Stihl BT 45
#5 in GasFull review
A light one-person drill for planting bulbs and small holes. It is not the tool for fence posts.
Stihl $639.99$639.99
The Stihl BT 45 is the better earth auger overall, rated 3.8 to 2.7. The Stihl BT 45 leads on weight. The Stihl BT 45 costs $1,257.97 less ($639.99 vs $1,897.96).
General Equipment EPIC 262H
#19 in GasFull review
A two-person contractor digger for big holes in hard ground. Overkill and overpriced for a backyard fence.
Southern Tool $1,897.96$1,897.96
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 45 for weight (10.7 lb vs 58 lb).
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 45 | General Equipment EPIC 262H |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Value 30% | 50 largest bit not published (neutral score used) | 15 $158.16 per inch of bit ($1,897.96, up to 12 in) |
| Torque 15% | 50 torque not published (neutral score used) | 67 181.7 N·m of torque |
| Reverse 15% | 100 reverse to free a stuck bit | 50 reverse not stated (neutral score used) |
| Weight 15% | 100 10.7 lb | 0 58 lb |
| Warranty 25% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| Stihl BT 45 | General Equipment EPIC 262H | |
|---|---|---|
| Drilling | ||
| Power | Gas | 160 cc gas |
| Largest bit | - | 12 in |
| Bit included | None | None |
| Torque | - | 181.7 N·m |
| Bit speed | 910 rpm | 162 rpm |
| Reverse | Yes | - |
| Build | ||
| Operators | 1 | 2 |
| Weight | 10.7 lb | 58 lb |
| Released | - | 2020-11 |