Strike-lite auger question

[get-the-net]

Any chance that Strikemaster might offer their 2 cycle powerhead with the new strike-lite auger shaft? I don't want to dive into the four stroke quite yet, but I really like the idea of a lighter weight package.

Thanks

[Bob_D]

From Stikemasters HSOforum it does not look like it.

Don't forget the Nils Master option. I just weighed my 8" Nils unit (2 cycle) and it was a couple ounces over 21lbs. It's also a much faster unit and has been on the market for a few years, so there are no "bugs" in it.

You can also get extensions if you are worried about ice thicker then 42".

[hawkeye43]

and like that will work on red lake kidding I am really thinking about one of them, should be the cats meow!!!!

[hanson]

Hey Bob_D

Did you need an Extension???

(Hope you remember the URL forum extension joke!)

[hanson]

As for the composite plastic bit on the Strikemaster Strike-Lite, I'm really intrigued.

I would assume that the plastic bit would be just as interchangeable as the other Strikemaster auger bits. Maybe they won't be selling it separate though???

I know this auger shaft was extensively tested last winter and I have no reason to believe it won't work. Sharp Lazer blades are going to be the key. The duller the blades get, the more torque I can sense through my arms while augering with my regular auger bit.

I know I am definitely interested in getting my hands on one as well.

[Bob_D]

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Hey Bob_D

Did you need an Extension???

(Hope you remember the URL forum extension joke!)

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LOL....Yup, I remember.

My big question is....Why do we need 4 stroke augers? With the limited amount of use an auger gets and the new oils designed to run at 100:1 ratios is it really worth it? Even if I burn 2 gallons of fuel a season (in my auger that is a lot), I'm only using about 2.5 ozs of oil. You would probably spill more then that changing the oils in a 4 stroke. Even if Nils Master came out with a 4 stroke, I'd try it....but I doubt that I would actually buy it. I think the risks of burning up a motor are just too high. That and the weight to hp on a 4 stroke is not even close to that of a 2 stroke.

Don't even get me started with plastics and cold temps....lol

[Dan Thiem]

Very good points Bob D. You can really put things into perspective.

[hanson]

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My big question is....Why do we need 4 stroke augers?

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I need both windows in my perm. shack as well as the door open when I auger out all 8 holes through 3' of ice. It gets smokey!!! I'm thinking of running Amsoil this winter to see if there is a difference. I have no problem running synthetic as I ran Klotz synthetic in my auger all last winter. I ran Klotz in my old snowmobile so I just used some of it in my auger too. Response was way better as was starting and oil residue dripping out of the muffler. Now Klotz is definitely not smokeless or odorless by any means. In fact, I really, really, really like the smell!!

Plastic vs. augers?? Now thats a different topic. I'm just curious though. I've never had a problem with the plastic handles on my Strikemaster Lazer. I'm sure the auger bit is made out of a very similar material. I really see no problems with it but it has got to be a tough sell to a new customer.

[Bob_D]

Good points.

I bet you will be very happy with the Amsoil this season. The key is to let your auger warm up for a minute. That goes for any auger.

Hummmm...Plastics. Seriously, there is a huge difference is the force, shock and torque applied to a handle then there is to a auger bit. Strikemaster had issues with the handles on the Lazer Mag Ultra's the first (and maybe second) years they were out. Then even had issues with the blade unit on those models because there was not enough steel to handle the torque.I believe this model is no longer being sold.

Ok...So it looks like they address what may have been an issue on the new auger by putting a coller around the blade assembly. But, that cutting head looks like an icing issue just waiting to happen. I just think the use of plastics in this application are a bad choice.

Now...Before anyone gives me a lashing saying that I just like Nils Master and not Strikemaster, let me say this. I think the Strikemaster Laser Mag Express is a good auger. It's reliable and a good product. I chose to purchase my Nils Master 3 years ago because I liked certain features better. I do have a beef with Strikemaster. ::THIS IS MY OPINION...ONLY MY OPINION:: I don't like the way they seem to rush products to market without enough testing. I've had a couple friends who have paid the price and had to deal with broken handles and bent cutting heads for almost a full season after buying a new to the market Strikemaster.

I could be wrong (Ask my wife, I'm wrong a lot ) I think the strike-lite is a disaster waiting to happen. So, save this post and make me eat crow if I'm wrong.

