Vent: I quit manual post hole digging on rocky ground

Many say to muscle through with a digger, but I rent a gas auger now. My arms don't get as tired, and jobs wrap up faster. It adds to the bill, but customers appreciate the speed. Do you think tools like this are worth it for residential jobs?

4 comments

4 Comments

casey2681mo ago

Your point about jobs wrapping up faster with a gas auger is SPOT ON. I fought with a manual digger on compacted clay last year and it wiped me out. Switching to powered equipment was a game changer for my stamina and schedule. Clients see the speed and are way more likely to recommend you. That rental fee is nothing compared to taking on more jobs. It is a TOTAL no brainer for residential stuff.

piperk881mo ago

Oh completely. Renting one from the big box store for the day was the best call I ever made on a fencing job. It paid for itself on that single project by letting me finish before lunch. The trick is to call ahead and reserve it, especially on a weekend. They go fast when the weather is nice.

harper_hart711mo ago

Have you ever noticed how we avoid the right tool because it seems like extra hassle? I see this everywhere, like when someone spends hours sorting papers instead of using a simple spreadsheet. We cling to the hard way because it's familiar, even when it wears us out. Trying that gas auger is like finally using that kitchen gadget you stored for years, it just makes sense after. Once you switch, you realize how much struggle was just pointless tradition.

grant4131mo ago

Just a heads up about equipment rentals, big box stores often mark up their rates compared to local equipment places. The dedicated rental spots usually have better prices and a wider selection of tools. It's worth calling a couple local guys for a quote before heading to the national chain.