12 best shovels

Shovels are versatile hand tools commonly used for digging, moving, and lifting various materials, such as soil, sand, gravel, snow, and more.They are essential tools for gardening, landscaping, construction, and various outdoor tasks. Here's what you need to know about shovels:

  1. Types of Shovels:

    • Round-Point Shovel: This is the most common type of shovel with a curved, pointed blade. It's used for digging and moving loose materials like soil and gravel.
    • Square-Point Shovel: Square-point shovels have a flat, squared-off blade and are often used for edging, digging trenches, and cutting through tough ground.
    • Spade: Spades have a flat, narrow, and straight blade, ideal for digging and cutting precise edges for landscaping.
    • Trenching Shovel: Trenching shovels have a long, narrow blade designed for digging narrow, deep holes or trenches.
    • Scoop Shovel: These shovels have a wide, deep, and flat blade, perfect for moving loose materials, such as snow or grain.
    • Snow Shovel: Snow shovels are designed specifically for clearing snow and usually have a plastic or metal blade with a curved shape.
    • Garden Shovel: Garden shovels are smaller and lighter, designed for gardening tasks like planting, transplanting, and digging in smaller spaces.
    • Post Hole Digger: This type of shovel has two blades and is used for digging holes for fence posts, trees, or other vertical installations.
  2. Blade Material:

    • Shovel blades can be made from various materials, including steel, aluminum, and plastic. Steel blades are durable and suitable for heavy-duty tasks, while plastic blades are lighter and ideal for snow shoveling.
  3. Handle Material:

    • Shovel handles are typically made of wood, fiberglass, or steel. Wood handles provide a traditional look but can break over time. Fiberglass and steel handles are more durable and less prone to splintering.
  4. Handle Design:

    • Shovel handles come in different designs, including D-handle, T-handle, and long-handle configurations. The choice of handle design affects comfort and grip while using the shovel.
  5. Maintenance:

    • To prolong the life of a shovel, it's essential to clean it regularly, especially if used for digging in soil. Keep the blade sharp, and inspect the handle for signs of wear or damage.
  6. Safety Tips:

    • When using a shovel, be mindful of proper lifting techniques to prevent strain or injury. Ensure that the blade is sharp to make digging more efficient and less strenuous.
  7. Versatility:

    • Shovels are versatile tools that can be used for a wide range of tasks beyond digging and moving materials. They are also employed for tasks like mixing concrete, spreading mulch, and clearing debris.
  8. Choosing the Right Shovel:

    • Selecting the right shovel depends on the specific tasks you need it for. Consider the type of material you'll be handling, the size of the area, and your physical capabilities when choosing a shovel.

Shovels are indispensable tools for outdoor projects, whether you're gardening, landscaping, or tackling construction tasks. Choosing the right type of shovel and maintaining it properly will help you complete your tasks efficiently and effectively.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best shovels on the market
  

ErgieShovel ERG-SNSH18 18-Inch Impact Resistant Blade Push/Scoop Combination Snow Shovel, Orange

ERGIE SYSTEMS

Based on 373 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hard-packed or deep snow takes Muscle to move. But you'll cut the job down to size with this snow shovel that has an extra handle for greater leverage. The wide 18" Blade also lets you shovel more with less effort so you can work longer. Make it easy on yourself. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow. By snow Joe.

  • ADDED HANDLE: Allows you to scoop more with less effort while reducing strain on your back
  • LARGE BLADE: 18" Blade
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: Durable design weighs only 4 lbs

User questions & answers

Question: Is the handle steel or aluminum? Steel would make it heavy
Answer: For Humans: "The potential for long-term oral toxicity is also low. In one study, in 1972, 12 rats were provided with feed containing as much as 5% PG over a period of 2 years, and showed no apparent ill effects; no data on offspring were offered.34 Because of its low chronic oral toxicity, propylene glycol was classified by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) for use as a direct food additive, including frozen foods such as ice cream and frozen desserts.3235 The GRAS designation is specific to its use in food, and does not apply to other uses.36" For Dogs: "Propylene glycol is an approved food additive for dog and sugar glider food under the category of animal feed and is generally recognized as safe for dogs,50 with an LD50 of 9 mL/kg. The LD50 is higher for most laboratory animals (20 mL/kg).51 However, it is prohibited for use in food for cats due to links to Heinz body anemia.52" https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/phs/phs.asp?id=1120&tid=240 & https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propylene_glycol
Question: Is the second handle adjustable
Answer: I have used this product for years and love it! I have had zero issues with my driveway. I don’t have to wash my driveway due to residue in the springtime. It also hasn’t harmed the carpets inside. It has damaged the concrete walkway we have in the back yard. It is a great product!

