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Canada => Ice Fishing Alberta CA => Topic started by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Jan 21, 2019, 06:05 PM

Title: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Jan 21, 2019, 06:05 PM
 I've only ever owned a jiffy model 30,every year I keep saying that when it dies i will get a new gas auger or possibly an ION unit. The problem is that this jiffy just won't die. Yes it stinks and its heavy/loud but it will start every time guaranteed.Even when a bunch of us go and everyone has new augers I bring mine because I know it will start.

 So I'm just wondering if others would like to share their good and bad auger experiences,no one wants to buy a junky one.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 21, 2019, 06:24 PM
I have a 1999 Jiffy Model 30 also and it is a sure start every time.  Last night I was told I should be getting rid of my "old junk auger" by a guy who has 4 newer augers, 1 gas, 1 propane and 2 electric.  He carriers all 4 because "just don't know which will work when I get there". 
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Jan 21, 2019, 06:37 PM
nice,I am in the same boat,I just can't believe that a new one will be more reliable.mine is probably 16-17yrs old.They are not the fastest or lightest but I know it will start.I would like to upgrade to a lighter unit and am waiting to read some reviews before I go and buy another.It sure seems there is a lot of yellow jiffies for sale.is it because they sell way more or are they junk?I have heard the propane units are junk when its real cold and if I get a new ION to get the newer one with reverse and because the gear box is better.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: KenH on Jan 21, 2019, 08:26 PM
take a look at the strikemaster 40V, I think you will be impressed cuts well
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 21, 2019, 11:32 PM
I know a few people who bought the electric augers when they first came out.  It was all the rage.  They have gone thru them and even more since then.  Some people went back to the gas augers, new and improved.  Then they got rid of those and got other brands or what ever famous comes out next.  At $300 to $500 a pop each time, or the ION X8 for $640.  I'll stick with mine that cost $145 new in 1999.

I am more into the durability and reliability than flash and fast.  I'm not racing anyone.  I still use the original blades, I had bought new ones but they only lasted to the first rock.  The original blades just need tuning each season to polish the oxidation off.  Razor sharp.

A young guy went out with me a couple of years ago and I tried his new Eskimo or something.  Sure had some drilling power but he paid close to $550 for it and now he is looking for a new one since this one is obsolete.... and is getting old?  Wonder what he thinks about me....being old guy.  To each his own.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: eyeflyer on Jan 22, 2019, 12:09 AM
Probably always be gas auger around but almost every manufacturer if not all sell an electric auger now And now with all the drill augers the electrics will be everywhere soon. No issues like all small gas engines have, and starting problems and stink 100% gone. Many say electrics are no good for remote lakes with no power but small generators which a lot of people already take care of that problem. I guess you could argue that if you are going to take a gas generator you might as well take a gas auger, but the starting, carrying gas can still be a bit of PIA.

I bought an ION electric a few years ago, still have the old Jiffy (son uses it a bit) but I can't be bothered with it especially in the ice shack. The electric so far has been completely trouble free and NO starting problems  :clap:
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shrubs on Jan 22, 2019, 09:59 AM
I'm a Strikemaster fan, all I've ever owned and nothings even come close to making me want to change.  Have tried drilling with other styles of augers between chippers and shavers and favour the strikemaster by a large margin. Fast, light, easy cutting.
     I don't have tonne of experience with electric but from what I've seen the lithium 40v would be the one to look at.  I've seen the ions in action when the ice gets thick and wasn't impressed at all to be honest.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: TylerThomson on Jan 22, 2019, 10:20 AM
I have been running a strike master lithium for 4 years now.   Never let me down.   Punched over 40 holes on one charge a couple weeks ago.   If you are going to remote lakes I doubt you are walking there so grab an inverter and you can charge on the go.   I'll never go back to a gas auger.   I got 5 holes drilled before most guys have there auger warmed up.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: ice dawg on Jan 22, 2019, 10:37 AM
I have had four power augers from 1979 until now. The first was a 2 hp Eskimo which blew the engine while drilling somewhere around the twentieth hole. Next was a 3 hp Jiffy which lasted many years until I traded it on a 2 hp Jiffy Stealth which I gave to my son about six years ago  when I bought my Strikemaster/Honda which has been a great auger.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: deer george on Jan 22, 2019, 10:55 AM
I have a gas powered jiffy model 30 I got for Christmas in 1969 it still starts with no more than 2 pulls, I have since gone to battery power 4 yrs. ago but still carry my old jiffy just in case, I know that's crazy but it's like taking along an old friend I guess I know I can rely on it ....
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: maddogg on Jan 22, 2019, 10:59 AM
Bought my Jiffy 30 in 1968 still going strong.Guys go to a gym for exercise I go ice fishing.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: dbike988 on Jan 22, 2019, 11:09 AM
Eskimo Propane has been great, starts 1-2 pulls whether it sits for an hour or 6 months.  Blades last a few years usually, with a lot of drilling.  Only maintenance is changing the oil occasionally. 
Alternately, my ION has been a great machine that I love to use whenever you plan to be on the move often.  Folks have complained about batteries in the cold, well my Striker suit has a nice pocket inside the coat where the battery sits nicely and haven't had any problems.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Jan 23, 2019, 11:58 AM
 I sent out a group text to my friends and  they are all opver the map.

ION: no good when the battery is cold,get the newer model because it has a better gear case,40v and reverse but slower drilling.

JIFFY: too much plastic

Strikemaster: "one guy" very fast and light

DRILL OPTION/AUGER: you must get a high torque high ah rated drill.The drill battery will wear out after 2-3 yrs if you use it for other things.


PROPANE: propane gelling issue in the cold ,runs clean good power

I wish one of the big box stores would have somewhere to try these out prior to purchasing them.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: NateD on Jan 23, 2019, 12:31 PM
DRILL OPTION/AUGER: you must get a high torque high ah rated drill.The drill battery will wear out after 2-3 yrs if you use it for other things.

I guess maybe if you use it a ton, but my batteries seem like day 1 after 3 years and I use them occasionally throughout the summer.

Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Jan 23, 2019, 12:53 PM
Strike master with the Honda motor.

Shackless has the new  K auger that you run with a cordless drill.  Weighs nothing and drills like crazy, I am just not quite sure how the drill will hold up with all the torque required to turn the auger.  But a wicked drilling machine for sure.

Only downside I see is the price 400 plus another 4 if you buy the decent recommended Milwauki (sp) drill.  For that money I will stick with my Strike Master but the older I get the more tempting that K drill is .  I mean 5 lbs. vs.25  wow

Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: NateD on Jan 23, 2019, 01:22 PM
Strike master with the Honda motor.

Shackless has the new  K auger that you run with a cordless drill.  Weighs nothing and drills like crazy, I am just not quite sure how the drill will hold up with all the torque required to turn the auger.  But a wicked drilling machine for sure.

