A new Bush Hog post hole digger typically costs about $1,600-$2,800 before tax, while used units often list for $500-$1,500. The final price depends on the model, auger bit, tractor compatibility, freight, and local dealer charges; the tractor is usually not included.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New digger attachment | $1,600 | $2,150 | $2,800 | Standard PTO, 3-point models |
| Used digger attachment | $500 | $1,000 | $1,500 | Condition and included bit affect price |
| Auger bit | $200 | $350 | $650 | Varies by diameter and soil rating |
| Delivery and setup | $50 | $175 | $400 | Local pickup can reduce this charge |
What a Bush Hog digger costs with a standard auger
A typical new Bush Hog 3-point post hole digger is roughly $1,600-$2,800, with a common budget near $2,150 for the attachment. That estimate assumes a standard-duty unit for a compatible compact or utility tractor, with a basic auger or no extra bit included. Dealer inventory, model availability, and regional freight can move a quote outside that range.
Plan on about $1,800-$3,400 total when the purchase includes a new bit, delivery, and typical setup charges. The tractor and any tractor-side repairs are separate expenses. Assumptions: U.S. dealer pricing, standard-duty attachment, normal access, before sales tax.
How gearbox, frame, and bit charges shape the quote
Dealer quotes can bundle the attachment and bit or list them separately. Check whether the price includes the PTO driveline, shear bolt, gearbox, and auger. A bare attachment may appear cheaper but require extra purchases before it is ready for use.
| Quote component | Typical price | What changes the charge |
|---|---|---|
| Digger frame and gearbox | $1,300-$2,300 | Model, capacity, and dealer inventory |
| Auger bit | $200-$650 each | Diameter, length, and soil duty |
| PTO driveline or replacement parts | $100-$350 | Compatibility and whether included |
| Freight or local delivery | $50-$400 | Distance and dealer handling |
| Setup or assembly | $50-$200 | Dealer service rate and included labor |
Ask for an itemized out-the-door quote so included parts are clear. Sales tax varies by location and may add roughly 0%-10% to the taxable purchase.
Tractor horsepower and hole diameter can change the price
Compatibility is a key cost driver. Confirm the tractor’s 3-point hitch category, PTO speed, horsepower, and lift capacity against the specific Bush Hog model. A mismatch can require adapters or a different attachment, adding expense rather than making the job workable.
Bit diameter also matters: common 6- to 12-inch bits generally cost less than larger or heavy-duty options, which may reach $400-$650. Rocky or dense soil can call for a heavier bit or digging teeth, while a standard bit may suit ordinary loam. Moving from a basic 9-inch bit to a 12-inch or specialty bit can add about $100-$300.
New Bush Hog models versus used post hole diggers
Used Bush Hog diggers commonly sell for $500-$1,500, depending on age, wear, gearbox condition, and included auger. A complete used unit in good working order may cost less than half the price of a new attachment, but worn flighting, bent components, oil leaks, and damaged PTO parts can erase the savings.
Before buying used, test gearbox rotation if possible and inspect the hitch points, driveline guards, shear-bolt area, and bit shaft. Replacement gearbox work can cost several hundred dollars or more, depending on parts and labor. Budget an additional $100-$400 for likely repairs on a worn unit.
Dealer delivery and setup add-ons around the U.S.
Freight and dealer handling vary with distance and access. In rural areas, buyers may face longer delivery routes or limited nearby inventory; city and suburban dealers may have more options but higher shop rates. As a rough comparison, delivered quotes in high-cost metro markets may run 10%-20% above a comparable rural pickup price, while local taxes differ by state and county.
Assembly, attachment checks, or tractor fitting may be billed separately. Setup often takes about 1-2 hours, with labor rates around $75-$125 per hour where charged. Confirm whether setup and delivery are included before comparing dealer prices.
Three realistic Bush Hog post hole digger quotes
A basic purchase might include a $1,650 attachment, a $250 9-inch bit, and $100 local pickup or handling, for about $2,000 before tax. A typical package with a $2,100 digger, $350 12-inch bit, and $175 delivery totals about $2,625. A higher-cost purchase with a $2,700 model, $600 specialty bit, and $350 delivery reaches about $3,650.
These examples show how included equipment can matter as much as the advertised attachment price. They assume no tractor repairs, financing fees, or sales tax, and actual model pricing varies by dealer and availability.
When renting beats buying for a few fence holes
For a short project, rental may cost less than purchasing. Tractor-mounted post hole diggers can rent for roughly $75-$150 per day or $250-$500 per week, depending on the machine, market, and rental terms. Delivery, deposit, damage waiver, and required tractor rental may be extra.
Buying can make more sense when the attachment will be used repeatedly or shared across jobs. Compare the rental total, transport, and time needed against the used price and the cost of maintaining an owned unit. For a one-day job, check the complete rental bill before committing to a purchase.
Ways to lower the Bush Hog attachment price
Compare quotes for the same model and bit size, and ask whether dealer pickup removes delivery or handling fees. If a basic bit matches the soil and hole requirements, skip specialty options until they are needed. Buying during slower equipment-sales periods may also make it easier to find discounted stock, although availability is local.
For used equipment, prioritize gearbox and driveline condition over cosmetic appearance, and price any missing bit or PTO part before agreeing to a deal. Avoid buying a larger model than the tractor can safely operate. The lowest useful price is the complete cost of a compatible, working setup—not the attachment’s sticker price alone.