Ever found yourself staring at a glint of metal, heart pounding with anticipation, only to be thwarted by a flimsy shovel? You’re not alone! Metal detecting is an exciting hobby, but the right tools make all the difference. A weak shovel can bend, break, and ruin your digging experience. Choosing the perfect shovel is crucial for success and enjoyment.
Picking a metal detecting shovel can be tough. There are many types, sizes, and materials. Knowing which one suits your detecting style and the ground you’re digging in can be tricky. You want a shovel that’s strong, comfortable, and gets the job done without causing extra work. This guide helps you avoid those common mistakes.
In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about metal detecting shovels. You’ll learn about different types, materials, and features. We’ll cover what to look for when buying a shovel. By the end, you’ll be ready to choose the best shovel for your adventures, and you’ll be digging up treasures in no time!
Our Top 5 Metal Detecting Shovels Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Metal Detecting Shovels Detailed Reviews
1. ROOT ASSASSIN 35″ T-Handle Metal Detecting Shovel with Blade Cover
Rating: 9.2/10
The ROOT ASSASSIN 35″ T-Handle Metal Detecting Shovel is a great tool for treasure hunters and campers! It’s built for digging and finding hidden treasures. This shovel is also perfect for camping. It is made of strong steel and has special saw-like teeth. These teeth help you cut through roots and other things in the ground. The shovel is easy to carry and store because it’s small. The blade is coated with powder for extra durability. It also has a special design for strength. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty!
What We Like:
- The shovel is great for camping and treasure hunting.
- It has strong, saw-like teeth to cut roots.
- The blade is made of strong steel.
- It is small and easy to carry.
- The shovel is durable and built to last.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description doesn’t mention the blade cover.
In conclusion, the ROOT ASSASSIN shovel is a solid choice for anyone who enjoys metal detecting or camping. It is a strong and useful tool that should last a long time.
2. CKG Carbon Metal Detecting Shovel Digging Tool with Double Serrated Blade – Lightweight Digger Garden Root Cutter
Rating: 9.3/10
The CKG Carbon Metal Detecting Shovel is a tough tool for metal detecting and gardening. This shovel is strong and light. It is made to help you dig easily. The double serrated blade cuts through roots. You can use this tool in different types of soil. It’s a great addition to your metal detecting gear.
What We Like:
- Lightweight design makes it easy to carry.
- Carbon steel blade is strong and durable.
- Double serrated blade cuts through roots quickly.
- The handle is comfortable and non-slip.
- It is great for digging in any terrain.
What Could Be Improved:
- No cons were found in the product description.
This CKG Carbon Metal Detecting Shovel is a good choice for metal detecting and gardening. It is a well-made tool that will help you dig better.
3. DragonXT 36″ Shovel for Metal Detecting
Rating: 8.7/10
The DragonXT 36″ Shovel is a must-have tool for treasure hunters and gardeners. This shovel is perfect for finding hidden treasures. It weighs only 3.4 lbs. This makes it easy to carry. The DragonXT helps you dig for coins, jewelry, gold, and relics. It’s also useful for cutting clean plugs for easy treasure recovery.
What We Like:
- Lightweight design makes it easy to carry around.
- The 36-inch length gives you good control and leverage.
- It’s built strong and can handle tough digging.
- The sharp blade cuts through soil quickly.
- The T-handle is comfortable to hold and helps you dig precisely.
- Perfect for finding coins, jewelry, and relics.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description did not include any cons.
The DragonXT shovel is a great tool for anyone who loves metal detecting or gardening. It is a reliable and comfortable tool for your outdoor adventures!
4. Radius Garden 22411 Root Slayer Mini-Digger Shovel
Rating: 8.6/10
The Radius Garden 22411 Root Slayer Mini-Digger Shovel, Red is a handy tool for any gardener. This mini digger is lightweight and easy to carry. It is designed to cut through dirt and roots. The shovel has a special V-shaped tip. This helps it dig through tough soil. It’s a great tool for small gardening jobs.
What We Like:
- It’s lightweight, so you can take it anywhere.
- The V-shaped tip cuts through roots easily.
- The blade is made of strong carbon steel.
- The grips are comfortable and easy to hold.
- It’s built to last for many gardening tasks.
- You can easily clean and sharpen the blade.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty (in the continental US).
What Could Be Improved:
- The warranty is only for the continental US.
This Root Slayer Mini-Digger Shovel is a useful tool. It is a great choice for anyone who needs a strong and easy-to-use shovel.
