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[font "Times New Roman"][#ff4040][size 3]Okay so the ice season is creeping up pretty fast. I think this year I might just purchase a power auger. I was just wondering which ones were good, and if any of you guys out there that have any suggestions on which ones I should be looking at. I would like to get one that is nice but also reasonably priced. Any info and suggestions would be greatly appreciated.[/size][/#ff4040][/font]
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For price the Eskimo's aren't bad augers. I have one with an 8 inch auger and a small 2 stroke that works really great. I have had it for 5 winters and used it in Alaska on ice over 4 feet thick with no problems. The key to any auger though is sharp blades. Always make sure to put the cover back on it at the end of the day and try to keep it from smacking on buckets or things to keep from dinging it up. If I had the extra money I would buy a Strike Master with at least a 10 inch blade though. My 2 cents.
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I've got a newer 10" Eskimo Shark, I've only used a couple of times, but I really like it. I've also used Eskimo augers quite a bit in the past, and they seem to perform well.
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I got an Eskimo for xmas last year, and it works great.
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The one, The only,,,, StrikeMaster!
Although I might be a bit prejudice because StrikeMasters power augers are all I've owned.. In the past 20 years I've bought two.. I gave away the first one (a Mag III) while still running strong after 18 years of use.
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hey bro, be sure to check the classifieds on ksl website. i saw a sweet strikemaster on there today for $150. also a few fishin shelters. ya want to check that place at least once a week. laters
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all i can say is dont buy a jiffy and you'll be ok
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[black][size 3]Don't buy a Jiffy ? Rut Roh ! [/size][/black]
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[black][size 3]A friend of mine just mentioned he was thinking of buying a used one from someone. Is there something I should mention back to him ? I'm not familiar with Jiffy myself, can you tell me what your experience is ?[/size][/black]
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there junk.... bend and break easly
Jiffy should stick with popcorn
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I have an older Eskimo Shark and I love it, but I am not crazy about the new models. Too much plastic. We had two of them on a trip at Fish Lake last Feb and both gave us huge problems. Cold and plastic are not a good mix.
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Just my two cents worth. All the power augers available today are pretty darn good. A lot of them share the same engine manufacturer. The thing about any auger is the care you take of it. Don't use stale fuel & NEVER leave fuel in it. Always empty the fuel & run the carburetor empty before putting it away. A little savvy about the fuel / air mixture can make a world of difference too especially if you fish lakes of widely different altitudes.
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I like the Strikemaster Lazer 224. Got it last year and drilled a ton of holes. Very dependable!
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[font "Comic Sans MS"][black][size 3]I've got an Eskimo Barracuda Plus (3 hp) and that bad boy has got the power when it's late season and you have to drill through a few feet of ice. It's been a good auger but can be a little temperamental about starting if you don't know the "routine". I've had to replace the on/off switch but other than that, it's been a workhorse.[/size][/black][/font]
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[font "Comic Sans MS"][black][size 3]I think Geezer has some good advice. Care and proper maintenance will make an auger dependable. Also when you premix your fuel stabilizer and fuel deicer can make a huge difference. Not only will these additives help your fuel stay fresh and dry but will also clean any gunk and varnish from the carb. Also keep your tank full so no condensation can take place.[/size][/black][/font]
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[font "Comic Sans MS"][black][size 3]Carry a spark plug wrench and a spare plug just as a precautionary measure. Also consider a cover. We use snowmobiles and your auger stays free of any ice or snow. Nothing like trying to dig the snow out of your auger.[/size][/black][/font]
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I went through the same decision process last year. I wanted the Strike master but could afford the Eskimo shark (8"). I drilled a lot of holes, many in ice and snow as deep as the auger, and had no problems. I had no difficulty starting it, no parts break, and have been happy to have it. It's quite a luxury after drilling by hand for many years! I have just followed the care instructions that have been given on the other replies and have not regretted my purchase yet! Good luck, let us know what you decide on and how you like it!
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My dad has had a 10" Strikemaster Laser for almost 7 years (i think) and has never had any problem with it.
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I have used a Strikemaster Lazer Mag for the last 15 years,no trouble.The only thing I have replaced are the blades.
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Rich-Any advise on cold weather starts?Had one time mine would not start at Scofield (-26 Degrees)
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I suggest the Eskimo. I second what all other Eskimo owners have said plus the warrenty. I had the gas cap break in the cold last year. I called them and they had me send in a copy of my receipt and they sent a new one free of charge and also asked if I had any other problems. I had a "small" crack in my blade protector and they sent one of those free of charge too.
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