Gardening is an activity every individual should indulge in at least once in their life. To help with this activity, you need to look into the best post hole diggers.
However, doing so isn’t an easy task. There are a plethora of variables to keep in mind.
To help you in that journey, we’ve compiled a list of the best products currently available on the market. However, there are a few things we should attend to first.
Buyers Guide
As mentioned above, there are a few things you should always keep in mind when setting out to buy a post hole digger for yourself. Here are a few pointers to watch out for.
Price/Purpose
Defining a price and purpose for your purchase will enable you to make better decisions, both financially and in terms of product quality.
The best post hole digger for rocky soil will be way different from manual post hole diggers. Do some research, and try to understand what YOU want.
Material
The material of the post hole digger will define its work output and durability. Go for something made of steel, with handles made of wood. These offer easy handling.
However, steel handles are more durable and can withstand the harsh working environment.
Weight
There’s a good chance that you’ll be carrying around the post hole digger. Additionally, you’ll be required to support its weight at one point or another.
Current technology has enabled the digger to be made from durable material and still be lightweight.
Try to get something that offers the best of both worlds.
Depth
Different post hole diggers often different depth.
If you’re looking for post hole diggers for clay soils but won’t be digging deep, then you’re failing to prepare adequately for what lays ahead.
Consult with a professional and do your research on the depth you’ll need to shoot for when buying a post hole digger.
Top 15 Post Hole Diggers Reviews
The list mentioned below was compiled after intense scrutiny and attention to detail.Our team carefully reviewed each product and has also mentioned a few pros and cons which might help you make a better decision for yourself, further facilitating your decision making.
Without further ado, here are the top 15 post hole diggers currently on the market.
1. Jackson Post Hole Digger
This is a simplistic model that looks well and functions even better.
With a 6.25 inch spread, the beveled steel carbon head is designed to ensure good digging with minimalistic effort.
The hardwood handles coupled with innovatively designed handles also make the job easier.
The blades are pointed for maximum soil penetration. Plus, this model also prevents knuckle collision, so you don’t have to worry about any discomfort.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- No knuckle collision
- Easy to use
- Good spread
Cons:
- Bolts loosed with usage
- Heavier than other models
2. Bully Tools 92382 Post Hole Digger
Bully tools are reputed for making products that are easy to use and can be accessed by all types of individuals.
This particular model is commercial grade and was made with keeping durability in mind. The handle is made of fiberglass, making it easier to hold on to.
Additionally, to ensure that the digging is done quickly without any hassle, the blades are extra thick 14 gauge steel blade.
This model is highly recommended for novice users.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Simple to use
- Strong handle
- Durability
Cons:
- Bad instruction/company manual
- Handles flex occasionally
3. Seymour Promotional Post Hole Digger
Seymour is reputed with releasing stuff that can be used and accessed by all.
In this department, Seymour does not disappoint and presents forth a simplistic model that can be used easily by even the most beginners of users.
With a sharpened carbon steel blade and handles, double bolted to yokes, this is the mode to choose if you want to venture into the art of gardening.
The blades are replaceable and are triple riveted to thick yokes for long life.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Sturdy design
Cons:
- Not suited for professional work
- The handle doesn’t grip well
4. Truper 33567 Tru Pro Post Hole Digger
If you’re looking for a good-looking model that looks nice and delivers its worth, then the Truper is the one for you.
The model has a 33-inch steel handle, which along with durability, makes it easier to get work done.
This model also provides a good balance between resistance and flexibility and is designed in a manner that caters mainly to individuals who are making a professional purchase.
This model isn’t suited for beginners and new gardeners.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Design
- Good grip
- Heavy-duty
Cons:
- Shovel hinge is flimsy
- Not suited for beginners
5. Seymour DG-16 Post Hole Digger
If you’re in the mood to get something that can get work done and occupy a place in your workstation that is next to nothing, then the Seymour DG-16 6-1/2-Inch Post Hole Digger is the product for you.
