How to Dig a 4' Post Hole

Use a post hole digger.

Using a post hole digger when digging a 4-foot post hole makes the job easier. When selecting a post hole digger, make sure that it is big enough. A 4-foot hole will require at least a 6-foot post hole digger. While digging post holes, wear gloves to protect the hands and prevent blisters.

Things You'll Need

• Work gloves
• Post hole digger
• Measuring tape

Instructions

1. Measure and mark digging areas before beginning work. Note the type of soil that is present. If the soil is lose or sandy, wet the area with water several hours beforehand. Loose soil is easier to remove when wet.

2. Grasp the post hole digger by the handles and hold them together over the site of the hole with the blades pointing down. Drive the blades into the ground as far as possible or until they are fully buried.

3. Pull the handles of the post hole digger apart to clamp down on the dirt before pulling the blades out of the ground. Hold the digger over a spot away from the post hole and push the handles together to release the dirt.

4. Repeat step 3 until the hole is 4-feet deep. Use a measuring tape to ensure the hole reaches the necessary depth. Dig straight down to avoid making an uneven hole.