Lightest GAS Auger?

[3littlemonsters]

Whats the approximate weight differences of each mfg's augers? I know engine size and dia. have alot to do with it, but wondering if saving 5 lbs. is worth buying a different auger in the future. My (entry level) auger is a Eskimo 1.2hp 8"...said weight 28 lbs (i'm assuming w/o fuel)--not a speed demon, but gets it done.

[Ed Carlson]

The lightest made world wide, that I'm aware of, is the HUSQVARNA 326AI25, even in the 10" model, it comes in at 5.8 kg / 12.9 lbs. A very nice ice auger, very well engineered. I would love to have one.

But unfortunately, it is not available in the USA. It is available in Canada.

[DTro]

I think it’s probably a tossup between the StrikeMaster Strikelite and the Nils Master auger.

[Esox_Magnum]

Keep in mind with the Nils you get a 48" steel bit, Strikemaster you get a 42" plastic/composit ( or whatever it is) bit.

[3littlemonsters]

The Husqvarna's weight is w/o the auger...but still impressive. I've had 3 of their chainsaws and they are very smooth. 3, because two were almost 20 years old when I got them and 1 was a cheaper limbing saw...bought a stihl this time around. You never hear of the husqvarnas... Who would have thunk?? Based on the information I've read here..the strikemasters sound great as far as cust.service & local availibily/service, not knocking Nils...but where locally is there distributors/service?

[FrontenacPike]

Whats the approximate weight differences of each mfg's augers? I know engine size and dia. have alot to do with it, but wondering if saving 5 lbs. is worth buying a different auger in the future.

It all boils down to your type of fishing. Do you wait till there is drivable ice, or are you out there as soon as possible. When choosing my auger, weight was my number one concern. I do a lot of fishing on first ice, and do not own a wheeler. I also do a majority of my fishing in places where you can't access it by vehicle. My choice was easy, anywhere I can shave a pound or two is much easier to drag. I ended up buying a strikelite and couldn't be happier. Weighing in at 20lbs is sure nice when i throw it over my shoulder and go to my remote spots.

Some people will argue that the plastic auger is a break waiting to happen. I personally have never had a problem with mine. From what I have read off this site, everyone that has ever broken one and had to contact strikemaster has had a positive experience with a company that stands behind their products.

[dan z]

wish they still made my auger for you weight conservative guys. its no strikelight but to my knowledge its 24# with gas in the tank. I have carried the new ones around in the stores and it still feels lighter than them. the strikelight would be the bomb auger in your situation.

p.s I carry a 224 strikmaster

[harvey lee]

I do not know what the exact weight of the new Strikemaster is but it sure is an awesome auger. Sure leaves the hole clean after drilling.

[Northlander]

Keep in mind with the Nils you get a 48" steel bit, Strikemaster you get a 42" plastic/composit ( or whatever it is) bit.

Exactly. The Nils is the lightest, especially when you figure in that on other augers you may need a extension later in the year and the ones that claim to be as light have composite auger shafts. I have never needed a extension on my NIls.

[Borch]

Based on the information I've read here..the strikemasters sound great as far as cust.service & local availibily/service, not knocking Nils...but where locally is there distributors/service?

As far as service goes for Nils your local Tanaka dealer/service center will take care of you. I had issues with mine 2 years ago and had it back and drilling in about a week as they needed to order parts. Tanaka makes industrial engines for all sorts of equipment so there are plenty of service centers around.