There’s no denying the thrill and excitement that comes with the
hobby of metal detecting. It’s an activity that holds the promise of
unearthing hidden treasures, forgotten relics, and mysteries from bygone
eras. Each time the detector beeps, it could signify the presence of a
valuable coin, a piece of antique jewelry, or a historical artifact
hidden in the soil. It’s like embarking on a personal treasure hunt each
time you hit the ground with your detector. What makes this hobby even
more rewarding is the fact that it encourages lovers of history,
archaeology, and outdoor enthusiasts to spend more time outside,
enjoying nature while engaging in a pastime that’s both fun and
educational. Metal detecting has the power to ignite the curiosity and
explorer within everyone, making it an absolutely enthralling hobby.
Importance of a
Good Shovel for Metal Detecting
The significance of a good shovel in the realm of metal detecting
cannot be overstated. While the metal detector is undeniably the star of
the show, a high-quality shovel is the trusty sidekick, often playing a
pivotal role in the success of the hunt. The shovel is the tool that
allows you to physically unearth the treasures that your detector picks
up.
A good shovel can also make the dig significantly easier and quicker.
With a sharp, sturdy blade, it can cut through tough terrain like dense
soil, roots, or even rocky ground, making every stroke count. On the
contrary, a poor shovel might require you to exert more energy and time
in digging, which could quickly lead to fatigue and frustration.
Moreover, the right shovel can contribute to the practice of
responsible metal detecting. A high-quality shovel allows for careful
digging, reducing the risk of damaging the in-ground items or the
terrain, and hence maintaining the environmental integrity. Thus, a good
shovel is not only a matter of convenience but also an indispensable
tool for the preservation of our historical and natural surroundings.
Therefore, when you’re gearing up for metal detecting, it’s just as
important, if not more, to choose the right shovel as it is to choose
the right metal detector.
What to Look
for in a Good Metal Detecting Shovel
Size and Weight
Size and weight are crucial factors to consider when selecting the
ideal metal detecting shovel. The right size will immensely impact
mobility, ease of use, and how you can maneuver to unearth detected
pieces.
Metal detecting often involves long hours of strolling around with
your metal detector, and the last thing you need is a bulky and heavy
shovel. A lightweight shovel won’t cause unnecessary strain and fatigue
while carrying it around. A good rule of thumb is to select a shovel
that is light enough to carry comfortably, but not too light as to
compromise on the durability and strength.
As for the size, this largely depends on the type of terrain you will
be scouring. If you’re going to do your metal hunting in an area with
heavy clay or rocky soil, a bigger and longer shovel might be necessary
to penetrate such surfaces efficiently. Conversely, for beach or sandy
surfaces, a smaller, hand-sized trowel would suffice. The handle length
should also be taken into account. A longer handle provides a better
reach and requires less bending, which can be significant during a long
day of detecting.
However, remember that a larger shovel, while effective at digging
deeper targets, might be somewhat difficult to transport. Therefore,
balance is necessary. The size and weight of your choice should strike a
perfect blend between portability, ease of use, and digging
capability.
Durability and Strength
Choosing a durable and robust shovel for your metal detecting
adventures goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and successful search.
Durability and strength are fundamental considerations when purchasing a
shovel for metal detecting.
Firstly, the shovel needs to withstand the continuous digging and
lifting often involved in this hobby. Therefore, it should be made of
high-grade, tough materials. Stainless steel is often a top choice due
to its high resilience and durability. Shovels made from this material
are resistant to rust and continue to serve you well through all types
of weather conditions and terrains.
Secondly, the strength of your shovel is vital. Whether you’re
digging in soft sand or hard soil, your shovel should be capable of
penetrating the ground effortlessly. A strong shovel will not bend or
break under pressure, ensuring you never miss out on any potentially
lucrative finds.
