Eskimo 35600 Pistol Bit 8-Inch Ice Auger Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your Eskimo 35600 Pistol Bit 8-Inch Ice Auger. Please read all instructions carefully before assembly, operation, or maintenance. Proper understanding and adherence to these guidelines will ensure optimal performance and user safety.

Image: The Eskimo 35600 Pistol Bit 8-Inch Ice Auger, showcasing its full length and red flite design.

Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when operating any power tool, especially on ice. Failure to follow these safety instructions may result in serious injury or property damage.

• Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear appropriate safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Consider hearing protection.
• Ice Safety: Ensure the ice thickness is safe for your activity before drilling. Consult local regulations and guidelines.
• Drill Requirements: Use only a high-torque, 1/2 inch chuck cordless drill with a side stabilizer arm. The drill must have an 18 Volt/4 Amp Lithium Ion Battery (or higher), a brushless motor design, and a minimum of 725 in/lbs of torque.
• Secure Attachment: Ensure the auger is securely fastened in the drill chuck before operation. A loose auger can cause loss of control.
• Sharp Blades: The auger blades are extremely sharp. Handle with extreme care. Keep hands and body clear of the blades during assembly, operation, and maintenance.
• Maintain Control: Always use the drill's side stabilizer arm to maintain control during drilling. Be prepared for torque reactions, especially when breaking through the ice.
• Clear Area: Keep bystanders, especially children and pets, away from the drilling area.
• Bit-Saving Top Plate: The included polymer top plate is designed to prevent the auger and drill from falling through the hole. Ensure it is properly installed.

Package Contents

Verify that all items are present upon unpacking:

• Eskimo 35600 Pistol Bit 8-Inch Ice Auger
• Steel Blades (pre-installed or spare set)

Specifications

Setup

Follow these steps to properly prepare your Eskimo Pistol Bit for use:

1. Inspect Components: Before each use, inspect the auger for any damage, loose parts, or dull blades. Ensure the bit-saving top plate is securely in place.
2. Prepare Drill: Ensure your cordless drill meets the minimum specifications outlined in the Safety Information and Specifications sections. Attach the side stabilizer arm to your drill.
3. Attach Auger to Drill: Insert the hexagonal shaft of the Pistol Bit into the 1/2-inch chuck of your cordless drill. Tighten the chuck securely to prevent slippage during operation. Ensure the auger is centered and straight.

Image: Close-up view of the Eskimo Pistol Bit's top plate securely attached to a cordless drill, ready for use.

Image: Detailed view of the red polymer top plate, featuring the Eskimo branding, designed to prevent the auger from falling into the ice hole.

Operating Instructions

Operating the Eskimo Pistol Bit is straightforward, but proper technique is crucial for efficiency and safety.

1. Positioning: Place the centering ice point of the auger on the desired drilling spot. Apply light, steady downward pressure.
2. Initiate Drilling: Start the cordless drill at a moderate speed. The centering point will help stabilize the auger as it begins to cut into the ice.
3. Drilling Technique: Maintain steady, consistent pressure. Allow the auger's sharp blades and flite design to do the work. Avoid excessive force, which can strain the drill and reduce cutting efficiency. Keep a firm grip on the drill and its side stabilizer arm to counteract torque.
4. Breakthrough: As the auger approaches the bottom of the ice, be prepared for a sudden reduction in resistance. Maintain control to prevent the drill from twisting unexpectedly. The bit-saving top plate will prevent the auger from falling through the hole.
5. Clearing Slush: Once the hole is cut, lift the auger out of the hole to clear ice chips and slush.

Image: A user operating the Eskimo Pistol Bit with a cordless drill, demonstrating the initial phase of cutting through ice.

Image: The Eskimo Pistol Bit actively cutting through ice, with water and ice fragments splashing, illustrating its efficient cutting action.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your ice auger.

• Blade Inspection: Regularly inspect the steel blades for sharpness, nicks, or damage. Dull or damaged blades will significantly reduce cutting efficiency and can strain your drill.
• Blade Replacement: The dual flat steel blades are replaceable. If blades become dull or damaged, replace them with genuine Eskimo replacement blades. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper blade replacement. Always wear gloves when handling blades.
• Cleaning: After each use, clean any ice, snow, or debris from the auger, especially the flite and cutting head. Dry the auger thoroughly to prevent rust on the blades.
• Storage: Store the auger in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Consider using a blade protector to cover the sharp edges during storage and transport.

Image: A close-up of the Eskimo Pistol Bit's cutting head, highlighting the dual replaceable steel blades.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Eskimo Pistol Bit, consider the following common problems and solutions:

• Auger Not Cutting or Cutting Slowly:
  • Check the blades for sharpness and damage. Replace if necessary.
  • Ensure your cordless drill battery is fully charged and provides sufficient power and torque (minimum 725 in/lbs).
  • Verify the auger is securely tightened in the drill chuck.
  • Adjust drilling pressure; too much or too little can hinder cutting.
• Auger Getting Stuck in Ice:
  • This can occur if blades are dull or if the drill lacks sufficient power.
  • Ensure you are maintaining a steady, controlled drilling motion.
  • If stuck, reverse the drill slowly to free the auger.
• Excessive Torque or Twisting:
  • Always use the drill's side stabilizer arm.
  • Be prepared for the auger to grab, especially when breaking through the final layer of ice. Maintain a firm grip.

Warranty

The Eskimo 35600 Pistol Bit 8-Inch Ice Auger is covered by a 3-Year Warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. For specific warranty terms, conditions, and claim procedures, please refer to the official Eskimo website or contact customer support.

Support

For further assistance, replacement parts, or service inquiries, please contact Eskimo customer support:

• Website: Visit the official Eskimo website for product information, FAQs, and contact options.
• Contact: Refer to the contact section on the Eskimo website for phone numbers or email support.