Metal detecting enthusiasts know that the thrill of uncovering hidden treasures is second to none. However, this hobby requires the right tools to ensure success.
Among the essential tools in a detectorist’s arsenal is the hand shovel. A hand shovel makes it easier to recover finds quickly and identify them.
This article presents the top 5 metal detecting hand shovels on the market today, guaranteed to help you find treasures faster.
Metal detecting is a fascinating hobby that has grown in popularity over the years. The excitement of discovering buried artifacts, coins, and other treasures is an experience that many detectorists crave.
However, one must have the right tools to have a successful hunt. A hand shovel is one of the most important tools for a detectorist. Not only does it allow you to dig quickly and efficiently, but it also helps you identify your finds accurately.
In this article, we introduce the top 5 metal detecting hand shovels that are designed to help you dig up treasures faster.
Key Takeaways
- Hand shovels are essential for metal detecting hobbyists to recover finds quickly and without using hands.
- SE Prospector’s Choice Serrated Edge Digger is the author’s favorite choice and the best hand shovel made of high-quality, heat-treated carbon steel with serrated edges for tough soil and roots.
- Fiskars Ergo Trowel is a budget-friendly option with an ergonomic design, rust-resistant head, and compact size.
- Edward Tools Garden Trowel is built from heavy-duty carbon steel and has depth markers on the shovel for note-taking, and it has an Ergogrip handle made of rubber to prevent hand and wrist fatigue.
Top Hand Shovels
The top hand shovels for metal detecting, including the SE Prospector’s Choice Serrated Edge Digger, Fiskars Ergo Trowel, Edward Tools Garden Trowel, Kemaier Garden Trowel, and SUNHOO Collapsible Shovel, have been carefully selected based on their quality, durability, ergonomics, and effectiveness in digging through tough soil and roots.
When considering hand shovels for metal detecting, it is important to balance durability and affordability. While some options may be more expensive, they are often made of higher-quality materials that will last longer and withstand tougher digging conditions. However, budget-friendly options are also available, such as the Fiskars Ergo Trowel, which has an ergonomic design, rust-resistant head, and compact size.
One feature to consider when selecting a hand shovel for metal detecting is whether or not it has serrated edges. While serrated edges can be helpful in tearing through tough soil and roots, they may not be necessary for all types of digging. The SE Prospector’s Choice Serrated Edge Digger is a popular option with serrated edges made of high-quality, heat-treated carbon steel. However, some users may prefer a smoother edge, such as those found on the Edward Tools Garden Trowel or Kemaier Garden Trowel.
It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific digging conditions you may encounter.
SE Prospector’s Choice
SE Prospector’s Choice Serrated Edge Digger is a top-of-the-line hand shovel that is specifically designed for metal detecting enthusiasts who need to dig through tough soil and roots. Made of high-quality, heat-treated carbon steel, this hand shovel is built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
The serrated edges of the shovel make it easier to tear through tough soil and roots, ensuring that metal detecting enthusiasts can recover their finds quickly and efficiently. One of the key features of the SE Prospector’s Choice Serrated Edge Digger is its carbon steel durability.
This material is known for its strength and ability to withstand tough conditions, making it the perfect choice for a hand shovel that needs to be able to dig through tough soil and roots. The serrated edges of the shovel are also a key feature, as they provide added leverage and make it easier to tear through tough soil.
Overall, the SE Prospector’s Choice Serrated Edge Digger is a highly recommended hand shovel for metal detecting enthusiasts who want to dig up treasures faster and more efficiently.
Other Budget-Friendly Options
Budget-friendly options for hand shovels in the metal detecting hobby include ergonomic designs, rust-resistant materials, compact sizes, and heavy-duty carbon steel construction with depth markers for note-taking.
Fiskars Ergo Trowel is a popular budget-friendly option with an ergonomic design that reduces hand fatigue and a rust-resistant head that preserves the life of the shovel. However, it contains lead, which may concern some users.
Edward Tools Garden Trowel, on the other hand, is built from heavy-duty carbon steel and features depth markers on the shovel for note-taking. The Ergogrip handle made of rubber prevents hand and wrist fatigue, making it a good option for those who spend long hours metal detecting. It is both break and bend proof, making it a suitable choice for heavy clay and hard soils.
Kemaier Garden Trowel is another budget-friendly option with anti-corrosion proof construction. While it may not be as tough as other options on the list, its all-black stainless steel surface is wide and the streamlined rubber handle is ergonomic.
SUNHOO Collapsible Shovel, made of high carbon steel with a sharp, serrated edge, folds up conveniently. Although it lacks a rubber ergonomic handle, it offers the backbone and leverage of a larger shovel in a compact size.
Comparing durability and ergonomics between budget-friendly options and high-end options can help hobbyists determine the best option for their needs. Additionally, it is important to consider the pros and cons of lead-containing shovels before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average lifespan of a metal detecting hand shovel?
The average lifespan of a metal detecting hand shovel depends on its durability, soil compatibility, and digging efficiency. It can range from a few months to several years, depending on the frequency of use and maintenance.
Can hand shovels be used in all types of soil?
The durability of hand shovels depends on the type of soil they are used in. The best hand shovels for rocky soil are made of high-quality, heat-treated carbon steel with serrated edges, and are both break and bend proof.
How do you properly clean and maintain a metal detecting hand shovel?
Proper cleaning and maintenance techniques for metal detecting hand shovels include removing debris and rust, drying after each use, and storing in a dry area. Best cleaning products for hand shovels include mild soap and water, vinegar, or baking soda.
Are there any safety precautions to take when using a hand shovel for metal detecting?
Prudent precautions when using a metal detecting hand shovel include wearing gloves and eye protection, avoiding hazardous areas, and properly maintaining the tool. Tool maintenance involves cleaning, lubricating, and storing the shovel in a dry, secure location.
Can a hand shovel be used as the primary digging tool for metal detecting, or is it only meant to supplement a larger digging shovel?
Hand shovels can be used as the primary digging tool for metal detecting, but it depends on the soil compatibility. Using hand shovels alongside larger digging shovels can improve digging speed and provide benefits such as easier identification of finds.
