Post Hole Augers

About Post Hole Augers

Post hole augers are specialist drilling tools designed to create clean, cylindrical holes in the ground for fence posts, signage, tree planting, and various groundwork applications. Also known as earth augers, fencing augers, or post hole borers, these tools work by rotating a helical fluted shaft that simultaneously cuts into the soil and lifts excavated material to the surface. This mechanism is similar to how traditional auger drill bits function when boring into wood, making them highly efficient for creating precise diameter holes in a fraction of the time required by manual digging methods.

The selection at Tooled-Up.com includes both powered and manual post hole augers to suit different project scales and budgets. Powered models are available in petrol, cordless battery, and 240v electric configurations, with cordless options from leading manufacturers such as Makita, Einhell Professional, and Greenworks proving particularly popular among professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. These powered augers can drill to depths of 800mm or more depending on the shaft length, whilst manual hand-operated versions provide an economical solution for smaller fencing projects or occasional use.

One important consideration when choosing a post hole auger is that each auger bit is designed to create a specific diameter hole—typically ranging from 100mm to 200mm. Whilst this ensures perfectly sized holes for particular post dimensions, it means you'll need the correct diameter bit for your specific application. Tooled-Up stocks replacement auger drill bits and extensions from brands including Draper, Faithfull, and Sealey, allowing you to adapt your equipment for different hole sizes or extend your drilling depth as required.

Jargon Buster

• Helical Flutes: The spiral grooves machined into the auger shaft that cut into the soil and carry excavated material upwards and out of the hole as the tool rotates.
• Auger Bit: The replaceable drilling component featuring the cutting edge and helical flutes. Available in various diameters to suit different post sizes.
• Earth Auger: Another name for a post hole auger, emphasising its primary function of drilling into soil and earth rather than other materials.
• Torque: The rotational force generated by powered augers, measured in Newton metres (Nm). Higher torque models can handle tougher soil conditions and larger diameter holes.
• Auger Extension: An additional shaft section that can be fitted between the powerhead and auger bit to increase the maximum drilling depth beyond the standard shaft length.
• Brushless Motor: Modern motor technology found in cordless models that delivers greater efficiency, longer runtime, and extended tool life compared to traditional brushed motors.

Who Uses Post Hole Augers?

• Fencing Contractors: Professionals installing agricultural, domestic, and commercial fencing who need to drill multiple post holes efficiently
• Landscapers and Groundworkers: Tradespeople creating foundations for structures, installing signage, or preparing sites for tree and hedge planting
• Farmers and Agricultural Workers: For erecting field boundaries, livestock fencing, and gate posts across large rural properties
• Groundsmen and Estate Maintenance Teams: Maintaining sports facilities, parks, and large grounds where posts need regular replacement or new installations
• Construction Site Crews: Creating holes for temporary fencing, signage posts, and safety barriers around building sites
• Arborists and Tree Surgeons: Preparing planting holes for saplings and specimen trees with minimal root ball disturbance
• DIY Enthusiasts: Homeowners undertaking garden fencing projects, pergola installation, or landscaping improvements
• Decking Installers: Creating precise holes for deck post foundations and supporting structures

How to Choose the Right Post Hole Augers

Power Source: Consider your working environment and portability requirements. Cordless models from Makita and Einhell Professional offer excellent freedom of movement without trailing cables or fuel concerns, making them ideal for remote locations. Petrol-powered augers like the Draper GPAUG52-B provide consistent high power for demanding professional use, whilst manual augers suit occasional domestic use or areas where powered equipment isn't practical.

Hole Diameter Requirements: Identify the post sizes you'll be installing before purchasing. Standard fence posts typically require 100mm diameter holes, but larger projects may need 150mm or 200mm augers. Check that replacement bits and different diameter options are readily available for your chosen model.

Drilling Depth: Most auger bits provide drilling depths of 700-900mm, sufficient for standard fence posts which should be buried approximately one-third of their total length. If you require deeper holes, ensure your chosen system accepts extension shafts to increase the maximum drilling depth.

Soil Conditions: Heavy clay, rocky ground, or root-filled soil demands greater torque and robust construction. Brushless cordless models and petrol-powered augers typically handle challenging conditions better than basic manual tools. Consider starting with a pilot hole or smaller diameter bit in particularly tough ground.

Single vs Two-Person Operation: Most modern cordless and petrol augers are designed for single-person operation with anti-kickback clutches and ergonomic handles. However, larger diameter bits and particularly challenging ground conditions may benefit from two-person models with dual handle arrangements for safer control.

