I use a Dewalt 20 v Li-ion drill on my modified auger..if i had to drill by hand, i would only fish out of one hole. Drilling by hand is for the birds..
iv'e been using a drill adapter for my auger for a few seasons now..use to use a Dewalt 18v NiMH but i upgraded this year to a 20V Li-ion .Iv'e only have recharged it once this year about 25 holes per Li-ion batt,
drove all around the lake this afternoon..the only place that had a decent amount of ice was, Long Island the first pull,and it was packed for a few hrs,left at dusk ,and no one was there anymore..was a slow evening.
My dad and his fishing buddy's was at Long Island yesterday1/1/14.about 3:30 PM.. he said it was about 3''or so was still Popping and Cracking ..but his buddy is a Big fella. i figure 300 lbs double my weight and it hold the both of them more than 500Lbs Total..so i think it would probably.be safe..ill be up there this weekend..Hope this Helps!!!!
My Father and I was up at long island last night was good, a little slushy still. but was 3+inch in spots..we caught some Bluegills and 1 good sized Crappie about 11 1/2" inch was a good eve.had a blast will go back this evening..