Shoveling is not a task that everyone enjoys. It seems a loathsome burden if not done the right way. We’ve got you covered with the best shovels for you that will assist you in completing your tasks.
Our guide will cover all the factors and attributes that help you invest in the right shovel. When you’re thinking of the best shovels, brainstorm some essential points about yourself first. Consider your physical issues regarding health.
Table of Contents
PARTS OF A SHOVEL
To keep your hand on the best shovel, you need to understand the product’s complete symmetry.
Handle
The first part on the top of a shovel is known as the handle grip. It is the part that provides grip to the hand. Most commonly, this part is made up of robust material so that you can form a firm hold onto it to shovel even the thick layers of dirt, mud, grass, snow. Depending on the type of shovel and its use, the handle may be straight, open, or ergonomically bent to lift.
Shaft
What comes underneath the handle is the shaft. It has a rod-like appearance and makes sure that the shovel remains stable while in the air. The shaft combines the handle with the socket. Therefore, having a faulty or weak shaft/shank can ruin the whole work. Also, it has a significant advantage that you can replace it easily by removing the handle and socket. The material of the shaft ranges from wood to fibreglass. The choice depends on the workload.
Socket
The head of the shovel mainly consists of two parts, i.e., the blade and the socket. The shaft fits inside the socket leading to the blade. The socket must be rigid enough not to bend when force is applied.
Blade
The front portion of the shovel is called a blade. It can differ in multiple ways depending on the type of shovel used. The traditional snow shovel, for example, will have a flat 18 to 23 inches blade. Looking for the best shovel depends on the following factors:
Cutting Edge
Next to the blade lies the cutting edge, which is sharp enough to strike into the material you are removing, dirt, snow, grass, rock, soil, clay. The cutting edge of a blade will be square, tapered, or round point.
CHOOSING THE BEST SHOVEL
Choosing the best shovel requires you to first look at your strength and ability. Are you able to lift 70 kgs? (154 lbs.)
If you are clearing the snow from your driveway and are scooping up snow with a small shovel, you are lifting approximately 6 kgs. (13lbs,) every 5 seconds. The primary snow shovel weighs 1 kg and the load of snow about 5 kgs. In doing the math, you are then carrying 70kgs. (154 lbs.) every minute – that is a strenuous effort on your body!
After you have considered your strength and ability, take a look at these aspects of the shovel:
Not too heavy- Not too light: Make sure to opt for an ergonomically stable and well-designed shovel. A perfect shovel has the balanced weight of each component, making the shovel perfect- not too heavy and not too light for the job.
Not too heavy- Not too light
Make sure to opt for an ergonomically stable and well-designed shovel. A perfect shovel has the balanced weight of each component, making the shovel perfect- not too heavy and not too light for the job.
Shovel Handles Comfort
There is a limitless choice when looking for the best shovel handle. You can opt for wood, metal, plastic, or fibreglass handles.
Wooden handles are light and provide you with a much more grip. You can make use of linseed oil to make them water-resistant and hence long-lasting.
On the other hand, metal handles are heavier and more robust, will not break but are prone to rust, but there are ways to rust proof the handle.
Plastic handles are lightweight but easily breakable.
Fibreglass handles are firm and have a supreme grip. They generally do not rust or break.
Shovel Matches with your Height
We are all unique, and when shoveling, height to shovel size does make a difference. A smaller sized shovel in the hands of a tall person can cause back pain. Get yourself a shovel that matches your height!
Blade Size to Do the Job
Blade Size and weight affect the energy expenditure during shoveling. It shows the importance of choosing the best shovel for the job at hand and the blade type you’re going to utilize.
Blade Material
Metal blades are more robust than the plastic ones. They maneuver easily and lift a large amount of product. The downside is that metal blades weigh more than plastic. Do you want easy maneuverability and the ability to lift a large amount quickly? Then metal blades will be much more effective!
Opt for Quality Over Price
Shopping for a shovel is never high on anyone’s priority list until the day arrives, and we frantically run to the store and buy a shovel to clear the walks.
We may get lucky and buy a good shovel, and perhaps the price is reasonable. On many occasions, I have, out of need or hurry, purchased an item quickly and later thought — that was a waste of money, and the object becomes a decoration in my home.
Therefore, make sure to buy a shovel that fits your needs and lasts longer.
Now that you know the parts of a shovel explore the specifics of snow shovels What Are The Different Types of Snow Shovels and what is important to look at take a look at.
