Winter fishing involves the use of an ice ax. It helps to make holes with a diameter of more than 20 cm, but not every angler is ready to carry a heavy motorized device with him.
Therefore, resourceful fishermen use a regular screwdriver.
It is the best alternative due to its small size, weight and reasonable cost. But which screwdriver should you choose for ice drilling?
We have compiled a rating of the best screwdrivers for ice drills in terms of price/quality ratio, the most popular in 2021.
The review is based on real consumer reviews, expert assessments and tests.
Rating of the TOP 12 best screwdrivers for ice drills 2020-2021
| Place | Name | Price |
| TOP 6 best cordless screwdrivers for ice augers with high torque | ||
| 1 | DeWALT DCD991NT | Find out the price |
| 2 | Makita DDF481Z | Find out the price |
| 3 | DeWALT DCD796D2 | Find out the price |
| 4 | Metabo BS 18 LTX BL I | Find out the price |
| 5 | DeWALT DCD996P2 | Find out the price |
| 6 | Metabo BS 18 LTX Impuls 2013 | Find out the price |
| TOP 6 best cordless screwdrivers for ice axes with high torque | ||
| 1 | DeWALT DCD791NT | Find out the price |
| 2 | DeWALT DCD791D2 | Find out the price |
| 3 | Metabo BS 18 LTX BL I LiHD | Find out the price |
| 4 | Makita DHP458RFE | Find out the price |
| 5 | Makita DHP451RFE | Find out the price |
| 6 | Makita DDF481RTE | Find out the price |
How to choose a screwdriver for an ice auger?
When choosing a screwdriver for an ice auger, you need to pay attention to some parameters:
- Power . It must be at least 18 W. But it is best to choose models whose power is 36 W, because the more powerful the tool, the easier it is for it to cope with a thick layer of ice.
- Torque . The minimum indicator is 50-70 Nm, but if financial capabilities allow, then it is better to choose a model with 80-90 Nm. The higher the torque, the easier the drilling process will be.
- Durability and reliability . Preference should be given to proven brands of foreign and domestic manufacturers that have proven themselves to be the best.
- Additional handle . Thanks to it, the ice auger can be held with both hands. This will protect your limbs from unnecessary injuries that will ruin the entire winter fishing experience.
- Battery and its capacity . Nickel-metal hydride is optimally suited for a screwdriver, as it has high frost resistance. The battery capacity must be at least 2.5-3 Ah for fast drilling.
How to choose a screwdriver for an ice auger
First of all, we need to clarify: only a drill-driver can be used to drill holes in ice, since these are serious loads that not every engine can withstand. When choosing a screwdriver for winter fishing, you need to focus on the following characteristics:
Battery voltage (the output power of the tool depends on it) is from 18 V. The more, the better. And yes, it goes without saying that only battery-powered models can be used for ice fishing.
Torque is maximum. 60-80 Nm will be enough.
Battery capacity is ideally 3.5-4 Ah. You can choose models with a capacity of 2 Ah and two batteries, and work with them after charging both.
It is also important to pay attention to the quality of the plastic from which the body is made, since the ice screwdriver will have to withstand considerable mechanical loads.
TOP 6 best cordless screwdrivers for ice augers with high torque
This TOP includes models with high power and efficiency, as well as ergonomics and light weight, which ensure comfortable work for a long time.
DeWALT DCD991NT
The DeWALT DCD991NT screwdriver is a non-impact model and demonstrates an impressive torque of up to 95 Nm, which makes it a good choice for screwing and unscrewing tight fasteners.
It is suitable for active professional use and is equipped with a quick-release chuck, which guarantees easy replacement of accessories. The chuck has a clamping diameter of 13 mm and securely fixes equipment for any purpose.
The device can also be used as a productive cordless drill, which allows drilling holes with a diameter of up to 55 cm in wood and 13 mm in metal.
The product is equipped with an ergonomic handle that is comfortable even during long-term use and is powered by a battery. The battery capacity is 5 Ah, with an output voltage of 18 W. The kit, which includes a screwdriver, replaceable batteries and a network charger, is placed in a branded case.
Characteristics:
- Power - 650 W.
- Number of speeds - 3.
- The number of torque stages is 12.
- Battery capacity - 5 Ah.
pros
- Bright backlight.
- Good batteries.
- Price.
Minuses
- Poor quality assembly.
- No bat included.
Makita DDF481Z
The Makita DDF481Z features a brushless electric motor that delivers spindle speeds of up to 2100 rpm and an impressive 115 Nm of torque for such a small tool..
The device is capable of tightening and unscrewing any fastener and drilling holes with a diameter of 76 mm in wood and 13 mm in metal.
Its quick-release chuck can hold a bit or drill with a shank size of up to 13 mm.
The high performance and operating efficiency of the product is ensured by the rechargeable battery, which has an output voltage of 18 V and a capacity of 5 Ah.
The tool is equipped with two removable batteries, a charger for them, and a case with a handle for storage and carrying..
In addition, the model is equipped with a holder in the form of a clip, with which you can easily hang the device on your belt while performing work.
Characteristics:
- Number of speeds - 2.
- Clamp diameter: 13 mm.
- Battery charge - 5 Ah.
- Voltage - 18 V.
pros
- Power.
- Comfortable handle.
- Backlight.
Minuses
- The spindle often fails.
- Price.
DeWALT DCD796D2
The DeWALT DCD796D2 small brushless drill features new 2Ah batteries and a brushless motor that delivers excellent performance..
Thanks to its compact dimensions, the drill can be used even in confined spaces.
The product is equipped with a quick-release chuck, thanks to which changing equipment does not take much time.
The built-in backlight ensures comfortable and long-term operation in poor visibility conditions. A metal clip is provided for attaching the device to a belt.
The product includes metal gears, a two-speed gearbox, which increases the operating time of the drill.
The rubberized, comfortable handle increases ease of use, and the removable battery allows you to quickly assemble and disassemble the product.
Characteristics:
- Torque - 70 Nm.
- Number of speeds - 2.
- The cartridge size is 13 mm.
pros
- Excellent cooling system.
- Long warranty period.
- Speed adjustment.
Minuses
- The backlight cannot be turned off.
- High sound power level.
Metabo BS 18 LTX BL I
The heavy-duty cordless drill/driver Metabo BS 18 LTX BL I has a brushless motor and a high torque of 120 Nm.
The device belongs to the category of professional hand tools and can easily cope with large volumes of high-intensity serial work.
A screwdriver is useful in construction and finishing work.
At the first speed of 500 rpm, the model allows you to quickly tighten and unscrew screws, screws, self-tapping screws and confirmations of large diameter and length.
At the second speed of 1850 rpm, the model allows you to effectively drill small holes in steel, non-ferrous metals and alloys, wood and polymers.
The product also features an electronic Precision Stop system that regulates torque for precise machining..
The main design element of the product is a maintenance-free brushless electric motor. In addition to high power, the device has a high efficiency rate and is resistant to overloads.
Characteristics:
- Torque - 120 Nm.
- Speed: 1850 rpm.
- Voltage - 18 V.
pros
- Powerful.
- Fits comfortably in the hand.
- Price.
Minuses
- Heavy.
DeWALT DCD996P2
The DeWALT DCD996P2 cordless screwdriver is equipped with a brushless motor and operates on a 5 Ah lithium-ion battery with XR technology, which allows you to increase the operating time of the model on a single charge.
The device also has three operating modes and a maximum torque of 80 Nm for efficient and high-quality work.
Three built-in LEDs provide bright illumination of the work area in dark rooms.
The tool is easy and convenient to use for a long time.
The model has good protection against overheating, and the presence of an impact mechanism increases the range of use of the tool.
Low vibration level allows the device to operate for a long time.
By adjusting the speed, the device can be configured for high-quality work for the specific task being performed.
Characteristics:
- Battery charge - 5 Ah.
- Output power - 820 W.
- Torque - 95 Nm.
pros
- High quality build.
- Backlight.
- Power.
Minuses
- Heavy.
- Weak battery connection.
Metabo BS 18 LTX Impuls 2013
The Metabo BS 18 LTX Impuls 2013 device is a reliable professional device for a wide range of uses.
It has a high torque of 110 Nm, so it can easily tighten large screws.
The maximum size of holes in wood is 65 mm, which is useful not only when constructing garden furniture, but also for creating decorations from plywood or timber and as an ice drill.
