756 Před 2 lety

    Thanks for the video. I need to get motivated to dig 4 foundation holes by hand.

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 2 lety +1

      You'll get it done! Go nice and deep, flare it out at the bottom if possible, and you'll have some solid footers

  • @WILL09.studenteacher
    @WILL09.studenteacher Před rokem

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

  • @dannycondori97
    @dannycondori97 Před 3 lety +4

    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.

  • @gam6175
    @gam6175 Před rokem

    Great demos, thanks really useful

  • @steverahe
    @steverahe Před 3 lety +1

    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
      @steverahe Před 3 lety

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

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

    • @metaspencer
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety

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

  • @BillyPurta
    @BillyPurta Před 3 lety +11

    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
      @metaspencer  Před 3 lety +3

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