The 11 Best Drills for Ice Auger of 2022 – Pick from Drilling Advisor

 Disclaimer: DrillingAdvisor.org is a reader supported site. We earn commission from products purchased using affiliate links. We value your support and read more about the affiliate program here. 

 

As an ice angler, you want to be catching fish, not spending your time drilling.  Having the proper drill will save you time and frustration.  We’ve done the research for you so you can spend more time fishing and less time drilling – see below and let us know which drill you choose for ice auger!

Our Top Choices

	Top Pick:	Makita XPH12Z Hammer Drill
	Runner Up:	DEWALT DCD950KX 18-Volt Drill Kit
	Best Rated:	Milwaukee 2704-22 M18 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
	Highest Drilling Rate:	Ryobi P1813 Hammer Drill Kit
	Review Champion:	DEWALT 20V XR Hammer Drill Kit
	Most Simplistic:	Hitachi DS18DGL 18-Volt Cordless Drill Kit

Comparisons of The Top Drill for Ice Auger

We have taken our time to analyse a select brand of drills for ice auger, which we consider to be the best. All of them are of the highest quality and are packed with features that you may find useful.

Reviews of the Best Drill for Ice Auger on the Market

1. Makita XPH12Z 18V Cordless Hammer Drill – Top Pick 

The first item on our list is the Makita XPH12Z which is packed with handy features that make it perfect for the job.

We have outlined the major features of this machine so that you can understand why we believe it is the best drill for Ice Auger.

Product Description

The first thing about this drill is that at 3.4 pounds, it is very lightweight to minimize hand-fatigue during use. On top of that, the handle is rubberized with a soft grip to enhance the tool’s comfort.

Then, the drill has a variable 2-speed design of 0-500rpm and 0-2,000rpm. This means that it is very fast and therefore suited for drilling through ice.

We also liked how powerful the drill is courtesy of the 4-pole motor that delivers a max torque of 530 inch/pounds.

Other Features and Benefits

Another thing about this drill is that it is designed for use in harsh conditions. This is due to the Extreme Protection Technology (EPT) that equips the machine with dust and water resistance.

Lastly, the dual LED lights ensure that you have the required visibility in poorly lit conditions.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

2. DeWalt DCD950KX Hammerdrill Kit– Runner Up

Dewalt is one of the leading brands when it comes to the production of high-quality drills. The fact that the firm has been in the game for a while should give you some confidence that you are dealing with a reliable machine.

Does the DCD950KX reach these high standards? Let’s see.

Product Description

Let’s start with the patented 3-speed all-metal transmission that makes the drill to be very fast and therefore suited for different applications.

The other notable feature is the three speed settings that allow for accurate hole-placement.

When it comes to the construction, the drill has a well-balanced body and is built to last. On top of that, the handle has an ergonomic design and allows you to hold it in different positions that you are comfortable with.

And for improved visibility in confined areas, the LED light is your handy companion.

Other Features and Benefits

With the XRP extended runtime batteries, you can expect this tool to last long enough until you are done with the task at hand.

There is nothing you wouldn’t like with the warranty package that includes a 3-year limited warranty, 90-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year free service contract.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

 

3. Milwaukee 2704-22 M18 Fuel Drill – Best Rated

Here is a drill that any ice fisherman would appreciate. The kit has all you need for a successful ice drilling, and the high-quality product would not let you down when it comes to longevity.

Our brief review below is meant to help you decide whether this hammer drill is worth your time.

Product Description

First, this is a very compact unit that you are going for. It weighs only 2.1lbs and would not tire out your hands even when held for long durations.

From there, the hammer drill packs an impressive 1200lbs of torque which is unheard of when it comes to cordless drills. The combination of power and torque is one of the reasons this tool is suitable for ice drilling.

The tool is designed to be easy to handle and use, so even those who have no prior experience with drills should have an easy time with the drill.

Other Features and Benefits

This drill comes with a 5-year warranty to give you peace of mind in case you experience any issues with the machine.

Besides that, the customer support team is very reliable when it comes to responding to your issues.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

 

4. Ryobi P1813 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit – Highest Drilling Rate

If you are on a budget, the Ryobi 1813 is a drill that you ought to go for. Keep in mind that being inexpensive does not make the tool to be inferior since it is packed with handy features that make it perfect for drilling through thick ice.

Let’s see what this machine has for us.

Product Description

The first feature we are going to talk about is the 24-position clutch that allows you to adjust the torque up to 750 inch pounds.

At 3lbs, there is no way this drill could wear out your hands. Besides that, the handle is comfortable and non-slip so that the unit remains firmly in your hands during use.

We shall also touch on the 4 amp hour battery, which not only has a decent life but has a fuel gauge to let you know how much power is remaining.

Other Features and Batteries

A notable characteristic of this drill is that it is designed to work in extremely low temperatures of -14 degrees F.

We also liked the charger that can power up to 2 amp hour batteries within thirty minutes.

There is also the magnetic bit holder near the base for securing bits and fasteners to the drill.