The model has a quick-release chuck, so changing bits and drills will not take much time.
The product is equipped with an additional comfortable handle, which allows you to hold the tool more firmly.
The body of the product is lined with soft inserts, which ensures a secure grip and dampens vibrations..
A metal clip is provided for wearing on a belt.
Characteristics:
- Voltage - 18 V.
- Torque - 110 Nm.
- The cartridge size is 13 mm.
pros
- Includes 3 batteries.
- Reliable.
- Functional.
Minuses
- There's a lot of electronics in the charger.
- Price.
Inexpensive models (up to RUB 25,000)
When making a purchase of any thing, the first thing you pay attention to is the cost. It is believed that a high price requires the same quality. But the pattern does not always apply. And this is successfully proven by models of screwdrivers for winter fishing from the budget segment.
Makita DDF458RFE
pros
- waterproof housing
- keyless chuck
- high power
- metal gearbox
- 21 torque modes with drilling function
- battery charge indicator
- presence of a side handle
- compatible with 4 Ah battery
Minuses
- Li-Ion battery 3 Ah
From 17,500 ₽
The Makita DDF458RFE drill/driver has excellent performance. Chuck diameter up to 13 mm. The side handle and the presence of illumination increase the efficiency of the work performed. Torque ratings from 58 to 91 Nm and a 21-speed mode help cope with materials of varying densities. Users noted the high reliability and ease of use of the tool.
DeWALT DCD991P2
pros
- easy
- durable and hardy
- high torque up to 95 Nm
- The battery can withstand sub-zero temperatures perfectly
- bright backlight
- capacious battery charge
Minuses
- not being repaired
From 22,300 ₽
High-quality impact tool Makita DDF458RFE – drill-driver with 3 speed modes. Designed for active professional use. Equipped with electronic engine protection and an additional handle. Includes 2 batteries with a capacity of 5 Ah. Despite the fact that many users noted the fact that the model cannot be repaired, it was recognized as the best in the “value for money” category.
Makita DDF451RFE
pros
- powerful
- fits comfortably in the hand
- presence of shockproof pads
- reliable
Minuses
- heavy
- low battery power
From 19,500 ₽
The Makita DDF451RFE model is a reliable hammerless drill/driver with 16 torque levels and 3-speed modes. Equipped with double backlight, power button lock and side handle. The durable housing ensures operation in any weather. A special feature of the model is compatibility with more powerful 4 and 5 Ah batteries. Users have repeatedly noted the reliability of the tool.
TOP 6 best cordless screwdrivers for ice axes with high torque
With the help of models with high torque, you can quickly form a hole even on a thick layer of ice.
DeWALT DCD791NT
The DeWALT DCD791NT cordless model is designed for drilling holes in concrete, wood and for driving screws into various materials..
The product is a powerful representative of the line of cordless screwdrivers, which are made in a compact form and are characterized by mobility.
The device operates from a rechargeable battery, which allows you to perform operations in different places where there is no electrical network.
In the central part of the screwdriver there is a rubberized handle, which allows you to firmly hold the model in your hands, even if the worker’s hands are a little wet.
The product has several speeds for performing operations with screws and drilling, which allows you to adjust with maximum precision to the material with which you will be working..
There are belt mounts at the bottom, which allows the worker to attach the tool to a belt, freeing his hands.
Characteristics:
- Torque - 70 Nm.
- Speeds - 2.
- Shank size - 13 mm.
- Spindle speed: 550 rpm.
pros
- Comfortable handle.
- Belt brace.
- Price.
Minuses
- Inadmissible chuck runout.
DeWALT DCD791D2
The DeWALT DCD791D2 screwdriver is great for repair work . It combines
good functionality and a powerful cordless drill for working with different types of fasteners.
The device provides a maximum torque of 70 Nm and allows you to fix a drill or bit with a shank size of 13 mm in a quick-release chuck.
Using this cordless device, you can effectively drill holes in wood up to 40 mm in size and in metal up to 13 mm in size. The screwdriver has fifteen stages of torque adjustment and has a comfortable handle with thoughtful ergonomics, which is equipped with anti-slip rubber pads.
The device comes with two replaceable batteries with a capacity of 2 Ah, which are suitable for active and professional use..