5. GADFISH Sand Scoop for Metal Detecting
Rating: 8.9/10
The GADFISH Sand Scoop is a metal detector’s best friend! This stainless steel sand sifter shovel helps you find treasures quickly. It’s perfect for beach and underwater metal detecting. This kit includes a sand scoop, a long pole, a sand shovel, and all the screws you need. Get ready to find cool stuff!
What We Like:
- The sand scoop is made from strong 201 stainless steel, so it won’t rust!
- You can use it as a regular sand scoop or attach the long pole.
- The long pole helps you stand up while you work. No more bending over!
- The handle is comfy with a non-slip grip.
- It has special holes to let sand pass through fast.
- It works great on the beach, underwater, and even for gold panning.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember to rinse it with fresh water after using it in the ocean.
The GADFISH Sand Scoop is a great tool for metal detecting. It will make your treasure hunting adventures much easier and more fun!
Digging Deep: Your Guide to Metal Detecting Shovels
Finding buried treasure is exciting! But you need the right tools. A metal detecting shovel is super important for digging up your finds. This guide will help you choose the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When picking a shovel, look at these things:
- Blade Shape: A pointed blade is good for piercing the ground. A square blade works well for scooping. Some shovels have serrated edges to cut through roots.
- Blade Length: A longer blade helps you dig deeper. A shorter blade is easier to control.
- Handle Length: A long handle lets you stand up straight while digging. This saves your back! Short handles are good for tight spaces.
- Handle Shape: A D-grip handle gives you a good grip. A straight handle might be better for reaching.
- Footrests: Footrests on the blade let you push down with your foot. This makes digging easier.
Important Materials
The materials make a big difference in how a shovel works.
- Blade Material:
- Carbon Steel: This is tough and strong. It can handle rough use.
- Stainless Steel: This resists rust. It’s good if you dig near water.
- Handle Material:
- Wood: Wood handles are comfortable. They can break if you push too hard.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass is strong and light. It won’t rot.
- Steel: Steel handles are very strong. They can be heavy.
- Other Materials: Look for shovels with strong welds and good quality hardware.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a shovel better or worse.
- Quality of Construction: A well-built shovel will last longer. Look for strong welds and solid connections.
- Blade Thickness: A thicker blade is stronger and won’t bend easily.
- Handle Attachment: The way the handle connects to the blade is important. Make sure it’s secure.
- Weight: Heavier shovels can be tiring to use. Lighter shovels may not be as strong.
- Rust Resistance: Rust ruins tools. Look for shovels that resist rust.
- Warranty: A good warranty means the company believes in its product.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your shovel.
- Where will you dig? Different shovels work better in different soils. Soft sand needs a different shovel than hard clay.
- How often will you dig? If you dig a lot, get a strong, durable shovel.
- How important is comfort? A comfortable handle makes digging easier.
- Are you new to metal detecting? Start with a basic shovel that’s easy to use.
- Do you need to dig in tight spaces? A smaller shovel might be best.
Metal detecting shovels are used in many ways:
* Digging up targets found by a metal detector.
* Removing dirt from the hole to find the target.
* Cleaning up the hole after retrieving the target.
* Removing rocks and roots that get in the way.
* Creating a clean hole to make finding the target easier.
Metal Detecting Shovel FAQs
Q: What is the best material for a metal detecting shovel?
A: Carbon steel blades are very strong. Fiberglass handles are light and durable.
Q: How long should my shovel handle be?
A: It depends on your height and how you dig. A longer handle saves your back.
Q: Should I choose a pointed or square blade?
A: Pointed blades pierce the ground well. Square blades scoop up dirt efficiently.
Q: What does a D-grip handle do?
A: A D-grip handle gives you a better grip and more control.
Q: How do I keep my shovel from rusting?
A: Clean and dry your shovel after use. Store it in a dry place. You can also use a rust protectant spray.
Q: Why are footrests important?
A: Footrests let you push down with your foot, making digging easier.
Q: What is the best shovel for beginners?
A: A basic shovel with a comfortable handle and a blade that’s easy to use.
Q: Can I use a regular shovel for metal detecting?
A: You can, but metal detecting shovels are designed specifically for the job. They usually have better features.
Q: How do I know if a shovel is well-made?
A: Check the welds, the handle attachment, and the overall construction. It should feel strong and sturdy.
Q: Where can I buy a metal detecting shovel?
A: You can find them at metal detecting stores, hardware stores, and online retailers.
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!