Spending an entire fishing trip by drilling holes does not sound too pleasing. If it is the middle of winter and you do not want to delay the trip, you do not have much choice. But you can make this process easier by using a cordless drill for an ice auger.
There are a lot of high-quality options in the market when it comes to this particular task. In this article, we will help you navigate the industry and give you the best cordless drill for ice auger available so that you can be fully satisfied with your product.
Turning a Power Drill into an Ice Auger
It is quite a common practice for an angler to turn a drill into an ice auger. However, if you are a beginner, you might be confused as to how you can achieve it.
Almost everyone has a drill lying around at home, but an ice auger is not that readily available. On top of that, an ice auger does not come cheap.
If you are a seasoned ice angler, this section may not be all that important for you. But if you want to know how you can turn any drill into a convenient ice auger, read on.
- Using an Adaptor
If you have a hand auger lying around at home, you can use an adapter to convert it to a cordless drill auger. The adaptor is basically a small metal piece, and it does not cost much. It is a cheap and effective method that does not require much effort on your part.
You can also find a drill driven ice auger from the market. It works as an attachment to your existing power drill. If you do decide to go this route, you need to make sure the attachment matches your drills specifications. If the dimensions of the drill are not suitable for your device’s specs, it will not work.
- Keep the Speed Low
It is best to keep the speed of the drill low when you are using it as an auger. Most cordless drills come with a variable speed setting. Always keep the torque low and the speed set to option -1, which is typically the lowest.
10 Best Cordless Drill for Ice Auger
Finding the best cordless drill for using as an ice auger is no simple task. There are countless products on the market that makes it difficult for you to find the perfect one. To make this complicated process easier, here are our top picks for the top cordless drills for ice auger.
1. DEWALT Hammer Drill
Plenty of ice fishers turn their hand augers into a mechanized auger using a cordless or electric drill. When you look up power tools, the most famous names and their products pop up on the recommendations.
The DEWALT Hammer Drill is one such product of a well-known brand that is praised for consistently producing innovative and well-designed cordless drills with fantastic features.
It is exceptionally durable and sturdy. The drill has a stylish design with a streamlined form. When it comes to efficiency, the drill exceeds others with its highly stable motor that can withstand up to 450 units watt out. Since it has such a high UWO, you can use it in several applications.
The drill features a self-governing chuck that comes with an excellent grip and which will stay tight and secure while you use it. Its clutch settings contain a wide range of options; therefore, you can choose a configuration according to the application you want to achieve.
Furthermore, the drill delivers excellent performance with its fully metal three-speed transmission. This high-speed transmission allows you to drill holes in many different materials with ease.
Compared to other standard batteries, the batteries of this device offer 40% more operation time. So, it is far more extended than other drills and guarantees full potentiality. This unit has 2 Ni-Cd batteries, which run overtime to make sure that you can accomplish your tasks.
Most of the cordless drills don’t include any chargers for the battery. But this drill comes with a battery that can charge your device in an hour. Also, you don’t have to buy a charger separately. The cells are known to provide a longer runtime than others. It also has a built-in LED light that provides high visibility.
Pros
- Built-in LED light
- Batteries with a longer run time
- Sturdy and durable
- Very versatile
Cons
- Old battery technology
2. Eskimo Quantum Gas Auger
The ice auger is an elemental part of an ice fishing trip. It is a vital piece of equipment for drilling holes on the surface of a frozen river or lake. There are many kinds of ice augers; some are electric, hand-powered as well as gas-powered.
The Eskimo Quantum Gas Auger is a perfectly portable drill that can be purchased at a very affordable price. Its compact size carries more innovative features than the large augers.
This unit can re-drill holes with its excellent center ring. The blades on the drill are extraordinarily durable and contain a blade protector. What the protector does is prolong the life and durability of the blades.
It has been tested and verified under harsh weather conditions. So, you don’t need to worry about the tool, being slow and sluggish in the icy weather. This is because it has a primer switch, which will allow the machine to respond and start quickly.
Moreover, the drill comes with quite a large recoil handle. If you happen to be wearing mittens or gloves, you don’t have to remove them to start the engine. You can grip the recoil with your gloved hands and operate it with ease.