Only downside I see is the price 400 plus another 4 if you buy the decent recommended Milwauki (sp) drill.  For that money I will stick with my Strike Master but the older I get the more tempting that K drill is .  I mean 5 lbs. vs.25  wow

K drill is 2-250, and a drill can be had for right around the same.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: kayl on Jan 23, 2019, 01:47 PM
DRILL OPTION/AUGER: you must get a high torque high ah rated drill.The drill battery will wear out after 2-3 yrs if you use it for other things.

Which is why the 9aH Ridgid with the lifetime service agreement is such a good buy. You can get a 1300in/# hammer drill, 9aH battery, and charger all with lifetime service agreements for $200+ tax.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Jan 25, 2019, 11:16 AM
K drill is 2-250, and a drill can be had for right around the same.

Quite a deal last I looked they were 449 at Cabella
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: NateD on Jan 25, 2019, 12:06 PM
Quite a deal last I looked they were 449 at Cabella

A k-drill? They have never been that high, maybe you saw the combo that includes a milwaukee drill.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: dcmod25 on Jan 25, 2019, 12:17 PM
Strike master with the Honda motor.

Shackless has the new  K auger that you run with a cordless drill.  Weighs nothing and drills like crazy, I am just not quite sure how the drill will hold up with all the torque required to turn the auger.  But a wicked drilling machine for sure.

Only downside I see is the price 400 plus another 4 if you buy the decent recommended Milwauki (sp) drill.  For that money I will stick with my Strike Master but the older I get the more tempting that K drill is .  I mean 5 lbs. vs.25  wow

i run a k-drill with dewalt drill for early ice then run the k-drill on my stikemaster solo 142 power head when the ice gets over 12". i run my k-drill\strikemaster set up against a friends k-drill\dewalt the other day through 15" of ice and mine was faster by over 1 second. my k-drill\ strikemaster set up weighs around 19lbs.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: NateD on Jan 25, 2019, 12:27 PM
i run a k-drill with dewalt drill for early ice then run the k-drill on my stikemaster solo 142 power head when the ice gets over 12". i run my k-drill\strikemaster set up against a friends k-drill\dewalt the other day through 15" of ice and mine was faster by over 1 second. my k-drill\ strikemaster set up weighs around 19lbs.

I better get a gas auger head to save me that second then. This past weekend I cut 30 or so holes through 15-17 inches of ice in a day with 2 5ah batteries, and the second battery wasn't dead yet.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: dcmod25 on Jan 25, 2019, 12:34 PM
I better get a gas auger head to save me that second then. This past weekend I cut 30 or so holes through 15-17 inches of ice in a day with 2 5ah batteries, and the second battery wasn't dead yet.

only 30 holes? what are you going to do when your 2 batteries are dead? was not saying anything bad about the drill set up, was just giving another option for the k-drill. As you can see  in my original post i run a drill set up also just like my gas with the k-drill better during thicker ice as i dont have to worry about keeping batteries warm or carrying extras. just another option since he has a strikemaster already and the k-drill on it makes it alot lighter option
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: NateD on Jan 25, 2019, 12:58 PM
only 30 holes? what are you going to do when your 2 batteries are dead? was not saying anything bad about the drill set up, was just giving another option for the k-drill. As you can see  in my original post i run a drill set up also just like my gas with the k-drill better during thicker ice as i dont have to worry about keeping batteries warm or carrying extras. just another option since he has a strikemaster already and the k-drill on it makes it alot lighter option

That was throughout the entire day, and that was all I needed, I've never had both batteries die yet, but I see what you mean now. You implied the gas was better in thick ice because it was an entire 1 second faster, If you like the gas better to not have to worry about batteries that makes sense.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Remps17 on Jan 25, 2019, 01:10 PM
Had the jiffy propane auger for maybe 3 seasons maybe 4. I didn't like the ripper blades at all, hard to sharpen compared to the shavers and I found the metal really soft. My carb failed on me so I spend 100 bucks to get if fixed, unfortunately it didn't help much. My propane regulator went next and that was the last straw for me.

Ended up buying a second hand ion for cheap to get me through a couple more seasons before I bite the bullet and buy a new auger. I fish mainly pike so a 10 inch hole is sure nice to have. seen electrics die out real quick with a 10 inch flight and 3 feet of ice.

Not sure what the next auger is but it will be gas for me.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: RyanW on Jan 25, 2019, 01:14 PM
My Milwaukee Fuel starts on the first pull every time......   ;D
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 25, 2019, 01:22 PM
Had the jiffy propane auger for maybe 3 seasons maybe 4. I didn't like the ripper blades at all, hard to sharpen compared to the shavers and I found the metal really soft. My carb failed on me so I spend 100 bucks to get if fixed, unfortunately it didn't help much. My propane regulator went next and that was the last straw for me.

Ended up buying a second hand ion for cheap to get me through a couple more seasons before I bite the bullet and buy a new auger. I fish mainly pike so a 10 inch hole is sure nice to have. seen electrics die out real quick with a 10 inch flight and 3 feet of ice.

Not sure what the next auger is but it will be gas for me.

Bummer. :(   Merle Haggard song comes to mind but only "make a Jiffy and Shanty still last 20 years like they should"
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: dcmod25 on Jan 25, 2019, 01:25 PM
That was throughout the entire day, and that was all I needed, I've never had both batteries die yet, but I see what you mean now. You implied the gas was better in thick ice because it was an entire 1 second faster, If you like the gas better to not have to worry about batteries that makes sense.

i run and gun alot and fish outside 99% of the time so it is nothing for me to drill 100 holes a day thats why i run the gas power head. i can usually get around 120 holes through 18" of ice pwer tank. it would take my 2 5 amp and one of my 6 amp batteries to get that many holes with my drill set up. its just another option for people with a strikemaster power head. the k-drill bolts right up to it with no adapter needed. good luck and tight lines
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 25, 2019, 01:32 PM
100 holes a day is a lot.  In an 8 hour day, that's about 12.5 holes per hour.  So on average, how many minutes do you spend in a hole?  Just curious.

My high run and gun day is 4 holes every 3 hours or so.  Maybe I'm too relaxed.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: NateD on Jan 25, 2019, 01:59 PM
i run and gun alot and fish outside 99% of the time so it is nothing for me to drill 100 holes a day thats why i run the gas power head. i can usually get around 120 holes through 18" of ice pwer tank. it would take my 2 5 amp and one of my 6 amp batteries to get that many holes with my drill set up. its just another option for people with a strikemaster power head. the k-drill bolts right up to it with no adapter needed. good luck and tight lines

Me too except I'm outside 100% of the time, but I like work an area and fish my holes. Just different styles, I don't think I'll ever need 100 holes in a day.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 25, 2019, 02:27 PM
If i had to drill 100 holes to catch a fishy, I'm on the wrong lake.  It's not like I'm under pressure to provide food or anything.  I just go out to find a place to fish and fall down a few times is all.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: dcmod25 on Jan 25, 2019, 02:27 PM
100 holes a day is a lot.  In an 8 hour day, that's about 12.5 holes per hour.  So on average, how many minutes do you spend in a hole?  Just curious.