Remember, a shovel with excellent durability and strength might not
come cheap but will likely save you from the trouble and cost of regular
replacements. It’s an investment for the long haul, so don’t hesitate to
put some extra bucks on a superior model.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Ergonomics and comfort play a significant role when choosing a shovel
for metal detecting. Engaging in a metal detecting adventure often takes
hours, and an uncomfortable shovel can result in strained hands and
pain, essentially shortening your detecting time, and reducing the
overall enjoyment of the hobby.
Firstly, consider the handle of the shovel. It should be designed in
a way that it fits comfortably in your hand, providing a firm grip, and
does not cause any blistering with prolonged use. Shovels with ergonomic
handles often feature a non-slip surface or a design that contours to
your hand, reducing the risk of it slipping out of your grip.
Secondly, the weight of the shovel is crucial. A shovel that’s too
heavy will result in fatigue in a shorter amount of time, whereas one
that’s too light might not be effective in harder ground types. A
well-balanced shovel makes it easier to dig up and lift soil without
putting excess strain on your arms.
Finally, consider the length of the shovel. It should match your
height to allow for efficient, comfortable digging. A too short shovel
will lead to unnecessary bending causing back pain, while a too-long one
could make digging cumbersome and ineffective. Adjustable shovels can be
considered as they offer versatility in terms of height and are suitable
for users with different heights.
In conclusion, while durability and functionality are important,
never overlook ergonomics and comfort, which will ensure a more
enjoyable and productive treasure hunting experience.
Special Features
Some metal detecting shovels come with additional features that make
the task of digging and recovering items easier. One such feature is a
serrated edge. This can prove especially useful when you’re working your
way through tough soil or cutting through roots. Another useful feature
is a footpad. This provides protection for your foot as you apply
downward pressure and can reduce discomfort during prolonged use.
Shovels with long handles may include a T-handle or D-handle. These
enhancements can improve your grip, provide better control and add
comfort during your metal-detecting expeditions. Some shovels even come
with a built-in ruler engraved amidst its design which can aid in
measuring the depth of holes or the size of your found items.
A few shovels sport a Fiskars-like mechanism which are collapsible or
foldable, allowing for easy transportation and storage. A scoop or sieve
at the end of the shovel can be an added benefit, particularly if you’re
working in sandy areas or around bodies of water. These sieves help to
quickly separate the soil or sand from your find.
Choosing a shovel with these special features can greatly enhance
your metal detecting experience, improving your efficiency and bringing
greater success at the end of the day.
Top Shovels for Metal
Detecting
Lesche Sampson Pro-Series
Shovel
Features and Benefits
The Lesche Sampson Pro-Series Shovel is a popular choice among metal
detecting enthusiasts worldwide, and for good reason. Its distinctive
design and top-grade materials make it ideal for serious digging, with a
host of features designed to enhance your metal detecting
experience.
One of its standout features is its robust, aircraft-quality steel
construction, which ensures durability and longevity. This means you can
use it to dig in various types of terrain, from sandy beaches to rocky
mountain ranges, without worrying about breaking or bending. It’s a
shovel built to last.
Furthermore, this Sampson Pro-Series model boasts a blade length of
7.5 inches and a width of 4 inches, perfect for making precise and clean
cuts into the ground. The blade is also serrated on both sides, making
it an excellent tool for cutting through roots and other
obstructions.
One other notable benefit is its T-handle grip, ideal for those long
hours of treasure hunting. It provides a comfortable grip, reducing
fatigue and increasing ease of use, particularly for more extended
digging sessions.
Overall, the Lesche Sampson Pro-Series Shovel is a reliable, robust,
and efficient tool tailored to enhance your overall metal detecting
experience. It effortlessly combines usability with durability to give
you a shovel that stands the test of time and terrain.
Pros and Cons
The Lesche Sampson Pro-Series Shovel carries its fair share of pros
and cons that make it a popular option among many metal detecting
enthusiasts.
The advantages of this shovel begin with its sturdy construction. The
Sampson Pro-Series is made from aircraft quality steel, which gives it
an impressive life span even under heavy use. Its blade design also
merits a nod. It has a pre-sharpened edge perfect for penetrating tough
surfaces. The long handle option (31 inches) provides leverage, making
it less physically strenuous during metal detecting trips. Lastly, the
handle ends in a T configuration, providing comfortable grip and added
digging control.
However, it does come with a few disadvantages. Its robust
construction puts it among the higher range in terms of price, which may
deter some buyers. The weight of the shovel, associated with its stout
build, can also be a burden during long hunting sessions. Lastly, due to
its size, it might not be the ideal option for those who prefer compact
gear for easy transportation.
Overall, the Lesche Sampson Pro-Series Shovel appeals to serious
metal hunters who value durability, efficient digging, and don’t mind
the extra weight and cost.
Garrett Edge Digger
Features and Benefits
The Garrett Edge Digger is a popular choice among metal detecting
enthusiasts, and for good reason. Designed specifically for the purpose,
it promises to enhance your digging capabilities.
One of the standout features of the Garrett Edge Digger is its rugged
design. It is crafted from strong carbon steel, which means it can
withstand even the most rigorous digging needs. The blade is a sizable
7.5 inches, perfect for digging in various terrains without concerns of
damages. Additionally, the blade edges are serrated, a feature that not
only contributes to cutting through the ground with ease but also eases
the extraction of objects from the ground.
Adding to its functionality is the comfortable non-slip blade guard
handle which ensures safe and easy handling, especially when the ground
is wet or when you are wearing gloves.
Lastly, the Garrett Edge Digger comes with a free carry sheath for
the belt, a feature that further enhances its portability, ensuring that
your trusty digger is always within arm’s reach on your treasure hunting
expeditions. The sheath also helps protect the digger when not in
use.
In summary, the Garrett Edge Digger is a perfect blend of durability,
comfort, and convenience, making it an exceptional tool for both
beginner and seasoned metal detectorists.
Pros and Cons
The Garrett Edge Digger offers several notable advantages. Its rugged
and sturdy design is lauded by many metal detecting enthusiasts. The
shovel features a strong carbon steel construction, ensuring that it can
stand up to strenuous digging in various terrain types. Its non-slip
blade guard provides added safety, and the comfortable handle design
allows for extended usage without fatigue.
Moreover, the shovel comes with a carrying sheath, simplifying travel
and storage. The Garrett Edge Digger’s long blade is proficient at
penetrating hard ground, and its serrated edge is wonderful for cutting
through stubborn roots when extracting treasure.
However, despite its numerous benefits, the Garrett Edge Digger has a
few downsides. Its costlier price point compared to other shovels on the
market might not be appealing to hobbyists who are beginners or on a
tight budget. Some users also critique the sheath quality, indicating
that it could deteriorate with heavy use. Lastly, while its long blade
is an asset for excavating deeper targets, it can also make retrieving
shallower items more difficult. Therefore, it may not be the best choice
for those who primarily hunt in areas with a lot of trash metal near the
surface.
The GroundHawk Shovel
Features and Benefits
The GroundHawk Shovel stands out in the metal detecting world for
many reasons. Its superior construction and materials make it a reliable
choice for serious hobbyists and professional metal detectorists alike.
This shovel is designed with a rugged, one-piece construction from 100%
440-grade stainless steel, assuring durability and promising
longevity.
One of the remarkable features of the GroundHawk Shovel is its
serrated edge, which is excellent for cutting through roots, small
rocks, and tough soil with ease. This attribute makes the digging
process faster and smoother, saving you valuable time in the field.
Another notable feature is its specially designed T-handle which is
created for comfort and convenience. Furthermore, this shovel offers a
large blade surface, perfect for heavy-duty digging and moving large
amounts of soil swiftly.
The GroundHawk Shovel’s length is a comfortable 31 inches,
eliminating the need to bend over while digging. The blade size is 7.5″
x 5″, ideal for creating neat plugs in the ground while minimizing
disruption to the site.
The GroundHawk Shovel is indeed a superior tool that complements the
exciting and profitable hobby of metal detecting. Its overall design,
functionality and durability make it one of the best choices for any
level of metal detectorist.
Pros and Cons
The GroundHawk Shovel undeniably excels in numerous aspects, yet it
also carries a few shortcomings that are worth noting.
On the plus side, this shovel shines in terms of durability. It’s
made from tempered steel, assuring you of its long lifespan despite
regular usage in different terrains. It is also lighter than a typical
shovel, making it suitable for long hours of detecting without causing
undue fatigue. Its meticulously designed blade shape allows for
efficient digging, as it cuts through various types of soil with ease.
Lastly, with its comfortable grip handle, users can avoid blisters even
after extended periods of use.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. The GroundHawk
Shovel is premium priced, putting it on the higher end as compared to
other options. This might not be the most budget-friendly choice for
casual detectorists or beginners. Additionally, its length might not be
suited for taller users, as they might need to bend more, potentially
causing discomfort during prolonged periods of digging.
White’s DigMaster Digger
Features and Benefits
The White’s DigMaster Digger is designed with a sturdy heat-treated
blade, able to withstand the rigors of metal detecting. The blade
measures 7.5 inches in length and 2 inches across – an ideal size for
digging small plugs or larger holes.
Designed for precision, it features serrated edges on both sides to
cut through roots and tough ground easier, resulting in a more efficient
detecting experience. This digger comes with a heavy-duty sheath,
securing your tool and making it easier to carry and store.
Adding to its benefits, the DigMaster Digger has a comfortable grip
handle. It is designed with a non-slip orange handle that ensures not
only comfort but also visibility, so you won’t easily lose it in the
field. Furthermore, the D-ring handle design is a precious feature that
many hobbyists appreciate as it allows for straightforward digging.
One standout feature is the ruler that’s built right into the metal
of the digger. It measures both inches and centimeters, making it quick
and hassle-free to measure the depth of your holes or finds.
Overall, the combination of precision, durability, and additional
features makes the White’s DigMaster Digger a prominent choice amongst
detectorists. It is highly regarded for its practicality and usefulness
in field operations.
Pros and Cons
The White’s DigMaster Digger is a favorite among hobbyist and
professional metal detectorists, but like any tool, it has its strengths
and weaknesses.
Pros:
- Durability: The DigMaster Digger is renowned for its robust
construction. It’s made from aircraft-quality steel, ensuring that it
can withstand rough handling and heavy-duty digging. - Comfort: The handle of the DigMaster is ergonomically designed for a
comfortable grip. This feature allows for reduced hand fatigue, making
longer treasure hunting excursions more manageable. - Double-Serrated Edge: The digger’s edge has teeth on both sides.
This double-serrated edge makes it easier to cut through roots and
compact soil. - Includes Sheath: The digger comes with a Cordura holder (sheath) for
carrying it. This is a nice bonus, as it not only simplifies
transportation but also keeps your digger handy at all times.
Cons:
- Weight: While the DigMaster’s robust build ensures it’s reliable, it
can also make the tool slightly heavier than others on the market. This
means it might not be the best choice for those looking for a
lightweight option. - Price: Also, owing to its premium construction, the DigMaster might
seem a little expensive to those on tight budgets or new to detecting
who aren’t willing to invest heavily. - Lack of a Footpad: Unlike some digging tools, the DigMaster does not
include a footpad for easier soil penetration. While it doesn’t affect
performance significantly, some users may miss this feature for added
comfort.
Regardless of these cons, White’s DigMaster Digger remains a top
choice for many because of its durability and effective digging
capabilities. It’s a tool built to last, promising to serve reliable
company on many a detecting adventure.
Deteknix Edge Digger
Features and Benefits
Deteknix Edge Digger is an impressive tool that metal detecting
enthusiasts will appreciate for its numerous features and benefits. This
shovel has a reinforced blade, which improves its strength and
durability when working on tough grounds. The blade is 7.5 inches long
and 2 inches wide with serrated edges, making it ideal for cutting
through roots and stubborn soil.
One significant benefit is its weight; it is light enough for
prolonged use but substantial enough to handle challenging terrain.
Additionally, the comfortable non-slip handle ensures a firm grip even
under harsh weather conditions. This is crucial when you’re spending
hours on end in a location, and comfort is imperative.
The Deteknix Edge Digger also comes with a blade cover for safe
transport and storage. Its Sheath featuring a reinforced belt loop is a
handy benefit that frees up your hands when you are not digging,
providing convenience during a leisurely hobby day. The bottom line is
this shovel offers the practicality and reliability one seeks when
chasing signals in all types of terrain.
Pros and Cons
The Deteknix Edge Digger is popular among metal detectorists for many
reasons but like any product, it has its strengths and weaknesses.
Starting with the positives, the Edge Digger is crafted from
heat-treated, high-quality carbon steel, ensuring robustness and a long
life, even in demanding digging conditions. Its sharp edge and pointed
tip make it particularly efficient at cutting through tough terrain and
unearthing precious finds. Additionally, its comfortable grip handle
reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use, a feature metal detecting
hobbyists appreciate. The Edge Digger also comes complete with a sheath
for safe keeping, adding to its appeal.
However, the tool does have some drawbacks. The handle, while
comfortable, is somewhat smaller when compared to other diggers, which
might be a minus for those with larger hands. The Edge Digger’s weight
might also be a concern for some users as it is bit heavier than other
diggers in the market. And, while certainly durable, its blade might
require regular sharpening to maintain optimal performance.
Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade
Features and Benefits
The Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade is a high-quality digging tool that
exhibits a blend of versatility, functionality, and compact size, making
it an excellent option for metal detectorists.
One of its standout features is its foldable design. This allows for
superior portability and easy storage, which is invaluable when you’re
on extensive treasure hunting escapades. When fully extended, the E-Tool
Spade measures 23.75 inches, but when folded, it shrinks to a mere 9.37
inches – perfect for tucking into a backpack or tool belt.
The blade of the E-Tool Folding Spade is made of rugged,
powder-coated boron carbon steel. This presents a sturdy construction,
capable of dealing with all types of soil environments, from sandy
beaches to rocky fields. An added bonus is the serrated edge on one side
of the blade, which is ideal for cutting through stubborn roots or
grass.
An essential feature of the Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade is its
innovative locking mechanism that keeps the shovel in an open,
semi-folded, or fully folded position. This not only adds to safety
during use but also allows the shovel to be used in various
configurations — as a standard shovel, a 90-degree pick, or a hoe.
Another notable benefit of this shovel is its glass-filled nylon
handle, fortified with a metal shaft inside. This provides you with a
strong and comfortable grip, reducing strain even after prolonged use.
The handle’s shape is also well-thought-out, with a small overhang to
protect your knuckles while digging.
The Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade is a wonderful representation of form
meeting function, with its compact and sturdy design, capable of taking
on a variety of terrain while being easy to carry and store.
Pros and Cons
Pros of the Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade:
-
Compact and Portable: The shovel folds down to a compact size,
making it easy to transport and carry. Perfect for metal detecting
enthusiasts who are constantly on the move. -
Versatility: This shovel isn’t just for digging. It’s also
designed for sawing and chopping, making it a multi-purpose tool that’s
useful in a variety of situations. -
Durable: With high carbon steel construction, this shovel is
built to last. It can handle tough soil conditions without bending or
breaking.
Cons of the Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade:
-
Weight: Despite being compact, this folding spade is heavier than
many other shovels designed specifically for metal detecting. This might
be tiring to handle after hours of use. -
Not Specifically Designed for Metal Detecting: While it’s
certainly capable, this spade isn’t designed specifically for metal
detecting. Its multi-purpose nature can be a hindrance, as it lacks the
narrow, pointed design of a specialized metal detecting shovel. -
Price: The Gerber E-Tool is a bit pricier than other options on
the market. However, for many users, the extra cost is worth the added
durability and functionality.
The Importance of
Proper Shoveling Techniques
Minimizing Ground Damage
Minimizing ground damage is an essential aspect of the metal
detecting hobby that is often overlooked. It is crucial not only due to
ethical reasons but also to maintain the integrity of the detecting area
for future explorations.