Last but not least is that the drill comes with a contractor’s bag that you can use for carrying your accessories. The bag is fully sealed courtesy of the sturdy zipper it has.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

 

5. DeWalt DCD996P2 20V 3-Speed Drill– Review Champion

Just like the other product by Dewalt that we reviewed earlier, the DCD996P2 has some amazing features such that we found very little to complain about.

Let’s see what is so special about this tool.

Product Description

Due to the highly efficient brushless motor, you can expect this tool to deliver up to 57 more run times than what an ordinary brushed motor would.

Then, the drill has a heavy-duty construction, and this contributes to its durability.

Another thing worth mentioning is the 3-speed mode. When you consider this mode in addition to the powerful brushless motor giving out 820 Units Watts Out (UWO), this drill is perfect for faster applications.

As for the handle, it features a comfortable and firm grip so that the tool stays firmly in your hands.

Other Features and Benefits

We are also going to touch on the sealed twitches that make the drill to be fully moisture and dust resistant. This makes it suited for use in harsh environments.

And the 3-mode LED lighting that provides you with the much-needed visibility in confined areas.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

 

6. Hitachi DS18DGL Cordless Drill Kit – Most Simplistic

The other interesting drill for ice auger that we are going to look at is the Hitachi DS18DGL which, as per our analysis, is sure not to disappoint you.

The Hitachi brand itself is one of the best globally, and we are going to see whether this product reaches the high standards associated with the brand.

Product Description

This drill provides a powerful torque of 400 in/lbs. So, it is more than capable of handling the toughest jobs that you throw its way. On top of that, there is the stage clutch that can provide up to 22 torque settings for precision and control.

Secondly, it is powered by li-ion batteries which have a reputation of being lightweight as well as having longer run times.

You may also appreciate the two-speed gear setting whereby you can select the appropriate speed as the application requires.

Other Features and Benefits

Have we mentioned how well-made this unit is? As a result, you can expect it to serve you for a decent period into the future.

The warranty service is also impressive, and it includes a lifetime manufacturer’s tool warranty and a two-year li-ion battery warranty.

Last but not least is the LED light that illuminates your work station.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

 

7. Craftsman CMCD711C2 Cordless Drill Kit

Are you looking for a powerful hammer drill that is ideal for heavy-duty applications? If you are, you ought to try out the Craftsman CMCD711C2 due to the impressive combination of features that it possesses.

Let’s see if this tool is worth the hype.

Product Description

This hammer drill features a high-performance motor that gives out 280 UWO. This is one of the reasons why this tool is ideal for heavy-duty use.

On top of that is the ½” ratcheting chuck that gives the tool better bit-retention as compared to the competitors.

The package includes V20 20V Max Lithium batteries which not only ensure the tool has a longer runtime but make it high-performance as well.

Other Features and Benefits

The charger that this drill comes with is the fast-charging type and will take a maximum of 60 minutes to get the battery back to full capacity.

We cannot forget that the ½” chuck can fit different drill bits, and this gives the tool a hint of versatility.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

 

8. Dewalt DCD996B 20V Max XR Hammer Drill

Dewalt makes it to our list once again, and this can be an indicator of this brand’s high quality. So, what warrants the DCD996B to feature on our list?

We have pointed out the key features of this drill in detail below.

Product Description

We shall start with the high-performance transmission that gives the tool fast application speeds as well as better run time.

More on the run time, this drill features a high-efficiency brushless motor that delivers more run time as compared to a brushed motor. The motor supplies 820 UWO to make it powerful enough for any application.

There is also the 3-speed mode including 0-38, 250 and 2,250 rpm. This makes the tool powerful plus also allows for faster drilling.

The handle has a comfortable grip so that your arms do not develop blisters due to continuous use of the tool.

Other Features and Benefits

One thing you are sure to appreciate about this drill is how well-made it is. This includes the sealed twitches that make it free from dust and moisture contamination.

Finally, the drill features 3-mode LED lighting to provide you with visibility as you work in confined areas.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

 

9. Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 Cordless Hammer Drill

When you hear of a brand that has been in the game for quite a while, that should tell you that they know what they are doing. An excellent example of such a brand Milwaukee which has a reputation of producing outstanding tools that never disappoint.

Our review may help you decide whether the 2804-20 M18 hammer drill is worth your time and money.

Product Description

To begin with, this drill features a power state brushless motor. The significance of this type of motor is that it is known to produce up to 60% more power than ordinary motors.

Besides that, brushless motors are faster and more durable than the brushed ones.

Another aspect that makes this tool stand out is the Redlink Intelligence which assures us of optimal performance of the drill. Additionally, the feature provides overload protection which protects the battery from getting damaged as a result of heavy application.

The machine is packed with 1,200 in/lbs of torque to make it a reliably powerful item.

Other Features and Benefits

This product comes with REd Lithium xc5 battery pack, which is a reliable power source that would never leave you dry and hanging. One charge is going to allow you to do more work as compared to what other batteries would.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

 

10. Ridgid R86116 18V Cordless Hammer Drill

This is another budget-friendly drill to make it to our list. As you shall see on the brief review we have done on the product, the Rigid hammer drill has all the features that you could hope for as you look for the best drill for ice auger.

