Types Of Shovel Handles
- Wood handles. Wooden shovel handles are the most traditional type of shovel handle, and they offer many benefits.
- Metal Handles. Metal shovel handles are a more modern option making them ideal for heavy-duty shoveling tasks. ...
- Plastic Handles. ...
- Fiberglass Handles. ...
What are shovels made of?
Instead, your hand will touch the handle directly, which could be made of wood, metal, fiberglass, or another material. On shovels without a grip, the handle material usually is smooth enough to grasp comfortably. Wood shovels, for example, will typically have a coated handle that prevents you from getting splinters from handling the wood.
How are fiberglass shovel handles made?
Fiberglass shovel handles are made by extruding fiberglass resin into a hollow tube the shape and length of the handle. Pigment is added to the resin in the manufacturing process, allowing fiberglass handles to be produced in a variety of colors.
What are the different types of shovel handles?
Different types of shovel handles are available on shovels, and each has its own set of benefits. The most common shovel handle types are wooden, metal or aluminum, plastic, and fiberglass. When choosing a shovel handle, consider the task and type of shovel.
What is the shaft of a shovel called?
Shaft Sometimes, people refer to the shaft as the handle. This is technically only the case when the handle of the shovel is straight, making the shaft double as the handle. On other shovels, though, the shaft is the pole that connects the handle to the rest of the shovel.
What type of wood is used for shovel handles?
Wood Handle Construction Ash, beech, cherry and black locust are strong, heavy hardwoods that are sometimes used in handle construction, but hickory has historically been the most prized wood for shovel handles, as well as the handles of other hand tools. Hickory is prone to splitting, but it is tough and strong.
Are fiberglass shovel handles stronger than wood?
Shovels come with either a wooden (ash or hickory) handle or a fiberglass handle. Some handles are thicker than others. The wood is heavier but has a nice “feel” to some folks. The fiberglass is lighter and definitely stronger than the wood but doesn't look as nice to some folks.
Is fiberglass handle strong?
What's true is that fiberglass handles are tougher and can take more punishment than traditional wooden handles. They are more expensive but have great shock absorption properties and are very durable.
Can you replace fiberglass shovel handle?
Things You'll Need Fiberglass is usually more durable than wood, but like any material, it can wear and break under extended and extreme use. Shovels are designed for universal handle use, and the replacement of a fiberglass handle is a generally straightforward task that can be completed using only basic tools.
What is the best handle for a shovel?
A metal or fiberglass shovel handle is the best choice for shovels used in extreme weather conditions.
What is stronger wood or fiberglass?
Although wooden doors are durable, they're susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to sun, rain, snow, humidity, and other elements. Fiberglass resists the effects of harsh weather and lasts longer, without the rotting, splitting, peeling, or delaminating that occurs in wood.
How is a shovel handle made?
Shovel handles are usually made of wood (especially specific varieties such as ash or maple) or glass-reinforced plastic (fiberglass). Hand shovel blades made of sheet steel usually have a folded seam or hem at the back to make a socket for the handle.
What kind of wood are axe handles made of?
American HickoryThe most common wood used to make axe handles is American Hickory. Hickory is used due to its combination of strength and flexibility. Its strength allows it to take massive shocks without splitting or cracking.
Who makes the best shovel?
The 6 Best ShovelsFiskars Digging Shovel (Our Top Pick)Bond Mini D-Handle Shovel.True Temper D-Grip Digging Shovel.BLACK+DECKER D-Handle Mini Garden Shovel.Bully Tools Round Point Shovel.Seymour Handle Notched Super Shovel.
How do you fix a fiberglass handle?
5:026:36Homesteading Hack! How to Repair an Old Fiberglass Shovel Handle ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAlright go ahead and hit some spots where they're little tiny ripples there straighten over andMoreAlright go ahead and hit some spots where they're little tiny ripples there straighten over and right-side up here with a shovel handle up here. And go ahead and we'll do part of the head.
How do you replace a broken shovel handle?
