Which post hole digger is best?

Nearly every house, deck or dock you’ve stood on started with the same thing: a deep hole, dug through dirt and rock and backfilled with a sturdy post surrounded by concrete. Governed by industry guidelines and regulations, most posts need to be set below the frost line, be adequate in space for concrete and dug straight down. The best way to accomplish this is using a post hole digger designed for the job.

For quiet, powerful digging that gets the job done even when you’re off-grid, the Landworks Earth Auger is a great option.

What to know before you buy a post hole digger

Manual vs. electric vs. gas

Post hole diggers can be powered by brute strength, electricity or gasoline. Manual diggers obviously require more strength, but they’re less expensive and quieter than their gas- or battery-powered counterparts.

Gas-powered augers are fast, but they require a mix of gas and oil to operate and are often noisy. Battery-powered diggers solve the noise problem, but many users struggle with the short battery life since it won’t get them through bigger projects.

Blade size

The blade size should match the necessary diameter of the hole you’re digging. Although larger blades have a better “grip” in terms of the earth they grab, they may remove too much for delicate jobs (such as installing a decorative picket fence). The best post hole diggers come with a variety of blade sizes for all the jobs you need to do.

Weight

Heavier post hole diggers use the weight of the machine and gravity to take bigger bites out of the earth. Although this seems like a great idea — grabbing more dirt and rocks with each turn or thrust — a heavy post hole digger is a lot of work.

Imagine building a fence that requires 30 holes. Now imagine the difference between lifting a 5-pound post hole digger for those holes as compared to a 10-pound machine.

Of course, using an electric or gas-powered auger lightens the repetitive lifting, but you’ll still need to be able to haul it around to each hole.

What to look for in a quality post hole digger

Cushioned handles

Manual or automated, the handles of a post hole digger need to be well-padded to absorb the shock of the machine. Constant vibrations of electric or gas-powered diggers can cause blisters, too. Get a good grip on your machine before buying to make sure it’s comfortable.

Sturdy handles

Manual diggers should have generously sized, sturdy handles. Look for handles that are at least 4 feet long and made of hardwood or fiberglass. Both materials are strong and light, but make sure to store both out of the weather and sun to preserve them.

Rechargeable battery

Battery-powered augers are great for off-grid use. They tend to be quieter, but their batteries can drain quickly. Look for a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for longer life.

Extra blades

Gas- and battery-powered augers that come with extra blades of varied sizes allow you to dig different diameters of holes. Because some DIY projects require different holes, this allows you to get it all done with one machine.

How much you can expect to spend on a post hole digger

While high-quality manual post hole diggers cost around $25, battery- and gas-powered versions can cost double or triple that price.

Post hole digger FAQ

Why can’t you just dig a hole with a shovel?

A. Post holes need to be absolutely vertical. This prevents water from trickling down underneath the set post, freezing and heaving your post and concrete (and the rest of your structure) out of the ground, or at least off-level.

A post hole digger also only removes the amount of dirt that needs to be removed. A shovel creates a wide ditch that could certainly get to the correct depth, but it moves a lot of earth to do so. Post hole machines are more targeted and retain the stability of the supporting earth by removing only as much as you need to remove.

Is there a recommended technique for using a manual post hole digger?

A. Yes.

Bring your hands together as you thrust the blades into the ground. This opens the clamshell blades.
As you bring the blades down, hold both handles together. This prevents smashed knuckles.
Separate your hands wide to grab dirt.
Move the dirt out of the way, and close your hands again to reset.
Rotate the blades 90 degrees in one direction, and repeat the process. This helps avoid any stubborn roots or rocks and loosens the dirt so you can remove more at one time.

Depending on your soil, it may take a few passes to get the hole started. Be patient, and don’t forget to rotate the blade each time you bring it down into the hole.

What’s the best post hole digger to buy?

Top post hole digger

Landworks Earth Auger

What you need to know: The powerful battery on this electric option digs to the required depth quickly.