Product features

Give Your Back A Break!

Hard-packed or deep snow takes muscle to move. But you'll cut the job down to size with this snow shovel that has an extra handle for greater leverage. The wide 18" blade also lets you shovel more with less effort so you can work longer. Make it easy on yourself. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow. By Snow Joe.

Added Leverage

The added handle on the combination snow shovel shaft allows for added leverage, reducing the strain on your back and giving you the ability to work smarter, not harder.

28 in. Steel Shaft

Lightweight and durable design designed to last for years.

18 in. Blade

18 in. push + scoop combination blade makes it easier to shovel snow.

Nupla-72-016 Round Point Shovel, 48 in.Handle, 16 ga.

Nupla

Based on 792 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Round Point Shovel, Handle Type Straight, Ergonomic, Handle Material Fiberglass with Polypropylene Outer Jacket, Handle Length 48 In., Blade Width 9 In., Blade Length 11-1/2 In., Blade Type Forward Step, Open Back, E Series, 16 ga., Steel Blade Material

  • Blade dimension 9" width x 11 1/2" height
  • Ergonomic for comfort, safety and less fatigue
  • Nupla ergo power handles meet the highest performance ratings
  • Nupla ergo power handles feature nuplaglas cores with molded nuclad contoured jacket
  • Package weight :3.67 lbs

User questions & answers

Question: Is this shipped in a box that tells what is on the outside? it is a gift and dont want other people i live with to know what it is when it comes
Answer: It does not come with heated hand grips but are available thru Ariens.
Question: Is the handle fiberglass
Answer: built by ariens 12.5 hp 15 ft lbs of torq
Question: Does it come with instructions
Answer: 15 ft lbs of torq comparison about 12.5 hp
Question: where is this made
Answer: The chute needs to be attached along with the control cables for it. The handle also needs to be set, it's folded. It wasn't much. The instructions were good. Installation instructions came separate, they aren't part of the main manual.

True Temper 1603072 Ergonomic Snow Shovel, 18-Inch

Ames True Temper

Based on 133 reviews Check latest price
  • 18-inch poly combo blade
  • Durable ergonomic bent steel handle
  • Steel wear strip for extended blade life
  • Extra-large D-grip for maximum comfort with gloved hand
  • Blade shape enables shoveling and pushing snow

Fiskars 46 Inch Steel D-handle Transplanting Spade

Fiskars

Based on 920 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Fiskars steel D-handle transplanting spade features a durable design that provides excellent grip when you are digging small, deep holes for planting or digging up bulbs. The welded steel construction is far more durable than wood and won’t flex like fiberglass. The extra-large D-handle design offers two-handed grip, and a teardrop-shaped shaft profile provides exceptional comfort and control. The sharpened blade cuts into dense soil easily, and an extra-large foot platform helps maximize force to break up hardened soil clods.

The Fiskars transplanting spade features all-steel construction for heavy-duty strength and durability. The blade features an oversized step for additional leverage and comfort, and is pre-sharpened to cut through the ground easier. The teardrop-shaped shaft and oversized D-handle provide ergonomic comfort and control during use. For added strength, the blade itself is directly welded onto the shaft, and the entire shovel is powder-coated to prevent rust and clean up easily. The low-profile spade head is perfect for digging planting holes or other precise tasks.

