The Ultimate Guide To Best Shovel for Metal Detecting

Here at Smart Tool Buddy, we are passionate about finding the best shovel for metal detecting tools. We understand that having the right tools is important.Our team of experts research and review these products to give you concise and clear information to help you make informed decisions. Let’s explore the world of metal detector shovels today!

Metal detection tools are designed to locate hidden treasures without damaging them or causing back pain.

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A standard shovel is not enough

• Too Heavy: Swinging a heavy shovel around for hours can be exhausting and difficult to detect.
• Wide Blade: This can cause serious damage on fragile items such as jewelry, coins or historical artifacts.
• Short handle: Constantly bending to dig using a handle that is shorter can cause back problems. It’s not ideal for a full day of treasure hunting.

An ideal partner for your metal detector

Now let’s explore the features of a good metal detector.

• Lightweight Made from materials such as aluminum or fiberglass for ease of maneuverability.
• Narrow Blade: This blade allows you to dig precisely, minimizing the risk of damaging your finds.
• Long Handle: Reduces strain on the back and allows for a more comfortable digging posture.
• Sharp Point Cuts through difficult soil easily, saving time.
• Depth Markings: Indicates how deep you’ve dug, helping you pinpoint your target object.

Popular Choices for Garden Detectives

When choosing a shovel, consider your budget and the type of detection that you will do.

• Budget-Friendly: A lightweight aluminum shovel with a good length and a pointed end is a great place to start.
• Middle range: Fiberglass spades often have depth markings, comfortable handles and a bit more durability.
• Premium: Sand scoops with folding sand shovels are ideal for beachcombers, and anyone who values portability.

This Guide will help you choose the best shovel for metal detecting

A good metal detector hunt is a thrilling experience. Digging is the first step between the beeping detector and the prize. Choosing the right shovel can make the difference between a successful retrieve and a frustrating battle with roots and hard soil.

This guide will assist you in selecting the best metal detector for your digging adventure. You will learn about the features and benefits of the most popular options, as well as get answers to your burning questions.

While a garden shovel may seem like an excellent investment, a metal-detecting tool can be better.

• Strength & Durability Standard shovels are designed for smaller jobs. Metal detection tools are built to handle soils and roots with tenacity without breaking or bending.
• Sharpness A sharp blade will make it easier to penetrate tough soils, saving time and effort.
• Handling: A metal detecting shovel which is comfortable to handle, especially during long searches, has a balance between weight and size.
• Functionality Metal detector shovels often have clever designs, such as D-grips to improve control, serrated edges to cut roots or scraping surfaces to clean your finds.
• Protecting Your Finds: Weak, blunt, or flimsy shovels can damage delicate artifacts. Well-designed, sharp tools will help preserve your finds.

What to look for when choosing a metal detecting shovel

Now that you understand the importance of having the right shovel to perform specific tasks, let’s take a look at some features you might want to consider.

• Material:
  • Tempered Steel: Provides strength to heavy duty digging.
  • A durable and affordable option but susceptible to rust if not properly maintained.
  • Alloy steel: Combines strength and lighter weight.
• Weight:
  • A lighter shovel (around 3-4 pounds) is better for maneuverability.
  • A heavy shovel (weighing around five pounds) is more powerful, and can easily break through tough soil and roots.
• Length:
  • A longer handle (around 40-48 inches) offers better leverage for deeper digs.
  • A shorter handle is often preferred for tight spaces or situations that call for more control.
• Handle type:
  • Dual-grip: Provides a secure, comfortable grip when digging using two hands.
  • D-Grip: Gives you good control when digging using two hands.
  • Fiberglass: Lightweight and comfortable to use.
  • Carbon Steel Stronger but heavier than fiberglass
• Blade Type:
  • Double serrated: Ideal to cut roots with minimal effort.
  • Rounded and Pointed Scraping Edge: Offers versatility in digging or scraping surfaces.
  • Serrated V-shaped: For powerful root cutting.

Also Read: Best Shovel For Planting Trees and Digging Holes

Top Contenders: A Look at Popular Metal Detecting Shovels

We have taken a closer look at the best metal detector shovels on the market,

1. Lesche T- Handle 31″ Heavy Duty Metal Detector Shovel Double Serrated Blade

Made in the USA using Quality Materials:

This American-made shovel features exceptional craftsmanship and includes:

• Aircraft grade steel: Provides a design that is smooth and balanced, with incredible strength.
• Double-serrated Blade: Cuts through soil and roots with ease.
• Heat treated blade: Offers superior strength, durability and long-term use.

Product Specifications

• Length: Overall length of 31 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds, 9 ounces
• Blade Dimensions: 7.3-inch-long x 4 inch wide (approximate).
• Shaft length: 23 inches (approximate)
• T Handle Type:
• Blade Style: Double serrated
• Material: Alloy Steel (blade and shaft).
• Color: Grey, silver, and Black
• Warranty: 5-years against breaking under normal usage

Features of the Lesche T-Handle shovel

• Versatility Perfect for relic hunts, coin and jewelry recovery, or even gold prospecting.
• Perfect size and balance: With its 31-inch length, the lightweight design makes it easy to move and reduces fatigue during prolonged digging.
• Comfortable T-Handle Grips: Offers a comfortable grip to control the digging process with ease.
• Double Serrated Blade: Cuts through soil and roots easily, minimizing damage to potential discoveries.
• Long-lasting Performance: The blade is made of aircraft grade steel and has been heat-treated to ensure durability.
• 5-Year warranty: Gives you peace of mind and guarantees quality.

Who Should consider this shovel?

The Lesche T-Handle Shovel will appeal to serious metal detectorists that value durability, quality and versatility. This is the perfect tool for:

• You want a tool that is reliable for various metal detecting activities, such as relic hunting and coin and jewelry recovery.
• Enjoy a comfortable, well-balanced digging shovel to reduce fatigue.
• Look for a sturdy and durable shovel that can withstand the toughest digging conditions.

Considerations

The Lesche T-Handle Shovel is a high-quality product, but it is more expensive than other metal detecting tools. The T-handle may not suit everyone. Some prefer the D-grip handle.

The Lesche T Handle Metal Detector is a great choice for detectorists who are looking for a durable and versatile tool.

2. CKG Metal Detecting Shovel Digging Tool with Double Serrated Blade

Built to last

This American-made tool boasts a durable construction:

• Tempered Steel: Offers strength and durability to tackle tough digging tasks.
• Sharpened Blade: Cuts through soil and roots with ease, saving time and effort.
• Heat treated blade: The blade is sharpened and remains effective over a long period of time.

Product Specifications

1. Length: 39.5″ (overall).
2. Weight: 3.8 pounds
3. Blade Size: 10-inch-long x approximately 4 inch wide
4. Handle length: 29.5 inches (approximate)
5. Handle Type: Ergonomic Dual-Grip
6. Blade Style: Double serrated
7. Material: Tempered Steel (blade and shaft).
8. Color: black
9. Warranty: Five Years

Features of the CKG Metal-Detecting Shovel

• Heavy Duty Design: Ideal for challenging digging tasks including breaking through dense soil and tough roots.
• Double Serrated Blade: Cuts through soil and roots with ease.
• Heat-Treated and Sharpened: Provides a long-lasting sharpness.
• Ergonomic Dual Grip Handle: Provides comfort and security during different digging positions.
• Multi-Functional: Can be used for a variety of tasks other than metal detecting. For example, camping, yardwork, and gardening.
• 5-Year warranty: Provides you with peace of mind and guaranteed quality.

Who Should consider this shovel?

The CKG metal detecting shovel is an excellent choice for detectorists:

• You may encounter difficult digging conditions due to dense soil or roots.
• Choose a shovel that is built to withstand heavy duty tasks.
• Appreciate a comfortable dual-grip handle for better control.

Pros and Cons

Considerations

The CKG Shovel, while a powerful tool is heavier than other metal detector shovels. It’s a consideration for those who prefer lightweight maneuverability.