The device is mighty, as well as lightweight. Its steel handlebars are covered with foam, which helps in absorbing the vibration. Furthermore, the handlebars will help you hold the machine securely while you drill holes on the ice.
One of the beautiful features of the drill is its highly visible gas tank. The transparent container will allow you to check up on the fuel level so you can keep an eye on it before it reduces. It also includes a fingertip throttle switch for controlling power.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Very budget-friendly
- Portable and versatile
- Visible gas tank
Cons
- Weak cord
3. Bosch Power Drill
Drills are very significant accessories and used in many applications. Other than in industry, cordless drills are used in automotive, carpentry, and plant operators. You can also work with one at your home to fix all the things you need.
The Bosch Power Drill is a unique cordless drill that is extremely affordable and has a lot of top-notch features. One of the beautiful features of this unit is its portable size.
It is convenient and compact, which will enable you to use it in enclosed and cramped spaces. So, if you need to repair something in your home that is situated in a confined place, the drill will fix it up in no time!
Though it may seem like a home-based unit, the drill is hoarded by electricians, plumbers, and various trade professionals who need a robust and reliable device to fit in their service bags.
Since it’s quite lightweight, you can use it for hours without feeling the strain on your arms and hands. The drill contains a 3-jaw chuck of 3 inches, so you can employ more significant drill bits, which make it very flexible.
Moreover, it includes an integrated and flexible clutch that has more than 20 settings. You can also control the speed in which the tool works with its adjustable trigger. It creates more efficiency in performance by optimizing the torque-speed for drilling.
The drill comes with a fantastic battery technology that extends the unit’s power source as well as the working conditions. Its batteries do not overload, discharge, or overheat. The drill kit includes two slim packs of batteries.
Pros
- Very compact and lightweight
- Contains two slim pack of batteries
- Durable and sturdy
- Includes more than 20 clutch settings
Cons
- Weak clutch
4. ION Eskimo Ice Auger
If you’re passionate about fishing, nothing can stop you. Not even a little bit of ice! To make ice fishing easier, you’ll need a device to get past the ice. One of the essential accessories you need in your fishing gear is an ice auger. It is a drill that carves a hole in the ice to fish through.
The ION Eskimo Ice auger is the best electric drill for ice auger that comes with a lot of excellent features. It has an 8-inch bit of ice auger along with reverse. The drill can cut through the ice swiftly.
Along with a smooth cut, the drill removes mud and debris as it bores down through the ice. This unit is straightforward to handle, unlike other electric ice augers. You don’t have to mess up your hands with gas and oil.
Furthermore, there will be no messy spills or spots, so your clothes and car will remain dirt free. It has a reliable performance because it is constructed with strong and sturdy blades that are designed in such a way that it can drill holes efficiently.
The ice auger features a center ring, and its main job is to measure the depth of each slice. It also has a high capacity that allows you to drill holes up to 8 inches wide and 34 inches long.
Additionally, the drill has a widely spaced handlebar so you can easily hold the tool while drilling holes. This makes it easier for you to drill surfaces where you need to exert a massive amount of pressure.
Pros
- Large handlebar for easy use
- Does not contain any smoke or fume
- Cutting blades are stable and strong
- Features a reverse button
Cons
- Has little difficulty in thick ice
5. Landworks Cordless Auger
The fun part of fishing in ice water doesn’t include drilling holes into it. So, you need an efficient tool to do this job as quickly and smoothly as possible. To cut a proper sized hole with the right depth, you’ll need the appropriate equipment to get the task done.
Landworks Cordless Auger is one such tool that can drill holes effectively and smoothly on the ice or the surface of the earth. It is a highly versatile drill that gets the job done within minutes.
Usually, drills make a lot of noise, which frightens the fish away if you happen to be fishing, or it annoys the neighbors in your vicinity. But this cordless drill is known for its silent and efficient use.
The drill contains a silent motor that will allow you to drill as many holes as you want without disturbing the fishes in the water. It can dig up to 30 holes in a single push. Moreover, the drill is exceptionally lightweight and highly durable.
You don’t need any oil or gas to operate this unit. It is very eco-friendly and powered by batteries, so you don’t have to worry about fumes. The machine has a very sleek and modern design.
