As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This eskimo vs nordic legend ice auger comparison helps you choose between two distinct drilling methods. Both tools are designed for ice fishing and cut 8-inch holes. The main difference is the power source. The Eskimo E40 is a dedicated electric auger with a built-in 40V motor and battery. The Nordic Legend is a drill attachment that uses your existing cordless drill. You need to decide if you prefer an all-in-one unit or a modular system.
Power Source
40V Lithium Battery
18V-20V Cordless Drill
Weight
17.5 pounds
Lightweight synthetic nylon
Bit Material
Steel
Synthetic Nylon
Speed Control
Variable speed trigger
Not listed
Color
Red
Orange
Choose the first if
- You want a dedicated tool with a variable speed trigger for better control.
- You prefer a lightweight, self-contained unit that weighs under 18 lbs.
- You need a built-in LED light and reverse function for clearing slush.
Choose the second if
- You already own a compatible 18V-20V cordless drill.
- You want a modular system that uses synthetic nylon for impact resistance.
- You prefer a design that fits most standard drill chucks.
Verdict
The Eskimo E40 suits those who want a purpose-built, lightweight electric auger with precise speed control. The Nordic Legend is better for anglers who already have a power drill and want a lightweight, modular attachment. Choose based on whether you prefer a dedicated unit or a drill accessory.
Eskimo vs Nordic Legend Specs
Power Source
Edge: Eskimo E40 8-Inch Electric Ice Auger
The Eskimo E40 is a dedicated electric ice auger powered by a 40V lithium battery. This system provides full power without needing an external tool. In contrast, the Nordic Legend is a cordless auger that attaches to a standard 18V to 20V drill. It relies on your existing power drill rather than a built-in motor. This means you must already own a compatible drill to use it. The Eskimo offers a self-contained experience, while the Nordic Legend requires you to supply the power head yourself.
Weight
Edge: Eskimo E40 8-Inch Electric Ice Auger
Portability matters when walking on ice. The Eskimo E40 weighs 17.5 pounds. It is marketed as the lightest steel auger in its class. The Nordic Legend uses synthetic nylon flighting and an aluminum stem to reduce weight. However, its total weight includes the drill you attach to it. The data does not list a specific weight for the Nordic auger alone. You must account for the drill's mass when carrying the Nordic system. The Eskimo has a defined, low weight that is easy to carry.
Bit Material
Edge: Tie
The cutting edge determines durability and cut quality. The Eskimo E40 features a steel bit. Steel is known for strength and long-term reliability in hard ice conditions. The Nordic Legend uses synthetic nylon for its main flighting and structure, with dual flat steel replaceable blades. The nylon components maintain flexibility and impact resistance in cold temperatures. This design prevents cracking in freezing weather. The Eskimo relies on all-steel construction, while the Nordic Legend combines steel blades with durable synthetic materials.
Drilling Features
Edge: Eskimo E40 8-Inch Electric Ice Auger
Control during drilling affects ease of use. The Eskimo E40 includes a variable speed trigger, allowing you to dial back speed to minimize ice shavings inside shelters. It also has a reverse toggle switch to flush slush and an LED light underneath the powerhead. The Nordic Legend lacks these integrated controls. It depends on the drill you attach for speed and direction. The Nordic bit features a centering point blade for stability. The Eskimo offers more built-in features for managing the drilling process directly.
Compatibility
Edge: Nordic Legend 8" Cordless Ice Auger
Versatility in power sources is a key factor. The Nordic Legend fits almost all brands of 18V to 20V 1/2-inch drill chucks. This makes it compatible with many existing cordless drills you may already own. The Eskimo E40 is not compatible with other drills. It is a standalone unit designed to work only with its specific 40V lithium battery and charger. If you prefer using a drill you already have, the Nordic Legend offers broader compatibility. The Eskimo is a complete, independent system.
