Best Ice Auger

Best Ice Auger Fast Comparison Chart

	Ion Alpha PLUS Less than 16lbs 30% faster cutting than Competition 8 and 10 inch avail.
	Ion G2 2 batteries included 17lbs 8 inch/li>
	Ion R1 Centering Pin 30% faster cutting 8 and 10 inch blades avail.
	Ion X Gen 1 8 or 10 inch blades Reverse 22-25lbs
	Eskimo HC40 10 Inch 8 or 10 inch blades 32-34lbs Propane
	jiffy 30 ALL XT 10 Inch Gas 32-36 lbs 49cc
	Eskimo Stingray 33cc, gas 28lbs 42 inch drill depth
	StrikeMaster Lazer Adjusts from 48 - 57 inches Blades stainless steel Coated blades to reduce ice buildup
	Strike Master Honda-Lite 35cc, gas, 4 stroke OHC Best MORA Lazer blades 23lbs
	Trophy Strike Lightweight Ergonomic Handles Drills up to 70 holes in 20" ice
	StrikeMaster Chipper Lite 2 stroke, 32cc, 1.5HP 8 inch blades Gas
	ThunderBay Gas 33cc, geared for extra torque 32lbs

Best Ice Auger Reviews

Our top tested and rated Ice Auger are listed here:

• ION Alpha Plus 8 Inch: Premium Electric Ice Auger
• Ion G2 8 inch: Runner Up
• Ion R1 Electric: 3rd Place
• Ion X Gen 1 Electric: 4th Place
• Eskimo HC 40 Propane: Best Propane Ice Auger
• Jiffy 30 ALL XT 10″: Runner Up Propane Ice Auger
• Eskimo StingRay 33cc
• Strike Master Lazer: Awesome Hand Ice Auger
• Strike Master Honda-Lite
• Trophy Strike
• Strike Master Chipper Lite
• ThunderBay 33cc

Premium Ice Auger

Premium Ice Auger: ION Alpha Plus 8 Inch

One of the newest Electric Augers is the ION Alpha PLUS. This beast of an ice auger delivers so many goodies to its users but it comes at a premium price. For that premium price, you get an auger that outperforms not only the competition, but previous generations of the same auger from ION.

This bad boy weighs under 16 pounds which is about 40% lighter than its competition due to the composite auger bit. Don’t let its lightweight fool you, this auger packs a punch with the fastest cutting speed we’ve experienced at 3.4 inches per second. This is because of the turbo high speed cutting system that is new on ION augers and reduces resistance when drilling holes.

The long drill bit allows you to drill 24″ of ice without the use of an extension because the auger length is 40 inches. The variable speed trigger allows you to customize your speed for the ice conditions you encounter.

The lithium ion battery has been supercharged even compared to older ION models. How long do ION ice auger batteries last? This 4 Ah ION Gen 3 battery can cut up to 2000 inches of ice on a single charge, whereas older models it was 1600 inches.

Typical of ION quality, it also comes with a centering point to drill holes straight and keep it from skimming on the ice and a slush flush reverse function. This unit comes with 2 high powered LED lights underneath the powerhead, so you can drill in the dark in your shelter, on the lake at sunrise/sunset, etc.

We love the best in class warranty of 3 years that also covers the battery.

Ion G2 8 inch

Fast and smooth but lightweight: that’s the ION G2 Electric Auger. Fast cutting speeds are maximized with the G2, you can cut through 12 inches of ice in 8 seconds or less and it carves through 18 inches of ice like butter.

How long do ION batteries last? Ion auger battery life is pretty impressive, but it really depends on how much you’re drilling and how thick the ice is.  Drill 40 holes through 2 feet of ice on a single charge with this electric auger. 

This ice auger features a reverse function for flushing slush out and the flite design allows for a smooth, uninterrupted hole breakthrough.

Like all ION electric augers, the G2 comes with 2 LED lights underneath the powerhead, so you can drill in the dark in your shelter, on the lake at sunrise/sunset, etc.

The centering point keeps the auger in position when drilling new or reopening old holes.

Weighing in at approx. 17lbs, its easy to transport over the ice and a dream to chase fish all day.  You won’t feel fatigued from the weight of this electric auger.

Ion includes two batteries, a charger, and a 3 year warranty with your purchase.

You can also buy a handy Ion Carry Bag that fits Ion Augers AND most other types of Augers.

Ion R1 Electric Auger Gen 1

Ion Ice Auger 

If you love chasing fish, the Ion Electric Ice Auger is built for you.  The quiet operation means you won’t be scaring any fish away.

How long do ION batteries last? Ion auger battery life is pretty impressive, but it really depends on how much you’re drilling and how thick the ice is. This 8 inch ice auger drills up to 40 holes through 2 feet of ice on a single charge.

Weighing in at 22lbs, its lightweight design allows for easy transport and portability over ice. Because its electric, you don’t have to worry about mixing oil/gas or fumes in your ice shanty. One of the best electric augers on the market.

