Overlanding and off-roading are thrilling adventures that often require the right gear to tackle unexpected challenges. One such essential tool is the overland shovel. Whether you’re stuck in mud, sand, or snow, a reliable shovel can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll delve into the best overland shovels available and what to consider when choosing one.
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Why Do You Need an Overland Shovel?
An overland shovel is not just for digging. It’s a versatile tool that can assist in:
- Vehicle recovery from mud, sand, or snow.
- Creating a fire pit or latrine when camping.
- Clearing obstacles from your path.
- Emergency situations, like putting out fires.
Top Picks for the Best Overland Shovels
Fiskars Pro D-Handle Shovel
- Price: $48.99
- Features: At 44.75 inches long, this shovel is ideal for digging without excessive bending. It’s compact enough to fit into tight spots, like underneath a stuck vehicle. The handle is made of aluminum, making it lightweight, and the blade is crafted from heavy-gauge steel, suitable for intense digging and prying.
DMOS Delta Shovel
- Price: $249.00
- Features: Often referred to as the “Excalibur” of off-road recovery shovels, the DMOS Delta Shovel is lightweight, durable, and can function as both a shovel and a hoe. Made of aircraft-grade steel and featuring a telescoping aluminum handle, it’s a top-notch American-made product.
Gerber E-Tool Folding Spade with Serrated Blade
- Price: $80
- Features: This compact shovel is versatile and ideal for those who need a shovel that can fit in a backpack. It’s a quality option from a reputable manufacturer, ensuring durability and reliability.
Krazy Beaver Shovel
- Price: $149.99
- Features: Designed by a former search and rescue team member, this shovel is known for its unique teeth, capable of cutting through hard ground, ice, and roots. It’s made of 13-gauge tempered steel, ensuring sturdiness and longevity.
Bully Tools Round Point Shovel
- Price: $46.19
- Features: An affordable yet robust option, this shovel is suitable for overlanding and off-roading recovery. It’s designed primarily for gardening but proves to be a valuable tool for adventurers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Overland Shovel
- Material: Overland shovels are made from various materials, including wood, fiberglass, stainless steel, and aluminum. While wood is adequate, fiberglass and aluminum offer lightweight strength. Stainless steel, though heavier, is incredibly durable and weather-resistant.
- Length: The length of your shovel matters. If it’s too short, you’ll spend more time bending, and if it’s too long, it might be cumbersome to store. A shovel that reaches hip height is generally ideal.
- Blade Shape: A spade-shaped blade is recommended as it can penetrate dirt, sand, ice, and mud effectively.
- Handle Shape: D-shaped or T-shaped grips at the end of the handle are ergonomic and more functional than a straight shaft.
Choosing the best overland shovel requires considering your specific needs, the material, length, blade, and handle shape. Investing in a high-quality shovel ensures that you’re prepared for any challenge during your overland adventures.
