What to Look for in Camping Shovels
Introduction
When it comes to camping, having the right gear is crucial. One essential piece of equipment is a camping shovel. A good shovel can come in handy for a variety of tasks, such as digging a latrine, shoveling snow, or even chopping wood. But with so many different shovels on the market, how do you choose the right one for your needs?
Consider Your Needs
Before shopping for a shovel, it's important to think about what you'll be using it for. If you're planning on doing a lot of backpacking, weight and portability will be a major factor in your decision. In this case, a compact, foldable shovel might be your best option. On the other hand, if you're car camping and weight isn't as much of an issue, you can opt for a larger, sturdier shovel.
Material
Another important factor to consider is the material of the shovel. The most common materials are aluminum and steel. Aluminum shovels are lightweight and durable, but they may not be as strong as steel shovels. Steel shovels, on the other hand, are more durable and can handle tougher tasks, but they tend to be heavier.
Size and Shape
When it comes to size and shape, there are a few options to choose from. The most common is the standard shovel, which has a long handle and a rectangular blade. This type of shovel is versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks. Another option is a folding shovel, which has a compact design and can be easily stored in a backpack. Finally, there are military-style shovels, which are designed for digging trenches and other demanding tasks.
Additional Features
Some shovels come with additional features that can be useful in certain situations. For example, some shovels have a serrated edge on the blade, which can be useful for cutting through roots or ice. Others have a built-in pick, which can be useful for breaking up hard ground.
Price
Finally, price is always a factor when shopping for camping gear. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, it's important to remember that a quality shovel can last for many years, so it's worth investing in a durable, well-made shovel.
Conclusion
Choosing the right camping shovel can make a big difference on your trip. By considering your needs, the material and size of the shovel, and any additional features, you can find the perfect shovel for your next camping adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Should I take a shovel camping?
Yes, it is recommended to take a shovel when camping. A camping shovel has multiple uses, including digging holes for various purposes like defecation or creating a fire pit, moving embers in a campfire, digging a rain trench around the tent, leveling ground for pitching a tent, and for off-roading mishaps.
2. Are folding shovels any good?
Yes, folding shovels are a good option for camping. They are compact and easy to store in small areas. They provide all the features of non-folding shovels and are ideal for moving sand, dirt, or snow. Some folding shovels are even used by the military for fieldwork.
3. How much does a camping shovel weigh?
Most camping shovels weigh between 1.5 to 2.5 pounds. If you're backpacking, a lighter shovel is preferable. However, if you're car camping, the extra pound won't be too much of a bother.
4. What type of shovel is best for dirt?
For digging holes in all types of ground, a round point shovel is best. Its rounded tip allows for hole digging without damaging the surrounding area. It has a wide scoop that can hold plenty of dirt. Another popular type is the square point shovel, which is used for transferring loose material.
5. Is a shovel good for self-defense?
While a survival shovel can be used for self-defense in emergency situations, it is important to note that it is not designed as a weapon and may not be as effective as other self-defense tools.
6. What are the three types of shovels?
The three most commonly used shovels are the pointed spade for digging, the rounded spade for planting, and the square tip shovel for transferring loose material. Each type is designed for specific tasks.
7. Is a plastic or aluminum scoop shovel better?
Plastic shovels are advantageous as snow does not typically stick to them due to their non-stick coating. They are also less likely to bend or warp. However, a concern with plastic shovels is that they may break or snap. Aluminum scoop shovels are durable but may require more effort to prevent snow from sticking.
8. What is the lightest transfer shovel?
The Black Diamond Transfer LT is the lightest UIAA certified shovel available, weighing 405 grams.
9. How heavy is a shovel full of wet snow?
According to a study by the Journal of the American Medical Association, a shovel full of heavy wet snow weighs an average of 16 pounds.
Editor's Notes
During our camping shovel research, we found 24 camping shovel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 141,905 customer reviews through our big data system to write the camping shovels list. We found that most customers choose camping shovels with an average price of $24.75.
The camping shovels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of camping shovels, including Rhino USA, REDCAMP, HUZSV, AugTouf, DARTMOOR. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.