Ion includes one battery, the charger, and a 12 inch extension with your purchase.  You can also buy a handy Ion Carry Bag that fits Ion Augers AND most other types of Augers.

The reoptimized power system delivers up more power than previous ION augers, which equates to 30% faster ice cutting speeds.

The reverse function flushes the slush ice down the hole. The design of the blades and flite allows for an incredible smooth hole breakthrough.

This unit comes with 2 high powered LED lights underneath the powerhead, so you can drill in the dark in your shelter, on the lake at sunrise/sunset, etc.

The centering point keeps the auger in perfect position when drilling new or reopening old holes. No more skipping and skimming across the ice, reducing fatigue.

You will love these extras because it means you can get out on the ice and fish fast, without having to buy additional supplies.

You can also buy a handy Ion Carry Bag that fits Ion Augers AND most other types of Augers.

ION X Gen 1 Electric Auger

ION X  

Precise reliable drilling with ease with the new ION X High Performance Electric Ice Auger.   

The best electric ice auger you can get. Save yourself the hassle of dealing with fuel.

You get the latest in cutting edge ice auger technology with a new aluminum cast bottom.  This gives you a smoother more even cut when drilling or re-drilling ice fishing holes.   

During testing we found that the re-designed handles bars that are closer to the powerhead let us drill in tight spaces (like your ice shanty) and gave us more control.   We love that.

Weighing in at only 22 lbs for the 8 inch and 25 lbs for the 10 inch, it was easy to pull on our sled behind us.  

Ion includes one battery, the charger, a 12 inch extension and a blade cover when you purchase this ice auger.  Good value for your dollar.  You can get everything you need with one purchase and get out fishing faster.

The LED surface lights were awesome and positioned under the powerhead, letting us drill at night with no problems. You can also buy a handy Ion Carry Bag that fits Ion Augers AND most other types of Augers.

Eskimo Ice Auger

Eskimo HC 40 

The Eskimo HC40 Ice Auger is the best propane-powered ice auger.  It offers several features that allow for an easy, yet powerful operation.  

The HC40 engine was built by engineers to use higher octane propane instead of gas. No toxic fumes so you can use this auger in your ice house.  Clean burning and low maintenance. 

With 40ccs and a four cycle engine, this Eskimo Ice Auger packs some serious power and torque.  The higher compression ratio let’s you get more power out of the Eskimo than other ice augers.   

When testing we found the engine is pretty lightweight.  The perfect combo. This line of Eskimo ice augers comes with Quantum blades.  We found it to be incredibly sharp and cut through the ice easily.   You can even buy a handy Eskimo carrying bag to protect your vehicle and your auger from any damage while transporting. 

Choose from either a 10-inch cutting diameter or an eight-inch one. There are durable foam grip handlebars which are comfortable for operation. 

Even though it’s powerful, the Eskimo HC40 is one of the quieter models we tested. Making a lot of noise won’t help you catch any fish. 

Eskimo includes a blade protector made from hard plastic and an adjustable rubber strap to keep the blade protector in place. 

The four-cycle engine also provides for better efficiency, a higher level of durability, limited pollution, and more torque. You simply attach a one-pound propane bottle, flip the switch to on, and pull the grip recoil. You don’t have to prime the engine or fill a tank.  

For maintenance you can grab the Eskimo Oil Collection, made specifically from Eskimo Propane Ice Augers.  Don’t forget your Eskimo Blade Protector to keep you and your blade safe from damage. 

The Eskimo HC40 is a great investment for any ice fisher who wants a powerful, propane-powered auger.   One of our favorites. 

Jiffy 10” Ice Auger

jiffy 30 ALL XT

Whether you are gearing up for another upcoming ice fishing season or you just want to add to your arsenal of toys, you need a reliable, quality ice auger.  

The Jiffy 30 ALL XT 10” Ice Auger is new and improved over the previous model, the Jiffy 44.  

This Jiffy gas auger is a very close 2nd to the Eskimo HC40 in terms of being the best propane ice auger around.  It’s a powerful ice drill which comes with several unique features  to help with better control and higher efficiency.   

During testing we loved the new, wider handles and the serrated ripper blades.  It cut through the ice like butter, making drilling easy and manageable.  

With that said, at 32 to 36 lbs, it’s bit on the heavier side compared to all the other models we tested. So, if you’re looking for an ultra-lightweight auger, this probably isn’t the model for you. 

Jiffy also includes a plastic blade protector with purchase. The quality build on Jiffy ice augers means that maintenance is virtually nonexistent. 

Other than being heavy, this ice auger can meet your goals of cutting through ice without issue.  It’s marketed as always starting right away, and it mostly does, but not when it’s super cold. 

Get your fuel and get your fish on! 

Best Value for Money

Eskimo Stingray S33

Eskimo 8″ Stingray S33  

When it comes to value and features, the Eskimo Stingray S33 is a great option.  

