The shovel is one of the oldest and most versatile tools used by humans. Whether it's in the garden, on a construction site, clearing snow, or digging trenches, a shovel is always at hand. However, not all shovels are created equal. In this article, we'll explore the different types of shovels, their differences, and what to look for when buying one.
Types of shovels: types and their purposes
Depending on the blade shape and design, shovels are divided into several main types:
Scoop shovel
- Blade shape: rounded, slightly curved.
- Purpose: suitable for bulk materials - sand, earth, coal, snow.
- Pros: convenient for gaining volume.
- Cons: Not suitable for working with dense soil or roots.
Bayonet shovel
- Blade shape: straight, sometimes with a pointed end.
- Purpose: digging trenches, loosening the soil, removing weeds.
- Pros: penetrates well into dense soil, suitable for heavy work.
- Cons: not very convenient for collecting bulk materials.
Garden shovel
- Blade shape: resembles a bayonet, but is a little narrower and lighter.
- Purpose: planting plants, caring for beds, digging the soil.
- Pros: convenient for precise work in the garden and vegetable garden.
- Cons: not designed for heavy construction tasks.
Trench shovel
- Blade shape: narrow and long.
- Purpose: digging narrow trenches, for example, for communications.
- Pros: allows you to dig deep and even holes.
- Cons: specialized tool, not suitable for everyday work.
Snow shovel
- Blade shape: wide, flat, often with a plastic sliding coating.
- Purpose: snow removal from paths, sidewalks, cars.
- Pros: minimal grip on snow, reduces the load on the back.
- Cons: not suitable for working with soil.
What are shovels made of?
Metal
- Steel: strong and durable, but can rust.
- Galvanized steel: more resistant to corrosion.
- Aluminum: lightweight but less durable, more often used in garden shovels.
Lever
- Wooden: classic option, pleasant to the touch, but can break under high loads.
- Plastic: lightweight, moisture resistant, but may be less durable.
- Fiberglass: durable, wear-resistant, often used in professional models.
What to look for when choosing a shovel
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Type of work
- For bulk materials - scoop.
- For dense soil - bayonet.
- For the garden - garden.
- For snow - a shovel with a wide blade.
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Metal quality
- Pay attention to the thickness and strength of the blade. The denser the soil, the stronger the metal should be.
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Shape and weight
- The shovel shouldn't be too heavy. The optimal weight depends on the type of work: from 0.5 kg (gardening) to 2–3 kg (construction).
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Lever
- Comfortable grip, anti-slip coating, strong attachment to the handle.
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Blade attachment method
- Monolithic construction (blade and handle are one piece) is the most durable.
- Assembled (the blade is mounted on a handle) - convenient for replacement, but less reliable.
How to use a shovel correctly?
- Before work check the shovel for damage - nicks, cracks, sharp edges.
- When digging do not insert the shovel at an acute angle, so as not to damage the blade.
- Use comfortable shoes and gloves to protect hands.
- After use clean the shovel from the soil and lubricate it with oilto prevent corrosion.
Helpful tips
- For work on heavy soils use shovels with a narrow and sharp blade.
- For working in the garden and vegetable garden, choose lightweight models with a comfortable handle.
- The best choice for snow removal is plastic or galvanized shovels with a wide blade.
- Store your shovel in a dry place to prevent rust.
A properly selected shovel is more than just a tool; it's a reliable assistant when working on a property, at a construction site, or when clearing snow. Understanding the differences between shovel types, materials, and design features will help you make the right choice and save time and effort. Remember: a good shovel is the key to efficient and safe work.
