I knew that my husband loves camping, but I never knew that he also harbors a love for metal detecting on such trips.
And honestly, it’s not something I mind. After all, metal detecting is a good way to maintain physical activity for good health. So, I decided to surprise him with a metal detecting shovel the previous holiday season. Since then, he has purchased quite a few to expand his tool arsenal.
However, the process has been easier said than done. With so many options up for grabs, it often took hours and even days to just shortlist the best shovels for the purpose.
And that’s when I decided to document this guide to help my readers who might be faced with the same challenge. Hi! I’m Stacy, and today, I bring you the top 5 metal detecting shovels to choose from.
Dive in!
Top 5 Metal Detecting Shovels Reviews
1. Yeacool Camping Shovel
One of my top recommendations is this Yeacool camping shovel, which is the first shovel that I got for my husband. Featuring a compact yet versatile design, its durable construction ensures long service life even with regular use.
Product Highlights
Since I didn’t know a lot about metal detecting shovels before buying this one, I fell back on the customer reviews to get an idea about its performance. And I wasn’t disappointed. For starters, it’s made of high carbon steel that accounts for its durability. Moreover, it measures about 1.34 feet long so that you don’t have to put a lot of strain on your back while digging.
However, what impressed me the most is its multi-purpose utility that’s backed by its folding design. And it’s for this reason that my husband often finds it in my garden toolkit instead of in his camping gear.
Other than that, it’s extremely easy to assemble, and you don’t need any tools. Just attach the shovelhead to the handle, and you’re ready to go. You will find that the former also has a thin, foldable blade to serve as a pick saw.
What’s There To Like About It?
Undoubtedly, its versatility deserves all the applause, which is made possible by the design of the shovelhead. While one side has a serrated edge, the other is equipped with a thin blade-like structure to double as a saw when required.
On top of that, there’s a grooved edge that doubles as a bottle opener or nail puller. And with the soft rubber grip handle, I didn’t have to worry about the tool slipping from my hands. For its price, there’s practically nothing more than I can ask for.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Perhaps the only thing that I can crib about is that it weighs slightly heavy. This won’t be that big of a problem if you carry it in a backpack, but you may feel uncomfortable while looping it to your belt. Besides, the weight doesn’t interfere with its performance, no matter how you use it.
Pros and Cons of Yeacool Camping Shovel
Pros
Cons
- Mini Folding Shovel with Multifunction: It Can be Pressed into Service as shovels for digging, Saw, Bottle Opener, Nail Puller, Hoe, Pickaxe,metal detecting and more!
- High Quality and Value Foldable Shovel for Outdoor and Indoor activities: Great choice for Backpackers,Campers, Hikers, Gardeners, Scouts, Archaeologist, Gold Prospector, etc. A Superb Gift Idea!
- Small and Portable: The camp survival shovel design allows easy carry, transport and storage. Simply loop to your belt or keep handy in your car or backpack! One multitool shovel does it all!
2. CKG 2384329423-48US
Up next, I have the CKG 2384329423-48US, which grabbed my attention with its unique design. Much like its predecessor, this shovel has a robust metal body that takes care of longevity. What's more, it works equally well for digging in both water and land.
Product Highlights
Straight off the bat, I was intrigued by its strainer-like design, which is not something you usually see in metal detecting shovels. As a result, the sand or soil gets sieved to help you “capture” the metal pieces, which makes it suitable for use on beaches or underwater. The stainless steel build prevents rust formation and wear-and-tear from heavy-duty use.
Plus, it doesn't require a lot of maintenance apart from the occasional washes with plain water. If you’re like my husband (who loves using tools but hates cleaning them), this will be a huge advantage.
Not only that, but its compact structure also makes it easier to store in compact spaces. It’s finished off with an angular plastic handle that provides quite a comfortable grip for long hours of use without fatiguing your hands.
Last but not least, the brand offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and you may get in touch with the customer service to resolve any issues or queries.
What’s There To Like About It?
Although I have only used it once when I borrowed it from my neighbor for a quick trial, I liked how the holes are shaped hexagonally to help “trap” even the smallest objects with ease.