The model possesses a 48-inch steel handle and has a 6.25-inch spread.
Furthermore, the model has super tight square-cut steel blades, designed in a way which makes cutting through the solid ground more natural and almost effortless.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Durability
- Heavy-duty
- Easy to use
Cons:
- The handle has rough edges
- No rubber grip
6. Yard Butler RD-2 Roto Digger
The Yard Butler isn’t your standard post hole digger. This apparatus is a long shaft with rotated projections at one end that can be inserted into the ground to break it up quickly.
They can easily dig holes to about 28 inches, which are about 2 inches wide evenly.
Furthermore, this Roto digger is optimal if you’re looking to plant seedlings way down into the ground.
The model is also suitable for deep water aeration or fertilization.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Does well in Rocky Soil
- Good for soil aeration
- Good depth
Cons:
- Not heat-treated steel
- Hard on the wrist
7. Seymour Post Hole Digger PD48
This model by Seymour is hard-duty, made particularly for professional usage. This is apparent by the material used and its outlook and specifications.
The handles are made of fiberglass and have a fiberglass core as well. This provides it will add strength and translates the grip well.
The spread of the blade is about 6.25 inches. Overall, this is a good model if you want to get serious work done.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Heavy-duty
- Cushioned handle
- Sharp plates
Cons:
- Quite heavy to operate
- Requires strength to pick up
8. Auger Type Post Hole Digger
The Auger is an excellent model that will get the job done with relative ease.
Not being the conventional post hole digger, this model is recommended for individuals who have a flair for unorthodox apparatus.
This model has a good and comfortable grip, making it easier to hold on to. Additionally, it is heat-treated and is likely to cut through soil and clay with ease.
The handle is about 1065mm, which increases torque on it and makes it easier to operate.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Comfortable handles
- Torque generation
- Good design
Cons:
- Not suited for beginners
- Might require some pressure
9. Seymour DG-100FG Post Hole Digger
This model by Seymour is a simple and elegant design that can work well with both beginners and professionals.
Available in different colors and with fiberglass handles, this model is easy and comfortable to work with.
The spread of the blade is 6 inches, which makes it reliable and versatile.
Furthermore, the handle length is four feet, which makes it easier to generate and amplify the force applied.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Heavy-duty product
- Works well in all environments
- Durable
Cons:
- The stops might be misaligned
10. Ames Fiberglass Handle Post Hole Digger
This model comes with fiberglass handles, which is why this model rates pretty highly in terms of generating strength and durability.
On top of the grips are oversized cushions. These cushions help in keeping the user’s hands safe and make the overall experience pleasing.
The good thing about this model is that it enables precise measurements of the hole depth since it comes with a ruler.
The model is perfect to use if you’re fond of numbers and particulars.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Measuring stick on the handle
- Good quality
- Sharp edges
Cons:
- Not suited for beginners
11. Bully Tools 92539
The Digging bar is a great tool to have if you’re looking for a simple solution to all your soil and gardening needs.
This model is made of pure steel, which makes it simple to use and quite durable.
The head is 3/8 inch thick and the whole bar measures to about 69inch. The product is a commercial grade.
This model is recommended for individuals who want to get an apparatus for aeration and fertilization purposes primarily.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Durability
- Heavy duty
- Good power conversion
Cons:
- Too heavy to use continuously
- Doesn’t work for prying
12. Posthole Digger Wdhdl7.25″
The last model by Seymour on this list but not the least.
Out of all the models, this model is the least durable due to it being made by hardwood as compared to steel.
However, the functionality does not decrease and remains the same. The handle size is 48 inches. The point spread of this model is 5.5 inches.
The blade at the end comes in blue color which adds to the overall appeal of the product.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Simple design
- Good for beginners
Cons:
- Not suitable for industrial usage
13. Landworks Post Hole Digging
If you want to get something that works ‘on its own’ and doesn’t necessarily require manpower, this is the product.