Product Description

The first outstanding feature of this drill is the adjustable clutch it comes with. As a result, you have over 100 positions at your disposal, and you can control the amount of torque from the machine that is suitable for the task at hand.

When it comes to the motor, this drill has the brushless which, as we all know, tends to run faster plus is more durable in comparison to other traditional motors.

The other important feature is the auxiliary handle which is well-suited for both left and right-handed individuals. Besides that, it has an ergonomic and comfortable grip that would not slip out of your hands during use.

Other Features and Benefits

At the front part of the drill is the LED light whose purpose is to provide you with illumination as you work in confined areas that have poor visibility.

Overall, the tool is well-made from high-quality materials and so should serve you for a long time to come.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

 

11. Cacoop 20V Cordless Hammer Drill

Last but not least is the Cacoop hammer drill, which despite appearing so lowly on our list, it possesses several useful features.

Is it worth investing in? Let’s see.

Product Description

To begin with, this tool is packed with 442 in-lb torque, and this means that it can drill through the thickest ice quite comfortably.

On top of that is the 2-speed design, including 0-400 and 0-1,600rpm. The speed gear is your handy companion as you switch between these two levels.

Another thing about this tool is that it is a 3-in-1 drill that you can use for drilling, screwing and impact-drilling.

The battery on its part is not your ordinary type. It features smart battery protection ensures it is not damaged by overcharging or overheating. This ensures that the battery continues serving you for longer.

Other Features and Benefits

The drill comes in a package with useful accessories including HSS multipurpose drill bits, spade drill bits, a magnetic bit holder, one fast charger and a storage case.

All the tools in the kit have a 2-year warranty, and this should give you peace of mind as you buy and use the tool.

Customer Review Section (Section Updated September 3, 2022)

CHECK MORE REVIEWS

 

The Buying Guide

Ice fishing is a fun way of eliminating the winter gloom. An ideal ice auger drill would make the experience even better, but there are some things that you need to pay special attention to.

Below are some of the factors that you have to pay attention to as you search for a good ice auger drill.

I)Lightweight

A lightweight drill would spare you from hand-fatigue. So, check out for the tools that do not exceed 2.5lbs, and many cordless drills would fall in this category.

II) Torque

The torque is another important factor to consider as it determines the amount of strain that you put as you dig through the thickest ice layers. The ideal torque for an ice auger drill is 750lbs.

III) Rotations Per Minute (RPMs)

This is a measure of the speed and power of your drill to determine how fast you will get the job done. Ideally, do not go for anything less than 750 RPMs.

IV) Battery Life

You will notice that most cordless hammer drills are powered by li-ion batteries. These types are more likely to assure you of more run time, and it would be a while before they need recharging.

So, batteries of 18V and above would be a reasonable choice.

V) Hammer Drill Mode

If you want to create precision holes with your drill, it will do so if this mode is one of its features.

VII) Warranty

A warranty is usually an indication of how long the product is going to last. Most of these drills come with a 5-year warranty, but you can still find high-quality drills with shorter-term warranties.

Make a point of checking the customer ratings for such products that don’t seem to reach the threshold.

Ice Auger Attachment

This is an adapter that would work with any handheld drill to boost its effectiveness in drilling through thick and stubborn ice.

How to Use Cordless Drills with Ice Auger Attachments

With a handheld drill and an ice auger adapter, you can easily drill up to 20 holes on a single charge. A drill with a high voltage battery such as 36V would help you get the best out of these adapters, and you can get the ideal number of holes for a successful fishing trip.

A bit of professional advice is that you should use a 6-inch adapter which is smaller to minimize the possibility of the ice auger getting stuck.

A thin piece of plywood and hose clamp would also help in ensuring that your auger doesn’t fall in the hole you are drilling.

Why Hammer Drills are Superior to Typical Ice Augers

For one, these handheld hammer drills can drill through the thickest layer of ice with maximum precision power. On top of that, you do not need to purchase any extra gear to get the job done.

Also, these drills get the job done in record time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The questions in this section are those that we frequently faced during our research. They should help in boosting your knowledge on the topic.

Q: What is the main work of an ice auger?

A: In general, this tool is used for cutting or digging through the ice to make a hole out of the layer. Ice anglers especially find it to be of great use.

Q: What is a wood auger?

A: A wood auger uses the same concept as an ice auger; only that it cuts through wood.

Q: Why should an ice auger be lightweight?

A: This is a necessary quality that would ensure you do not experience hand-fatigue as you use the tool for drilling through ice.

The Best Overall

In the end, we have chosen the Makita XPH12Z Hammer Driver and Drill as the best ice auger drill overall. If you check the combination of features that this particular tool possesses, you’ll notice that there is little chance of disappointments coming your way.

Our Thoughts

If you are a serious ice angler, you should make a point of investing in the ideal ice auger drill. This would help you save time and energy plus would boost your chances of having a successful fishing trip.

We hope our article has been of great help in giving you all the information you need to make the correct choice next time you go shopping for the tool.