10 Best Folding Shovels In 2019

A shovel is a tool for the ages…and camping. This old-age tool has ingenious uses for campers, no matter the types of camping they partake in. Shovels can be used to dig a fire pit, so you can learn how to build and start a campfire, and they are a helpful tip to campfire safety. They can also bury a left-over meal from camping kitchens, and dig a trench to redirect rainwater away from the campsite. A shovel can be an excellent survival gear and tool for outdoor adventurers and can even help in emergency situations.

Modern shovel designs are compact to ensure that they can be easily taken on a camping trip. Our list of the 10 Best Folding Shovels in 2018 delivers the best folding shovels for all your outdoor activities.

How To Choose A Folding Shovel – Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best folding shovel, there are many different designs and features for you to choose from. The best folding shovel will deliver a durable body and compact design that can be used throughout multiple camping trips. Even if you are car camping, a shovel can be a useful tool and is useful car camping gear.

Build

It is important that you invest in a folding shovel that is high-quality in its build and construction. The blade of your shovel should be made of one solid piece, rather than sheets, and be anti-corrosive. The handle should be made of a durable material and connected to the blade with a hinge, which makes the design a folding shovel. You want the shovel to be durable so that it won’t dent. If you accidentally hit a rock while digging, your shovel shouldn’t dent, chip, or break.

Material

The best camping shovel will be made out of a durable material. Common materials that are long-lasting used for the shovel blades are stainless steel or high carbon steel. Most of the metal will then be coated with a black oxide paint to help prevent corrosion. The handle should be made of a metal or hard plastic, to ensure it is durable too.

Design

There are three designs that are popular for a folding shovel. The first is a tri-fold shovel, where the blade and grip can be folded down. The second is a two-piece folding shovel, which is standard. A two-piece folding shovel will have one hinge to fold the shovel into a compact design. The third is a telescoping design that extends and collapses the handle to save space and make it portable.

Portability

It is important that your folding shovel is portable. The most portable folding shovels will be durable, lightweight, and compact. An all metal handle might be heavier, but if it comes with a good compact design, it can be worth the extra pounds because it will be durable and long-lasting. Shovels that are made of lighter and less expensive materials tend to not last very long.

Ease of Use

A folding shovel should be easy to use, but there are certain features that can make them easier to handle and operate. Shovels that have a D or T grip handle tend to provide extra support, over a straight handle design. Adjustable shovel handles may help prevent you from having to bend down too much. You should consider different features and determine whether they would make your folding shovel easier to use and benefit your needs.

Extra Features

Most shovels are used for digging, but some manufacturer’s include extras like a sawing capability in their design. Other shovels have a multi-tool, or a compass included in the design. You shouldn’t spend money on extra features if you know you won’t put them to use but consider them if you want a few added extras in your folding shovel.

Size

There are many different sizes, but the best folding shovel will be small and compact. You should find a design that balances a decent sized blade, so you can get the job done, in a compact design so it can be easily transported.

Weight

The best folding shovel will be lightweight. You shouldn’t have to carry around a lot of weight. You should find a design that is durable, but lightweight. However, be prepared to sacrifice saving some weight for a truly durable and long-lasting folding shovel.

Multi-Purpose

If you want more out of a shovel, you should consider a folding shovel design that can be used as a saw and axe too. Some folding shovels feature the ability to saw or cut through various materials, so you can carry less tools. As well, a shovel can be used to start a fire and dig a small hole that you can use fire starters to get a flame ignited. Or a shovel can be useful to help pound in your tent stakes, eliminating the need for a hammer or trying to use a rock. As well, essential wild camping guides will tell you shovels are key to personal hygiene while camping and backpacking. If you are camping with beginners, you can teach them the important leave no trace principles to ensure the trails stay garbage free.

Handle

The handle should be made of a durable metal or plastic because it will bear a lot of force. It would be frustrating to have a handle snap on your trip, so ensure that you have a strong one to get the job done.

Durability

Folding shovels do a lot of hard work. For that reason, finding a durable design is extremely important. Your shovel shouldn’t be a one-time use tool. The best folding shovel will last your throughout multiple trips, while still delivering high-performance.

Carrying Case

You should invest in a carrying case, if your shovel does not automatically come with one. A carrying case can help you pack your shovel easier and help protect it. Most importantly, a good carrying case can prevent water damage, which stops the possibility of rust developing.

FAQs

Q: How to care for my folding shovel?

A: Water is the enemy to your folding shovel. Water can lead to rust, which can make your shovel hard to use and prone to breakage. The best way to care for your shovel is to always clean it after every use and ensure that it is store bone dry.

Q: Can I get my shape sharpened?

A: Yes. Your shovel should be able to be re-sharpened by yourself or a professional. The best you can do is reference the user’s manual for information regarding sharpening.

Q: What should I do if I can’t fold and unfold my shovel?

A: This is most likely due to damage or rust, but it could also be a design flaw. To defeat the rust, you can try to put some oil on the hinge to loosen it up. You should ensure that your shovel is clean and dry when stored. If it is a manufacturer’s issue, check to see if you have a warranty.

Q: What are the benefits of using a folding shovel?

A: A folding shovel can be used for a variety of tasks around the campsite. From digging small or large holes to full trenches, a folding shovel may be able to save you in unexpected situations. A shovel can also be used for other tasks like cutting and chopping. A folding shovel really is a great multi-use camping tool.

Globo Surf Overview

The best folding shovel will make life at your campsite easier and can be essential to set up a campsite. No matter the style of folding shovel, you should feel confident that you have such a versatile tool at your fingertips. If you know exactly what you want or need, you can save time and money by investing in a top rated folding shovel.

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Do you own one of the folding shovels that made it onto our list? Let us know how it has worked for your outdoor needs in the comments section below.