My high run and gun day is 4 holes every 3 hours or so.  Maybe I'm too relaxed.

I usually drill 15 to 20 holes at each stop i make before i even start fishing. If i"m with another person one of us drills and the other checks the holes with a vex until we get on the fish. Depends on the species i"m fishing for but most of the time if i don't mark a fish in a minute or less i'm on to the next hole. Some holes i just check with the vex and move on if there is nothing marked. Granted its not every day i drill that many but there are day i do to stay on the active fish. If i mark fish and they are hesitant to bite i will also move on and look for active fish. More than once we have put 600+ fish (Yellow Bass) on the ice in a day. A few of these times have been in a 5 hour time frame. Granted if i'm walleye fishing the hole count is less
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 25, 2019, 02:37 PM
Wow.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Jan 25, 2019, 03:45 PM
A k-drill? They have never been that high, maybe you saw the combo that includes a milwaukee drill.
  Just left Cabella Calgary this aft.  K Drill  sale  $369  Right next to an eskimo 8 two stroker for 359
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 25, 2019, 03:49 PM
Need a coin flip, heads or tails. ;D
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: NateD on Jan 25, 2019, 04:00 PM
  Just left Cabella Calgary this aft.  K Drill  sale  $369  Right next to an eskimo 8 two stroker for 359
Much different than our cabelas, on sale for 187.49
https://www.cabelas.com/product/K-DRILL/2131998.uts
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Jan 26, 2019, 06:37 PM
Much different than our cabelas, on sale for 187.49
https://www.cabelas.com/product/K-DRILL/2131998.uts
  And that is the sad part about it. US funds but still quite a bit lower than we have to pay in Canada.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Jan 26, 2019, 06:40 PM
I usually drill 15 to 20 holes at each stop i make before i even start fishing. If i"m with another person one of us drills and the other checks the holes with a vex until we get on the fish. Depends on the species i"m fishing for but most of the time if i don't mark a fish in a minute or less i'm on to the next hole. Some holes i just check with the vex and move on if there is nothing marked. Granted its not every day i drill that many but there are day i do to stay on the active fish. If i mark fish and they are hesitant to bite i will also move on and look for active fish. More than once we have put 600+ fish (Yellow Bass) on the ice in a day. A few of these times have been in a 5 hour time frame. Granted if i'm walleye fishing the hole count is less

600!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   WOW     Would I love to see a pic of that.  Is there no limits down your way?
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 26, 2019, 07:16 PM
600!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   WOW     Would I love to see a pic of that.  Is there no limits down your way?

That's what I thought.  Then I wondered if each yellow bass is 1.5 lbs average which would be 900 lbs, how many trips to get them off the ice?  Then cleaning them, cooking them, eating them, and getting rid of bone and guts.  WOW.  Don't wanna fish with that guy.  To much work.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Jan 27, 2019, 10:20 AM
That's what I thought.  Then I wondered if each yellow bass is 1.5 lbs average which would be 900 lbs, how many trips to get them off the ice?  Then cleaning them, cooking them, eating them, and getting rid of bone and guts.  WOW.  Don't wanna fish with that guy.  To much work.
  What's not to believe,  I mean 600 with a weight as you figure at least 600lbs.  WOW

As the plate in my garage says

FISH STORIES SPOKEN HERE ;D
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Jan 27, 2019, 10:29 AM
I once pawed out 20 holes, with my bare hands, one morning when I forgot my auger.  It was March 12 and the ice was 32 inches.  Landed about 463 whites but only kept my limit of 10.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 27, 2019, 11:59 AM
I once pawed out 20 holes, with my bare hands, one morning when I forgot my auger.  It was March 12 and the ice was 32 inches.  Landed about 463 whites but only kept my limit of 10.

WOW!  Your hands are tougher than mine used to be.  I use to make ornamental iron cravings with my thumb nails.  I chipped a tooth once twisting the flat bar with my teeth.  Lesson learned there LOL.   :roflmao:
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Jan 27, 2019, 12:22 PM
 The reviews on the honda/strikemaster four stroke are mixed but the bad stories are very bad,mostly build quality,oil leaking into carb and engine,. Also hard starting in the cold.the non metallic gear case sounds a lil weak.

Everyone seems to love the strikemaster 40 or 50v units.I may consider the 10",any reviews with the 10"?
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Newman on Jan 27, 2019, 12:49 PM
Have a jiffy 30 10 inch for years. Love it but I’m getting old. 37lbs to log around plus leaky gas now and then. This year got a 8 inch pistol bit with clam plate. Had the dewalt drill already. I love it. Cuts good, battery life good and only 13lbs. !! Giving a good test now as pushing 20 plus inches of ice. Still all good. Will see in March might have to pull jiffy back out?

                Newman
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Jan 27, 2019, 01:31 PM
Have a jiffy 30 10 inch for years. Love it but I’m getting old. 37lbs to log around plus leaky gas now and then. This year got a 8 inch pistol bit with clam plate. Had the dewalt drill already. I love it. Cuts good, battery life good and only 13lbs. !! Giving a good test now as pushing 20 plus inches of ice. Still all good. Will see in March might have to pull jiffy back out?

                Newman

I'm in the same boat but with the Strikemaster 40v 10 inch.  First year, so far so good.  I have the gas as March backup.  I don't think I'll need the gas but I'll put the electric to the test.

I have a flip over style shelter and on long distance trips with the skidoo I will put auger in the sled.  So nice not having to smell gas.  Need to make in insulated box for the batteries as they really do not perform if left out in below -10.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Jan 27, 2019, 02:05 PM
 I mostly travel to lakes with truck access so keeping the battery warm shouldn't be an issue,if we sled in i might figure out a way to store it under the hood. Or maybe in a pocket with a hotshot hand warmer.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shrubs on Jan 27, 2019, 02:16 PM
I'm in the same boat but with the Strikemaster 40v 10 inch.  First year, so far so good.  I have the gas as March backup.  I don't think I'll need the gas but I'll put the electric to the test.

I have a flip over style shelter and on long distance trips with the skidoo I will put auger in the sled.  So nice not having to smell gas.  Need to make in insulated box for the batteries as they really do not perform if left out in below -10.

Interested to hear a report on how it does later in the season, haven't seen much out there demonstrating the 10" in the 3' plus ice conditions.  Last winter would have been a good test, most ice I've seen in a long time.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: dcmod25 on Jan 28, 2019, 01:13 PM
600!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   WOW     Would I love to see a pic of that.  Is there no limits down your way?