It is placed in a special case for storage and transportation along with the battery.
Characteristics:
- The cartridge size is 13 mm.
- Torque - 70 Nm.
- Number of speeds - 2.
- Idle speed - 2000 rpm.
pros
- Metal cartridge.
- Convenient case.
- Backlight.
Minuses
- Price.
- Chinese assembly.
Metabo BS 18 LTX BL I LiHD
The Metabo BS 18 LTX BL I LiHD device has a battery, pulse mode of operation and is designed for drilling holes and working with fasteners.
The device operates thanks to a high-capacity lithium-ion battery and charger.
The brushless motor of the model does not require regular replacement of brushes and has a long service life.
Its two-speed gearbox at 500 and 1800 rpm allows you to configure settings for working with fasteners and drilling various materials.
By adjusting the torque, you can select the tightening force in the range from 60 to 120 Nm. The model is equipped with a quick-release chuck for equipment with a 13 mm shank.
The internal hexagon of the spindle allows the use of bit attachments without a chuck.
Bright backlighting, a battery charge indicator and a metal hook for attaching to a belt make work comfortable.
Characteristics:
- Battery charge - 5.2 Ah.
- Voltage - 18 V.
- Torque - 120 Nm.
pros
- Comfortable to hold.
- High power.
- Price.
Minuses
- Heavy.
Makita DHP458RFE
The Makita DHP458RFE is an excellent choice for drilling holes and working with fasteners.
The device is equipped with a quick-release chuck, which is characterized by a high speed of changing equipment and the same reliability.
You can apply two speed modes and 20 torque levels.
A high level of performance is achieved by an 18-volt battery that powers the device.
The torque figure of 91 Nm is impressive: you can tackle even the most demanding tasks. The impact mechanism adds efficiency to the product.
The product has electronic overload protection and the comfort of its operation is affected by LED illumination of the working area.
The gearbox of the device is made of metal. The kit includes two batteries, a bit, the necessary documents, an additional handle, a charger, a case and a belt clip.
Characteristics:
- Speeds - 2.
- Torque stages - 20.
- The clamp size is 13 mm.
pros
- Power.
- Reliability.
- Convenient to use.
Minuses
- Inconvenient lighting.
- Price.
Makita DHP451RFE
The Makita DHP451RFE impact drill/driver has a durable nylon body with ventilation holes, which contributes to a long service life.
Twenty torque modes have been developed for unscrewing and tightening screws; modes for convenient and simple drilling are included separately.
The maximum permissible maximum for drilling bricks is 8 mm . The peak screw size is 10mm. The device also has LED backlighting. You can replace the carbon brushes yourself.
The model will be useful for builders, furniture assemblers, carpenters, electricians, decorators and fishermen for drilling through a thick layer of ice.
The screwdriver includes a quick-release chuck for easy changing of accessories, a reverse function, an ergonomic handle, and replaceable carbon brushes for economical engine maintenance and increased service life.
Characteristics:
- Battery charge - 5 Ah.
- Voltage - 18 V.
- The cartridge size is 13 mm.
- Speeds - 2.
pros
- Excellent powerful device.
- Functional.
- Several operating modes.
Minuses
- Price.
- Heavy.
Makita DDF481RTE
The powerful Makita DDF481RTE screwdriver has 115 Nm of torque for heavy-duty work indoors and outdoors..
Such high power makes this device popular among fishermen for ice fishing. This model has a brushless motor, which increases the service life and makes operation easier.
The model is capable of tightening or unscrewing any fastener and allows you to drill holes with a diameter of 76 mm in wood, 13 mm in metal.
Its quick-release chuck allows you to quickly lock a bit and a drill with a shank size of 13 mm.
The operating efficiency and high performance of the device is achieved thanks to its rechargeable battery, which has an output voltage of 18 V and a capacity of 5 Ah.
The tool comes with two removable batteries, a charger for them, and a case with a handle for storage and transportation..
The latter has a holder in the form of a clip, with which you can hang it on your work belt while performing work.
Characteristics:
- Speeds - 2.
- Torque - 22.
- Voltage - 18 V.
pros
- Backlight.
- Power.
- Holds a charge for a long time.
Minuses
- Heavy.
- Expensive.