3:228:01How to Repair a Broken Shovel Handle | Easy and Free Fix!YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWhat you can do is try to remove the handle with a screwdriver. It helps to remove as much materialMoreWhat you can do is try to remove the handle with a screwdriver. It helps to remove as much material as possible with a paddle bit on your drill. You can remove the center of that handle.
How do you cut fiberglass handles?
1:3612:32Fiberglass Handle Installation for Sledgehammer - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipKind of like a grinder blade like some of them you might see on like a a chop saw or maybe aMoreKind of like a grinder blade like some of them you might see on like a a chop saw or maybe a reinforced dremel wheel that's made for cutting fiberglass.
Who makes the best shovel?
The 6 Best ShovelsFiskars Digging Shovel (Our Top Pick)Bond Mini D-Handle Shovel.True Temper D-Grip Digging Shovel.BLACK+DECKER D-Handle Mini Garden Shovel.Bully Tools Round Point Shovel.Seymour Handle Notched Super Shovel.
How is a shovel handle made?
Shovel handles are usually made of wood (especially specific varieties such as ash or maple) or glass-reinforced plastic (fiberglass). Hand shovel blades made of sheet steel usually have a folded seam or hem at the back to make a socket for the handle.
What are shovel handles made of?
For centuries, shovel handles were made of wood, and that was good enough for the workers who used them. The invention of fiberglass changed all that, and fiberglass shovel handles have become a common alternative to handles made with the traditional material.
What wood is used for shovel handles?
Ash, beech, cherry and black locust are strong, heavy hardwoods that are sometimes used in handle construction, but hickory has historically been the most prized wood for shovel handles, as well as the handles of other hand tools. Hickory is prone to splitting, but it is tough and strong.
Can you replace shovel handles?
If properly maintained, wooden shovel handles are sufficiently strong and can last a long time. They are easy to replace if they are worn or damaged, and they can be repaired with wood glue if the damage is minor. Wooden handles, however, are subject to weathering, cracking and splitting, and they may rot in wet or damp conditions.
Is a shovel handle stronger than a wooden handle?
Fiberglass shovel handles are generally more durable than wooden handles. They are not subject to rot or weathering, and unlike wooden handles, they will not shrink or expand with variations in humidity. They are less likely than wooden handles to break as a result of impact. If they do break, however, fiberglass handles are more difficult to replace than wooden handles, and replacement handles are not widely available.
What is the handle of a shovel?
Handle. Source: Amazon. Where the grip sites, and where you place your hand, is the handle of the shovel. Handles come in several shapes that align with the work for which the shovel is intended. Shovel handles can break down over time, although some handle materials are more durable than others.
What is a shovel blade?
The blade is the part that shovels. They can come in a wide range of shapes for different types of shovels, which we’ll delve into in a moment. Shovel manufacturers also make blades from several materials.
What is a grip on a shovel?
The grip is the part of the shovel that your hand will touch when you grasp the handle. For safety purposes, a non-slip handle is a good option for most tasks, but not all shovels come with grips.
What kind of blades do shovels use?
The blades of less expensive shovels may be plastic or aluminum, while top-of-the-line shovels meant for heavy lifting usually have a heavy-duty steel blade.
Why use non-slip grips on shovels?
Non-slip grips on a shovel help you get a firm grasp on the tool to prevent slipping and injury. They also keep the handle dry in wet conditions, like while you’re shoveling snow or working in the rain.
Why are shovels curved?
Some shovels have curved, rather than straight, shafts that make it easier to complete specific tasks with it and can also prevent some back curvature when using it.
What is the collar on a shovel?
The next part of the shovel, moving downward, is the collar. This is the part where the blade meets the shaft, keeping the blade attached to it. It resembles the collar of a shirt circling the neck, hence its name. The collar typically attaches to the shaft with screws or bolts.
How to hold a shovel handle?
Depending on how you are using the shovel, you would usually hold the grip handle by wrapping your fingers over the top of the handle and your thumb on the underside of the top bar.
What is the shaft of a shovel?