[hanson]

Sorry Bob to be the guy going back and forth with you tonight.

You just may very well be right. My Lazer Mag was not the 1st year of the plastic handles. I know there were reports of many busted handles also. While I am interested in the plastic bit, I am also skeptical at the same time. And in my opinion, you have to be... its very new technology as is the 4 stroke engine.

After using a NilsMaster many times though, I know which auger I would rather be using RIGHT NOW. But my Strikemaster is working good and I have to use my extra cash this winter to fuel up my pickup.

[PierBridge]

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Any chance that Strikemaster might offer their 2 cycle powerhead with the new strike-lite auger shaft?

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The Strike-Lite Auger will be available as an option on all StrikeMaster Powerheads....

At least thats what it says in my StrikeMaster Catalog.

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Note:The Lazer and Strike-Lite power auger units are available for all Strikemaster Powerheads.

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But......

They won't let you buy a new 2 Stroke with the Strike-lite Auger Drill unit, but the Strike-lite Auger/drill will fit the 2 strokes.

[augernaut]

As soon as the EPA and DNR mandate the use of 4-stroke engines in alot of small engine applications, then yes, you will need a 4-stroke. From my viewpoint as a sportsman, if I can purchase a product that will produce less emissions - I'm gonna try to do it, every little bit helps you know.

[get-the-net]

Thanks for the help PierBridge. I saw at their HSOforum that you can buy the composite shaft assembly for about $160, but I didn't know if you could buy a powerhead separately to go with it. My brand-new jiffy stealth broke after a week of use last year (transmission) so I decided to go with a Strikemaster this year. I would consider the Nils, but I'd have to get a step ladder to run it. I'm only 5'5" and the handles look like they're about 7' off the ground! Or is that just trick photography Bob-D?

[Bob_D]

LOL...That auger I'm holding has a 28"(?) extension on it. I'm 5'8" and I don't have a problem with the standard unit. There is a company in NY that orders shorter shafts from Nils Master, but I don't remember the name off hand. I'll find it and post it for you if you would like. I actually like the longer shaft because it makes it easier on the back when the ice gets thick.

[Northlander]

I didnt even have to use a extention on my Nilsmaster last year. Thats on Red, LOW, Winni, Rainy River, Lake Superior. I was going to order one but never needed it.

Bob D. have you ever needed your extention on your Nils?

I run Amsoil in my Nils and really like the way it performs. The Nils is the best auger made at this time. IMHO. At least that I have seen and used. I have used them all by the way. Except the new Strike lite plastic auger.

[PierBridge]

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but I didn't know if you could buy a powerhead separately to go with it.

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No StrikeMaster won't let you buy just a new 2-Stroke power head with a Strike-lite Auger Drill, one of their dealers may be able to work something out though ...the Strike-lite Auger Drills do fit the 2-Stroke power heads.

You would be very happy with the StrikeMaster 4-Stroke it weighs 20 pounds with very little smoke no mixing oil, and they cut just as good as the 2 Strokers.

If your going to spend close to $500 Nils is a good option also it's clearly the fastest auger and is quite light.

My only concern would be customer service and parts availabilty for Nils, as we know StrikeMaster wrote the book on this and your product can be fixed on the spot at any number of locations and the cost is almost always is covered by Strikemaster.

I want a Nils also but like Hanson my extra money is going into my gas fund for trips to URL, LOW, The Pond and my 22 year old Jiffy model 30 will have to do....

Good Luck.

[Bob_D]

Northlander,

Nope...never needed the extension. I put it on as a joke. Some guy up Nord was worried about not being able to drill his fishing holes, so I put his mind as ease.

The most ice I have had since I purchased my Nils was about 37-38" and it worked just fine with room to spare.

To answer the question about Nils Master parts.....All parts and service for the motor and gear box can be taken care of at local Tanaka repair shop. All auger parts (blade, auger bit, hand auger handles) can be had from TackleCity.com .

Punch in your zipcode on this Tanaka HSOforum page and it will give you the service centers closest to you.

[get-the-net]

Thanks for the great information everyone. I still have a little time to make my decision, but I've got to say that I'm leaning towards the Nils. Now I just have to come up with the money to do it!

[Bob_D]

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Now I just have to come up with the money to do it!

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Boy do I know that feeling. I'm trying to figure out how I'm going to get Santa to bring me an Ice Armor suit.