It comes with an innovative feature that assures complete safety; its overload protector stops the overheating of the powerhead. So, you can drill holes as much as you want to without worrying about your safety.
The large handles of the drill will enable you to operate it with ease. It also helps to improve comfort and balance. Moreover, the drill delivers high performance and comes with a 3-planetary mechanism that provides increased transmission effectively.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Contains an LED light
- Well-balanced handles
- Easy to use
Cons
- Unclear manual
6. DEWALT Cordless Drill
Trying to perform activities in the ice is challenging in itself without having to worry about getting satisfactory fishing spots. This is where having an ice auger comes in handy.
Thanks to this ingenious piece of equipment, you can quickly drill your way through the icy rivers and lakes to find your fish in the comfortable and safe spots. The DEWALT Cordless Drill is the best cordless drill for ice fishing.
Since it’s cordless, you don’t have to worry about distances or tripping over a cord while you fish. This device runs a lithium-ion battery, and it is known to produce fuel gauge up to 33%, which is more capable and durable than other conventional battery packs.
The battery, which operates on a brushless motor, gives you an increased runtime of about 57%, compared to regular ones. This guarantees less power drainage and more efficient control. Moreover, the kit includes not one but two sets of batteries so you can use one while the other gets charged.
When it comes to speed, there are two types of speed settings. The first type ranges from 0 to 500 rpm, whereas the second goes from 0 to a massive 2000 rpm. Therefore, you can adjust the speed according to your preference.
It is made from top quality materials that focus on comfort and durability. With weighing just 3.5 pounds, it feels as light as a feather, and its compact size will enable you to operate this in cramped spaces.
The unit features an in-built LED light that comes with an auto switch-off mechanism. It also contains a belt hook for easy hanging. All these components and materials are safely ensconced in a sturdy kit.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Two kinds of speed settings
- Highly durable batteries
- LED light with auto switch-off feature
Cons
- Wobbly chuck
7. Hitachi Cordless Drill
Having a cordless tool in your home can prove to be quite useful. You can use it for various kinds of tasks, and it is also perfect for DIY projects. The device is also essential for experienced people who work in some particular industries.
The Hitachi Cordless Drill is one such tool that is equipped with some fantastic features. It can function in all sorts of applications. The affordability of this tool makes it all the more attractive, along with its innovative elements.
With the maximum amount of turning force of 460-inch pounds, this drill can reach the maximum speed up to 1,800 RPMs. The deadly combination of speed and strength makes it highly versatile as both a screwdriver and a drill.
It also contains up to 22 clutch settings, so you have plenty of options to choose from. This will prevent you from stripping screws or damaging the material by using a lot of torque.
The drill features a keyless chuck, which will allow you to attach the bits by your hand securely. So, you won’t have to worry about misplacing or losing your key. It has an attached LED light that lightens up the workplace, which guarantees safety from the dark.
With its on-tool bit compartment, you can quickly and easily change between bits when you’re at work. In this way, you can easily choose the bits that you use more often.
The drill has 18-volt batteries made of lithium-ion that are durable, lightweight, and quite powerful. If your machine runs out of power, you can switch the batteries while the other one charges.
Pros
- Features keyless chuck
- Powerful and durable batteries
- Has a LED light
- Very affordable
Cons
- Weak gearing
8. Eskimo Propane Ice Auger
When you’re out on the frozen water trying ice fishing for the first time, you need to be armed with the best tool to make your experience a memorable one. There is plenty of ice drills in the market, and sometimes it can get pretty confusing when you have to choose an ideal one for you.
The Eskimo Propane Ice Auger is the lord of all ice augers. It possesses incredible features that are guaranteed to make ice fishing a fun and comfortable experience.
You can see it in its top-notch performance, and since it’s powered by propane, it is far more comfortable to use than other ice augers. 1-pound bottles of propane power its efficiency, so there is no mess of dirt or debris, and there is zero hassle in the whole process.
The engine possessed by this drill is highly efficient and capable. So, you don’t need more than one bottle to get through the day of drilling holes on the ice. You can drill more than a dozen ice holes before you have to switch tanks.