The curved head is sharp enough to dig into hard soil, and the width is large enough to take out quite a lot of it at one go. Beyond that, you can attach a shovel pole on the top hole located beside the handle to work in compact areas.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
It may be helpful to know that the CKG 2384329423-48US is among the brand’s premium models and is quite expensive. But despite being pricey, I was a little disappointed to find out that it doesn’t come with accessories like a carry bag or shovel pole. So, if you’re looking for an affordable shovel, then you might want to skip it.
Pros and Cons of CKG 2384329423-48US
Pros
Cons
- Universal Model - The beach scoop metal detecting excels along water and surf lines. Effective in sand mixed with silt or clay, also in clay and silt-clogged sand with shells and stones.
- Lightweight - Our 1.6 lb metal detecting shovel is compact and lightweight, offering unparalleled convenience during hunts. This metal detector scoop ensures easy handling and swift exploration.
- Hunting Adventure - Our beach scoop, ideal for metal detecting, facilitates quick sifting through sand. Use the digging shovel to scoop sand in the target area. Shake the scoop sideways to let sand fall through its holes when your digging tools locates treasure.
3. CKG Landscaping Detecting Shovel
Since the previous unit may not suit every budget, I decided to review a more budget-friendly model from CKG. Sporting a sturdy yet lightweight build, this landscaping detecting shovel gets the job done without requiring much force.
Product Highlights
Now, I know that looks shouldn’t be much of a priority while choosing a metal detecting shovel, but its vintage design will definitely give you camping vibes. And to be honest, this is why I shortlisted it in the first place. But it didn’t take me long to figure out that this shovel has the perfect combination of looks and utility.
For starters, the entire shovel is made of stainless steel and has a rust-resistant finishing, making it suitable for digging soft, moist soil. I have used it a couple of times for planting seeds in my garden, and simply wiping with a clean cloth got rid of the dirt. Hence, maintaining it won’t add to your efforts.
I also appreciate the broad handle design that facilitates comfortable gripping, especially with work gloves or mittens. Moreover, users can attach shovel poles or other compatible extension poles, thanks to the mounting hole on the handle top.
What’s There To Like About It?
Owing to its narrow structure, I could easily grip tightly-packed soil while the serrated edge cut through the soil with minimum effort. If you’re planning to use it only for metal detection, then the three small holes on the shovelhead will filter out some of the soil, which is a bonus.
Furthermore, you will find a rope wrapped around the handle that enhances the grip and can be used for emergency purposes while camping or trekking.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
It’s worth noting that this shovel can’t tackle heavy-duty jobs like rock prying or woodcutting. But you can cut through the soft stems and branches by using it like a knife. Other than that, the steel handle may become a bit slippery when used with bare hands and without the rope grip.
Pros and Cons of CKG Landscaping Detecting Shovel
Pros
Cons
- 𝗗𝗜𝗚𝗚𝗘𝗥 𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗟 𝗧𝗢𝗢𝗟: The Digging Shovel Tool CKG Metal, making it ideal for digging and prying in soft soil. This shovel camping tool is smart multi-function, super compact tools for your gardening and outdoor activities. Particularly suitable for women's hand and lighter use.
- 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗟: Our digging shovel tool comes with the handy belt holder. Whether you are planting trees or working in the garden, this metal detecting shovel makes digging an easy task. Made with a durable stainless steel & rust-resistant finish, this digger tool is great for digging.
- 𝗠𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗟 𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗟 𝗧𝗢𝗢𝗟: This stainless steel metal detecting shovel is a great tool for big jobs around the yard, and farm. It is well suited for a variety of lawn and garden uses as well as farms. Essential gardening tools for families and women's hand and lighter use.
4. FullLit Backpacking Metal Detecting Shovel
Yet another multi-purpose unit making an entry on my list today is this metal detecting shovel from the house of FullLit. This was recommended to me by my son, and I have already gifted a couple of these to my hiking enthusiastic friends.
Product Highlights
Having tried the Yeacool multi-purpose shovel, I wanted to try another versatile unit, and I’m glad I picked this. Like most of my other recommendations, it’s made from stainless steel for exceptional rust and bend resistance. And despite using it for digging hard soil, I didn’t find a single scratch on the body. So, brownie points awarded!
Measuring around 10.4 inches long and 3 inches wide, it does well in compact spaces, especially when digging around smaller or delicate plants. Besides, the wide handle has an ergonomic grip that primarily comprises a 110-inch long paracord, which can be easily unfastened during emergencies.
