Imagine this: you’re out camping, and you need to dig a fire pit, but your trusty shovel is way too big to fit in your backpack. Or maybe you’re a gardener, and you want a tool that’s easy to store in a small shed. Finding the perfect digging tool can be tough, especially when you need something small and mighty.
That’s where the folding shovel shines! It’s like a magic tool that shrinks down to fit anywhere. But with so many different folding shovels out there, how do you pick the best one? Some are too flimsy, others are too heavy, and some just don’t do a good job. It can be confusing to know which one will actually help you when you need it most.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what makes a great folding shovel. We’ll look at different types, what to watch out for, and how to choose the one that’s just right for your adventures or your garden. Get ready to discover your new favorite digging companion!
Our Top 5 Folding Shovel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Folding Shovel Detailed Reviews
1. RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick – Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road
Rating: 9.2/10
The RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick is a tough and useful tool for many outdoor adventures. It’s built for digging, chopping, and prying. Whether you’re camping, off-roading, gardening, or just heading to the beach, this shovel can handle it. It’s designed to be strong and last a long time.
What We Like:
- American Owned, Family Operated: You’re supporting a father-son business with great customer service.
- 3-in-1 Multipurpose: It works as a shovel, a pickaxe, and a pick hoe. You can use it for many different jobs.
- Compact and Portable: It folds down small, fitting easily into its carry case. It’s only 2 lbs, so it’s easy to take anywhere.
- Carbon Steel Construction: Made from strong carbon steel with a protective coating, it resists rust and looks good.
- Real Lifetime Replacement: Rhino USA stands by its product. If anything goes wrong, they will replace it or give you a refund.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 22″ length is good, some users might prefer an even longer handle for certain digging tasks.
- The 180-degree shovel angle is versatile, but a slightly wider range of motion might be useful for very specific digging situations.
This shovel is a reliable companion for any outdoor enthusiast. Its sturdy build and multiple functions make it a smart addition to your gear.
2. REDCAMP 23″ Military Folding Camping Shovel w/Cover
Rating: 9.0/10
When you’re out in the wild, you need tools that are tough and versatile. The REDCAMP 23″ Military Folding Camping Shovel is exactly that. This shovel is built to handle all sorts of outdoor jobs, from digging out your campsite to clearing away snow. Its sturdy construction and clever design make it a must-have for any adventurer.
What We Like:
- Made from high-quality manganese steel, this shovel is strong and won’t rust or bend easily.
- It folds up small, making it super easy to pack and carry anywhere.
- The shovelhead can be adjusted to different angles, so you can use it for digging, shoveling, or even hoeing.
- The sharpened edge cuts through brush and wood with ease, helping you prepare for campfires or clear paths.
- It’s perfect for camping, hiking, gardening, and even emergency situations.
- The included cover keeps the shovel protected and makes it safe to store.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s portable, the 2.5lb weight might feel a bit heavy for some ultralight backpackers.
- The tri-fold handle, while convenient, might feel slightly less sturdy than a single-piece handle for very heavy digging.
Overall, the REDCAMP folding shovel is a reliable and multi-functional tool for any outdoor enthusiast. It offers great value and performance for its price.
3. GOUTIME Military Tactical Shovel
Rating: 9.3/10
The GOUTIME Military Tactical Shovel is your go-to tool for all sorts of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just spending time at the beach, this shovel is built tough and ready for action. It’s designed to handle digging in dirt, sand, and mud, making it super useful for various tasks.
What We Like:
- Durable and Portable: Made from strong alloy steel, it can handle tough jobs but is still light enough to carry in your survival gear.
- Multi-Functional: This shovel is more than just a shovel! It also works as a hammer, axe, saw, cutter, bottle opener, and wrench, all in one compact tool.
- Adjustable Design: You can easily change its angle to 45°, 90°, or 180° to dig, chop, or tackle other tasks.
- Comfortable Grip: The handle has a special texture that prevents slipping, even if your hands are wet.
- All-in-One Tool: It’s a digger, axe, saw, knife, and pry bar all rolled into one foldable package, perfect for adventurers and people who like to be prepared.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the multi-functionality is great, some of the smaller tools might not be as strong as dedicated single-purpose tools.
- The included storage bag is handy, but a more robust or padded bag could offer better protection for the shovel’s various parts.
This GOUTIME shovel is a fantastic addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s kit. It packs a lot of utility into a small, portable package.
4. 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel
Rating: 9.2/10
Conquer the outdoors with the AugTouf 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel. This tough olive-green shovel is built for adventure, making it a go-to tool for camping, hiking, and even car emergencies. Its smart design means you can rely on it when you need it most.
What We Like:
- It’s super handy and lightweight, weighing only 25oz, making it easy to carry on any adventure.
- The heavy-duty nylon case is a big plus. It has a loop to attach to your belt or backpack, and it even doubles as a knee pad for comfort while you work.
- Made from strong high-carbon steel, this shovel is built to last. It resists rust and won’t easily bend, even with tough use.
- The triangular handle is designed for a good grip, preventing slips and reducing strain on your hands and wrists.
- It folds up easily into three parts, making it very compact. You can even fold it at a 90° angle, giving you more options for digging or chopping.
- This shovel is super versatile! It can dig, chop, saw, and even hammer – perfect for all sorts of outdoor tasks.
- AugTouf offers a 90-day warranty, so you can buy with confidence. If you’re not happy, you can get a refund or replacement.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 18″ length is good for portability, some users might prefer a slightly longer shovel for digging deeper holes or for better leverage when chopping.