Yellow bass are considered an invasive species here and there is no limit. the can easily over run a lake with the way they reproduce. the 600, 641 to be exact, yellow bass were caught during a most fish wins tourney, it was 2 years ago and is on a facebook page of the tournament. . if i say what the page is this post will likely be deleted. just have to google yellow bass tournament five island lake in iowa. if we wouldnt have caught them, i would have had a hard time believing it myself. since the first year of the tournament they have changed the rules to only weigh in 30 fish but can keep as may as you want and is suggested to keep all yellow bass caught. they are good eating but i do not clean them all. we dispose of them in a coyote pile that we have.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Jan 29, 2019, 11:30 AM
The reviews on the honda/strikemaster four stroke are mixed but the bad stories are very bad,mostly build quality,oil leaking into carb and engine,. Also hard starting in the cold.the non metallic gear case sounds a lil weak.

Everyone seems to love the strikemaster 40 or 50v units.I may consider the 10",any reviews with the 10"?

That is a load of bunk for sure,  Honda has never had a second of issues with their motor.  Had mine for 5 yrs now and never had an oil leak into the carb. Maybe the old soho motors but never on my honda. 
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Buckshots on Jan 29, 2019, 11:41 AM
That is a load of bunk for sure,  Honda has never had a second of issues with their motor.  Had mine for 5 yrs now and never had an oil leak into the carb. Maybe the old soho motors but never on my honda.
I know plenty of people here who had issues with the Honda four stroke when they were released. One guy I know even had received three replacements before saying screw it and switching augers. So it’s not a load of bunk.

I got a new Strikemaster Solo when they first came out, how ever many years ago that was. I’ve never had an issue with it other than the recoil issue. Still starts and runs like a bat out of hell.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 29, 2019, 11:55 AM
Turns into a battle over the Honda LOL.   :roflmao:
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Jan 30, 2019, 06:31 PM
review on the eskimo mako 43 cc ,10"

i borrowed this auger today from a friend and wow!!!! Super nice auger with exc torque  ,exc power and drills very fast with minimal pressure on it.My favorite part is how it cuts through the bottom of the ice without even knowing your there.2 pulls from last yrs use with the hyper coil and it just screams but is way quieter then my 19 yr old jiffy model 30. This is a contender for sure!!
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Jan 30, 2019, 06:53 PM
That's why I don't like trying the new stuff, I'd go broke.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: madatter on Jan 30, 2019, 07:20 PM
Ive always been a gas auger guy.....Jiffy 30 for alot of years,then moved on to the Eskimo Z71.
Its been ok but this year its starting to annoy me.
I dont need to drill a 100 holes a day....the next auger I get is gonna be an electric,probably an Ion.
I am at a point in my life where I wanna get to lake and fish,and not worry about auger starting.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: KenH on Jan 30, 2019, 07:30 PM
Interested to hear a report on how it does later in the season, haven't seen much out there demonstrating the 10" in the 3' plus ice conditions.  Last winter would have been a good test, most ice I've seen in a long time.

Used mine in that kind of ice last year and there were no issues,
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Jan 30, 2019, 11:06 PM
i bet the new eskimo m51 ,51 cc would be a beast,the only prob i have heard with the esks is the hyper coil breaking,the one I borrowed had a replacement,3 yrs old.They are $40
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: calgary-john on Jan 31, 2019, 11:51 PM
I wanted to get an ion, 3 of them. Used the new xmodel 8” when it came out, absolute garbage. I would not buy one and I would go out of my way at the store to tell someone not to buy one.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shrubs on Feb 01, 2019, 09:10 PM
Used mine in that kind of ice last year and there were no issues,

     How many holes to you figure you could get out of a ten inch?

     I'm not against electrics at all and wouldn't mind getting a strikemaster powerhead to mount on my 8 and 10" augers but right now I see it as more as a novelty item for me anyways.  I think it gets a little over stated as to the simplicity of an electric auger compared to a gas.  I get it, you go out and press a button and it drills.  That is great, but it's not hard to go and pull on a gas auger a couple of times until it starts either.  My old lazer mag still runs after 17 years and it drills through 6" or 46" of ice all the same.  Did a set of diaphragms at one point but it's never left me not fishing.  Have the pro lazer now and I kind of feel bad for the ice to be honest, it doesn't care how much or how long.  I just put gas in it.  With all the electronics a guy carries around nowadays with a family of fishers it's one last thing to worry about and charge at the end of the day.  Put it in the shed and forget about it.

   
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Feb 01, 2019, 09:23 PM
     How many holes to you figure you could get out of a ten inch?

     I'm not against electrics at all and wouldn't mind getting a strikemaster powerhead to mount on my 8 and 10" augers but right now I see it as more as a novelty item for me anyways.  I think it gets a little over stated as to the simplicity of an electric auger compared to a gas.  I get it, you go out and press a button and it drills.  That is great, but it's not hard to go and pull on a gas auger a couple of times until it starts either.  My old lazer mag still runs after 17 years and it drills through 6" or 46" of ice all the same.  Did a set of diaphragms at one point but it's never left me not fishing.  Have the pro lazer now and I kind of feel bad for the ice to be honest, it doesn't care how much or how long.  I just put gas in it.  With all the electronics a guy carries around nowadays with a family of fishers it's one last thing to worry about and charge at the end of the day.  Put it in the shed and forget about it.



Well said by someone that has never owned one  ;)
I don't know of anyone that made the switch and wanted to go back.  Me included.  No warm up no mess.  Instant hole.  I've drilled as many as 25 holes in a day and still on 2 ticks on one battery.  It really cannot be more simple.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Feb 02, 2019, 12:05 AM
Really think the elec augers have come a long was since the first ions,to be honest I wasn't blown away by a friends ion when he bought it new several yrs ago but the strikemaster 40v is sure looking good.I chatted with a guy who ownsm the SM 40v and said his battery was done after sitting a yr and you are suppose to charge them often ,even when not in use.

The thing I like is the no gas smell,the wife always says,you wreak like gas after I return home from fishing,I didn't even eat beans either.I am planning a new ice shack and want to build it to sleep 2 min,I can't imagine climbing into a bed that has been gassed a 100 times from an auger.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Feb 02, 2019, 10:17 AM
As far as I'm concerned, the argument ender:

https://youtu.be/1qlnSbagaak (https://youtu.be/1qlnSbagaak)

Give at least the part where Aaron uses the SM40 in -37C.  End of story.

By the way, Aaron on Uncut really is the best.  I just watched the entire video.  It is a new one.  And, I think I need to arrange for an ice fishing day on Aaron's level. Crazy amount of equipment but really a different way to spend an ice fishing day.  On a cold weekend like this, gets me warmed up and thinking about heading out....almost haha.  Enjoy!
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: TylerThomson on Feb 03, 2019, 11:39 PM
Really think the elec augers have come a long was since the first ions,to be honest I wasn't blown away by a friends ion when he bought it new several yrs ago but the strikemaster 40v is sure looking good.I chatted with a guy who ownsm the SM 40v and said his battery was done after sitting a yr and you are suppose to charge them often ,even when not in use.

