The 5 Best Power Drill For Ice Auger (With Reviews And Buyer’s Guide)
If your hobby is ice fishing and you are looking for the best power drill for an ice auger, this is an article that will give you all the details.
Fishing is one of the most enjoyable and adventurous hobbies one can have. Even better if it is ice fishing! A fishing rod is for fishing in the water, a power drill is for fishing on the ice.
It isn’t difficult to learn how to drill frozen lakes for ice fishing and become an ice fisherman. A drill for an ice auger makes it even easier, it is bound to make your experience better.
Since it is harder to find a power source in icy surroundings, you can consider a cordless ice auger. If you have an RV are a battery pack, you can use a corded one as well.
In this article, I will walk you through comprehensive research on the best drills for ice augers available along with the following pointers:
- How to drill an ice fishing hole with a cordless drill and an ice auger?
- Types of ice augers.
- How to convert a drill into an ice auger?
- How to choose the best power drill for an ice auger?
Read on to learn more about different power drills and the one that will suit you the most.
How To Drill An Ice Fishing Hole With A Power Drill And An Electric Auger?
Using an Ice fishing hole while fishing is fun and exciting. Follow the steps below to get the perfect hole every time.
# Best Power Drill For Ice Auger & Checking the spot you will drill into
To select the best spot check under the water surface. The best place to finish is around 2 to 4 feet from the lake surface. You can also measure the depth by using a depth indicator.
Rocky areas, sheltered places, and deep pools are the best places to drill a hole into. Try to stay away from weedy areas or places where the moving water is fast.
# Best Power Drill For Ice Auger & Getting to Know Your Ice Auger
The technical task of picking out the ice auger can be difficult. Power drills are the most common choice. They are suitable for drilling a larger number of holes into thick ice.
But they are difficult to control. Hand-held augers are easy to control and light-weighted. But they are not feasible for thick snow.
# Make sure to stand securely
Before you start drilling make sure your feet are planted firmly into the ground. This ensures safe operation. You can also gather some snow to place your feet in. Snow provides a better grip than ice.
# Let the blade do its job
When you are using your power drill, do not apply excessive pressure on the blade. This will slow down your job. Instead, put gentle pressure on the cordless drill to let the auger move downward. If you keep the balance of your hands the blade will itself go through the ice.
# Do not forget to prep the hole
Clear the ice hole by removing the debris. Make a channel around the hole by clearing the snow around the hole. Pull out the excess slush or loose ice from the hole using your ice auger.
You might also like to read: Detailed Guide to Adaptive Fishing Equipment
Best Power Drill For Ice Augers & Types Of Ice Augers
# Convertible Augers
Convertible Augers are used by attaching a sharp blade to a cord-free, powerless drill. These are the best for cutting into hard blocks of ice. The lightweight and less expensive convertible options are instant, hassle-free, and have enough power to cut through slabs of snow.
# Electric Augers
Electric Augers are one of the best. They are powered by large lithium batteries that have long run times. They have a lot of torque to cut through the thickest snow. These augers are instant, do not produce a lot of sounds, and have no emissions. These are suitable for use in a shelter.
# Manual Augers
Manual Augers are the OG options. They are reliable and simple to use. They are the best option to use on light ice without any sound emission. They are less expensive than electric augers. They can be used in shelters as well. You have to be physically capable of using these augers.
# Gasoline Augers
A gas auger is powerful enough to cut through any ice. However, they use gas as fuel. You can carry as much gas as you want to use them. They produce deadly fumes. They are not suitable for use in shelters. If gasoline spills into a river or lake, fish there may become extinct forever.
# Propane Augers
A propane auger is the same thing as a gasoline auger that can work on propane instead (which is a less harmful fuel source).
You can use these with a replaceable propane tank. They do not produce dangerous fumes. You can use them in a shelter. These are suitable for the cold weather as well. However, they produce a lot of sounds.
You might also like to read: Strong Arm Fishing Rod Holder Review
Best Power Drill For Ice Auger & How To Convert A Drill Into An Ice Auger?
