Post Hole Diggers & Post Drivers

Learn more about post hole diggers and post drivers

A post hole digger, sometimes called a post hole borer, removes soil so you can set the hole size, shape and depth before you fix the post with concrete or backfill. A post driver, or post driver hammer, drives a suitable post directly into the ground where the fixing method and substrate allow it.

That difference matters. If you need a controlled hole for a loadbearing post, a hole digger for fence work is the better fit. If the post is designed for direct driving, a fence post driver can be the quicker route on straightforward runs.

Typical uses

• Fence post digging and setting out post holes for timber or steel posts.

• Decking and pergola post installation where hole size and depth need to be controlled.

• Landscaping jobs where a manual post hole digger suits smaller, occasional holes.

• Repetitive fencing work where a powered post hole digger or an earth auger for fence posts may suit the volume better.

• Direct post driving for suitable fence lines where the substrate allows it.

How to choose the right post hole digger or post driver

• Choose a post hole digger when you need to remove soil and control the finished hole.

• Choose a post driver when the post is made for direct driving and you want to avoid digging.

• Check the ground first, because clay, stony ground and harder soils affect suitability.

• Match the tool to the post material and fixing method, especially if you're working with timber or steel posts.

• For one-off work, a manual post hole digger may be enough. For larger or more repetitive jobs, a powered post hole digger or hydraulic post driver can be the better fit.

• If you're unsure about depth, diameter or compatibility, check the product specifications before you order.

Before you order

• Check the post size, the hole diameter and the depth you need before you choose a model.

• Think about access on site, how much digging you need to do and whether you want to buy or use tool hire for a one-off job.

• For safe working, plan for manual handling, overhead clearance and nearby services before you start.

• Dispose of spoil in the correct way and keep the working area clear while you set and align the post.

Explore our range of post hole diggers and post drivers

Browse post hole diggers and post drivers alongside fencing posts, landscaping tools and related fixing products to build the right setup for the job. You can also look at tool and equipment hire if you'd rather hire than buy, or create an account to manage regular trade orders more easily.

As one of the UK's leading builders' merchants, here at Travis Perkins we give professional tradespeople access to reliable stock availability, expert trade advice and a wide range of leading trade-trusted brands through a network of over 500 branches nationwide. If you need to keep a fencing or landscaping job on track, shop the range, compare the product specifications and choose the fulfilment option that suits the work.