The Eskimo Stingray 8 inch ice auger is the best gas ice auger and definitely a powerhouse when it comes to ice fishing.  We found that if you need to drill multiple holes, its 33cc Viper engine will allow you to do it with ease.

The Quantum blades easily cut through the ice, cutting through like butter.  Eskimo Stingray quantum ice auger blades are top of the line for bits. The drill bit on the Stingray is a combination of shaving and chipping blades, which will slice through the ice easily. 

When it comes to stability, the Eskimo Stingray 33cc 8” Power Auger provides a wide range of features to allow you to use the power auger easily.

The steel handlebars stabilize the power auger while drilling to reduce stress on your hands. We really loved the primer button and the fingertip throttle trigger. This model also has mitten-grip recoil which would allow you to start the engine even while wearing thick gloves or mittens. The Stingray also comes with a muffler guard which will protect you and your clothing from hot areas.

Available in both 8 and 10 inch bits so that you’re covered for most fishing situations. Because this is an Eskimo product, it comes with a centering ring for drilling and redrilling holes which pairs well with the stainless steel centering point for keeping the auger stable on uneven ice.

The primer button can be used to start the engine easily, while the throttle trigger will allow you to control the engine when drilling.  Protect your blades and hands with the Eskimo Blade Protector.

Be careful though, since the rubber cover on the on/off rocker switch tends to freeze in super cold temps. You can even buy a handy Eskimo carrying bag to protect your vehicle and your auger from any damage while transporting. 

If you want something that won’t break the bank, the Eskimo Stingray is a good pick.

Best Hand Auger

StrikeMaster Lazer Hand Auger

StrikeMaster Lazer

It’s not often that you hear people saying that a hand auger cuts through ice like a hot knife through butter!  But when they do, you should listen.

When we tested the StrikeMaster Lazer Hand Auger we were impressed.  What impressed us most was the ease of use, how sharp the blades are, and the stainless steel construction.

If you’re going to use a hand auger, then this is THE one you want to use.  When drilling holes, it cut through the ice almost twice as fast as other comparable hand augers. 

We timed it and we could drill through approximately 10″ of ice in 10 seconds….14-17 inches in just under 30. When chasing fish, a fast cutting hand auger is important.

The handle adjusts from 48 inches to 57 inches, giving you good reach when drilling through deep ice.  It comes in a ton of diameters from 4″ to 8″. 

If you’re after larger fish, we recommend you go for the 8″ model.  The 5″ will do for perch and walleye.

It tends to catch at the end of the hole but it’s nothing that would steer us away from using this hand ice auger again.

Pair this with a drill and you save a ton over electric, propane and gas augers. The best ice auger for cordless drills hands down.

You can find replacement blades online for your Lazer Hand Auger HERE.

These Lazer Ice Auger blades come in a pack of 3 and in 6, 7 and 8 inch lengths. They are made in Sweden, so you know you are getting top quality ice fishing blade replacements for your Lazer Hand Auger.

Strikemaster Honda Lite Ice Auger

Strikemaster Honda Lite

The StrikeMaster Honda Lite delivers consistent performance with its 35cc four stroke OHC engine.

If you’re environmentally conscious, this Honda gas auger delivers 75% less emissions than other 2 stroke gas powered ice augers. This StrikeMaster ice auger comes equipped with Mora Ice Lazer Blades, top quality sharpened blades from Sweden. Mora blades are considered to be the best ice slicing blades on the market.

The polymer gear casting reduces the weight of this gas auger to one of the lightest in its category for 10 inch holes: 23 lbs! The high impact vibration absorption handlebars help to reduce fatigue when drilling multiple holes, like when you’re chasing fish.

Some owners have problems with starting their Honda Lite.  The carb is jetted for a range of cold temps so this can lead to issues with the engine getting enough fuel when cold.

When starting it cold, do not prime the engine.  Instead, hold the throttle down while pulling and it should start 1st or second pull.  Once warm, you’ll have no issues starting it.

StrikeMaster ice auger parts are available from:

• h2outfitters and
• DRock Ice Center

Best Budget Electric Ice Auger

Trophy Strike Ice Auger Drill

If you’re looking to save a few bucks but still get out on the ice the Trophy Strike may be for you.

For the price, you get an ice auger that drills 8 inch holes and up to 35.5 inches in depth.  

What we loved about this auger was the ergonomically designed handles that made using it with our thick gloves a breeze.  I know I’m always struggling when I’ve got my thick gloves on. The Trophy Strike eliminates this problem.

It’s also lightweight, just like you’d expect an electric ice auger to be. Just know to save some money you may have to sacrifice reliability.

You can’t have everything you want for a cheap price, but this auger comes pretty close.

Two known issues include the batteries not being able to charge/hold a charge and the auger parts not being able to hold up to winter drilling conditions.

We tested and found that performance was a bit overstated and that we only get about 70 holes/charge, not 86. As long as you are prepared for this, you won’t be disappointed.

You get what you pay for.