Agreed. Milwaukee claims 1200in/lb torque on the M18 hammer drill which is marketed to both “homeowner” customers as well as contractors while ridgid doesn’t seem to be fighting for that title. Both being licensed by TTI it would be odd for the more consumer of the two to advertise better performance than an industry staple. Long story short I believe both are rated theoretically at best, for marketing “most power” claims at worst.

Yikes. Unfortunately can’t budget one of the purpose designed ice augers plus as far as I know I’m just as set to go out this year as I was went I packed up last year. Crossing my fingers.
Also I’ve never checked out the electric “true” augers, are they pretty close to drill and bit configurations? I personally like being able to separate the drill and put it in a thicker lined bag to protect from water and insulate the battery partially from the elements. If I hole hop I sometimes keep it assembled and lay it so there isn’t any radial force on the drill chuck. Curious how drill chuck wobble would be if used w/o clam plate for more than a few seasons?

Nothing in NE MN that I’m aware of. Also still going to be a few weeks, maybe month+ for a where in the metro area based on past knowledge and current conditions.