How to Dig Post Holes by Hand

While the procedure for digging holes by hand is not complicated, it is tiresome and tedious. The best way to dig holes by hand is to use a post hole digger. Post hole diggers are much quicker and more efficient than using a simple shovel, and will expedite the process greatly. In addition, post hole diggers are safe and do not involve any mechanical parts or machinery. Always wear work gloves when using post hole diggers to avoid getting painful blisters and calluses on your hands.

Things You'll Need

• Post hole digger

Instructions

1. Space your feet shoulder-width apart while you stand over where you want to dig the hole. Grab the handles of the post hole digger and press them together so that the blades at the bottom open up.

2. Plunge the post hole digger forcefully into the ground where you want to dig the holes, and pull the handles apart. This will close the blades and dig up earth and dirt in the process.

3. Pull the post hole digger out of the hole. Put the dirt and debris you have dug up to the side, then continue digging the blades into the hole and removing more dirt.

4. Repeat these steps until the hole reaches the desired depth and diameter.

References

• This Old House: How to Use a Post Hole Digger

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish