Strikemaster 224 Verdict

[H2O]

Now that the Strikemaster 224 has been out for a couple seasons, what are the opinions? How much better are they then the Lazer Mag X-Press and Ultra?

I am contemplating buying just the auger itself (not the power head).

[Jim Hudson]

H20

Personally, I still run the Lazer Mag 2 Blade system and love them to death. But I have run and know a lot of people that have the 224 system, where they love it. There was some talk last season of some of the auger pitches being off and this bit not cutting right... But this has been corrected. This season I have not heard any complaints with this bit, in either the 8" or 10" models.

I know they cut like heck and you can cut an angle to widen the bottom of a hole (which is great for larger species).

One thing I recommend though if you do get one.. be sure to lubricate the blade assembly with WD40 or Pam regularly.. this will greatly reduce ice build up on the 224's blades.

[S.D. Ice Angular]

I have had the 224 for 2 seasons now, I love it...

I never have had a ice build up issue at all.

[BDR]

I have also had the 224 for 2 seasons now. It cuts great!!

O ne thing it is outstanding at is: when you sight fish you can drill one hole straight down to fish down and another in front at an angle to make it much more comfortable to see your bait sitting back.

I have had problems with build up on real cold days. I do carry and use Pam on it and that helps.

I drilled 4-5 hundred holes last year and it was due for the blade exchange. Got a set for (I think around) $45.

Haven't spent enough time out this year so they will probably be good for most of next year.

I am not a big fan of the compression button on this head. I have to remember to tell anyone who may borrow it.

Over all It was cool to have the lastest model available but I would probably save a few bucks next time and get the 2 blade lazer.

I did use a Strike-Lite this year and that was pretty nice also.