This AugTouf folding shovel is a fantastic all-around tool for anyone who loves the outdoors. Its combination of durability, versatility, and portability makes it a smart addition to your gear.
5. SOG Entrenching Tool- 18.25 Inch Folding Survival Shovel with Wood Saw Edge and Tactical Shovel Carry Case- Black (F08-N)
Rating: 9.4/10
The SOG Entrenching Tool- 18.25 Inch Folding Survival Shovel is a tough, all-in-one tool for outdoor adventures. It’s a survival shovel with a wood saw edge and a handy carrying case, all in black. This shovel is designed to help you tackle many tasks when you’re out in the wilderness.
What We Like:
- It’s 18.25 inches long when open, but folds down to just 10 inches, making it super easy to carry.
- It’s lightweight at only 24.5 ounces, so it won’t weigh down your backpack.
- The high-carbon steel is very strong and can dig through dirt, sand, mud, and even snow.
- It has a built-in wood saw edge to help you cut small branches for a campfire.
- The shovel can be used in three different ways – as a shovel, pick, or hoe, making it very versatile.
- SOG offers a lifetime warranty, meaning they stand behind their product.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the folding mechanism could potentially be a weak point over time with heavy use.
- The saw edge might not be strong enough for cutting thicker branches.
This SOG Entrenching Tool is a dependable companion for campers, hikers, and anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Its compact size and multiple functions make it a smart choice for your survival kit.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing a Folding Shovel
Why You Need a Folding Shovel
A folding shovel is a super handy tool. It’s perfect for camping, gardening, or even just keeping in your car for emergencies. It’s small enough to carry easily but strong enough to dig. Finding the right one makes all the difference.
1. Key Features to Look For
Durability and Strength
You want a shovel that won’t break when you use it. Look for strong metal and a sturdy handle. A good folding shovel can handle tough jobs like digging in hard soil or clearing snow.
Portability and Size
The main point of a folding shovel is its size. It should fold up small. Check its folded size to make sure it fits where you want to store it. A lightweight shovel is also easier to carry around.
Ergonomics and Comfort
How the shovel feels in your hands matters. A comfortable handle helps you dig for longer without getting tired. Some shovels have padded grips. This makes them easier to hold.
Blade Shape and Size
Shovel blades come in different shapes. Some are pointed, which helps with breaking up tough ground. Others are wider, which lets you move more dirt at once. Think about what you will use it for most.
Multi-Tool Functionality
Some folding shovels do more than just dig. They might have a saw edge for cutting branches or a small pickaxe for breaking rocks. These extra features can be very useful.
2. Important Materials
Steel
Steel is a common material for shovel blades. It’s strong and lasts a long time. Different types of steel offer different levels of rust resistance. Stainless steel is good for preventing rust.
Aluminum
Aluminum is lighter than steel. This makes shovels easier to carry. However, it might not be as strong as steel. For light digging, aluminum is a good choice.
Handle Materials
Handles can be made of metal, plastic, or wood. Metal handles are usually strong. Plastic handles are lightweight. Some have rubber grips for comfort.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Construction Quality
How well the shovel is put together is important. Look for smooth edges and tight connections. A well-made shovel will last longer. Poorly made shovels can break easily.
Blade Thickness
A thicker blade is generally stronger. It can handle more pressure. Thin blades might bend or break. Check the thickness of the metal.
Locking Mechanism
A good folding shovel has a secure way to lock the blade and handle in place. This prevents it from collapsing while you use it. A wobbly lock means less safety and less control.
Rust Resistance
If you use your shovel outdoors, rust can be a problem. Look for shovels with coatings or made of materials that resist rust. This keeps your shovel in good shape.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Camping and Hiking
Folding shovels are great for campers. You can dig fire pits or level ground for tents. They are easy to pack in a backpack.
Gardening
Home gardeners use them for small digging jobs. You can transplant small plants or weed around flower beds. They are easier to use than large shovels for tight spaces.
Emergency Preparedness
Keeping one in your car is smart. You can use it to dig your car out if it gets stuck in snow or mud. It’s a useful tool for unexpected situations.
Survival Situations
In a survival scenario, a folding shovel is essential. You can dig for shelter, find water, or even prepare food. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of a folding shovel?
A: The main purpose is to provide a compact and portable digging tool for various tasks like camping, gardening, and emergencies.
Q: What material is best for a folding shovel blade?
A: Steel is generally best for durability and strength, especially stainless steel for rust resistance.
Q: How important is the locking mechanism on a folding shovel?
A: It is very important. A secure locking mechanism ensures the shovel doesn’t collapse during use, making it safe and effective.
Q: Can a folding shovel be used for heavy-duty digging?
A: While some are strong, most folding shovels are best for light to medium-duty digging. Very hard ground or rocks might be too much for some models.
Q: What are some common extra features to look for?
A: Common extra features include saw edges for cutting, pickaxes for breaking things, and bottle openers.
Q: How do I clean and maintain a folding shovel?
A: Clean off dirt and debris after each use. Dry it thoroughly and consider applying a light oil to metal parts to prevent rust.
Q: Are aluminum folding shovels a good option?
A: Yes, aluminum shovels are lighter, making them easier to carry. They are good for lighter tasks where weight is a concern.
Q: How do I choose the right blade shape?
A: A pointed blade is good for breaking up tough soil, while a wider blade is better for moving more material quickly.
Q: Will a folding shovel fit in my backpack?
A: Most folding shovels are designed to be compact and should fit easily into a backpack or car trunk.
Q: Where are folding shovels most commonly used?
A: They are most commonly used for camping, hiking, emergency car kits, and light gardening tasks.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!