Battery Platform Compatibility: If you already own cordless tools, choosing an earth auger compatible with your existing battery platform (such as Makita 18v LXT or 40v Max XGT) eliminates the need to invest in additional batteries and chargers, providing better value and simplified site logistics.

Popular Accessories

• Replacement Auger Bits: Different diameter drilling heads to accommodate various post sizes, available from manufacturers including Faithfull, Makita, and Sealey
• Auger Extensions: Shaft extensions that increase drilling depth for deeper post holes or elevated working positions
• Sharpening Tools: Files and grinding equipment to maintain sharp cutting edges on auger bits for optimal performance
• Spare Batteries and Chargers: Additional power packs for cordless models to maintain productivity throughout the working day
• Fuel Mixing Bottles: For accurately preparing two-stroke petrol mixtures for petrol-powered augers
• Work Gloves: Heavy-duty protective gloves to maintain grip and protect hands during operation
• Post Levels and Aligners: Tools to ensure posts are installed vertically straight once holes are drilled
• Hardcore and Postcrete: Backfilling materials to secure posts firmly in drilled holes
• Tool Storage Cases: Protective transport cases for cordless models and auger bits

Safety Information

Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear appropriate PPE when operating post hole augers, including safety boots with steel toecaps, heavy-duty work gloves with good grip, safety glasses to protect against flying debris, and hearing protection when using petrol-powered models. Long hair should be tied back and loose clothing avoided to prevent entanglement with rotating components.

Underground Services: Before commencing any digging work, identify the location of underground utilities including electricity cables, gas pipes, water mains, and telecommunications lines. Contact your local utility providers or use cable detection equipment to mark service runs. Striking buried services can result in serious injury, service disruption, and significant costs.

Safe Operating Practices: Maintain a firm, balanced stance with feet shoulder-width apart when operating powered augers. Be prepared for sudden resistance or kickback if the bit encounters rocks or roots—most modern cordless models feature anti-kickback clutches, but operator vigilance remains essential. Never operate powered augers alone in remote locations, and ensure someone knows your working location.

Ground Conditions Assessment: Survey the working area for hidden hazards such as tree roots, buried masonry, or unstable ground. Particularly wet or waterlogged soil may cause sidewall collapse in deeper holes. According to HSE guidance, any excavation where a person could be injured by falling materials requires appropriate safety measures.

Equipment Maintenance: Keep auger bits sharp and in good condition—blunt cutting edges require excessive force and increase the risk of loss of control. Inspect equipment before each use, checking for loose fixings, damaged components, or worn parts. Follow manufacturer servicing schedules for petrol engines, and ensure cordless batteries are in good condition without physical damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What depth should fence post holes be?
As a general rule, fence posts should be buried to approximately one-third of their total height. For a standard 1.8m fence, this means drilling holes 600mm deep, though 700-800mm provides additional stability in exposed locations or for heavier fence panels. Always check local building regulations for specific requirements, particularly for boundary fencing.

Can post hole augers cope with rocky or clay soil?
Powered augers with sufficient torque can handle moderately rocky or heavy clay soils, though extremely rocky ground may require alternative methods or pre-drilling with a smaller pilot hole. Brushless cordless models from Makita and Einhell Professional deliver impressive torque for challenging conditions. Keep bits sharp, work at steady speed rather than forcing, and clear accumulated soil regularly for best results.

How many holes can I drill on one battery charge?
Battery runtime varies considerably depending on soil conditions, hole depth, auger diameter, and battery capacity. In average soil conditions with a 100mm bit, expect to drill 15-25 holes per charge with a 5.0Ah battery. Having spare batteries available ensures uninterrupted working, and higher capacity packs (6.0Ah or above) significantly extend runtime between charges.

Do I need a different auger bit for different hole sizes?
Yes, auger bits are designed for specific diameters and cannot adjust like some other post hole digging methods. This ensures perfectly sized holes but means you'll need separate bits for different post dimensions. The advantage is that each hole is precisely formed to match your post size. Tooled-Up.com stocks replacement bits in various diameters to suit most common requirements.

Are manual post hole augers worth considering?
For occasional domestic use or small projects involving just a few holes, manual augers like those from Roughneck and Draper offer an economical solution without the ongoing costs of fuel or batteries. They're quieter, require no maintenance beyond cleaning, and provide adequate performance in average soil conditions. However, for professional use or projects involving numerous holes, powered augers dramatically reduce physical strain and increase productivity.