The CKG Metal Detecting Tool is an excellent option for those who are serious about digging and need a tool that can handle challenging terrains while unearthing hidden treasures.

3. Ashman Drain Spade Teeth Shovel (1 Pack) – 48 Inches Long Handle Spade with D Handle Grip

Built for the Price

This shovel is both affordable and of decent quality.

• Heat treated metal blade: Provides a certain level of durability when performing basic digging tasks.
• Metal handle More durable and stronger than wood handles but not as strong as high-end options.
• D-grip handle: Provides a comfortable grip when digging with two hands.

Product Specifications

• Length: 48 Inches (overall).
• Weight: Unspecified (likely lighter)
• Blade Size: Not specified
• Handle length: 48 inches
• Handle Type: D-Grip
• Blade Style: Sharp Point
• Material: Metal Blade, Plastic or Metal Handle (Unspecified).
• Color: orange
• Warranty: Not specified

Features of the Ashman Drain Spade

Who Should consider this shovel?

Ashman Drain Spade Is a Great Choice for:

• Budget-conscious detectorists that prioritize affordability.
• Casual detectorists are those who dig only occasionally.
• Who need a lightweight, maneuverable shovel.

Pros and Cons

Considerations

This shovel is not recommended for digging in very difficult soils or heavy duty digging. It is difficult to compare this shovel to other premium options because the weight and blade size are not specified. The warranty information is also missing.

The Ashman Drain Spade is an affordable and basic metal detecting tool. The Ashman Drain Spade with Sharp Teeth is a great option for casual metal detectorists and those on a budget. However, serious diggers may require a stronger tool.

4. Radius Garden 23811 Root Slayer Metal Detecting Spade

Conquer roots with

This spade is a combination of durability and functionality.

• Heavy duty alloy steel blade. Offers exceptional strength to tackle challenging digging tasks and chop through roots.
• Construction in carbon steel (likely). Provides an affordable and durable option.
• Fiberglass handle Lightweight, comfortable and easy to grip for long digging sessions.

Product Specifications

1. Length: 39 Inches (overall).
2. Weight: Unspecified (likely lighter weight than heavy-duty shovels).
3. Blade Size: Not specified
4. Handle length: Not specified
5. Handle Type: Fiberglass
6. Style of blade: Pointed, with a rounded edge for scraping.
7. Material: Alloy steel blade, carbon steel construction (assumed), fiberglass handle
8. Color: Red
9. Warranty: Unspecified

Features of the Radius Root Slayer:

• Root Slayer: This blade is designed to easily cut through roots.
• Large foot platform: Provides greater leverage for powerful digging.
• Rounded tip: Allows scraping and scooping movements when required.
• Lightweight Construction (likely): Reduces fatigue during long digging sessions.
• Point of attachment for the strap: Allows you to carry your shovel comfortably while exploring.

Who Should consider this shovel?

Radius Garden Root Slayer Spade: This is the perfect choice for detectorists that:

• You will often encounter soils with thick roots and tough conditions.
• Prioritize an affordable balance between durability and affordability.
• Appreciate a lightweight design for easier maneuverability.
• You want a shovel that can be used for a variety of digging tasks.

Considerations

It is difficult to compare the shovels because of the lack of blade and weight specifications. The warranty information is also missing.

Pros and Cons

Radius Garden’s Root Slayer is an excellent tool for metal detecting enthusiasts who face difficult digging conditions. The Radius Garden Root Slayer Spade’s lightweight design, root-cutting features, and leverage-enhancing characteristics make it an excellent choice for finding hidden treasures.

5. Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel

Built to Slay roots

This American-made tool boasts a durable construction:

• Construction in carbon steel: Provides outstanding durability to chop through roots and endure tough digging tasks.
• Blade with powder-coating: Protects blade from corrosion and wear.
• V shaped cutting tip: Specifically Designed to Rip Through Roots and Dense Soil with Minimal Effort.
• Ergonomic grip Reduces strain on the hands and wrists when digging for long periods.