  • Ideal for digging small, deep holes, digging up bulbs and other planting needs
  • Welded 14-gauge steel blade and 18-gauge steel shaft provide durability that far outlasts wood-handled tools and won’t flex like fiberglass
  • Extra-large D-handle design offers secure two-handed control when digging, even while wearing gloves
  • Teardrop-shaped shaft profile fits the natural shape and motion of your hand for exceptional comfort and control
  • Lifetime warranty

User questions & answers

Question: Does this come pre-sharpened? The description says it does, but some of the reviews say it does not. Thank you for any clarification
Answer: Came in a plain large Amazon cardboard box.
Question: What is the handle d-ring material made out of
Answer: Yes. I will only use these shovels and other tools they offer. They are a few bucks more but well worth it
Question: how long is it and what are the dimensions of the shovel part itself
Answer: Yes. Instructions are included.
Question: How wide is the blade
Answer: This is made in the USA

Product features

Fiskars 46 Inch Steel D-handle Transplanting Spade

The Fiskars steel D-handle transplanting spade features a durable design that provides excellent grip when you are digging small, deep holes for planting or digging up bulbs. The welded steel construction is far more durable than wood and won't flex like fiberglass. The extra-large D-handle design offers two-handed grip, and a teardrop-shaped shaft profile provides exceptional comfort and control. The sharpened blade cuts into dense soil easily, and an extra-large foot platform helps maximize force to break up hardened soil clods.

Features

  • Ideal for digging small, deep holes, digging up bulbs and other planting needs
  • Welded 14-gauge steel blade and 18-gauge steel shaft provide durability that far outlasts wood-handled tools and won't flex like fiberglass
  • Extra-large D-handle design offers secure two-handed control when digging, even while wearing gloves
  • Teardrop-shaped shaft profile fits the natural shape and motion of your hand for exceptional comfort and control
  • Sharpened blade makes it easy to penetrate tough soil or break up hardened dirt clods
  • Extra-large foot platform helps maximize force when driving the blade into soil
  • Powder-coated steel resists rust and offers easy cleaning
  • Length: 46"

Stanley Garden BDS8088 Mini D-Handle Square Head Shovel, Yellow

Stanley Garden

Based on 149 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Stanley mini D-handle shovel is constructed from tempered, heat-treated steel for greater strength & longer life. Sharpened edges reduce effort when breaking up tough dirt.

  • Tempered, heat treated Steel head
  • Sharpened edges for reduced effort
  • Durable construction for long life
  • Limited lifetime

User questions & answers

Question: How much does this weigh
Answer: As far as I can tell it is a thick plastic material. I've never had any issues with this brand. We use their pruning clippers and trowels as well as this very sturdy shovel.
Question: Can this be used as an emergency shovel for snow
Answer: The entire shovel is 4 feet long from top of handle to tip of blade. The blade is 6 inches wide at the top with a 15 inch length.
Question: Can we use this tool for edging the lawn
Answer: The blade is tapered, 6" wide at the top, 5.25" wide midway and 4.5" wide at the tip. Length of the blade is 15"

Product features

STANLEY GARDEN MINI D-HANDLE SQUARE HEAD SHOVEL

Built with a contoured D-handle grip that aids in reducing hand stress brought on from prolonged use and also serves as a handy carrying handle when going from point A to point B. The shortened yet steadfast fiberglass handle works as a shock absorber, to protect your joints and upper body during hefty gardening jobs, while the powder-coated steelhead is easy to clean and resists wear. Take the Mini D-Handle Square Head Shovel for years of the end of heavy-duty use!

Heavy-Duty Head

Substantially tempered, heat treated steel head for years of heavy use

Comfortable D-Handle

The non-slip handle provides comfort and good grip, and gives enough room to accommodate a gloved hand

Solid body

Secure, reinforced base leading to practical footstep.