Techniques for minimizing ground damage start with the correct use of
your shovel. Cut a neat, clean plug about four to six inches in
diameter, and remove it in one piece. This ‘plug’ technique leaves the
majority of the root system intact underneath, ensuring that the grass
will regrow after you replace the plug. Always make sure to replace the
plug exactly as you found it, fitting it back into the hole like a
puzzle piece.
In dry or delicate areas, consider using a smaller, narrower digging
tool which can help reduce the size of the hole you are creating and,
thus, lessen the likelihood of unnecessary damage.
Also, pay close attention to the location of your dig. Try not to dig
in areas where the ground is already stressed or around tree roots as
they can get damaged.
Remember, our goal is to enjoy the hobby without causing undue harm
to nature’s beauty. By minimizing ground damage, we extend courtesy to
other hobbyists as well as landowners and do our part in preserving the
environment.
Efficient Recovering of
Detected Items
Efficient recovery of detected items is an art in itself that is
honed with experience and the correct technique. Properly utilizing your
shovel in concert with your metal detector will not only speed up the
recovery process but also leave the items undamaged and intact.
Start by pinpointing the target using your metal detector. Once you
have identified the rough location of the object, start digging a hole
that is sufficiently wide to access the target. This is where the
correct use of your shovel comes in.
Instead of just plunging your shovel straight down, make an effort to
create a ‘plug.’ A plug is essentially a neatly cut piece of turf or
soil that can be replaced after the treasure has been successfully
extracted, thereby minimizing impact on the environment.
Cutting a proper plug involves pushing the blade of your shovel into
the ground at an angle to create a U or V shape. This process should be
repeated on three sides of the presumed location of the target to create
a flap of soil. Lift this flap up and use your detector or a pinpointer
to find the exact location of the treasure.
This meticulous process ensures that you not only retrieve the
detected item in an organized manner but also leaves the digging site
close to its original state after you’re done. Practicing efficient
recovering techniques is a mark of a responsible and considerate
treasure hunter and contributes greatly to the sustainability of this
exciting hobby.
Shovel Maintenance and Care
Cleaning after Use
Cleaning your metal detecting shovel after each use is a crucial part
of maintaining its longevity and functionality. Mud, dirt, and other
types of debris can build-up over time, possibly impairing the shovel’s
digging efficiency or even leading to rust if left unattended. Not to
mention, a clean shovel simplifies detection of any potential damage
that may need repairing.
The cleaning process itself is quite straightforward. Begin by
removing any loose dirt from the blade and handle using a bristle brush.
For more stubborn dirt or if the shovel has been used in a saltwater
environment, warm soapy water and a scrub can be utilized. Make sure to
rinse it thoroughly afterwards to eliminate any soapy residue.
For shovels with a serrated edge or those used in tougher digging
conditions, a stiff wire brush can help eradicate any stuck-on mud or
rust.
Remember to dry your shovel completely before storage to prevent the
formation of rust. Wiping it down with a towel and allowing it to air
dry in a warm environment usually does the trick.
In case of noticeable rust, it can be removed with fine sandpaper or
steel wool. Afterwards, the area can be coated with a rust-preventing
spray to avoid further corrosion.
Regular cleaning not only keeps your tool in the best shape, but also
ensures a more pleasant and efficient experience on your next metal
detecting adventure.
Proper Storage
Ensuring that your shovel is properly stored is crucial to prolonging
its lifespan and maintaining its efficiency. When not in use, shovels
should be kept in a dry, cool location to prevent any rusting or
corrosion that may occur due to exposure to moisture or high
temperatures. High humidity levels can also contribute to deterioration,
so basements and garages are often not the best places for storage
unless they are climate-controlled.
Moreover, it’s best not to leave your shovel outdoors or in direct
sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can cause the metal to weaken
over time, and the handle material to crack or degrade, especially if
it’s made of wood or plastic.
