Today’s manual post hole diggers are much better than previous models we grew up with. This model we purchased from Home Depot for about $40. This model has multiple joints allowing its “beak” to close quite well even at the bottom of the hole.
The old single joint models were also available from Home Depot for much less money. I originally balked at the $40, but went ahead and splurged.
This was well worth it. I have dug six foundations for a new shed and now this hole with great ease. Although the unit is heavy, the ability of the beak to close almost fully at the bottom of the hole allows for speedier dirt removal.
Moral of the story… Go ahead and splurge on a multiple joint heavy duty post hole digger.