The shaft of a shovel is the pole that is connected to the handle. The shaft can vary in length and in material, and both of these factors can alter the function of the shovel and how well it performs. Metal or fiberglass shafts tend to be the most long-lasting as they are strong and durable, but they are also generally the most expensive.
What is the blade of a shovel called?
The blade of a shovel is also known as a ‘scoop’ because it is the part of the tool that scoops up materials such as soil, snow, or gravel. The blade can vary in size, shape, and material. Snow shovels typically have plastic blades, whereas garden shovels can have aluminum, fiberglass, or steel blades. Shovels that are intended for digging will usually have a broader, flatter blade, whereas shovels intended for moving materials will have a more curved or angled blade to allow it to scoop up more at once.
What is the collar on a shovel?
This part of the shovel is also known as the socket. It is the part of the tool which connects the shaft to the blade portion of the shovel. The collar needs to be strong as it will be put under a lot of pressure during use, so this element is usually made from metal. The best shovels will have a collar that attaches to the shaft using rivets or screws, which can be removed in the event that the shaft needs to be replaced. More basic shovels might have the collar connected to the shaft using glue, but these types of shovels will only stand up to light use before the shaft separates from the collar.
What is a shovel used for?
From shoveling snow, digging up plants, or creating post holes, shovels are used for a range of outdoor tasks and are an essential tool to have for the garden. Learning about the parts of a shovel and the functions of each piece will help you to understand which shovel is best for which job and which features on a shovel will work best for your own circumstances.
What is the best grip for a shovel?
For a more comfortable and ergonomic grip, choose a handle made from silicone or rubber. These handles will be easier on the hands and also provide a firm hold to reduce the incidence of accidents. In some instances, a shovel may have no grip handle at all, and in this case, the user would hold onto the top part of the shaft to operate the shovel.
Is wood shaft good?
Wooden shafts are a good choice and can last a long time if they are cared for well and kept inside when not being used. They are susceptible to breakages if put under a lot of pressure but are popular among those who prefer natural materials.
What is an open socket shovel?
Open socket shovels are used for moving loose earth, sand, gravel and grain etc. They are hot-pressed from pre-cut sheets of either hot rolled heavy gauge Carbon Steel or Aluminium sheet. They are not primarily designed for digging or levering. This type of shovel is easily identified as Open Socket by the fact that the end of the handle (normally wood) can be seen protruding through the bottom of the pressed socket.
What is a solid wood handle?
Solid timber handle, designed to give a longer reach on a tool, so that the user does not have to bend. The wooden handle has a 'waisted' diameter for easier manipulation and a 'knobbed' end.
What is a polyfibre handle?
The Polyfibre style of handle is designed to offer the workman a high degree of fibreglass strength along with the comfort of a profile moulded PYD hand grip. The pultured fibreglass core is coated with an injection moulded polypropylene sheathing creating strength and stability.
What is a fibreglass handle?
The fibreglass MYD handle is designed for extremely heavy duty industrial use. Chemically bonded into solid socket tools, these shafts are over 30% stronger than 'All Metal' types. Fibreglass shafts have excellent structural properties and will not warp or rust in extreme weather conditions.
What is a solid socket tool?
Solid socket tools have their blades and sockets hot, double roll formed from one single piece of best quality steel. The socket is forged as an integral part of the blade (with NO welds) and this type of tool is readily identified by the fact that the handle fits into a 'blind' socket - this is the most popular range.
What is an Ash T grip?
This is a traditional Ash T-Grip, having a sculptured hilt, ergononmically shaped to fit the palm of the hand. The grip and shaft are mortised, tenoned and waterproof glued into place. A wooden dowel then secures the grip firmly into place.
Brown Wood, Inc
Custom manufacturer of shovel handles made from wood. Hardwood, softwood, veneer, composite and laminate wood materials used. Available in variety of shapes, styles and sizes. Hand shovels are designed for digging and moving materials. Finishes such as water and oil-based stains and paints as well as polyurethane and powder coating offered.