What you’ll love: It comes with three different bit sizes. It rotates in two directions at 300 revolutions per minute. Operation is quiet, and the whole unit weighs 22 pounds. You can dig 30-60 holes on one charge. It comes with one rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

What you should consider: You might want a spare battery for big jobs.

Top post hole digger for the money

Ames Post Hole Digger

What you need to know: This is a great choice when money is tight and you have to dig some holes.

What you’ll love: The 48-inch hardwood handle has a padded grip for comfort during use and measurements etched in so you know when you’ve met your mark. The steel blades open to 6.25 inches.

What you should consider: The blades aren’t welded, so they may come loose after repeated use.

Worth checking out

Fiskars 60-inch Steel Post Hole Digger

What you need to know: This manual post hole digger reaches up to 60 inches and comes from a trusted brand.

What you’ll love: This digger is really good at breaking up dense ground. It also reaches 12 inches longer than most other models.

What you should consider: The digger’s increased length may make it more difficult to use or carry.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Which mini projector is best?

If you’ve always wanted the full cinematic experience without having to spend a fortune on a custom home theater, a mini projector is the perfect alternative. These space-saving and portable devices can connect to most smartphones, laptops, tablets and other modern electronics to project high-quality videos and images.

A mini projector’s small size makes it great for tight spaces or apartment living. If you’re in the market for one of the best mini smart projectors, the LG PF50KA Wireless Smart DLP Projector is a highly rated choice.

What to know before you buy a mini projector

Usage

Mini projectors aren’t strictly limited to watching feature-length films and TV shows. Many people will actually utilize these handy devices to display slideshows, reports, briefings or their computer screen in office settings.

Depending on how you intend to use your mini projector, you can base your purchasing decision on the features that make most sense for your lifestyle. Higher-resolution models are often better suited for at-home entertainment purposes.

Image size

Every projector states its maximum image size that can be achieved without sacrificing resolution. The majority of mini projectors have a “screen size” between 60 and 170 inches. This is always measured diagonally from the top to the bottom corner. Be sure you have adequate space to accommodate the projector’s image.

Display location

Since there is no physical screen, a mini projector will need a clear, blank, flat surface to project images. Some people prefer to set up a separate projection screen to maximize quality, while others prefer to simply use a large blank wall.

What to look for in a quality mini projector

Resolution

The higher the resolution, the clearer and sharper the display. For the best HD quality resolution, look for models that have a native resolution of at least 1920 x 1080. This will allow them to project in full HD. Others may support 1080p resolution videos but end up reducing the quality to meet their more limited capabilities. You can occasionally find high-end mini projectors with 4K resolution.

Ease of transportation

One of the best parts about mini projectors is their ability to be moved from place to place. If you plan on traveling with your projector or changing its location often, pay attention to the size and weight so you can find a model that easily fits in your bag or luggage.

Device compatibility

There are plenty of mini projectors that feature wireless connectivity so you can pair your device effortlessly. Other ways to connect your device directly to the mini projector include USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, VGA and other common connection ports.

Some options may also allow you to control the device using a convenient smartphone app.

Brightness

A mini projector needs to be bright enough to effectively display your videos or images, which is why you should pay attention to the lumen rating. Most models will have between 100 and 1,000 ANSI lumens. The higher the lumen rating, the easier it is to see in bright settings.

Battery life

Certain mini projectors will be powered via a rechargeable battery, while others may need to be plugged in. Some may have the ability to utilize both power methods. If using a battery-powered mini projector, make sure the battery run time is sufficient for your needs.

Speakers

It is not uncommon for mini projectors to feature built-in speakers, which can come in handy for anyone on the go or those who don’t want to connect external speakers. However, built-in speakers sometimes lack the desired audio quality.

How much you can expect to spend on a mini projector

The cheapest mini projectors can be bought for under $100, while you can expect to spend between $200-$300 for midrange models. High-end mini projectors can retail for well over $500.

Mini projector FAQ

Can you use a mini projector outside?

A. Yes, you can use a mini projector outdoors as long as the display brightness is suitable for the setting. Watching a movie outdoors will likely be better at night or in shaded areas.

