Using an Ice Auger

Hand augers

The angle of the blade is precise; damaging it will impair carving. Before cutting, make sure the blade is sharp. Some augers have fold-down handles or handles with comfort adjustments. Secure all adjustments before cutting into the ice. Attach a strap to the handle of your ice auger and secure it to your body or around your hand to keep from dropping it through the ice.

Stand the ice auger upright with the tip placed against the ice. Holding it firmly, slowly begin cranking the handle clockwise. Speed up once the tip works its way into the top layers of the ice. Putting pressure on the auger will help it stay on track and quickly work through the ice.

Power augers

Never use a power ice auger that is out of oil, and change the oil regularly. If gas-powered, add gas; if electrically powered, check the power supply and keep cords away from the path of the drilling. Cords can be easily cut or end up in the water once you break through the ice.

As with the hand auger, check the sharpness of the blade, adjust handles, and attach a support strap. Avoid knocking hand or power auger blades on the ice; this could damage the blade. Maintain control of the power auger, remembering that it is more powerful than the hand model.

Sharpening ice auger blades

Sharpen blades with a bench-top or hand polisher. Mark the area of the blade that needs sharpening - polish only that area to avoid cutting too much and changing the cutting angle. Apply rouge cutting grit (one that is not too aggressive cutting) to flannel and lightly polish the beveled side of the ice auger blade. Concentrating too long on one area can change the angle and shape of the blade.