HANDY SHOVEL FOR GARDEN

Truper 33127 Tru Pro Polished Chrome Ceremonial Shovel, with Steel/Wood D-Handle, 27-Inch

Truper

Based on 60 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Truper 33127, PRY-CE-E, Tru Pro Polished Chrome Ceremonial Shovel, Steel/Wood D-Handle, 27-Inch. 27-inch Pro Grade North American White Ash handle with D-Grip for balance and control. White Ash handles give optimum ratio of resistance and flexibility. Pro quality design is easy on back, hands and arms. Use on farm or ranch for a lifetime of use. Tru Pro.-inchThe Contractors Choice-inch for professional use. Truper has been in the hand tool manufacturing business for over 40 years and is by far the largest Mexican company in its field. Truper relies on the most advanced modern and efficient technology to guarantee the optimum quality and value of its products and demanding service needs of the company's global customers. Tru Pro is a premium line true to the specs of contractor-grade tools. The unit is also geared at the consumer who wishes to step up to high-end tools. Best Value at the top end of the market. Tru-Pro products features the heaviest gauge heads available, tab sockets or steel collars, along with a select choice of white ashwood handles for the optimum ratio of resistance and flexibility. Lifetime warranty backs all Tru-pro tools.

  • 27-inch pro grade north american white ash handle with d-grip for balance and control
  • White ash handles give optimum ratio of resistance and flexibility
  • Pro quality design is easy on back, hands and arms
  • Commonly used in groundbreaking events with pictures and videos

User questions & answers

Question: How big is the logo? I'm ordering a metal plate with the date and event description, just wondering how big it needs to be to cover "Truper
Answer: We are sure you can but would need to have a steady hand. Don't forget to mow your lawn before you start edging it.
Question: Is it just the handle that's
Answer: I just walked out and took a look at mine and it shows that it came pre-shapened,it is has come in very handy and useful glad I got it.

AMES 2672100 Aluminum Scoop with Hardwood Handle and D-Grip, 45-Inch

AMES

Based on 770 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Ames aluminum scoop is ideal for the transport of all materials, loose and bulky. It is durable and lightweight for snow removal.

  • Aluminum blade is rust proof
  • Thick aluminum alloy for maximum strength
  • Large poly D-grip for leverage and control
  • Hardwood handle for strength and durability

User questions & answers

Question: good for moving gravel
Answer: to extend the handle you pop a little round button into its hole and extend the handle till the button pops into the extension hole. It's not a very long extension, you still stoop when shoveling, but it's a great little shovel. I have two, one is probably 10 years old, held together by duct tape by now, but still shoveling.
Question: Where is this made, China
Answer: All plastic. No metal.

Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick - Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road, Camping, Gardening, Beach, Digging Dirt, Sand, Mud & Snow - Guaranteed for Life!…

Rhino USA, Inc.

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price
  • ▶ SUPPORT A SMALL FAMILY CO. - Buy From a Father/Son Business in California & Receive a Lifetime Warranty!
  • ▶ MILITARY STYLE E-TOOL - 2lbs of Powder Coated Carbon Steel, Tough Pickax & Sharp Rugged Saw Teeth
  • ▶ COMPACT & PORTABLE - Full 23" Long Extended but only 9" x 6" when Folded into FREE Carry Case
  • ▶ MULTI-FUNCTIONAL - Shovels = Great Garden Tools, Backpacking Gear and Metal Detector Accessories
  • ▶ GUARANTEED 5-STAR EXPERIENCE - If you aren't 100% Satisfied for any Reason We'll Refund Your Money

User questions & answers

Question: How does this work for avalanche/ emergency snow shoveling
Answer: It is made of plastic, but pretty tough, I used it to move and level loose dirt after I used a tiller to loosen the dirt, it worked pretty good. You have to hold the handle at the level you want to carry the amount of what ever you're moving, it won't dig, just good for moving loose material
Question: Does the cap come with the product
Answer: The bolts are 11/4 x 1/4 and 3/4 x1/4 carriage bolts
Question: Is the "ring knob" made of steel or plastic
Answer: No. I'm 60, and partly disabled but found this easy to use in recent 5-6 inch snow. The blade gathers the snow with little effort from me, then I just leaned it over to one side to dump the snow.
Question: Just to be clear, this item is made in the USA
Answer: Never used the straight handle so I can't say anything about it. The d handle works great especially hear in the east. In would think you wouldn't get much leverage with the straight handle while pushing heavy we snow. My 2 cents

The Snowplow "the Original Snow Pusher" 24" Wide Model 50524

THE SNOWPLOW

Based on 481 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This commercial-grade 24in. Snowplow snowpusher is ready to tackle anything old man winter dishes out. It's perfect for cleaning off decks, steps, sidewalks, patios & driveways. Its ultra rugged, non-abrasive, wood-safe blade is made of revolutionary UHMW polyethylene, providing exceptional durability & Impact Resistance. Use it to push, scrape & even chop.This hard-working shovel is lightweight, with a D-style control grip, reinforced 49 in. Fiberglass handle & easy bolt-together assembly. It comes with a wall hanger clip.