The thing I like is the no gas smell,the wife always says,you wreak like gas after I return home from fishing,I didn't even eat beans either.I am planning a new ice shack and want to build it to sleep 2 min,I can't imagine climbing into a bed that has been gassed a 100 times from an auger.

Well if your friend had read the instructions on the auger he would know not to store the battery with a full charge,   this isn't a lead acid battery.   There is a reason consumer electronics that come with lithium batteries come with only half or so a charge.   Never charge a lithium battery that isn't in use,  never use a dumb charger on the battery,  in general forget everything you thought you knew about batteries of your only experience is with lead acid.

Like I said earlier I'm on my 4th year with my lithium lazer, no noticeable decline in performance with the battery and if there ever is these packs are easy to rebuild and much cheaper than buying a new battery.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shrubs on Feb 04, 2019, 10:50 AM
Well said by someone that has never owned one  ;)
I don't know of anyone that made the switch and wanted to go back.  Me included.  No warm up no mess.  Instant hole.  I've drilled as many as 25 holes in a day and still on 2 ticks on one battery.  It really cannot be more simple.



 
As far as I'm concerned, the argument ender:

https://youtu.be/1qlnSbagaak (https://youtu.be/1qlnSbagaak)

Give at least the part where Aaron uses the SM40 in -37C.  End of story.

By the way, Aaron on Uncut really is the best.  I just watched the entire video.  It is a new one.  And, I think I need to arrange for an ice fishing day on Aaron's level. Crazy amount of equipment but really a different way to spend an ice fishing day.  On a cold weekend like this, gets me warmed up and thinking about heading out....almost haha.  Enjoy!

           Oh I came close to getting one when it was time to look at something newer in a ten inch and have no regrets the route I went.  If you read my post you would have seen where I said I wouldn't mind getting an electric down the road but there is still times on certain trips I knew I would prefer a gas.  That was end of story for me but not everyone is the same and there is a reason the electrics are selling so well.  It would have to be the strikemaster though.  One, it would fit the current flighting and two, I had an opportunity to try the ion ten inch again the other day and that just would not do in the late season where your putting an extension on.  Even right now, with less ice, and your used to a fast auger it's hard to see the benefit in one that's maybe half as fast.

           I like Uncut's Videos and catch them pretty quick when they come out, and this isn't the first one where he praises the electric.  But the thing is it's not an "end of story" or "argument ender" because the argument is only there if you want to make it one.  It's a more a matter of personal preference and thinking for yourself.  There's been points brought up for why one might want to get one or the other.  I know I'm happy, you and others with new electrics appear happy.  Good stuff. 

           



     
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Feb 04, 2019, 10:58 AM
I didn't watch but the first 6 seconds.  When a fish vid starts off with something of a horse on head on a guy in a sleeping bag like that, just not my style.  Hard to take the vid serious. 
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Feb 04, 2019, 01:10 PM


 
           Oh I came close to getting one when it was time to look at something newer in a ten inch and have no regrets the route I went.  If you read my post you would have seen where I said I wouldn't mind getting an electric down the road but there is still times on certain trips I knew I would prefer a gas.  That was end of story for me but not everyone is the same and there is a reason the electrics are selling so well.  It would have to be the strikemaster though.  One, it would fit the current flighting and two, I had an opportunity to try the ion ten inch again the other day and that just would not do in the late season where your putting an extension on.  Even right now, with less ice, and your used to a fast auger it's hard to see the benefit in one that's maybe half as fast.

           I like Uncut's Videos and catch them pretty quick when they come out, and this isn't the first one where he praises the electric.  But the thing is it's not an "end of story" or "argument ender" because the argument is only there if you want to make it one.  It's a more a matter of personal preference and thinking for yourself.  There's been points brought up for why one might want to get one or the other.  I know I'm happy, you and others with new electrics appear happy.  Good stuff. 

           



   

For sure.  All good.  I've seen Aaron use it late season in over 3 feet of ice.  Looks pretty much as fast as any other 10 inch I've used.   I'm converted. :)
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Feb 04, 2019, 01:14 PM
I didn't watch but the first 6 seconds.  When a fish vid starts off with something of a horse on head on a guy in a sleeping bag like that, just not my style.  Hard to take the vid serious.

Your loss.   
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: NateD on Feb 04, 2019, 01:30 PM
I didn't watch but the first 6 seconds.  When a fish vid starts off with something of a horse on head on a guy in a sleeping bag like that, just not my style.  Hard to take the vid serious.

Maybe skip ahead then, some pretty amazing fishing after that.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: TylerThomson on Feb 04, 2019, 02:50 PM
I didn't watch but the first 6 seconds.  When a fish vid starts off with something of a horse on head on a guy in a sleeping bag like that, just not my style.  Hard to take the vid serious.

You really wouldn't like that new fangled rock music that's out now then either,  I think it's called the beetles or some such.   

Lighten up, the guy puts out amazing content and likes to have some fun.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Feb 04, 2019, 03:17 PM
Just not for me. 
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Feb 04, 2019, 04:20 PM





NOW THIS IS DUMB!

He does put to bed the speculation that an elec auger won't run in the cold though.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Feb 04, 2019, 04:37 PM
Did not even click on it.  If you start allowing and accepting this kind of stuff, that is what it will evolve into for the future.  Starts off simple and not so offensive then it turns dumber, vile and gross.  Other vid makers will see that those got more up votes or more clicks and will follow suit.

Promote and endorse this junk if you like.  I won't.

Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: kayl on Feb 04, 2019, 05:11 PM
Again, your loss. In my opinion he's got the highest quality fishing videos on YouTube for educational content. He's a little goofy, but it works for him. Try these two videos and tell me that they aren't great content:



Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Feb 04, 2019, 05:12 PM
Did not even click on it.  If you start allowing and accepting this kind of stuff, that is what it will evolve into for the future.  Starts off simple and not so offensive then it turns dumber, vile and gross.  Other vid makers will see that those got more up votes or more clicks and will follow suit.

Promote and endorse this junk if you like.  I won't.

LOL!!!!!
I wonder what you think of Marilyn Manson...  ::)
How about some King Diamond on vinyl  ;D

Anyways, how about them augers gents!  Aren't they great.  And, they are not the tools of the devil as others might think.  We are only drilling through ice and not straight into the pits of hell.  Though I remember reading something about when hell freezers over...or something like this.
 