This model has operated automatically and won’t require many laborious efforts.
This model does not produce any smog and makes less noise than others, which makes it environmentally safe to operate.
Weighing in about 10kgs, this model comes with included batteries as well.
Overall, this model is handy to have if you’re working on a contract or are a professional who works frequently.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Reduces working time
- Environmentally safe
- Comfortable handle operation
Cons:
- Bad instruction manual
- Temperamental switches
14. RICE HydroPost Hole Digger
This model is one that combines functionality with aesthetics and the right to have in your arsenal when operating in the back garden.
The teeth design and replaceable pilot bit ensure that you can dig well in all types of soil.
Additionally, the material is also quite durable which means you won’t have to worry about scratching, fading, chipping, and rust.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Sturdy
- Scratch-free
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Can’t be used for an extended period
15. Tool Tuff Post Hole Digger
This model comes with the complete package that will make your digging journey easy and comfortable.
With a four-person operation, this model ensures proper operation and stability when being used.
Furthermore, this model is quite convincing as compared with its predecessors and is also lightweight all the same.
This makes it an excellent option to go for if you’re looking for professional investors and want to get the best bang for your buck.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Good horsepower
- Centrifugal clutch actuation
- Quickstart ignition
Cons:
- Not suited for beginners
Frequently Asked Questions
What metal are post hole diggers made of?
The majority of post hole diggers are made out of steel.
The main reason for this utilization occurs due to the natural tensile strength of steel.
Since post hole diggers are subjected to repetitive impact and pressure, a material that is hard and not malleable is best suited for the job.
Steel meets all these requirements.
Do post hole diggers work in clay?
In simple words, post hole diggers do work in clay.
However, they don’t work in the usual conventional way. Instead, there is a particular protocol you might need to adhere to if you want to make your job easier.
Since dried clay is hard and tough to break through, you’ll need to soften the upper layer by periodically spraying water on it.
Only then can you use post hole diggers effectively.
How to sharpen post hole diggers?
Since the blades on the post hold hole diggers don’t open to a wide angle, the best way to go about sharpening them is by detaching the blades first.
As the name implies, you’ll have to take them out and attend to them separately.
You can use a standard sharpening file. When done, reattach the blades.
What is the easiest way to dig a hole?
The easiest way to go about digging a hole is by first using a mattock to remove the topsoil.
Once done, you can take out any roots or heavy objects out of the way.
Proceed to make a boundary for the hole with the help of a shovel and then start digging.
Note that this is applicable only on moderately dry soil.
How do you dig holes quickly?
If you’re looking to dig a hole quickly, start with choosing a point which isn’t too grainy or rocky.
First, you’ll have to break through the topsoil. Once done, you can proceed with the process mentioned in the previous question.
How deep can you dig with a post hole digger?
Generally speaking, any hole which is dug to hold a pole should have a depth equal to about 1/3 of the height of the post ABOVE the ground.
Hence, it can be fairly said that you can dig up to about 3-4ft with an excellent post hole digger.
Anything more profound than that and you might require professional assistance.
Is it easier to dig a hole when the ground is wet?
Contrary to popular belief, digging a hole when the ground is wet is quite hard.
This is because of the water that the soil retains which results in it being heavier than usual.
For optimal digging, wait till the ground is relatively dry.
How do you dig holes in hard soil?
Hard soil can be hardened due to a plethora of factors. This might include the climate, soil texture, rock presence, or all of the above.
The main way to tackle this predicament is by breaking up the hard soil, and then start digging.
This is done by the use of a long metal toothpick, which goes easily into the ground and creates air pathways.
Do as much as needed, and then start digging.
Conclusion
Remember, choosing the right post hole digger might make or break your garden. Hence, make sure you get something worth it.
If you like any of the products in the list or already own one, do mention them in the comment section below.