Unlike most other shovels that come in only the common silver color, this unit has a black variant, which will appeal to users eager to break the monotony of similar-looking tools. But in case you aren’t satisfied with its performance, you can contact the brand for a zero-hassle return.
What’s There To Like About It?
My husband was pleasantly surprised to discover that this tool can be used to replace a whole tent spike or even be buried in the ground to make for tie-down support for the tent. Additionally, the serrated edge has an opening that can be used as a hex wrench.
Likewise, the opposite end has another opening that doubles as a nail puller as well as ruler markings to help you with those DIY construction projects. This is one feature that has been missing in even some high-end shovels.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Some buyers have reported that the packaging wasn’t sturdy enough, making the shovel prone to damages during shipping and delivery. So, that’s one aspect that the brand can improve. Plus, using it without the detachable handle top can cause injuries to the hand if not gripped carefully.
Pros and Cons of FullLit Backpacking Metal Detecting Shovel
Pros
Cons
- Multifunctional Camping Trowel: What appears to be a simple digging tool is far more than expected. Incorporated within its stainless-steel design are several useful outdoors tools including a saw, ruler, hex wrench, nail extractor, and 110 inches of super strong paracord. The entire tool can be substituted as a tent spike or even buried in the ground as a tie-down for your shelter. You can be sure to be prepared for anything!
- Built to Last Backpacking Shovel: This survival digging trowel is made of stainless steel. Extremely Built to Last, bend resistant and has a lot of levering power. The shovel is rust and scratch resistant, stays razor sharp and you can clean it very fast and easily. And the handle is wrapped around with comfortable and soft nylon paracord, so it will fit perfectly at the palm of your hands. In addition, the rope can be unfastened for unexpected emergency use.
- Digging Tool for Gardening: The garden trowel is very strong for tough soils and its handle provides a comfortable grip which adds leverage, helping to ease the strain to arms and hands. It is excellent for all common garden tasks- potting plants, digging in plants, light cultivating,transplanting seedlings to larger pots or clearing out areas around irrigation pipes.Its one-piece construction ensures that the handle does not bend or break off.
5. Pro Detector Anaconda NX-6 Shovel
Before wrapping up the list, I have included this unit from Pro Detector. This heavy-duty shovel is designed to take on intensive digging tasks. I spotted it in my neighbor’s yard (who was building a water fountain) and decided to give it a try.
Product Highlights
First things first, this shovel is made from alloy steel that makes it pretty resistant to damages. Additionally, the powder coating ensures optimum protection against rust. Although it doesn’t have a folding handle to facilitate storage in cramped spaces, you can keep it outdoors without worrying about corrosion.
Coming to the shovelhead, it’s basically a 9-inch long blade with serrated edges on both sides that can cut through dense and hard soil with ease. You can also use it as an angular saw for trimming soft branches and weed cutting.
Aside from that, the T-shaped handle design reinforces better gripping for more leverage. I didn’t want my husband to strain his back while metal detecting during his camping trips and the long handle of the shovel helps avoid that.
What’s There To Like About It?
The 5.5 inches wide handle fits standard shovel holsters. And considering that it isn’t the most lightweight shovel on the market, this feature becomes essential for people who might not have strong arms for moving it around. Furthermore, the cleated foot pegs function as bottle openers to help you have a quick, refreshing drink break.
I contacted the brand’s customer service to solve some queries, and the fast response was pretty impressive. If budget isn’t a big constraint, then this may well become your go-to shovel.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Since it’s the most expensive shovel on my list, keep in mind that you may have to extend your budget by quite a bit. In addition, the metal alloy construction makes it weigh more than 4 pounds, which can be problematic if you haven’t used a shovel before. So, I’d suggest spending some time with it before taking on the actual task.
Pros and Cons of Pro Detector Anaconda NX-6 Shovel
Pros
Cons
- Features: Blade Length : 9" Total Length : 36" Color : Powder Coated (black)
- Foot Pegs : Wide, Non-Slip “Cleated” Foot Pegs Teeth : Teeth on Blade Edges for Cutting Roots
- Handle Width : 5.5″ Fits Standard Shovel Holster
Buyers Guide
While buying a metal detecting shovel for the first time, I was really tempted to pick one that had high customer ratings. But going through all the reviews, I realized that choosing the best metal detecting shovel required much more than that.