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Feb 04, 2019, 05:13 PM
Again, your loss. In my opinion he's got the highest quality fishing videos on YouTube for educational content. He's a little goofy, but it works for him. Try these two videos and tell me that they aren't great content:


Amen!
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Feb 04, 2019, 05:14 PM
You guys!  I'm such a square, huh?
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Quantoson on Feb 04, 2019, 05:39 PM
LOL!!!!!
I wonder what you think of Marilyn Manson...  ::)
How about some King Diamond on vinyl  ;D

Anyways, how about them augers gents!  Aren't they great.  And, they are not the tools of the devil as others might think.  We are only drilling through ice and not straight into the pits of hell.  Though I remember reading something about when hell freezers over...or something like this.
 

Holy mackerel!  I just Google those two. 

Yeah those augers are great.  Holy Mackerel tho!

I get pretty wild too.  Check the pic out.  With real Rum guys!

Then my hot sauce.  Drool yourself.  I made those labels myself.  I know it looks totally pro, but that's how I roll.



(https://i.postimg.cc/nsdh5jzp/SAM-1974.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/nsdh5jzp)


(https://i.postimg.cc/d7hbsL6q/SAM-1874.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/d7hbsL6q)
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Feb 04, 2019, 06:21 PM
 I tracked down a  Strikemaster 40v ,it seems everyone is sold out? I will give my opinion of it when I can but a quick google search will put you onto endless vids praising this unit.As I mentioned in other posts I tried a friends 43cc eskimo 10" mako and loved it so we will see how it cuts in comparison.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: HARRYFISHBALLS on Feb 04, 2019, 06:23 PM
 there isn't much love for the newer jiffys that's for sure
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Feb 06, 2019, 09:53 AM
I tracked down a  Strikemaster 40v ,it seems everyone is sold out? I will give my opinion of it when I can but a quick google search will put you onto endless vids praising this unit.As I mentioned in other posts I tried a friends 43cc eskimo 10" mako and loved it so we will see how it cuts in comparison.

Saw one at Bass on Monday,  also I think they had one at Can Tire in the Deerfoot mall.  Worth a few phone calls to find out
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: calgary-john on Feb 08, 2019, 10:23 PM
I didn't watch but the first 6 seconds.  When a fish vid starts off with something of a horse on head on a guy in a sleeping bag like that, just not my style.  Hard to take the vid serious.

Do yourself a favour and watch his videos
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Brandon on Feb 08, 2019, 11:28 PM


Ok so we bought this ice Auger and I am under no sort of arrangement with Rapala or Strikemaster at the time.  What you see is what you get and my absolutely shocked and honest opinion of this new electric ice auger.  I really was hesitant about the products and still the only thing I can see that may be an issue is the battery life.  But if you have spare batteries it is like having extra gas, so drill away.  At some point I'll to a max hole drill test.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Feb 09, 2019, 08:26 AM
Nice vid Brandon! 
Was that 8 or 10 inch?
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: albertaboy on Feb 11, 2019, 10:08 AM
Really enjoyed the whitefish video. I noticed the whitefish behaviour of biting the swivel on Gull lake bout 5 years ago and decided to tie wireworms above my bell. Success.  Albertaboy
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: #1fisherman on Feb 14, 2019, 10:30 PM
Im a huge fan of electric everything!  Unfortunatly the price has gotten out of hand. That being said i did drop a grand to get a husquvarna a few years back(10). Best money ive ever spent. Quiet, reliable, no fumes , can carry the head fully fueled in the cab. Worth every penny. Have to say to these guys drilling a hundred holes thats ridiculous! It creates weak ice for the next vehicle who happens that way. Not to mention youre spending all your time drilling instead of fishing. Relax thats what fishing is relaxing !
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: madatter on Feb 22, 2019, 08:56 AM
I bit the bullet and ordered a Ion X......729 on line at Fishing Hole for the 10"
To the point in life where I hate pulling a bunch before fishing.
Ill get the Eskimo running well and sell it next year.

I dont drill a 100 holes a day....
I can afford a new battery in 5 years if thats what it takes.
And the lite weight of electric is handy when walking across a lake to fish.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: #1fisherman on Feb 22, 2019, 10:37 AM
Good point Mad hatter. Weight is an issue especially as we age. My husky is only a few lbs. fueled. The Ion is close the one I used was awesome and easily carried. As for the 100 hole fellas if you fish each hole for ten minutes that means in a 7 hour day(typical for dark days of winter) that means you are only fishing 42 of the 100 holes. So you are drilling 58 holes that aren't needed and that doesn't account for the time spent drilling those holes.The most I drill is a dozen with five being the norm. Its where you put those holes that counts. Fish move and they also stop biting for times during the day so it doesn't matter where you are if they're not biting more holes wont change that. tight lines!
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: NateD on Feb 22, 2019, 11:50 AM
Good point Mad hatter. Weight is an issue especially as we age. My husky is only a few lbs. fueled. The Ion is close the one I used was awesome and easily carried. As for the 100 hole fellas if you fish each hole for ten minutes that means in a 7 hour day(typical for dark days of winter) that means you are only fishing 42 of the 100 holes. So you are drilling 58 holes that aren't needed and that doesn't account for the time spent drilling those holes.The most I drill is a dozen with five being the norm. Its where you put those holes that counts. Fish move and they also stop biting for times during the day so it doesn't matter where you are if they're not biting more holes wont change that. tight lines!

So if you fish a new lake you know exactly where the fish are? I don't think I've ever drilled 100 holes in a day but have done 30-50 when hole hopping.  Just because fish stopped biting in one spot doesn't mean they aren't biting in another.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: #1fisherman on Feb 24, 2019, 09:45 AM
No i dont know exactly where the fish are on a new lake but all lakes have familiar features that usually attract fish.  Once i locate fish i stay put gecause fish are in the area. Yes fish may be feeding in another area but whos to say you' ll get there when thats happening? All Im saying is I'm content to wait it out for the fish to turn on again in my location. I dont need to catch dozens of fish to have a successful day. Not saying it isnt fun and i usually do very well, just dont have a bad day fishing ever! Even skunked! Tight lines!
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Feb 24, 2019, 09:54 AM
Good point Mad hatter. Weight is an issue especially as we age. My husky is only a few lbs. fueled. The Ion is close the one I used was awesome and easily carried. As for the 100 hole fellas if you fish each hole for ten minutes that means in a 7 hour day(typical for dark days of winter) that means you are only fishing 42 of the 100 holes. So you are drilling 58 holes that aren't needed and that doesn't account for the time spent drilling those holes.The most I drill is a dozen with five being the norm. Its where you put those holes that counts. Fish move and they also stop biting for times during the day so it doesn't matter where you are if they're not biting more holes wont change that. tight lines!

Couldn't agree more.  There is a tool on the AO board who disses electrics because he thinks you can't drill through 4 feet of ice (ya right...) and drills 100 holes...(ya right x 2).  For me, a big day of drilling holes is maybe 20 tops.  On average I'm maybe a half dozen.  If I'm drilling 20 I'm usually on a new lake or area and trying to figure it out.  I'm sure there are people that drill a 100 holes but I like you estimation of actual time fishing them.  Really a waste of a day if you are drilling that much. 
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: madatter on Feb 25, 2019, 04:24 PM
Just got my Ion X unpacked.