To convert a Drill into an Ice Auger you will have to follow the given steps:
- You will need a good-quality blade, a hand auger that uses an ice auger drill adapter, and a drilling machine.
- Loosen the nut to detach the handle of the ice auger. Do not apply too much pressure, which can lead to blade damage.
- Fix the ice auger drill adapter into the blade and attach the handle.
- One end of the adapter can be used to fix any drill you want to.
- You can start drilling and cutting stones.
How To Choose The Best Power Drill For An Ice Auger?
There are a few basic specifications you should keep in mind when choosing a power drill. They are listed below:
# Side Stabilizer Arm
If you are using a drill that produces quite an amount of torque you will need a side stabilizer arm to stabilize it. The stabilizer makes all the power easier to manage. The stabilizing arms are installed over the front part of the drill, mostly near the chuck. They provide a long lever and give a comfortable handle.
# Chuck Size (½ inch or more)
You should always get a big chuck to go with a convertible auger. Powerful drills always come with ½ inch chucks. If you have a drill that doesn’t have the chuck size it probably has less power or less torque.
# Portability
You should always look for drills that are small in size and portable. Some drills come with a tool pack or a kit. These are the best options for a portable drill.
# Power
To determine how powerful the cordless drill is look into the Torque, RPM, and BPM of the drill. Torque is the speed and power of the drill. Something between 750 lbs of torque/inch is the best for a cordless drill. RMP is the rotations per minute of the drill. 750 rpm is the best for drills. BPM or blows per minute is the unit for a hammer’s action. A good hammer should have 25,000 BPMs.
# Weight
The weight of the drill depends on how much you can handle. However lightweight drills are easier to handle. Heavily weighted drills are good for power drilling.
# Speed Transmission
The drill should be able to function at different speeds as well. The thickness of the ice keeps changing and the speed should change as well. A good ice auger should have 2 or 3-speed transmissions.
# Battery (for cordless drills)
The best batteries to use with cordless drills are the lithium-ion ones. They are quick charging, powerful, and easy to use.
# Warranty
Most drills come with a 5-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Best Power Drill For Ice Auger- Our Top 5 Picks
1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Kit: Best Overall
Features
- Chuck Size: 9/10
- Portability: 9/10
- Battery: 8.5/10
- Speed Transmission: 9/10
- Other features: 9.5/10
Technical Features
- Side Stabilizer Arm: Has a side stabilizer arm
- Weight: 11.1 pounds. Lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes. Suitable for ice fishing.
- Grip: Strong Bit Gripping Mechanism
Bottom Line
The Dewalt drill is the best overall drill to use if you need a perfect fishing hole every time.
Pros
- High in power.
- Large battery capacity.
- LED setting to work in the dark.
Cons
- The chuck key can loosen and the drill bit falls out.
Features In Detail
- Chuck Size: The drill has a heavy-duty ½ inch chuck made of nitro-carbonized metal. The powerful chuck made of even stronger metal ensures a great fishing experience. You can drill multiple holes with the high amount of torque it will produce.
- Portability: The drill is small and lightweight. It is easily portable. The drill is equipped with a tool kit, charger, and brushes. This makes sure it covers less space.
- Battery: The Drill runs on two lithium-ion batteries. These are included in the package. The lithium batteries make it easier to change and do not emit harmful gasses.
- Speed Transmission: The drill has a 3-speed all-metal transmission. It can change its speed according to the thickness of the ice. Working is smooth and hassle-free with this drill. It works on 0-2000 RPM.
- Other features: The drill has a superior grip. It comes with 2 LED lights, which makes it easier to work in the dark as well. It also comes with a 3-year warranty from the manufacturer.
2. Makita XPH11ZB 18V Hammer Driver-Drill: Most Ergonomic
Features
- Chuck Size: 9/10
- Portability: 9/10
- Battery: 8/10
- Speed Transmission: 8/10
- Other features: 8.5/10
Technical Features
- Side Stabilizer Arm: Has a side stabilizer arm to control the drill.
