Digging is an essential task for many gardeners and homeowners, whether it’s to plant new flowers or vegetables, create a new garden bed, or dig out a trench for a new fence. However, using the wrong shovel can make the task much more difficult than it needs to be. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various shovels to identify the best shovel for digging.
After testing various shovels, our top pick is the Fiskars Pro Digging Shovel. This shovel has a sharp, pointed blade that can easily cut through hard soil, and a wide blade that can move large amounts of soil.
When it comes to shovels, there are many different types available, but not all shovels are created equal. Some shovels are better suited for digging in specific types of soil, while others are designed for different tasks like snow removal or gardening.
For digging, the most important factors to consider are the blade shape and size, handle length and material, and overall weight.
The blade shape and size are crucial because they affect how easily the shovel can penetrate the soil and how much soil you can move with each scoop. A sharp, pointed blade is ideal for cutting through hard soil, while a wider blade is better for moving larger amounts of soil.
The handle length and material are also important because they affect how comfortable the shovel is to use and how much leverage you have when digging. A longer handle can provide more leverage, but it also makes the shovel heavier and harder to maneuver.
Finally, the overall weight of the shovel is important because you don’t want a shovel that’s too heavy to lift or too light to be effective.
Best Shovels for Digging
We have researched and tested various shovels to bring you the best options for digging. Whether you’re planting a garden, burying a cable, or digging a hole for a fence post, having the right shovel can make the job easier and more efficient.
In this article, we will present our top picks for the best shovels for digging, based on factors such as durability, comfort, and versatility.
1. Fiskars Pro Digging Shovel
If you are looking for a shovel that can handle tough soil and last for years, the Fiskars Pro Digging Shovel is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Heavy-duty spade with a sharpened edge for efficient digging and prying
- Durable extruded aluminum handle with double-bolted connections for superior strength
- Teardrop-shaped shaft with Softgrip touchpoints for comfortable and controlled use
Cons
- The shovel may be heavier than some other options on the market
- The price point may be higher than some other shovels
- The handle may be too long for some users
We recently used the Fiskars Pro Digging Shovel to dig holes for a new garden bed, and we were impressed with its performance.
The sharpened steel blade easily penetrated the soil, and the heavy-gauge spade made it easy to pry out rocks and roots. The large step provided stable footing, and the teardrop-shaped shaft fit comfortably in our hands.
One of the standout features of this shovel is the extruded aluminum handle, which feels incredibly sturdy and well-constructed. The double-bolted connections ensure that the handle won’t come apart, even with heavy use.
We also appreciated the Softgrip touchpoints on the handle, which provided a comfortable and secure grip.
While the Fiskars Pro Digging Shovel may be heavier than some other options on the market, we found that the added weight made it easier to dig through tough soil. However, if you are looking for a lighter shovel, this may not be the best choice for you.
Overall, we highly recommend the Fiskars Pro Digging Shovel for anyone who needs a durable and reliable tool for digging and prying (you might also be interested in checking out the best post hole digger).
While it may be more expensive than some other shovels, we believe that the quality and performance are well worth the investment.
2. Fiskars Digging Shovel – Heavy Duty Gardening Tool with Straight Handle
If you’re looking for a durable and reliable digging shovel, the Fiskars Digging Shovel is a great choice.
Pros
- The hardened steel blade and shaft make this shovel highly durable and long-lasting.
- The ergonomic design of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- The sharpened steel blade penetrates tough soil with ease and stays sharp through heavy use.
Cons
- This shovel is noticeably heavier than standard shovels, which may be a drawback for some users.
- The full-well grip type may not be comfortable for users with smaller hands.
- The price point is higher than some other digging shovels on the market.
We recently had the opportunity to use the Fiskars Digging Shovel in our own backyard, and we were impressed with its performance.
The welded 14-gauge hardened steel blade and 18-gauge steel shaft provide maximum power and precision for digging in tough soil and enhance rust resistance.
The steel shaft handle allows for more control of the shovel and withstands tough digging without bending or flexing like fiberglass handles. We found that the long handle helped to eliminate sore knees and back, making it easier to work for longer periods of time.
The sharpened steel blade cuts through tough turf cleanly, making it the essential choice for digging deep holes, breaking through tough soil, and more.
We appreciated the smart technologies and award-winning, ergonomic features that make it easier and more enjoyable to perform our own lawn care. The Fiskars Digging Shovel is designed to help you cultivate a better garden, and it is built to last.
Overall, we highly recommend the Fiskars Digging Shovel for anyone in need of a heavy duty, ergonomic shovel ideal for a variety of gardening tasks like digging in tough soil, digging all holes, turning soil, and more to encourage overall plant health and appearance.
You might also be interested in checking out our top pick for the best expandable garden hose.
3. Hooyman Digging Shovel
If you’re looking for a shovel that can handle the toughest digging jobs, the Hooyman Digging Shovel is a great choice. With its heavy-duty carbon steel head construction and ergonomic no-slip H-Grip handle, this shovel is built to last and provide a secure grip in all conditions.
Pros
- The big step flanges on both sides of the blade create added leverage, making it easier to dig through tough soil and roots.
- The custom blade serration is ideal for scooping harder ground or dirt that is full of tough roots when readying food plots while doing yardwork or gardening.
- The oversized flanges on both sides of the blade create a 2 ½ inches L x 2 ¼ inches W big step for added leverage.
Cons
- The shovel is on the heavier side, weighing in at 4.5 lbs, which may be a concern for some users.
- The handle may be too short for taller users, which may cause discomfort when using the shovel for extended periods of time.