And the blades from my Eskimo Z71 look identical to blades on the ION.
They are both under the Ardisan name....
I will have to put some on the ION to see,the Eskimo blades are alot cheaper thats for sure.
Looking forward to seeing the ION in action in a couple days.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: madatter on Feb 28, 2019, 10:49 AM
Got out with the Ion X this am.
Few observations
Love not pulling.
Ion is definitely slower than the Z71,and seems to be having an issue part way thru hole...and doesnt want to cut.
I seem to need to put a fair bit of pressure on it to cut,which is odd.
Play around with it a bit.
20 holes or so and still 3 bars on battery...so battery life will not be an issue for me.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shrubs on Feb 28, 2019, 11:04 PM
Got out with the Ion X this am.
Few observations
Love not pulling.
Ion is definitely slower than the Z71,and seems to be having an issue part way thru hole...and doesnt want to cut.
I seem to need to put a fair bit of pressure on it to cut,which is odd.
Play around with it a bit.
20 holes or so and still 3 bars on battery...so battery life will not be an issue for me.
           
        I might come off as a dick here but that is ok, why with all the info that is available on this crazy thing we call the internet someone would go with the ion over the strikemaster is pretty crazy to me.  As another poster here noted, I've never run the lithium 40v strikemaster but I have run the lazer gas version for close to twenty years now.  If you want to drill holes efficiently with as little effort as possible get a strikemaster.  The blade system is second to none.  The eskimos whether it be electric or gas will always be behind because they utilize a less efficient cutting system.  Them are the facts plain and simple.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: madatter on Mar 01, 2019, 11:41 AM
Dick or not....doesnt really matter.
Availability of the Strikemaster number one reason for not getting it.
I looked and couldnt find anything on line,in store yes,but I dont live anywhere near.
This is for the 10"

Pretty sure Ill survive
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Mar 01, 2019, 01:34 PM
Cabelas has a deal on the SM right now, 8 inch

(https://i.postimg.cc/zGQVsLt0/IMG-0532.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/mPQLMrGH)
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: albertaboy on Mar 05, 2019, 05:28 PM
Been thinking of this deal for close to a week now. I got a $20 Cabelas coupon on the weekend which further tempted me. Problem is my current Strikemaster runs like a charm. Damn!  Albertaboy
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: madatter on Mar 09, 2019, 05:14 PM
Well ive been out a few times with the Ion....and still cant get it to start a hole, or complete a hole without considerable downward force.
Im going to change the blades.....even tho they look and feel ok.
Blades for these things are 70 plus....crazy.
Pilot point looks ok
Experience with the Z71,which has the almost exact same blades has taught me that they mess up easily with dirty ice, even if they look ok.
With good blades the Z71 just digs and you hang on.....my Ion isnt like that
Funny tho that the Ion didnt cut right from get go.

Im sorta regretting not going with the Strikemaster, even tho its the 8"
If new blades dont fix the problem then not sure what Ill do with it.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: madatter on Mar 10, 2019, 10:29 AM
Well changing the blades did the trick....cuts very nice now.
Cant believe the blades were crap from factory but they were.
Sent Ion an email....hopefully they send me a set of blades.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: madatter on Mar 12, 2019, 01:33 PM
Gotta say Ion customer service is exceptional.
A new set of blades is on its way, and the offer to replace other parts if auger still does not cut.
Gotta like that.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: sirsmokesalot on Nov 26, 2019, 10:35 PM
there isn't much love for the newer jiffys that's for sure
the new jiffy suck so much crap iv gone through 2 on my new 3rd one  I had a 10inch about 2008 I regret selling as now jiffy sold out no more tucomse motors they were thee best auger on the market for a long while now they r junk any recommendations on gas 10 inch?
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Nov 27, 2019, 09:52 AM
the new jiffy suck so much crap iv gone through 2 on my new 3rd one  I had a 10inch about 2008 I regret selling as now jiffy sold out no more tucomse motors they were thee best auger on the market for a long while now they r junk any recommendations on gas 10 inch?
   STRIKE MASTER WITH THE HONDA MOTOR.

Cost you a few bucks more but it will be an auger that you will have a tough time wearing out.  Tourque like crazy and with the chipper blade all you do is hang on and let the auger do the work for you.  Best auger I have ever owned.

SHOTGUN
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: pmaloney86 on Nov 27, 2019, 10:13 AM
Well changing the blades did the trick....cuts very nice now.
Cant believe the blades were crap from factory but they were.
Sent Ion an email....hopefully they send me a set of blades.

The blades are junk.  If you fish anywhere near a beach w sand make sure there isn't much on the ice.  I always keep a spare set with me since I've burned through many sets.  Good thing is that they are not all that expensive.  Don't bother having them sharpened either.  The chinese steel wont retain the angle or edge.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: sirsmokesalot on Nov 27, 2019, 12:42 PM
Nice thank you for the info once this jiffy blows up again I'm onto a new auger.... u been out much this Nov 2019?
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: wyice on Dec 24, 2019, 07:01 PM
I have a Jiffy and I started using ethanol free gas only on all my small gas powered equipment, they start and run much better
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: skifisher on Dec 24, 2019, 07:33 PM
wyice,
That’s why I use TruFuel in my 8” Strikemaster. Learned the hard way after the fuel lines and tank grommet when to heck. Never had an issue with the blades either. Best auger for the $$$! MYO
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Hkb82 on Jan 03, 2021, 12:45 PM
I know it’s an old post but thought I’d add my 2 cents. I use the Milwaukee fuel for early and late ice when walking. then my jiffy model 75 gasser for everything else once atv/snowmobile conditions arrive. It s 21 years old this year and never missed a beat. If you come across a used one I’d grab it up as they don’t make em like this anymore. Buddies have gone through more the a few over the years of all brands and the old jiffy arctic blast just keeps on drilling. I love hearing the first or one pull start claims. I’ve been on the ice for many years and yet to see a true cold start up on a 2 stroke that only took one pull. Maybe in your heated shop but not on the ice. I’m fine with 5-7 pulls to get it started the first time. Rest of the day is usually only one or two depending on how long we sat in one spot. If the amount of pulls it takes to start her up is an issue I’d go electric. I’d say if your pulling like crazy or for several min and having to gas the heck out of it to get it started your auger needs the crab looked at and cleaned up and properly stored when not in use. Ethanol and carb issues are the real culprit of a bad running auger if ya ask me. Poor maintenance and crappy old gas getting left in them. I’m not a big fan of just putting stabilizer in it and forgetting about it. I usually start it up a few times in the summer along with the sleds and I’ve never had a prob with any 2 stroke that I’d blame on the motor unless it was happening from day one.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Homewrecker on Jan 03, 2021, 05:03 PM
I see the Eskimo z51 can not be bought anymore with aluminum handles ,does any one know why they went with tubing besides being much cheaper to build. I had a z51 with 10 inch auger for 5 years . always started on the second pull ,i wish i never sold it . 
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: curtis_rak on Jan 07, 2021, 12:41 PM
I will play as well... i can give a 5yr review of the 8", 43cc Rapala Nitro...

