Imagine you’re stranded. Your car is stuck, and you need to dig yourself out. Or maybe you need to build a shelter in a hurry. What tool do you reach for? A survival shovel is your best friend in these situations! It can be a lifesaver.
Finding the right survival shovel can be tricky. There are so many types and brands. You might feel confused about what features matter most. Is it the size, the material, or the extra tools? Many people waste money on shovels that break or don’t work well. This leads to frustration and wasted effort.
In this post, we’ll help you pick the perfect survival shovel. We’ll look at the key features to consider. You’ll learn how to choose a shovel that fits your needs and budget. You’ll also discover our top picks and why they’re great. Get ready to become a survival shovel expert! Let’s dig in and find the best shovel for you.
Our Top 5 Survival Shovels Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Survival Shovels Detailed Reviews
1. Rhino USA Survival Shovel w/Pick – Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road
Rating: 8.6/10
The Rhino USA Survival Shovel is a tough, all-in-one tool. It’s made for tough jobs. This shovel can help you while camping, gardening, or off-roading. It’s built strong and is easy to carry. The shovel has many tools built in, making it super useful in many situations.
What We Like:
- It’s made by an American family business. You get great customer support.
- It’s a 7-in-1 tool! You get a fire starter, whistle, bottle opener, saw, and more.
- It’s small and easy to pack. It folds up for easy storage.
- The shovel is made from strong carbon steel. It’s built to last.
- Rhino USA will replace the shovel if there is a problem. You are protected for life!
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the multi-tool features a bit basic.
- The shovel’s folding mechanism could be more intuitive for some users.
The Rhino USA Survival Shovel is a great tool for anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s a strong and useful tool that will help you in many situations. You can trust this shovel to get the job done.
2. 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel
Rating: 8.7/10
The AugTouf 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel is a tough and handy tool. It’s made for outdoor adventures. This folding shovel is great for camping, gardening, and emergencies. It’s small and light, so it’s easy to carry. It can help you dig, saw, and even chop. It’s a useful tool to have.
What We Like:
- HANDY AND LIGHTWEIGHT: The shovel is easy to carry. It only weighs 25 ounces.
- VERSATILE CASE: It comes with a strong nylon case. You can attach it to your belt or backpack.
- COMPACT & DURABLE: The shovel is made of strong steel. It won’t rust. The handle is designed to be comfortable.
- EASY & FULLY FOLDABLE: You can fold the shovel easily. It folds in different ways.
- HASSLE-FREE WARRANTY: The company offers a 90-day warranty. They will help you if you have any problems.
What Could Be Improved:
- No cons were found during the review.
This AugTouf folding shovel is a great tool for many situations. It’s a good choice for anyone who enjoys the outdoors or needs a handy tool in their car.
3. iunio Folding Survival Shovel
Rating: 9.4/10
The iunio Folding Survival Shovel is a versatile tool for outdoor adventures. This military-grade entrenching tool is a collapsible emergency shovel. It is great for disaster recovery, car emergencies, camping, hiking, and gardening. It also features a pickaxe, making it a multi-tool spade. It is designed to be tough and reliable in various situations.
What We Like:
- It is a portable folding shovel. It extends to 18.3 inches long.
- This military shovel has many useful features. It includes a saw, bottle opener, whistle, and compass.
- The shovel is made of strong, durable materials. The blade and handle are made of high-carbon steel.
- It is compact when folded. It fits in a carry bag with a belt loop.
- The company offers a lifetime warranty. They will replace the shovel if it breaks.
- It is a great gift for anyone who loves the outdoors.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is a great product. We have no complaints.
In conclusion, the iunio Folding Survival Shovel is a great buy for anyone who spends time outdoors. It is a well-built and versatile tool that can handle many tasks.
4. DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel High Carbon Steel
Rating: 8.7/10
The DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel is a tough, little tool. It’s made for outdoor adventures and emergencies. This portable shovel is perfect for camping, hiking, or keeping in your car. It’s designed to help you dig, shovel, and even saw. It is built to last and is easy to carry around.
What We Like:
- Made with strong, high-carbon steel. It won’t rust or bend easily.
- It’s small and easy to carry. The shovel folds up neatly.
- The shovelhead is a good size. It helps you dig more efficiently.
- The blade is thick and strong. It can handle tough jobs like digging in gravel.
- It comes with a carrying case. This helps you store it easily.
- It is a great tool for outdoor survival.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the handle a little short.
This DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel is a great tool for anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s a reliable and useful item to have in your gear.
5. Camping Shovel Axe Outdoor Survival Shovel Set
Rating: 8.7/10
The Camping Shovel Axe Outdoor Survival Shovel Set is a super handy tool for any outdoor adventure! This folding tactical shovel and hatchet combo packs a ton of features into one convenient package. It’s made from strong materials and designed for camping, hiking, and hunting. Get ready to dig, chop, and survive with this all-in-one kit!
What We Like:
- All-in-one package! This set has a shovel, axe, extension rods, whistle, compass, and more.
- Made from military-grade materials. The axe and shovel are tough and won’t rust.
- The shovel head locks in different positions. You can use it as a shovel, hoe, or hammer.
- It’s perfect for emergencies and outdoor fun. Keep it in your car or take it on your next adventure.
- Makes a great gift! Give it to a friend or family member who loves the outdoors.
What Could Be Improved:
- The many pieces could be overwhelming for some users.
This Camping Shovel Axe set is a fantastic investment for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. It provides a lot of essential tools in one compact, reliable package. You’ll be ready for anything!
Digging Deep: Your Survival Shovel Buying Guide
Survival shovels are great tools. They can help you in many situations. This guide will help you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
You need to know what makes a good survival shovel. Here are some important things to consider:
- Size and Weight: A smaller, lighter shovel is easier to carry. A bigger shovel can move more earth. Think about what you need it for.
- Multi-Tool Functionality: Some shovels have extra tools. These can include a saw, a bottle opener, or a knife. This can save space and weight.
- Folding Design: Folding shovels are easy to store. They are compact and fit in a backpack.
- Handle Length: A longer handle gives you more leverage. This makes digging easier.
- Blade Shape and Edge: A pointed blade is good for digging. A serrated edge can help cut through roots.
Important Materials
The materials used matter a lot. They affect how strong and long-lasting the shovel is.
- Blade Material: Look for high-carbon steel. It is very strong. It can handle rough use. Stainless steel is also good. It resists rust.
- Handle Material: Wood handles can absorb shock. Fiberglass handles are lightweight and strong. Metal handles are very durable.
- Grip Material: A rubber or textured grip helps you hold the shovel. This is important when your hands are wet.
Factors that Improve or Reduce Quality
How well the shovel is made makes a big difference.
- Welding: Good welds mean the shovel is strong. Look for clean, solid welds.
- Blade Thickness: A thicker blade will last longer. It can handle more force.
- Handle Attachment: How the handle connects to the blade is important. It should be strong. It shouldn’t come loose.
- Rust Resistance: A coating or treatment can protect the metal from rust. This extends the shovel’s life.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the shovel. This helps you pick the right one.
- Camping: A survival shovel is great for digging fire pits. It can also help clear trails.
- Hiking: Carry a small shovel for emergencies. It can help you build a shelter.
- Emergency Situations: Use it to clear debris after a storm. It can help with self-rescue.
- Gardening: A small shovel is useful for planting and weeding.
- Vehicle Use: Keep a shovel in your car. It can help you get unstuck from mud or snow.
Survival Shovel FAQs
Here are some common questions about survival shovels.
Q: What is the best material for a shovel blade?
A: High-carbon steel or stainless steel are the best. They are strong and resist rust.
Q: How do I clean my survival shovel?
A: After use, wipe off dirt and debris. Oil the metal parts to prevent rust.
Q: Are folding shovels as strong as fixed-blade shovels?
A: Some folding shovels are very strong. Look for quality construction and materials.
Q: What is the best handle material?
A: Wood handles absorb shock well. Metal handles are very strong. Fiberglass is a good mix of strength and weight.
Q: Can I use a survival shovel for heavy-duty digging?
A: Yes, many survival shovels are built for tough use. Choose one with a strong blade and handle.
Q: How important is the weight of the shovel?
A: Weight is important if you will carry the shovel a long distance. A lighter shovel is easier to carry.
Q: Should I get a shovel with extra tools?
A: It depends on your needs. Multi-tool shovels can save space and weight. They provide extra function.
Q: What is a serrated edge good for?
A: A serrated edge can help cut through roots, branches, and other tough materials.
Q: How do I store my survival shovel?
A: Store it in a dry place. Keep it clean and oiled to prevent rust.
Q: Where can I buy a survival shovel?
A: You can buy them at outdoor 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!