What Is a Post Hole Digger and How to Use It
By Radius Garden | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Buying Guides
Learn what a post hole digger is, how to choose between types, and step-by-step instructions for using it to dig fence, deck, or mailbox post holes.
Quick Answer
A post hole digger is a two-handled tool with sharp blades that scoop soil to create narrow, deep holes for posts. For most DIY fence and deck projects, a fiberglass-handle model like the Atlas Post Hole Digger offers the best balance of weight, durability, and cost.
Fiberglass vs Wood Handles: What Matters for You
Fiberglass handles are lighter than wood, resist rot and splintering, and transfer less vibration to your hands during repeated digging. They are ideal for long sessions in dry or rocky soil where you need to drive the blades hard.
Wood handles are heavier and can absorb some shock, but they are more prone to cracking if left in the rain or used in very hard ground. They also require occasional sanding or oiling to stay smooth.
If you only dig a few holes per year in soft garden soil, a wood-handle digger works fine. For regular fence building or tougher soil, fiberglass saves your arms and lasts longer.
Blade Design: Atlas Pattern vs Standard
The Atlas pattern head has a 6-inch point spread that creates consistent, uniform post holes. This is a major advantage if you are setting multiple posts and need them all the same diameter and depth.
Standard post hole diggers often have narrower or less uniform blade shapes, which can make holes irregular or require extra reaming. The Atlas design reduces that extra work.
For fence posts or deck footings where uniformity matters, a digger with an Atlas pattern head is worth the slight price premium.
When to Choose a Clam-Shell Digger Over Alternatives
Clam-shell (two-handle) post hole diggers are best for holes up to about 3 feet deep in soil that is not too rocky or clay-heavy. They are cheap, light, and easy to store.
For deeper holes (e.g., 4+ feet) or extremely hard soil, a gas-powered auger or a manual auger with a T-handle is faster. But those cost more, weigh more, and require maintenance.
If your soil is full of large rocks or tree roots, a post hole digger may struggle; a digging bar or root shovel is a better first tool to break up obstructions before switching to the digger.
How to Choose a Post Hole Digger: Decision Rules
- Soil Type: If your soil is sandy or loamy, any digger works. If it is hard clay or rocky, choose a fiberglass-handle model with extra-strong steel blades (like the Atlas Post Hole Digger).
- Hole Depth & Quantity: For fewer than 10 holes under 3 feet deep, a clam-shell digger is fine. For more than 10 holes or deeper than 3 feet, consider an auger or a heavier-duty digger with a longer handle.
- Handle Material: Choose fiberglass for lighter weight, no rot, and less vibration. Choose wood only if you prefer the feel and you store tools indoors.
- Blade Pattern: If uniform hole size matters (fence posts, deck footings), pick an Atlas pattern head. For occasional mailbox or sign posts, a standard blade is adequate.
- Budget: Fiberglass diggers cost slightly more than wood but last longer. The Atlas Post Hole Digger is priced under $40, which is a good value for the durability.
Product Facts
- Atlas Post Hole Digger Fiberglass: Fiberglass handles are lightweight and durable for extended use. Extra-strong steel blades provide maximum durability in tough soil. Atlas pattern head with 6-inch point spread ensures consistent, uniform post holes. This combination means you can dig more holes with less fatigue, and every hole will be the same width—saving time when setting multiple posts.
Atlas Post Hole Digger Fiberglass
Who Should Buy a Post Hole Digger
Best for
- DIY homeowners installing fence posts, deck footings, or mailbox posts
- Gardeners who need to dig holes for shrubs or small trees
Not ideal for
- Digging holes deeper than 3 feet (use an auger)
- Soil packed with large rocks or dense tree roots (use a digging bar first)
