Choosing the Right Ice Fishing Auger
Looking for and ice fishing auger? I've compiled features & specs of Jiffy, Eskimo and Strikemaster for side by side comparison.
Note: This poll was posted on Jan 12, 2011. Keep in mind, the data will become more useful as the number of respondents grows. Are you shopping for a new ice fishing auger? Unsure of which one to buy?
There are a lot of considerations in choosing an ice auger. The first thing is to deciding between Manual (hand), Gas or Electric Powered models. An ice fishing auger is an essential tool that you'll likely have for a long time, so you may as well get what best suits your long-term needs. Which type is best for you? Answer these questions, to make the logical choice!  What fits your budget? How much do you plan on using this auger? Weight is more important to some than others. Do you pack-in your equipment, or pull it along in an ice fishing sled? Do you walk-in, pulling your sled by hand or do you ride-in while towing your sled? Or do you drive right up to your favorite honey hole? Would you get out and enjoy ice fishing more often, if drilling holes took less energy? What ice thickness do you typically need to drill through? Hand drilling numerous holes through 18" of clear ice takes a fair amount of energy. How do you like to ice fish? In other words, do you drill several holes to locate fish before you actually start fishing? Do you prefer mobility to stay on top of fish? How big of an ice hole do you want? If you're planning a Lake Trout adventure, you just may need that 10" hole.
After you've decided on the Type, compare features between brands and models. NOTE: If going with a power auger, you'll need to decide between a Gas or Electric model. Both work well! Both 2 stroke and 4 stroke gas models are available. Gas powered models start easily if properly maintained. Generally speaking, an annual servicing is adequate, if you use fresh gasoline or gas/oil mix. Battery powered models require less maintenance, but charging the battery is an ongoing requirement. No biggie, you can drill a lot of holes on a single charge. Also, you occasionally have to charge your flasher battery anyways, so do them simultaneously.  Compare Value/Price vs. Features Compare the Warranties Customer Satisfaction (i.e.) Reputation Can you buy a Head Cover for this model? What is the life expectancy of the blades, and are replacement blades readily available?Okay, that's a lot to digest, but choosing an ice fishing auger is a decision worth putting some effort into. DO YOUR HOMEWORK, unless you're already sure of what you want.
I've compiled features and specifications for several popular brands of ice fishing augers. Each brand offers several gas powered models. I chose a high end model, a mid-range model and an economical model from each company, for comparison purposes. Jiffy Gas Powered Augers
- Jiffy Ice Drills, another popular brand, manufactured by Feldmann Engineering & Manufacturing Co., Inc. of Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin has numerous lines of gas powered ice augers. Specs and features, including their STX cutting technology and their new EZ connector are found here. Electric Powered Ice Augers are gaining in popularity in recent years. The IceGator line offers a 24 volt model capable of drilling up to 90 holes through 15" thick clear ice on a single battery charge. Specs and features of the IceGator 8" Attacker, along with Strikemaster's 12 volt Electra Lazer 12000 DP line, and Jiffy's Lectric High Torque STX Pro (external battery source required) are here for side by side comparisons.
Jiffy Stealth STX - Jiffy's best cutting technology Eskimo's Shark Z71 Quantum ice auger Strikemaster ice augers Battery powered ice fishing augers Hand Ice Augers the most popular ice fishing augers, have been around since 1946 when Strikemaster first introduced the Mora line. Product descriptions of 3 of today's more popular models are shown on this page. Ice Auger Accessories - Blade covers, extensions, auger carriers and covers, sharpeners and replacement blade kits.
Gearing Up via carefully selected affilate suppliers. Ice Fishing Central's Blog keeps you up to date on new revised pages at Ice Fishing Central. Subscribe here, it's free. Vexilar FL-22HD Ice Fishing Flasher Humminbird Ice 55 Ice Fishing Flasher MarCum LX-5 Ice Fishing Flasher Portable ice fishing shelter Buyer's Guide Ice fishing for Crappie Ice fishing Photos can be viewed and submitted here. SiteBuildIt could be the turning point in your financial well being. Go from Ice Fishing Auger to Ice Fishing Equipment
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