  • Wide blade shovel: Snow shovel with a 24-inch wide UHMW poly blade to remove snow
  • Comfortable and operational control: Features ergonomic, fiberglass handle with D style grip handle
  • Strong construction: Tuff brace support system provides blade support; Simple bolt-together design
  • Chip packed snow and ice: Flip over to use cutting angle to separate packed snow or chip away at ice
  • Gentle on surfaces: Use on all surfaces, including concrete, blacktop, pavers, decks, roofs and more

User questions & answers

Question: how high of snow do you estimate this shovel can push
Answer: I would contact the seller through the Amazon Returns & Orders menu. Just find the shovel and click the link related to that purchase. The shovel and handle that I received came as 2 separate pieces but in the same huge box. The seller may send you another handle if they have one in their warehouse. I live in a snow-free climate but this shovel is very sturdy and I use it for loading mulch, topsoil etc. The construction is great but the packaging could be improved.
Question: How long is the handle? I am 6 ft. 2 in. and am tired of short handles that hurt my back because I have to bend over to use them
Answer: The handle is made of wood with a plastic loop at the top.
Question: Is this shovel/pusher safe for tiles
Answer: Yes if I can
Question: I know WIDTH of blade, but what is the Height of the BLADE
Answer: I read about a hack for gravel driveways and will try it this season on my tractor blade. Make a cut down a length of PVC, the length of your blade, slide it over the blade. The PVC will keep the edge of the blade from picking up the gravel. I am thinking of buying on of these Snowcasters for smaller jobs and will use PVC over the edge.

Product features

The Snowplow Snow Pushers

Preferred by Snow Removal Professionals.

Available in 18", 24", 30", 36", 48" widths

Choose the tool size that best fits your property's demands.

Ergonomically Designed to Push Snow Vs Lift Snow

High wearing, self sharpening blades are non abrasive to surfaces and roll the snow similar to a truck plow.

Flip over for unique cutting angle to defeat packed snow and chop away ice.

Foot prints and Tire tracks are easily peeled up and pushed away.

Quickly and Efficiently clear areas in half the time with our wide snow pushers.

Choose from models: 24", 30", 36", 48" Wide.

Easy on delicate surfaces.

Use on Concrete, Blacktop, Pavers, Aggregate, Wood & Composite Decks, Roofs, and More.

Rugg Manufacturing 27PBG Path Master Select 18" Snow Shovel

Rugg

Product description

Path master Select Utility Snow Shovel by Rug Manufacturing. Our Path master SELECT Line of snow shovels are all offered with rugged Steel handles with a comfortable poly coating for a more comfortable and secure grip. All Rug Snow Tools are 100% American Made! All of the components, such as the aluminum or steel handles, screws, labels and any packaging are sourced exclusively in the US. All of these components come together for assembly in our manufacturing facility in Massachusetts where we injection mold all of the plastic components from no-break copolymer polypropylene material where they pass a 5 point inspection before packaging. Our entire line is backed by a no hassle 10 year warranty. If you have any issue at any time with a Rug product simply contact our customer service department for repair or replacement. Enjoy!

  • Features a vinyl coated Lite weight Steel handle with 20" wide rugged poly standard blade
  • Non abrasive. Safe for all surfaces
  • Comfort D grip for easy control
  • Made in USA

Bond LH015 Mini D Handle Shovel

Bond Manufacturing

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The mini d-handle shovel's compact design makes it the perfect tool for many applications. Gardening, camping, off-roading, or at the beach, it's designed for efficient moving and lifting. It's lightweight, yet durable and built to last. 5 year manufacturer warranty.

From the Manufacturer

Strong, lightweight steel handle, comfortable soft non-slip grip, durable heat-treated heads, rust resistant powder coated paint, 5 year guarantee.