It also boasts of other efficient elements such as the primer switch. The auto prime fuel mechanism maintains the primer switch. It allows you to start the engine without priming or choking quickly.
Since the propane heats with zero emissions, you can also use this tool in an enclosed shelter with ease. The drill features chipped blades that cut through the ice smoothly and effectively. Moreover, these blades are protected by a blade protector that extends the life of the blades for long term use.
Pros
- Extremely easy to operate
- Durable and reliable
- Able to use it both indoors and outdoors
- Includes a primer switch
Cons
- Little heavy
9. Makita Cordless Drill
Going on a trip to the frozen lake for ice-fishing feels like going on an adventure, but for that, you need to be prepared. Other than putting on proper gear, you also need to have the right equipment with you. Therefore, you must have an ice auger for a day of comfortable fishing.
The Makita Cordless Drill is a fantastic tool that is entirely resistant to water and dust, with a tremendous weight to power ratio. This drill is made to withstand complicated jobs that other cheap cordless drills cannot handle.
It has a brushless motor; the benefit of having this kind of engine is that it provides a tremendous amount of power by maintaining less heat. This motor is known to regulate a large amount of torque.
With its 1/2-inch sized chuck, it can keep a lot of drivers and bits than a typical drill. There are two different options for speed, the first from 0 to 400 rpm and the second from 0 to a whopping 1500 rpm. So, with this speed, you can operate it on various kinds of applications.
It contains a hefty torque of 530-inch pounds, which can be applied on some concretes, metal, etc. The lightweight feature of this drill will help you while you work long hours without getting an ache in your arms or hands. Moreover, it has an LED light for better visibility.
The drill comes with three different systems to protect the battery. It doesn’t let the battery overload; during extended hours, the power is regulated in an even manner. Furthermore, the system stops the battery from overheating and discharging.
Pros
- Contains LED light
- Compact and lightweight
- Highly durable battery
- Two-speed options
Cons
- Has one battery
10. Hitachi Cordless Driver Drill
If you want the process of tackling stubborn and thick ice to go smoothly, you need to have the proper equipment, and no device is more efficient for drilling holes than an ice auger.
The Hitachi Cordless Driver Drill is the best convenient tool to have since it will last for hours. It has loads of excellent features that will make life easier for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
With its brushless motor mechanism, the drill possesses constant speed, high voltage and requires zero effort and maintenance. It’s an ideal product for amateurs as well as for those who are running short of time.
The drill’s battery lasts 50% more than others due to its innovative technology. It contains a maximum of 1800 RPM and 620 pounds of torque, so it has the perfect combination of skill and power.
It features 22 stages plus one clutch settings; this allows you to change the torque according to the task you’re about to do. Different jobs require different torque settings, and this tool gives you several choices to choose from.
Unlike other tools, the drill can stay cold for an extended period. So, you don’t have to worry about it overheating. You can use it for as long as you like without compromising the quality of your work.
The design of the drill is quite sleek and modern. It is also very lightweight at only 3.5lbs. The ergonomically structured drill was made to make your work more relaxed and comfortable.
Since it’s cordless, you don’t need to hassle over the cords or the difficulty of not having a power supply close by. Moreover, it has an LED light.
Pros
- Possesses ergonomic grip
- Includes built-in LED light
- Durable and efficient batteries
- Has a brushless motor mechanism
Cons
- Might have charger problems
Things to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Drill for Ice Auger
There are a couple of things that you must consider when you are out shopping for a cordless drill if you are planning on using it for ice auger. The following list of factors should get you some basic ideas on what to look for in the drill. So, without further ado, let us get started.
- Construction Quality
The cordless drill of your choosing must be made of high-grade materials if you want an excellent performance out of it. No matter what your intended application is, if the drill is not reliable, you will not be satisfied.
There are plenty of low-cost drills out in the market. Make sure to check the quality of the product that you want to buy.
The construction quality of the drill will define its durability also. A low-quality drill will likely break down after a few months of use. Additionally, you will not get many features out of a low-grade drill that you will find in a product of higher value. This is a vital thing to consider before committing to a specific product.