- The serrated blade may not be suitable for all types of digging tasks, such as planting delicate flowers or bulbs.
Overall, the Hooyman Digging Shovel is a reliable and durable tool that can handle a wide range of digging tasks. Whether you’re a gardener, landscaper, or farmer, this shovel is sure to make your work easier and more efficient.
4. DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector Shovel for Digging
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable digging tool, the DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector Shovel is a great choice.
Pros
- The manganese steel construction with double serrated edge allows for cleaner and deeper cuts, making it perfect for treasure hunting and gardening projects.
- The ergonomic rubberized handle provides a comfortable grip, reducing wrist pressure and making it easier to hold.
- The included sheath and loop belt make it easy to transport and protect the shovel when not in use.
Cons
- The handguard could be larger to provide more leverage when digging.
- The tool may be too heavy for some users, weighing in at 1.32 pounds.
- The blade may need to be sharpened before use, as it can come dull out of the box.
Overall, we highly recommend the DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector Shovel for its durability, versatility, and ease of use. Whether you’re digging for treasure, planting in the garden, or camping in the great outdoors, this tool is sure to come in handy (find out our top pick for the best folding shovel).
5. Corona AS90300 All-Steel Round Point Shovel 48 inch
If you need a reliable shovel for heavy-duty digging, lifting, and moving of soil, sand, or other materials, the Corona AS90300 All-Steel Round Point Shovel is a great choice.
This shovel is designed for durability and strength in tough outdoor conditions, making it suitable for various gardening, landscaping, and construction tasks.
Pros
- The all-steel construction makes this shovel durable and long-lasting.
- The round point design is ideal for digging and moving soil, sand, or other materials.
- The shovel provides reliable performance, even in tough outdoor conditions.
Cons
- The shovel is heavy, which can make it more difficult to use for extended periods of time.
- The grip may not be as comfortable as some other shovels on the market.
- The price point may be higher than some other shovels, but the quality justifies it.
We recently used the Corona AS90300 All-Steel Round Point Shovel for a landscaping project, and it exceeded our expectations.
The all-steel construction made the shovel incredibly durable and long-lasting, and the round point design made it easy to dig and move soil, sand, and other materials. Despite the shovel’s weight, it provided reliable performance and held up well in tough outdoor conditions.
One downside of the shovel is that it is heavy, which can make it more difficult to use for extended periods of time.
Additionally, the grip may not be as comfortable as some other shovels on the market. However, we found that the quality of the shovel justified the higher price point.
Overall, if you need a reliable and durable shovel for heavy-duty digging tasks, we highly recommend the Corona AS90300 All-Steel Round Point Shovel.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a shovel for digging, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features you should look for to ensure you get the best product for your needs:
1. Blade Size and Shape
The size and shape of the blade will determine how much dirt you can move with each scoop. A larger blade will be more efficient for digging larger holes, while a smaller blade is better for precise digging. The shape of the blade can also affect how easily it cuts through soil.
2. Handle Material and Length
The handle of the shovel should be comfortable to grip and sturdy enough to withstand heavy use. Look for handles made from durable materials like fiberglass or hardwood.
The length of the handle is also important, as it will affect how much leverage you have when digging. A longer handle will provide more leverage, but may be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
3. Weight
The weight of the shovel is another important consideration. A heavier shovel will be more durable and provide more digging power, but may be more difficult to use for extended periods of time. A lighter shovel will be easier to handle, but may not be as durable.
4. Additional Features
Some shovels come with additional features that can make them more versatile and useful.
For example, some shovels have serrated edges for cutting through roots, while others have a pointed tip for breaking up hard soil. Look for features that will be useful for your specific digging needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best shovel for your digging tasks. Remember to choose a shovel that is comfortable to use and built to last, and you’ll be able to tackle any digging job with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features to look for in a shovel for deep hole excavation?
When selecting a shovel for deep hole excavation, look for a shovel with a strong and durable blade that can withstand the pressure of digging through hard soil.
A blade that is wide and deep will also help you to remove more dirt with each scoop. A long handle will give you the leverage you need to dig deep holes without straining your back.
Which shovel design is most effective for moving large amounts of dirt?
For moving large amounts of dirt, look for a shovel with a flat, rectangular blade. This design allows you to scoop up more dirt with each pass, making the job faster and more efficient.
A long handle will also give you the leverage you need to move heavy loads of dirt without straining your back.
What is the best type of shovel to use for digging through dense clay?
When digging through dense clay, look for a shovel with a pointed blade. This design will allow you to break through the hard soil without having to use excessive force.
A long handle will also give you the leverage you need to dig through tough soil without straining your back.
How do I choose a shovel that is suitable for uprooting tree roots?
When uprooting tree roots, look for a shovel with a strong and durable blade that can withstand the pressure of digging through tough soil and roots.
A sharp, pointed blade will also make it easier to cut through the roots. A long handle will give you the leverage you need to uproot the tree without straining your back.
What characteristics define a shovel that can handle rocky soil conditions?
A shovel that can handle rocky soil conditions should have a strong and durable blade that can withstand the pressure of digging through hard rocks.
A pointed blade will also help you to break through the rocks more easily. A long handle will give you the leverage you need to dig through tough soil without straining your back.
What materials are known to make the most durable shovels for heavy-duty tasks?
Shovels made of materials like steel, aluminum, and fiberglass are known to be the most durable for heavy-duty tasks. Steel is strong and durable, but can be heavy. Aluminum is lightweight and durable, but may not be as strong as steel.
Fiberglass is also lightweight and durable, and is a good choice for those who want a strong and lightweight shovel.