Unless you consider some essential features, there’s a good chance you’ll end up with the wrong unit, no matter how expensive it is. And so that you don’t have to browse through hundreds of articles to know about them, I have listed the points to keep in mind before finalizing the purchase.
1. Head Design
While a lot of shovels have serrated edges for cutting through tough soil, others may have a knife-like edge that’s more suitable for digging into soft soil. Unless you go on regular camping trips or aren’t into full-fledged gardening, you may choose to go for the latter. On the other hand, a serrated head shovel will come in handy if you require digging compact soil or rock prying.
Another thing to consider in this regard is whether the width of the head, as narrower heads are better for working around delicate plants or in compact spaces.
2. Material
Most shovels today are made of durable metal like steel or its alloys simply because they last longer than other materials. However, I always make it a point to check the product description to ensure rust and bend resistance properties. Likewise, it’s better to opt for heated steel for reinforced durability.
At the same time, the shovel shouldn’t be too heavy; otherwise it may be difficult to move it around. Speaking from my experience, I’d say that anything above 4 pounds may become difficult to dig with, causing severe hand fatigue.
3. Handle Design
As long as the handle provides an ergonomic grip, you can go for any shape or material. For instance, I prefer having a rubber grip on the handle to prevent my hands from slipping.
Similarly, other users may be more comfortable with the L-shaped handles for extended grip on both sides. And with the paracord-wrapped handles, you will always have an extra rope handy for emergencies.
Apart from that, foldable or detachable handles are better if you’re specifically looking for a unit that’s easy to store.
4. Shovel Pole Compatibility
As you may have already figured out from my recommendations, some shovels come with a mounting hole so that users can attach a shovel pole if required. This feature is especially beneficial for people who may be wary about spraining their back or arms during long hours of digging.
5. Multi-Functionality
If I have learned one thing from seeing my husband indulge in various DIY construction projects, it’s that multi-purpose tools never hurt! Plus, when you’re on those metal detecting tips, you may have to pull out things from the soil, which is seldom possible with bare hands.
So, even if you don’t want anything too fancy, I’d strongly recommend getting one that has at least a nail puller. Otherwise, you can go for a true-blue multi-purpose shovel with everything from a pickaxe attachment to a hex wrench.
6. Portability
Sure, you can carry your shovel in a bag or toolkit, but there are many brands that offer a lop-in carry pouch for easy portability. And don’t worry- you won’t have to break the bank for such shovels.
7. Maintenance
Although most metal detecting shovels don’t require a lot of maintenance per se, it’s better to read the product description to see if you need to follow any particular cleaning method. For instance, if you want to use a liquid cleaner, it shouldn’t corrode or damage the metal.
But if you don’t find any such warnings, use a small amount of the cleaner on the shovel to check its compatibility with the metal.
8. Price
Although high-end shovels are believed to last longer, not all expensive models can yield satisfactory results. Moreover, if you’re a first-timer or don’t use a shovel regularly, you may want to start with a more affordable model to get the hang of things.
The good news is that you will find many affordable multi-purpose shovels as well, so you don’t really have to compromise on that aspect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use your metal detecting shovel for everyday yard work or gardening. However, be careful about the sharpness of the shovelhead, as not all shovels are built to tackle heavy-duty digging. And if the shaft is too sharp, it may end up damaging the plants or soil.
No; many shovels come with welded handles, meaning they are ready to use straight out of the package. That said, some multi-functional units may require you to attach the handle, and you may even change the angle according to the intended use.
Metal detecting shovels made of steel are generally resistant to moisture and corrosion, so you may use them for digging wet soil or on the beachside. I’d suggest wiping the shaft and handle after each use so that the dirt or debris doesn’t accumulate in the hinges.
My Final Recommendation
On that note, it’s time for me to wrap up today’s guide. I hope that my efforts will eventually help you find the best metal detecting shovel according to your needs and budget.
While I leave you to process all that information, here’s a quick shoutout to my top 2 favorites from the list. The Yeacool multi-purpose camping shovel is the best budget buy, and the CKG landscaping detecting shovel will be a great pick if you don’t need a heavy-duty unit.
I’ll see you soon with more such content. Till then, stay tuned and take care!