how to use a post hole auger to dig fence post holes

A post hole auger cuts fence post holes in a fraction of the time of manual digging — here's how to use one correctly so your holes are straight, the right depth, and don't cave in.

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Post holes for a 6-foot fence should be 2 feet deep (1/3 of post length) and 3x the diameter of the post for concrete footings. The auger does the work, but technique matters: keep steady downward pressure, clear chips every 6–12 inches, and check plumb as you go. In rocky or clay soils, a two-person towable auger is worth the rental cost.

TOOLS USED:
→ IRWIN Level I-Beam 72-Inch: amzn.to/3qMOHym
→ Stanley FatMax Tape Measure 25 ft: amzn.to/3kgGJ02
→ DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver: amzn.to/3GAb94M

Call 811 (Dig Safe) before you dig — hitting a buried utility line is dangerous and expensive. It's free, required by law, and they mark your lines within 3 business days.

PRO TIP: Wet clay or rocky soil? Pre-soak the ground the day before with a garden hose. The auger cuts dramatically easier through moist soil than dry-packed clay.

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