Bought on sale at Canadian Tire 5 years ago after doing some research and finding out its the exact same auger as the "Woods" 43cc. The Rapala was $40 cheaper so I grabbed it.

I dont know how many holes I've drilled but I ice fish at least 1 day per week every winter and I am still on the original blade (I am also very diligent in making sure its always got a cover on it when I'm not drilling). I have had a Jiffy 12" extension on it since the day I bought it and the auger rips holes really fast. It destroys all of the 33cc augers my buddies have (eskimos and strikemasters)- in fact its embarrassing how much better this auger is than theirs.

I haven't had any maintenance issues and I run 50:1 pre-mix in it.

As an added bonus - this summer I bought an 8" earthworks auger for it to drill post holes and my god it worked great. The Rapala/Woods/Eskimo spin the opposite way of the Jiffy which allows you to buy earth auger bits for them. Added bonus.

I dont think this exact auger is made anymore but like I said the 43cc Woods at Cdn Tire is exactly the same and they still carry it.

Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Jan 13, 2021, 11:48 AM
Well I happen to have my Strike Master 8" with the Honda motor for sale.

Weighs 22lbs but the older I get the heavier it seems.  Kinda go lighter and hate to part with the best auger I have ever owned.

SHOTGUN
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: zcm_82 on Jan 13, 2021, 12:04 PM
Worst for me, hands down, was a 6" BPS hand auger a few years back.

Straight out of the box, the holes weren't punched all the way through the handle, so I had to drill them out just to put it together. The bolts that hold the blades on are also super soft, had them bend the first time I used it, so the blades got all cockeyed and wouldn't bite. I replaced them with some grade 5s, and it did work fine after that, but it definitely wasn't worth it to save $5-10 over a Mora with quality issues like that right out of the box.
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Uppervalley Kid on Jan 13, 2021, 12:13 PM
Best: Nils convertible
Worst: Rusty spoon auger
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Icing ‘em on Oct 12, 2021, 08:37 AM
As ice fishing season is fast approaching, or at least I hope it is, I will add my humble reviews to this topic.

My first ice auger, which I still have, is an Eskimo Stingray, 33cc 8 inch. I am the third owner and the thing just works. Yes when it has rode in the truck box for 2 hours in -30C weather, it can be a temperamental old girl, but after a few swears and a few yanks on the starter she fires up and performs admirably within her weight class.

Last March, after trying a buddies and being duly impressed, I bought a Strikemaster 24V. Light, always ready to go, quiet and cuts thru the ice like a champ. Will it cut thru as much ice as advertised, I sincerely doubt it but that is fine by me as most holes I have ever drilled in one day is 18 and that was only because I was retrieving an ice rod that went down the hole, no thanks to a pike. Battery still showed 1 bar after that debacle. Bought a second battery on sale for $95 just in case.


Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: FreshwaterPhil on Nov 18, 2021, 06:53 PM
For my style of ice fishing, I need a light, fast,  and reliable auger. I trekk on foot most of the day, and punch new holes every few minutes unless I come across a big school of decent size fish.

As long as ice is under 12 inches thick, I stick with my manual Fin bore augers, have a 6 and 8 inch model. I enjoy the hand drilling, and it's a decent steady workout. I had a Nils for thicker ice, but too unreliable, the tiniest nick in blade and the head was useless, off to Frank for sharpening :( Contrast that to the Fin bore, a couple years ago I cracked a blade, and fished rest of the day drilling with only 1 blade. Only time that's happened to me in well over a decade, and I drill hundreds of holes every season. Downside to the 8 incher is that it bogs down pretty bad in 16+ inches of ice, the 6 incher is good until 20 to 22 or so.
Here is a short clip of the 8 incher at work https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KrVyhFAizk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KrVyhFAizk)

For thicker ice, I got the Ion G2 last winter. Very light, cuts through 30 inches in no time and with minimal effort. Battery did 80 hoesl into 20-22 inches last March, and that was in weather from -18C up to -11C by afternoon. Still had power when we got off the ice at dark. Blades not the best quality, the will dull and even chip with minor debris in the ice. I bought a few replacements to keep as spares, so I can change them on ice if need be. I've managed to sharpen them on my own too, but not as good as out of the box.
Here is a short clip of it at work https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOiNVFOfnZ8&t=1s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOiNVFOfnZ8&t=1s)

Lastly, I've used old gas Jiffys in the past. Simply to big and heavy for my style, only time the excelled was when we would drive out on thick ice at end of season and have 2 of us on the drill to punch a lot of holes. Didn't appreciate the pull start when motor would act up, the constant stink, and we've run into leakage in the car too.

Happy drilling :)
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Shotgun on Nov 19, 2021, 03:55 PM
I bit the bullet and got the Strikemaster 8" 24 volt.  Holly mackeral is it light and with the lazer mag blades it cuts I think faster than my old one with the Honda motor.

Great auger and I could not be happier.  weighs in at just under 18 lbs. 

Saw a few at the Fishn Hole last week and they were about 50 bucks less than Bass.  Bass had a few of the 40volt 10inch but they are kinda like the Ion 10"  too heavy for me.

SHOTGUN
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: SNAPFisher on Dec 03, 2021, 06:38 PM
i run and gun alot and fish outside 99% of the time so it is nothing for me to drill 100 holes a day thats why i run the gas power head. i can usually get around 120 holes through 18" of ice pwer tank. it would take my 2 5 amp and one of my 6 amp batteries to get that many holes with my drill set up. its just another option for people with a strikemaster power head. the k-drill bolts right up to it with no adapter needed. good luck and tight lines

Maybe change your forum name to "SwissCheese.  ;D
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Uppervalley Kid on Dec 07, 2021, 02:13 PM
Nils all day long
Title: Re: BEST OR WORST ICE AUGER REVIEWS
Post by: Steve_Que on Jan 21, 2022, 08:46 PM
Hi Friends,

I am new to ICESHANTY and this is my first post, apologies if it is not in the right spot.  I have a Jiffy 30 (about 20 year old).  Has worked like an absolute top for all of that time without fail.  This year, the throttle lever does not seem to « oper ‘er up » like it should.  I removed and cleaned carb, was a bit gummy but now sorted.  I did not take pictures of the throttle assembly and am not 100% sure I put everything back the way it should be.  I think the governor-throttle spring may be worn as well.  I would be grateful for close of photos of the throttle lever assembly from anyone who owns one of these machines.

Grateful for the help and feel free to point elsewhere if this is not the spot.  Thanks again.

Steve (Quebec, Canada)