Battery and Charging
Edge: Eskimo E40 8-Inch Electric Ice Auger
Runtime and recharge time impact your day on the ice. The Eskimo E40 comes with a 4-amp-hour lithium battery designed for cold weather performance. It uses a 2-amp charger that recharges the battery in approximately two hours. The Nordic Legend does not include a battery. You must provide your own 18V to 20V drill battery. This means your runtime depends entirely on the battery you choose to use. The Eskimo provides a complete power solution, while the Nordic Legend leaves power management up to you.
Which ice auger fits your needs
Anglers wanting a lightweight dedicated tool
Our pick: Eskimo E40 8-Inch Electric Ice Auger
The Eskimo E40 weighs under 18 lbs, making it the lightest steel auger in its class. You get a full 40V lithium power system designed for cold weather performance. The variable speed trigger helps minimize ice shavings inside shelters. A reverse toggle switch flushes slush from holes, and an LED light illuminates your work area for better visibility.
Budget buyers with existing cordless drills
Our pick: Nordic Legend 8" Cordless Ice Auger
The Nordic Legend auger attaches to almost all brands of 18V to 20V drills with a half-inch chuck. This allows you to use batteries and tools you already own. The synthetic nylon flighting and aluminum stem reduce weight while maintaining flexibility in cold temperatures. Dual flat steel blades offer smooth cutting and break-through capabilities for efficient drilling.
Users needing precise hole control
Our pick: Eskimo E40 8-Inch Electric Ice Auger
You can dial back the speed on the Eskimo E40 using the variable speed trigger. This feature is ideal for minimizing the mess of ice shavings when drilling inside shelters or wheelhouses. The turbo high-speed cutting system with multi-edge blades ensures a smooth experience. The reverse toggle switch also helps manage slush, keeping your drilling area cleaner.
Eskimo E40 8-Inch Electric Ice Auger
Best for: Anglers seeking a lightweight steel electric auger
- Auger Diameter
- 8-Inch
- Power Source
- 40V Lithium
- Weight
- 17.5 pounds
- Bit Material
- Steel
- Voltage
- 40V
- Fishing Type
- Ice Fishing
The Eskimo E40 is an 8-inch electric ice auger powered by a 40V lithium battery. It weighs 17.5 pounds, making it the lightest steel auger in its class. The unit features a variable speed trigger and a turbo cutting system for efficient drilling. An integrated LED light and reverse toggle switch help manage ice shavings. This model suits anglers who prioritize a lightweight steel bit and manageable weight for repeated hole drilling.
- Weighs 17.5 pounds, the lightest in its steel auger class
- 40V motor provides full power for extended drilling sessions
- Variable speed trigger allows controlled drilling to minimize mess
- Turbo cutting system with multi-edge blades for smooth cuts
- Integrated LED light illuminates the hole during use
- Includes a 4Ah battery which may limit total holes compared to higher capacity options
- 8-inch diameter is standard and may not suit larger fish species requiring wider holes
- Requires a separate 2-amp charger for recharging the battery
- You need the lightest steel auger available for easy transport
- You prefer a variable speed trigger for precise hole control
- You want a 40V system for reliable cold weather performance
- You require a composite bit to reduce weight further
- You need an auger larger than 8 inches for big fish
- You prefer a cordless drill attachment over a dedicated unit
Verdict: Eskimo E40 8-Inch 40V Electric Auger is a practical choice for anglers who value lightweight steel construction and variable speed control. It fits users who drill frequently and need a manageable powerhead.
Nordic Legend 8" Cordless Ice Auger
Best for: Anglers with existing 18V-20V drills seeking a lightweight bit
- Auger Diameter
- 8"
- Power Source
- Cordless Drill
- Bit Material
- Synthetic Nylon
- Voltage
- 18V-20V
- Fishing Type
- Ice Fishing
The Nordic Legend auger uses a synthetic nylon shaft with an aluminum stem to keep weight down while maintaining flexibility in cold weather. It features dual flat steel replaceable blades and a center point blade for smooth cutting. Designed for 18V-20V cordless drills, this 8-inch bit fits most standard chucks. It is a practical option for ice fishing when you need a lightweight, durable bit that transfers power efficiently from your existing tool.