Teel Plastics, Inc
Manufacturer of pultruded fiberglass tubing and profile composites up to 5.5 in. cross-section. Single length and telescoping handles. Various wall thickness, color, texture and length. Secondaries including painting, printing, punching, drilling, notching, slotting, gluing and assembly. Minimum production orders apply.
MSC Industrial Supply Co
Supplier of 450,000 products from 2,500 mfrs.: cutting/machine/hand/power tools, MRO supplies, abrasives, fasteners, precision instruments, machinery, electrical supplies, safety equipment, HVAC, welding, hose, tubing, fittings, material handling, pumps, power transmission, janitorial; same day shipping
American Select Tubing
Manufacturer of stock and custom fork, shovel, hoe and rake handles. Metal handles in are available in 22mm, 23.5mm (15/16) and 25mm (1”) diameters with a variety of end configurations. Coating options include black powder coating, plastic coating, two coat high gloss plastic coating and wood grain plastic coating.
Whitley Handle, Inc
Manufacturer of wood shovel handles. Custom & stock, threaded or tapered handles, many colors. variety of applications: broom, mop, fork, shovel, hoe, rake & other garden tools.
H. Arnold Wood Turning, Inc
Manufacturer of wooden handles used for shovels, screwdrivers and other hand tools. Handles are straight & round made from dowels & finished with custom paint. Woods include agathis ash, beech, birch, eucalyptus, hickory, maple (hard or soft), marupa, oak (red or white), pine, poplar, ramin, tauari & white meranti.
W. W. Manufacturing Co., Inc
Manufacturer of spade drills, shovel handles, spade, scoop handles, steel handles, rakes, spades, shovels, trailers, diggers, digging bucket, wire twisters & carts. Custom steel fabrication, product manufacturing & welding repairs for nursery & landscaping industry.
What is a shovel blade made of?
It is usually made of metal or aluminum, though in some instances might be fiberglass or plastic. Shovel blades come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, and it is arguably the design of the blade that makes the most difference between different shovel types.
What is a shovel shaft?
The shaft of a shovel is the long ‘pole’ like part of these tools, and it is used as leverage when operating your shovel. They are usually made from wood, fiberglass, or metal. All of these materials have pros and cons in terms of shovel use and durability, and the type you want to choose may come down to personal preference or budget. Metal shafts tend to be the strongest and most long-lasting, but wooden shafts are usually more ergonomically and aesthetically pleasing and are more popular with traditionalists. The length of a shovel shaft can vary, and the height of your shovel should be matched to your own height so that it is comfortable to use.
What is trench shovel?
Firstly, it can dig shallow trenches, and secondly, it can clean out and neaten up deeper trenches that have been created by a more powerful tool. Trench shovels have a long and narrow blade with a pointed tip, and the blade is set at an angle.
What is the best shovel blade for a newer soil?
The shape of the blade you want for your shovel will depend on the type of soil you have, so make sure you know what you’re working with before you make a purchase. Flat edged shovels are best for working with loose soils, and they are also good for scooping and edging. Round blades are better suited to softer or newer soils, while pointed shovels are best in hard or compacted soils.
What is a kickplate shovel?
It is the uppermost edge of a blade where you can place your foot to add pressure, though not all shovels will have a kickplate. Kickplates are usually found on digging shovels where the extra weight of the user can be utilized to dig deeper into the ground.
What is the best shovel material?
For heavy-duty jobs, you will need a heavy-duty shovel, so one made from solid steel will be best. If the whole shovel is made from one solid material, then it won’t snap at the collar point (as this is the weakest point of most shovels and the cause for most breakages). If your shovel will be used for lighter work, such as scooping and moving soil, then aluminum may be a good choice as it weighs less but is relatively sturdy.
What is a tree planting shovel?
Tree-Planting Shovel. These shovels are specifically designed for planting trees, making quick work of a job that would take much longer with other types of shovels. A tree-planting shovel has a narrow blade that comes to either a curved or pointed tip.