How long do mini projector bulbs last?

A. Every mini projector should state the expected lamp life, which is represented by the total number of hours. Many will sport a lamp life between 1,500 and 5,000 hours, while others with efficient LED bulbs can run for up to 30,000 hours. Depending on how often you use your projector, it can often last several years before needing a replacement.

What’s the best mini projector to buy?

Top mini projector

LG PF50KA Wireless Smart DLP Projector

What you need to know: This mini projector from a well-known and reliable brand can produce HD images no matter your location.

What you’ll love: Weighing just over 2 pounds, this highly portable model connects wirelessly so you can easily stream TV shows and movies. Plus, the 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio and 100-inch screen size make for a truly cinematic experience.

What you should consider: Users have noted that the zoom function on this projector isn’t the best.

Top mini projector for the money

Kodak Luma 150 Pocket Projector

What you need to know: The affordable Kodak Luma 150 is a thin and compact projector that is great for travel.

What you’ll love: By using an efficient LED light source, this projector has a life span of 30,000 hours. It also makes it easy to connect your device via wired HDMI or USB connections or through its wireless compatibility.

What you should consider: If you’re looking for HD resolution, this may not be the best option.

Worth checking out

Anker Nebula Apollo Projector

What you need to know: This Anker model is a reasonably priced projector with a long battery life for extended viewing.

What you’ll love: Users will enjoy the compact, sleek design and high-quality built-in speaker function. The accompanying smartphone app gives you complete wireless control over this mini projector.

What you should consider: The resolution quality is slightly lower than expected.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Like most pretend football impresarios, The Loop rarely spends much time scouting kickers who, for the most part, have relatively little effect in deciding fantasy contests.

Until this year.

Kickers have made the 50-yard field goal, once an NFL rarity, into the equivalent of a 3-foot putt. Through the first two weeks of the season, they have made an incredible 35 of 39 kicks from that range. Just under 90 percent. Nine-zero.

With most leagues awarding bonus points for kicks of 40-plus yards and 50-plus, there’s a more significant premium on the long-distance booters.

The most shocking statistic, though, regards the four misses. Two of them are from Baltimore’s Justin Tucker, who is widely considered one of the league’s greatest kickers and who holds the all-time record of 66 yards.

So which potent kickers are likely available on your waiver wires? How about these guys?

Chris Boswell (Steelers) — Pittsburgh’s veteran has made all eight of his field-goal tries this season, half of them from 50 and beyond. And with Pittsburgh’s modest offense, he scored all 18 of their points in their Week 1 victory in Atlanta.

Chris Boswell #9 of the Pittsburgh Steelers kicks a field goal during the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sept. 08, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Austin Seibert (Commanders) — Seibert did Boswell one better by scoring all 21 Commanders points thanks to seven FGs against the Giants last Sunday. But for his career he’s only 2 for 6 from 50 Land, though he has made 72 percent of his kicks from 40-49.

Austin Seibert #3 of the Washington Commanders celebrates with teammates after kicking the game-winning field goal to beat the New York Giants 21-18 at Northwest Stadium on Sept. 15, 2024 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)

Cairo Santos (Bears) — He’s also perfect this season, including three from 50-plus. The Chicago veteran has gotten better with age. Over the past two-plus seasons he has made 14 of 16 from 50 and beyond. The Bears’ inconsistent offense gives him plenty of opportunities.

Cairo Santos #8 of the Chicago Bears kicks a 51 yard field goal in the second half of a preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Soldier Field on Aug. 17, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)

Evan McPherson (Bengals) — He’s most famous for a 31-yarder in overtime that sent the 2021 Bengals to the Super Bowl. But he’s so trusted on long-distance kicks that Cincinnati has given him 30 chances from 50-plus in the past three-plus years (making 23).