- Lightweight synthetic nylon shaft with aluminum stem reduces overall weight
- Dual flat steel replaceable blades offer smooth cutting and break-through
- Center point blade promotes stability and smoother cutting
- Fits almost all brands of 18V-20V 1/2-inch drill chucks
- Requires a separate 18V-20V cordless drill and battery, adding to the initial setup
- 8-inch diameter limits hole size compared to larger 14-inch options
- You already own a compatible 18V-20V cordless drill
- You prefer a lightweight bit that is easier to carry on the ice
- You need a durable nylon shaft that maintains flexibility in cold temperatures
- You want a fully self-contained electric auger with an integrated motor
- You need to drill holes larger than 8 inches in diameter
- You prefer a steel-shaft auger for maximum rigidity in thick ice
Verdict: The Nordic Legend 8" Nylon Ice Auger is a solid choice for anglers who already have a compatible drill and value a lightweight, durable bit. It fits users who prioritize easy transport and smooth cutting performance over integrated power systems.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Eskimo E40 8-Inch Electric Ice Auger | Nordic Legend 8" Cordless Ice Auger |
|---|---|---|
| Auger Diameter | 8-Inch | 8" |
| Power Source | 40V Lithium | Cordless Drill |
| Weight | 17.5 pounds | – |
| Bit Material | Steel | Synthetic Nylon |
| Voltage | 40V | 18V-20V |
| Fishing Type | Ice Fishing | Ice Fishing |
| Material | – | Nylon |
| Dimensions | 40 × 8 × 8 inches | – |
| Size | 8-Inch | 8" Ice Auger |
| Color | Red | Orange |
| Model | 45750 | – |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Eskimo E40 suitable for anglers who prioritize lightweight equipment?
Yes, the Eskimo E40 is designed for users who value lightweight steel construction. It weighs 17.5 pounds, making it manageable for frequent drilling. The 40-inch length and 8-inch width ensure stability while keeping the powerhead compact for easy transport to your fishing spot.
Does the Nordic Legend auger come with a motor included?
No, the Nordic Legend is a cordless auger bit that requires an external power source. It is designed to attach to an existing 18V to 20V drill. This setup is ideal if you already own a compatible drill and prefer a lightweight, durable bit for smooth cutting.
What hole size do both Eskimo and Nordic Legend augers cut?
Both tools are engineered to cut 8-inch diameter holes. The Eskimo E40 features an 8-inch width, while the Nordic Legend is explicitly labeled as an 8-inch model. This standard size is sufficient for most ice fishing applications and allows for comfortable access to the water below.
Which auger is better for anglers who already own a drill?
The Nordic Legend is the better choice if you already have a compatible drill. It attaches to 18V to 20V drills, allowing you to use your existing power source. This makes it a practical option for those who prioritize easy transport and do not need an integrated power system.
How does the weight of the Eskimo E40 compare to typical augers?
The Eskimo E40 weighs 17.5 pounds, which is considered lightweight for a steel electric auger. This reduced weight makes it easier to handle during frequent use. You benefit from a manageable powerhead that does not require excessive effort to carry or operate on the ice.
What material is the Nordic Legend auger bit made from?
The Nordic Legend auger bit is constructed from nylon. This material choice contributes to its lightweight design and durability. It offers a solid alternative to steel bits, providing smooth cutting performance while remaining easy to transport for anglers who do not require a dedicated motorized unit.
Can the Eskimo E40 be used for variable speed drilling?
Yes, the Eskimo E40 includes variable speed control. This feature allows you to adjust the drilling pace based on ice conditions. Combined with its 40V lithium battery power, it provides practical performance for anglers who need precise control while drilling through varying thicknesses of ice.