Product Specifications

• Length : 45 Inches (overall).
• Weight: 5.4 pounds
• Blade Size: 10.5 inches long by 13 inches wide (approximate).
• Handle Length: Unspecified (most likely around 32 inches).
• Handle Type: Carbon Steel
• Blade Style: V shaped serrated
• Material: Carbon Steel (blade, handle).
• Color: red
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty (US Continental Only)

Features of the Radius Root Slayer Shovel

1. Root Slayer: The V shaped serrated blade easily cuts through tough roots.
2. Durable construction: Construction in carbon steel ensures long-lasting performance.
3. Ergonomic grip: Reduces fatigue and provides comfort when digging.
4. Serrated Blade Reduces stress on the hands and wrists.
5. Wide blade: Allows efficient shoveling loose soil.
6. Lifetime warranty (continental US). Provides peace of mind and guaranteed quality.

Who Should consider this shovel?

Radius Garden’s Root Slayer Shovel makes a great option for:

• Diggers that are able to dig through dense soil and tough roots.
• Who prioritize a durable and sturdy shovel designed for heavy-duty work.
• Detectorists that value a comfortable handle for long digging sessions.

Pros and Cons

Considerations

This shovel’s weight may be an issue for those who like lightweight maneuverability. The carbon steel construction is susceptible to rusting if it’s not maintained properly.

Radius Garden’s Root Slayer Shovel can be used to dig up roots and uncover buried treasures. The heavy-equipment construction, V-shaped tip and ergonomic grip makes it a favorite of serious diggers.

Metal Detecting Shovel Comparison

Features	CKG Metal Detecting Shovel	Ashman Drain Teeth Shovel	Radius Garden 23811 Root Slayer Spade	Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel
Price	$68.49	$35.00	$45.00	$60.00
Material	Tempered steel	Metal (blade), plastic or metal (handle).	Alloy steel, Carbon steel (assumed)	Carbon steel
Weight	3.8 lbs.	Not specified (likely lighter).	Not specified (likely lighter).	5.4 lbs.
Length	39.5″	48 Inches	39 Inches	45 Inches
Handle	Metal Dual Grip	D-Grip	Fiberglass	Carbon steel
Blade Type	Double-Serrated	Sharp Point	Sharpened with rounded scraping edges	Serrated V-shaped
Warranty	5 Years	Not specified	Not specified	Lifetime (continental US).
Best for	Breaking roots, hard digging	Budget-conscious detectorists	Root cutting for hard soil	Serious diggers, conquering roots

Key Differences

• Price Ashman offers the most affordable build, while CKG provides a premium option with a warranty.
• Weight: Due to the focus on durability, CKG and Radius (212011) are heavier. Ashman and Radius (23811) are lighter because of their maneuverability.
• Handle Ashman and Radius have a D grip. Radius (23811), on the other hand, uses a lightweight handle made of fiberglass.
• Blade CKG has a double-serrated edge for cutting roots, while Ashman uses a basic sharp tip. Radius shovels (23811) and 22011) are designed with features that make them ideal for cutting roots.
• Warranty CKG provides the longest warranty of all the other manufacturers, and the information on the others is limited or lacking.

How to Choose the Right Shovel

1. Heavy duty digging & root-cutting: Radius or CKG (22011)
2. Ashman: A budget-conscious
3. Lightweight maneuverability: Ashman (23811) or Radius (weight not confirmed).
4. Comfortable grip to dig for extended periods: Radius or CKG (22011).

Note that some shovels do not have weight and blade specifications, which makes a comparison more difficult.

Additional Considerations

• CKG’s shovel is expensive, but it offers the best features and comes with a warranty.
• The Ashman Shovel is the most affordable, but it may not be suitable to heavy-duty digging.
• Some shovels do not specify the weight or blade size, which makes a comparison more difficult.

Frequently Asked Questions about Metal Detecting Tools

Understanding the various types of shovels, and their intended use will help you choose the best tool for your job.