Eskimo Shark z71 auger bit

[lungdeflator]

I noticed the z71 is only sold with a 10" bit. Is it possible to pair the shark z71 powerhead with a 8" bit?

[Jim Uran]

Ive got an 8" Z-51 and that bad boy will go through some ice in a hurry, I can't imagine what another 20cc's would do lol

[lungdeflator]

Well if I can make it work Ill let you know! I looked on Eskimos HSOforum and they sell 8 and 10" bits that fit "all viper engines". This might just work...

[Queenswake]

Yes, a couple of years ago I bought the z71 with the 8" from Glen's Army Navy Store. I have a feeling it was overstock or something straight from the factory because the powerhead was packaged in a cardboard almost crate and the auger was in a separate box. Both brown cardboard without any kind of the colorful Eskimo logo. Anyway, I am happy I stumbled upon that deal because it's the best combination I can think of! And I got a killer price on it too. But honestly, the z51 with the 8" is more than enough as it is.

[hawkeye43]

2 years ago a friend and I both bought a z71 at the ice fishing show with a 8" bit. We talked to the rep. for eskimo about it and he set it with Throne Bros. One of the best moves in a long time.

[candiru]

Strikemaster drills will also fit on them although the bolt will be a little sloppy.

[NAMASafetyDirector]

Personally, I'm not a big fan of the 71. Our family has 4 Eskimo's Ranging from the Mako 43, the one I own, two 51's and a 71. With the way that these things cut through the ice there is no reason in my opinion to have the 71. My Mako 43 runs through the ice perfectly every time with an 8" auger. The 71 is tougher to start, vibrates alot more, and is heavier. If your going to do a lot of 10" hole drilling then it may make more sense. On a side note, I love the Eskimo augers and none of us have ever had one lick of trouble with any of them. I've ran them all, Jiffy, Strikemaster, the old Polar King etc , usually drill around 400 holes a season and the Eskimo's are by far the best ones I have run so far.