Evan McPherson #2 of the Cincinnati Bengals celebrates a made field goal with teammate Ryan Rehkow #8 against the Kansas City Chiefs during the fourth quarter at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Sept. 15, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Sitting stars

Eagles RB Saquon Barkley had a bad, bad drop that led to a Monday night loss, and the stench of that may linger against the red-hot Saints. … San Francisco’s defense will shut down RB Kyren Williams and the depleted Rams. … Jets RB Breece Hall will be facing a decent New England defense, with Braelon Allen looking over his shoulder, ready to vulture TDs. … Cleveland RB Jerome Ford would be a good choice against the Giants if not for D’Onta Foreman getting most of the work. … Miami’s Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle won’t be scaring anyone in Seattle with Skylar Thompson throwing the passes. … Indy WR Michael Pittman will remain quiet against Chicago. … Detroit tight end Sam LaPorta will be eclipsed again by teammate Jameson Williams in Arizona. … And two QBs we expect to struggle again are the Colts’ Anthony Richardson vs. the Bears and the Jags’ Trevor Lawrence in Buffalo.

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaves to field after their win against the Green Bay Packers in an NFL football game, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, at the Neo Quimica Arena in Sao Paulo. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)

Matchup game

It’s a big game when desperate Baltimore faces desperate Dallas, and we expect big games from Ravens RB Derrick Henry and Cowboys WR CeeDee Lamb. … Tampa receivers Chris Godwin and Mike Evans will roam free against Denver. … We think this is the week 49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk breaks out against the Rams. … The best tight end in football right now might be Vegas rookie Brock Bowers, who will feast against lowly Carolina. … The Chiefs’ Travis Kelce will start to look like himself again vs. the Falcons. … The Joe Burrow to Mike Gesicki combination will work well against Washington. … Derek Carr will again look like a No. 1 QB against Washington. … and Pittsburgh QB Justin Fields will further cement his starting role by running free against the Chargers.

CeeDee Lamb #88 of the Dallas Cowboys attempts to catch the ball as he is defended by Martin Emerson Jr. #23 of the Cleveland Browns in the second quarter of the game at Cleveland Browns Stadium on Sept. 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. Lamb dropped the ball on the play. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)

Injury watch

It has been a rough first two weeks, and Week 3 will not include the likes of Christian McCaffrey, Isaiah Pacheco, Puka Nacua, Cooper Kupp, Deebo Samuel and Tua Tagovailoa. … Two great receivers, the Vikings’ Justin Jefferson and the Lions’ Amon-Ra St Brown, are a little banged up but are expected to play. … Green Bay QB Jordan Love and Philly wideout A.J. Brown are pretty doubtful. … The ranks of the questionable include Houston RB Joe MIxon, Seattle RB Kenneth Walker III, Tampa Bay RB Rashaad White, Tennessee RB Tajae Spears, receivers Jordan Addison of the Vikings, Keenan Allen of the Bears and the Bengals’ Tee Higgins, and four tight ends (Jaguars’ Evan Engram, Cowboys’ Jake Ferguson, Browns’ David Njoku and Saints’ Taysom Hill).

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) runs into the end zone for a topuchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

Deepest sleeper

Chances are most of you had never heard of Chiefs RB Carson Steele before he scored in last Sunday’s win over Cincinnati. And you might not hear of him again if the Chiefs reunite with Kareem Hunt, or if Clyde Edwards-Helaire comes back healthy. Steele has but nine carries for 27 yards in his NFL career. But he did have 3,780 yards and 30 touchdowns in his collegiate stops at Ball State and UCLA. If he’s lucky, Steele could become the most famous guy to come out of Ball State since David Letterman.

Carson Steele #42 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates his second quarter touchdown run against the Chicago Bears during preseason game action at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Aug. 22, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images)

The Thursday pick

Patriots at Jets (-6½)
Pick: Jets by 7

Braelon Allen #0 of the New York Jets scores a second half touchdown against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on Sept. 15, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

You can hear Kevin Cusick on Wednesdays on Bob Sansevere’s “BS Show” podcast on iTunes. You can follow Kevin on Twitter — @theloopnow. He can be reached at kcusick@pioneerpress.com.

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