Stihl BT 131
#11 in GasFull review
A pro-grade one-person auger for buyers who drill many holes up to 12 in and want a brake for safety. It costs far more than budget models.
Stihl $929.99$929.99
The Stihl BT 131 and the GardenTrax 185cc 2-Man Powerhead are evenly matched, rated 3.6 and 3.5. The Stihl BT 131 leads on weight. The GardenTrax 185cc 2-Man Powerhead wins on value. The GardenTrax 185cc 2-Man Powerhead costs $580 less ($349.99 vs $929.99).
GardenTrax 185cc 2-Man Powerhead
#13 in GasFull review
A two-person four-stroke powerhead for big holes such as footings and tree planting up to 14 in. It is too heavy for one person.
Amazon $349.99$349.99
Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Stihl BT 131 for weight (22 lb vs 49 lb).
- Choose the GardenTrax 185cc 2-Man Powerhead for value ($25 per inch of bit ($349.99, up to 14 in) vs $77.50 per inch of bit ($929.99, up to 12 in)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every gas earth auger; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Stihl BT 131 | GardenTrax 185cc 2-Man Powerhead |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.6/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Value 30% | 59 $77.50 per inch of bit ($929.99, up to 12 in) | 100 $25 per inch of bit ($349.99, up to 14 in) |
| Torque 15% | 50 torque not published (neutral score used) | 50 torque not published (neutral score used) |
| Reverse 15% | 50 reverse not stated (neutral score used) | 50 reverse not stated (neutral score used) |
| Weight 15% | 93 22 lb | 3 49 lb |
| Warranty 25% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| Stihl BT 131 | GardenTrax 185cc 2-Man Powerhead | |
|---|---|---|
| Drilling | ||
| Power | 36.3 cc gas | 185 cc gas |
| Largest bit | 12 in | 14 in |
| Bit included | None | None |
| Bit speed | 200 rpm | - |
| Build | ||
| Operators | 1 | 2 |
| Weight | 22 lb | 49 lb |