What to Look For When Buying a Camping Shovel?

Shovels have been around for centuries, and even though they’re extremely simple tools, they’re so functional that their use has greatly expanded. You know what they say – why fix something that isn’t broken? Over the past several years, shovels have become an essential piece of equipment for outdoor enthusiasts, simply because there are now folding shovels that are extremely portable and convenient to carry everywhere.

Nowadays, there are so many folding shovels on the market that differ in size, edges, and handle length. That being said, if you’re looking to buy a single shovel that you’ll be using on your adventures exclusively, you need to choose wisely in order to get the best investment for your money. Here are some of the features to consider when buying a folding shovel.

Portability

This is an obvious one – it needs to be portable so that you can conveniently carry it with you anywhere you go. The shovel’s portability is a combination of weight + size. You want a model that’s light enough for easy maneuvering and carrying, but big and strong enough to get the job done.

Durability

Shovels can be made from a wide variety of materials. The handle is typically made of wood, fiberglass or durable plastic, while the cutting edge is typically made of strong metals, such as iron or steel. Moreover, the materials used to make the shovel should be rust and corrosion-resistant and the overall construction should be tough so that you can successfully complete moderate tasks.

The Parts That Make it Whole

As aforementioned, shovels are typically made of a combination of strong metals for the cutting edge, and hard plastics, fiberglass, or wood for the handle. Oftentimes, manufacturers combine two materials to make the construction sturdier and stronger. Wood handles are recommended for places where the temperature varies throughout the year, as wood doesn’t dent or chip.

Conclusion

The ideal model is the one that will accomplish all the tasks you need it to when out in the wild, whether that’s digging a trench, a campsite toilet, pounding in tent stakes, or getting your vehicle out of a pickle. It should make your life easier, and it should be reliable and durable so that you can have a peace of mind that you can rely on it whenever you have a need for it. There are many models to choose from nowadays, and you’ll surely come across one that will fit your specific needs.