Ice Auger Question

Post by **-Smitty-** » Tue Oct 17, 2006 11:45 pm

i'm looking to buy an ice auger...and from what i've read people recommend the 6 inch size.

i'm just wondering about the folding normark style sold at canadian tire. having a folding auger would make sense for me because i dont have a snow machine, but are they a liability as far as reliability and strength are concerned??

any suggestions welcome...

Great board by the way...seems like a great fishing community that i've stumbled upon.

Smitty

Post by **Badger Shark** » Wed Oct 18, 2006 12:23 am

Hey Smitty welcome to FH. I dont really know much about augers but I am sure you will get alot of input from this site especially on ice fishing. Joco and Tip-up...... The are crazy about the hard water. Look forward to reading some reports. Take care

Post by **getnjiggywithit** » Wed Oct 18, 2006 7:38 am

When you go to CT you will notice that there will 2 types of augers both will be normarks but one will be a little more money as far as manual augers go... If I were you i'd pay a little more and get the better one

six inch is all you want anything bigger and your arms&shoulders will be getting sore fast...

Post by **almontefisher** » Wed Oct 18, 2006 11:28 am

I would have to agree but disagree on hole size. The first question is what are you fishing for...I had a 6" auger but recently purchased a 8"...I found that the 8" allows for more control over the fish and it's size. I also found that it is no difference cutting holes with either size. The fold up ones are good but as they ice over you may have a hard time unfolding or even re assembling them. You will want to sharpen the blades or replace them about once a year for easy arm/shoulder work or if you like a good workout never sharpen it. Another thought is length. Some winters like this year I had to drill 36+" thru the ice to hit water. Now I have purchased a gas power auger and hope that I will have some strength to bring in the big one this year. Always cover your holes when done with snow and make sure they are flat...As a fellow ski-dooer I have hit my share of holes and it can toss you pretty good if not expecting it. As well always mark your holes with a twig or something to draw attention to it.

Post by **Grimace** » Thu Oct 19, 2006 8:36 am

Keep the blades sharp. when they get dull it is like trying to drill a hole with your fist.

I have a question myself. I am on the market for a gas auger. kinda scared that i might end up buing a cruddy one, any suggestions.