- Weight: 1.99 pounds. Lightweight.
- Waterproof: Yes. it is waterproof and dust-free.
- Grip: Soft rubber grip for increased comfort.
Bottom Line
The Makita Hammer Driver-Drill is compact and easy to use. Even though it has a small design it is heavy-duty. The drill is fast, brushless, and has an ergonomic design.
Pros
- Has a toolkit and case to carry.
- It is water-proof
- Resistant to dust and corrosion.
- Lightweight
Cons
- Battery not included
Features In Detail
- Chuck Size: The drill has an admirable chuck size. Its ½ inch chuck is amazing for easy installation and removal of the bit. The drill can be used for heavy-duty ice cutting. It will produce enough torque to cut through thick snow.
- Portability: The drill is extremely lightweight at 1.99 pounds. It comes with a tool kit and carrying case, making it easier to roam around with. The other parts of the drill will be safe in the toolkit. The carrying case makes a small portable unit for the whole machine.
- Battery: The drill runs on 2 lithium-ion chargers. These are rechargeable and easy to use. They have long battery life and are emission-free. However, the charger and the batteries are not included in the package.
- Speed Transmission: The drill is equipped with a 2-speed transmission. It can work on 0-500 and 0-1700 RPM. The BPM of the drill is 0-7500 and 0-25000.
- Other features: The design is ergonomic and easy to use in small working spaces. The drill comes with 2 LED light systems to make working in the dark easier.
3. Milwaukee Electric Tools 2804-22 Hammer Drill Kit: Best For Convertible Auger
Features
- Chuck Size: 9/10
- Portability: 8.5/10
- Battery: 9/10
- Speed Transmission: 9/10
- Other features: 9/10
Technical Features
- Side Stabilizer Arm: Has a side stabilizer arm to control the drill.
- Weight: 12.8 pounds. Lightweight
- Waterproof: The drill is water-resistant.
- Grip: Has a rubber grip for optimum comfort.
Bottom Line
The Milwaukee drill is one of the best drills for an ice auger. It is heavy-duty and easily portable. It is safe and has no emissions,
Pros
- The drill boasts a very good battery.
- It has amazing torque.
- The speed of the drill is awesome.
- The drill is instrumental against the cold.
Cons
- It can be a bit expensive compared to other drills.
Features In Detail
- Chuck Size: The drill boasts of a ½ inch chuck that produces amazing torque. The chuck is the most important part of the drill. It makes sure the drill is capable of cutting through hard substances. The ½ inch chuck is optimum for heavy use.
- Portability: The drill is lightweight at only 12.8 pounds. It comes with a toolbox. The toolbox makes it compact and small. It is easy to carry for long distances. The drill is perfect to carry on an ice fishing expedition.
- Battery: The drill is powered by lithium-ion batteries. The batteries have a long battery life. The batteries stand out as long-life batteries. They are fast-charging and won’t put a stop to your angling adventures.
- Speed Transmission: The drill comes equipped with a 2-speed transmission. It runs on 0-500 and 0-2000 RPM. It can break through as fast as a gasoline auger. The catch is, that this drill is sustainable and has no emissions.
- Other features: The drill has 3 modes, something which is very unique. You can use it to drive, drill, and hammer drill. It can shake off the cold as well on ice fishing expeditions.
4. Ryobi P1813 Hammer Drill Power Tool Kit: Best For Beginners
Features
- Chuck Size: 9/10
- Portability: 9.5/10
- Battery: 9/10
- Speed Transmission: 9/10
- Other features: 8.5/10
Technical Features
- Side Stabilizer Arm: Has a side stabilizer arm to control the drill
- Weight: 1 pound. Very lightweight
- Waterproof: Yes, the drill is waterproof
- Grip: Comfortable grip.
Bottom Line
The Ryobi Hammer Drill is an extremely easy-to-use drill. It is easy to use for beginners as well. It has a battery life of 4 hours along with fast charging of 30 minutes.
Pros
- It comes with a carrying bag.
- It has three operating modes.
- It comes with an LED light.