Some metal detecting enthusiasts opt for wall mounts or storage racks
to keep their shovels safe and organized. It allows you to hang your
shovels off the ground, minimizing any risk of accidental damage.
Besides, this helps to keep the blade sharp as it prevents unnecessary
contact with hard surfaces.
If your shovel is foldable, ensure that it is collapsed properly
before storage. Improper folding can lead to distortion of the shovel
frame over time.
Proper storage significantly extends the service life of your shovel,
thereby providing value for money and ensuring that it is always ready
to use for your next metal detecting adventure.
Sharpening the Blade
This aspect of maintenance is crucial when it comes to retaining the
efficacy and longevity of your shovel. With time and continual use, the
blade of your shovel may become blunt and ineffectual, making your work
of digging more laborious and less efficient. Therefore, it’s imperative
to frequently check and sharpen your shovel’s blade.
Sharpening the blade should be a routine practice for any serious
metal detectorist. To do this, a flat-file or grinding stone can be
used. Always wear protective gloves and safety goggles to avoid any
potential accidents while sharpening your shovel.
Furthermore, the process should intuitively follow the initial
factory bevel of the shovel, using firm, steady strokes from the base
towards the edge of the blade. Avoid over-sharpening as it might weaken
the blade, making it more prone to cracks or breakage during use.
Lastly, remember to keep safety paramount when sharpening the blade.
Always work in a well-lit, secure area, and keep distractions to a
minimum to prevent potential accidents. After sharpening, a thin coat of
oil or rust-inhibitive spray helps protect the blade from the elements
and adds to the longevity of the shovel.
In essence, meticulous and frequent sharpening of your shovel blade
will ensure that your digging tool stays in excellent working condition
for years onward. It’s an easy yet crucial aspect of overall shovel care
that empowers you to delve into the depths of the earth efficiently in
search of hidden treasures.
Conclusion
Recap of the Top Shovels
Throughout this article, we’ve taken a detailed look at some of the
best shovels for metal detecting. The Lesche Sampson Pro-Series shovel,
with its robust construction, is an outstanding all-rounder perfect for
a variety of terrains. The Garrett Edge Digger boasts a comfortable grip
and sharpened edges providing more comfortable use and efficient
digging.
Then there’s the GroundHawk Shovel, a versatile and lightweight
option with a ludicrously solid construction. The White’s DigMaster
Digger provides a balanced combination of durability and ergonomic
design, while the Deteknix Edge Digger stands out for its broad blade
and comfortable handle. Lastly, the Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade is a
compact, foldable choice for detectorists who prioritize portability and
convenience.
Each of these shovels has its own strengths and potential drawbacks,
which makes each suitable to specific and unique needs. Whether you
prioritize durability, ergonomics, or portability will have an impact on
which shovel suits you best.
Final
Thoughts on Choosing the Best Shovel for One’s Needs
Choosing the best shovel for your metal detecting is an individual
matter that ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Consider the weight and size of the shovel – you want something that is
easy to carry around but is also efficient at digging in various types
of soil. Durability is another factor. Shovels made from strong, quality
materials may be priced higher, but they could also save you from buying
a replacement too soon. The ergonomic design is crucial to your comfort,
especially when you’re digging for long periods.
While all the shovels we discussed are exceptional in their own
right, make sure to consider any additional features that might elevate
your metal detecting experience. Simple details, like a serrated blade
that can cut through hard ground, or a carry sheath to make
transportation easier, might make a world of difference.
Also, be aware of the importance of proper shoveling technique which
can not only make your searching more efficient but also lessen the
impact on the environment. No matter how good your shovel is, if you
don’t use it correctly, you would still encounter problems like damaging
the found items or taking too long to unearth the items.
Lastly, always remember to clean, store, and maintain your shovel
properly to extend its lifespan and ensure it performs optimally every
time you use it.
The quest to find the perfect shovel for you may take a bit of trial
and error, but with careful consideration and a little bit of background
knowledge, you’re sure to find a tool that not only serves your metal
detecting needs but also adds joy to your hobby. Happy Hunting!