- Motor Type
A cordless drill comes with two different types of motors; brushed or brushless. You must read up on the two variations when you are buying this kind of product to get the most value out of it. A drill using a brushed motor is usually quite affordable, but it cannot stand on par with a brushless motor.
This type of motor is quite trendy due to its high energy and speed. Although, while using as an ice auger, your speed requirement is not high, it is still recommended to get a brushless motor drill if you can afford it. Its high power and efficiency will give you a lot more versatility in application.
- LED Feature
Many manufacturers often overlook this feature, but according to us, it is of utmost importance. Since you would be investing in a drill, you need to think ahead to other application scenarios also. A drill is a versatile tool, and you should not be limited by a single purpose only.
LED work lights allow you to work even in dark environments without any trouble. It illuminates the workspace providing you with excellent visibility if your area of operation does not come with good lighting. The products in our list mostly come with this feature.
- Battery Type
A battery works as the power source for a cordless drill, and the quality of the battery determines how long you can use the tool in a single charge. It is an important thing to consider if you are someone who needs to use the machine for long work sessions.
There are two kinds of batteries; Lithium-ion and Nickel-Cadmium. You should go for lithium-ion batteries without a shed of doubt. This type of cell is compact in size and also have the most extended uptime.
They also charge faster and even more reliable and durable. With a lithium-ion powered cordless drill, you do not have to worry about your device running out of juice anytime soon.
- Speed Mode
The speed of a cordless drill will ultimately determine its efficiency and versatility. The torque of the engine is responsible for the speed of your product. Since you want to use your product as an ice auger, you would need a low-speed device. If the speed of the tool is too high, it might cause all kinds of problems in your work.
Many drills on the market nowadays feature varying speed that gives you the freedom to control the value of torque. With this feature, you can use the drill with a lot more freedom compared to when using a fixed speed drill. So, when buying your product, try to find one with a variable speed setting.
- Budget Limitations
No matter what your choice of product is, the budget is always a limiting factor. So you need to be sure about your limits when you are searching for a product. It will help you filter out a lot of the machines and will make it easier for you to find the right one.
It is crucial for you to not go overboard on spending if you want a pleasant shopping experience. Buying the most expensive good might feel great at first, but if you do not use the product to its full potential, you might end up with a lot of regrets.
- Customer Response
Last but not least, you should be careful about the response from the manufacturers. It is an essential quality that all manufacturers should adopt. They should be able to establish a relationship of trust with the customer so that the buyer feels safe when spending the money.
You should check out different forums and read reviews from real customers to get an understanding of the response from the customer. The chance of a device being faulty is slim but not impossible. If the manufacturers care about their products, they will always get in touch with you to help you with the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is an Auger?
An auger is a type of spiral tool that moves the material along the axis of the device while you rotate it. It resembles a corkscrew in shape and is used for creating holes on different surfaces.
There are different types of drills for a variety of purposes, like making a hole in wood, metal, or even ice.
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What is an ice auger used for?
An ice auger is the most efficient way of making a circular hole in an icy surface. It is an essential tool for ice fishing. Ice anglers use this tool to carve out the ice when they find the right fishing spot.
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Is a hand auger better than drill auger?
A drill auger is always better than a hand auger. Using a drill as an auger takes away a lot of effort from you. If you want to use a hand drill, you need to be prepared for a long, tedious work session. This entire process becomes easy if you use a drill auger.
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Are ice augers safe to use?
If you follow the instructions and take all the basic precautionary measures, then it is safe to use the tool. Make sure you are not drilling on thin ice and also wear all your safety harnesses before you get to work.
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How many holes can an electric auger drill before the battery runs out?
It depends on the efficiency of the device. In general, you should be able to drill about 10-20 holes before running out of power.
However, if you are using a Ni-Cad battery, your uptime might take a severe hit. So always go with Li-Ion batteries when choosing your drill.
Final Thoughts
Ice fishing is a fun activity that has been around for ages. It is a way to catch up with friends on a cold and lazy afternoon. Setting up your tent and having a few sips of beer while you catch fish is a pleasant way to spend some quality time with friends and family.
With this comprehensive review and guide, you should be able to find the best cordless drill for ice auger to use on your next fishing trip. Good Luck!