  • Perfect for gardening, camping, off-road or beach use
  • Designed for efficient moving and lifting
  • Sharpened edges reduce effort when breaking up tough dirt
  • Durable heat treated head
  • Comfortable non-slip grip
  • Rust resistant powder coated paint
  • Strong, lightweight fiberglass handle

User questions & answers

Question: Does "heat treated heads" mean that the blade is steel as well as the handle
Answer: 4.5" x .5" (And in my experience, due to the curvature of the shaft the metal plate will lift if it's just an adhesive back. You'd need to screw it down. I have my labels (6" x 2") done in a silver metallic vinyl and they work great.)
Question: Will this work in the evening
Answer: Yes, Handle is 27" (from top of handle to the top of the shovel. Total length 41"
Question: Where is this made
Answer: Cannot say for sure, because I haven't weighed it, but it only feels like a few pounds. Also, it is a very strong little shovel !!
Question: how long is the shovel, tip to tip
Answer: Ryan, Thank you for reaching out. This is a little bitty shovel, if you have a smaller area around a front door, or that needs a smaller size shovel head to reach between posts this would be helpful. The handle is quite short though- at 26.8 inches long. Yes, if you have a small storage area, or wish to keep a back up in your trunk, this could be helpful in an emergency. If you have further questions, please contact us at [email protected] or try our Live Chat for quicker assistance. It is available M-F 8am-4:30pm PST at www.Bondmfg.com. Have a great day!

Product features

Bond LH015 Mini D Handle Shovel

  • Tempered heat-treated steel head for greater strength and longer life
  • Sharpened edges reduce effort when breaking up tough dirt

Fiskars 46 Inch Steel D-handle Square Garden Spade

Fiskars

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Fiskars steel D-handle square garden spade features a durable design that provides excellent grip when you are working with soil or cutting turf. The welded steel construction is far more durable than wood and won’t flex like fiberglass. The extra-large D-handle design offers two-handed control, a sharpened blade cuts into dense soil easily, and an extra-large foot platform helps maximize force to break up hardened soil clods.

From the Manufacturer

Fiskars D-handle garden spade, with its flat, narrower blade, is precisely the tool you need to lay down a clean border, cut an arrow-straight trench, or edge a flowerbed in record time. The oversized D-handle provides ample space for both hands and a variety of hand positions, while the oversized step serves as a solid platform for you exert lots of powerful foot pressure. And unlike round shafts, this teardrop shaft conforms to the shape of the hand, making it much easier to maintain a strong, comfortable grip. And if all that isn¿t enough, Fiskars throws in a lifetime warranty of flawless performance.

  • Ideal for edging, cutting a trench, slicing through thick turf or digging
  • Extra-large D-handle design offers secure two-handed control when digging, even while wearing gloves
  • Welded 14-gauge hardened steel blade and 18-gauge steel shaft provide durability that far outlasts wood-handled tools and won’t flex like fiberglass
  • Sharpened blade makes it easy to penetrate tough soil or break up hardened dirt clods
  • Lifetime warranty

User questions & answers

Question: How long is the blade
Answer: 24" x 22"
Question: is the blade flat or rounded
Answer: No
Question: Can I sharpen the blade? It does't seem like I can
Answer: The interior bowls are bigger than the play top bowls, they are 5" in diameter and the playtop bowls are 4" in diameter.
Question: Would this work as square faced transfer shovel, for moving lots of dirt, stone, or mulch
Answer: The spacing is not wide at all. It should be ok for a lovebird

Product features

Fiskars 46 Inch Steel D-handle Square Garden Spade

The Fiskars steel D-handle square garden spade features a durable design that provides grip when you are working with soil or cutting turf. The extra-large D-handle design offers two-handed control, a sharpened blade cuts into dense soil easily and an extra-large foot platform helps maximize force to break up hardened soil clods.

  • Ideal for edging, cutting a trench, slicing through thick turf or digging
  • Welded 14-gauge hardened steel blade and 18-gauge steel shaft provide durability
  • Sharpened blade makes it easy to penetrate tough soil or break up hardened dirt clods
  • Powder-coated steel resists rust and offers easy cleaning

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