Cons
- The drill has low torque compared to other drills.
Features In Detail
- Chuck Size: The drill has an amazing ½ inch chuck. The best chuck size of a drill is ½ inch. Anything smaller won’t be able to cut through thick snow slabs. The chuck size makes it perfect to use as a heavy-duty power drill for ice augers.
- Portability: The machine is small and comes with a toolbox and carrying kit. The drill is lightweight at only 1 pound. It is extremely easy to carry and use. It is the perfect drill to take on angler adventures. It can work in a constricted space as well.
- Battery: The drill runs on two lithium P108 batteries. It also comes with P117 battery chargers. The batteries hold up to plenty of power to last up to four hours. The drill is fast charging and can power up in 30 minutes.
- Speed Transmission: It has a 2-speed transmission. It has 23,000 BPMs and 18,000 RPMs. The speed will not be a hindrance to the smooth functioning of the drill. It has a torque of 750 pounds/inch. These specifications make it an amazing companion for ice-fishing adventures.
- Other features: The drill has a magnetic holder. It makes it easier to attach the parts and fasteners to the drill. It also has an adjustment knob to switch between the ice, wood, plastic, and metal modes.
5. SKIL 20V Cordless Drill Driver: Best Budget
Features
- Chuck Size: 9/10
- Portability: 9.5/10
- Battery: 9/10
- Speed Transmission: 8.5/10
- Other features: 8.8/10
Technical Features
- Side Stabilizer Arm: Has a side stabilizer arm to control the drill.
- Weight: 4.19 pounds. Lightweight
- Waterproof: The drill is waterproof.
- Grip: Comes with a comfortable grip
Bottom Line
The SKIL Cordless Drill Driver is one of the cheaper options available for ice augers. The drill is effective and has great value for money.
Pros
- It comes with a fast charging system.
- It has a very powerful brushless motor.
- It has great value for money.
Cons
- The battery is not capable enough to last for long fishing trips.
Features In Detail
- Chuck Size: The drill has an ½ inch keyless chuck. It helps in easy assembling and dissembling. The chuck is perfect for deep drilling.
- Portability: The drill is lightweight at only 4.19 pounds. It is easy to carry around. The package comes with a toolset and carrying kit, making the drill compact. This way it occupies less space.
- Battery: The drill runs on lithium-ion batteries. The PWR core batteries have an amazing capability of keeping the battery cool even after long uses. The battery holds a battery life of up to 2 hours. A charger is included in the pack which charges up the battery in 1 hour.
- Speed Transmission: The brushless drill has a 2-speed transmission setting. It has a 20V motor that can max out the speed of 1450 RPM. It is great for drilling ice slabs.
- Other features: The drill is one of the cheapest drills out there in the market. At less than 100$ it has a great value for money. This drill is the best for beginners who are trying to get the hang of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
# What kind of drill is best for an ice auger?
A battery-powered cordless drill is best for ice augers In our opinion, the best option is the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Kit, which gives you high performance and is the choice of most regular ice fishers.
# Can you use a drill for ice fishing?
Yes, you can use a drill based auger for ice fishing. Drill based augers are easier to handle since they are lightweight and are more efficient than battery based augers. You can use the drill to create a hole in the ice and fish. Drills are cheaper as well.
# How well do drill-powered ice augers work?
Drill-powered ice augers are very easy to use and make manual work easy. Once you have the right device, it is fairly simply to drill a hole in even thick ice for ice fishing.
Best Power Drill For Ice Augers – My Top 3 Picks
After a lot of research on the internet, I have come up with the best drills for ice augers. I present to you my top 3 picks.
My first pick is DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Kit for its overall performance. It is one of the best all-rounders out in the market.
My second pick is Milwaukee Electric Tools 2804-22 Hammer Drill Kit. It is best suited for all convertible augers. It is very versatile. You can use it on different occasions rather than only for fishing.
My third pick is SKIL 20V Cordless Drill Driver. This drill is the most economical option present out there. It is great for beginners who want to get the hang of using the drill.
