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10 Best Folding Shovels 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Rhino USA Survival Shovel w/Pick - Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road, Camping, Gardening, Beach, Digging Dirt, Sand, Mud & Snow. (Recovery Shovel)

The Rhino USA Survival Shovel w/Pick is a versatile and robust tool designed for a variety of outdoor and survival tasks. Made from heavy-duty carbon steel, this shovel is known for its strength and durability, making it suitable for digging through dirt, sand, mud, and snow. The carbon steel construction, along with a black powder-coated finish, ensures resistance to corrosion and adds to its sleek appearance.

Measuring 24 inches when extended and folding down to just 9 x 6 inches, this shovel is compact and portable, fitting easily into the included heavy-duty carry case. Weighing only 2 lbs, it's lightweight enough for effortless transport during camping, off-roading, gardening, or beach trips. The 3-in-1 multipurpose design features a 180-degree shovel, 90-degree pickaxe, and 90-degree pick hoe, allowing users to perform various tasks with a single tool.

The D-Grip handle design may not suit everyone, as handle comfort can be subjective and vary between users. Additionally, while the product boasts a lifetime replacement guarantee and strong customer support, it's worth noting that it is manufactured in China, which might be a consideration for those prioritizing US-made products. It is an excellent choice for those needing a reliable and sturdy folding shovel for diverse outdoor activities.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Material
The shovel's sturdy steel construction and pick feature make it ideal for digging through dirt, mud, and even snow.
Size and Weight
This small but heavy-duty shovel is a lifesaver for tight spaces and tough jobs, easily outperforming regular shovels.
Folding Mechanism
With a robust carrying case and foldable design, it’s perfect for camping or off-road trips.
Additional Features
The Rhino USA Survival Shovel stands up to heavy abuse and is built well, making it perfect for wilderness outings and camping.
#2

iunio 35in Folding Shovel, Camping Shovel, Survival Shovel, Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool, Collapsible Spade, for Camping, Off Road, Car Emergency (Premium E-tool)

The Survival Folding Shovel is a robust and versatile tool designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind. Made from high-carbon steel, it offers excellent durability and wear resistance, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Weighing 3.86 pounds, it strikes a good balance between sturdiness and portability. The shovel can be extended to a full 35 inches or folded down to a compact size, which is convenient for varying tasks and easy storage.

The rubber grip on the handle ensures a comfortable and secure hold during use, which is a critical feature for extended activities like digging or chopping. Additionally, the shovel includes multiple tools such as a saw, bottle opener, emergency whistle, fire bar, hammer, nail extractor, and fish scaler, enhancing its utility in various situations ranging from camping to emergency use.

However, at nearly 4 pounds, it might be a bit heavy for some backpackers who prefer ultralight gear. The folding mechanism seems sturdy, but frequent use in rough conditions could potentially wear it out over time. Despite these minor drawbacks, the shovel's multifunctionality and build quality make it an excellent choice for campers, hikers, and anyone in need of a reliable outdoor tool.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Size and Weight
The shovel is smaller than expected but performs well for tasks like clearing packed snow and ice.
Additional Features
The quality is impressive, with multiple cool gadgets included, making it a great addition to an emergency go bag.

Buying Guide for the Best Folding Shovels

Folding shovels are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tasks, from camping and hiking to emergency situations and gardening. When choosing a folding shovel, it's important to consider the specific needs and situations in which you'll be using it. Here are some key specifications to help you make the best choice for your needs.
MaterialThe material of the folding shovel is crucial as it determines the durability and weight of the tool. Common materials include steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber. Steel is very durable and strong, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks, but it can be heavier. Aluminum is lighter and resistant to rust, making it a good choice for general use and portability. Carbon fiber is extremely lightweight and strong, but it can be more expensive. Choose a material based on the balance between durability and weight that suits your intended use.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the folding shovel affect its portability and ease of use. Smaller, lighter shovels are easier to carry and are ideal for activities like hiking and backpacking. Larger, heavier shovels can handle more demanding tasks and are better suited for car camping or emergency kits. Consider how you plan to transport the shovel and the types of tasks you'll be performing to determine the right size and weight for you.
Folding MechanismThe folding mechanism of the shovel determines how compact it can be when not in use and how quickly it can be deployed. Common mechanisms include tri-fold, which folds into three sections, and telescoping, which extends and retracts. Tri-fold shovels are generally more compact and easier to store, while telescoping shovels can offer more length and leverage. Choose a folding mechanism that balances compactness and ease of use based on your needs.
Blade DesignThe design of the shovel blade can impact its effectiveness for different tasks. Some blades have serrated edges for cutting through roots and tough soil, while others have a flat edge for digging and scooping. Consider the types of tasks you'll be performing and choose a blade design that matches those needs. A versatile blade with both serrated and flat edges can be a good all-around choice.
Handle ComfortThe comfort of the handle is important for prolonged use and preventing hand fatigue. Look for handles with ergonomic designs and non-slip grips. Some handles are padded for extra comfort. If you plan to use the shovel for extended periods, prioritize a comfortable handle to make the task easier and more enjoyable.
Additional FeaturesSome folding shovels come with additional features like built-in compasses, saws, or fire starters. These can add versatility and convenience, especially for outdoor and survival situations. Consider whether these extra features are useful for your intended use and if they justify any additional cost or weight.

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