1. Introduction

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, survivalist, or even just someone who likes to be prepared for emergencies, one tool that should never leave your side is a survival shovel. Whether you’re digging a trench, cutting firewood, or building a shelter, a survival shovel is more than just a piece of metal with a handle. It’s a multi-functional tool that could save your life when you’re off the beaten path. But with so many options on the market, how do you pick the right one? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about survival shovels—from choosing the right one to how to use it in different situations.

2. What Is a Survival Shovel?

So, what exactly is a survival shovel? At its core, it’s a compact, portable tool designed for outdoor survival tasks. It started as a simple digging tool, but over the years, survival shovels have evolved into multi-functional devices. Nowadays, these tools come with features like saw blades, fire starters, bottle openers, and even pickaxes!

Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of the shovel world. It’s the ultimate all-in-one tool for any survival situation, whether you’re out camping, prepping for an emergency, or just want something handy in the trunk of your car.

3. Key Features of a Survival Shovel

Not all shovels are created equal. Here are some key features you’ll want to look for when picking out a survival shovel:

• Compactness and Portability: A survival shovel needs to be lightweight and easy to carry. Most models are collapsible or foldable, making them perfect for slipping into a backpack.
• Durability and Material: The material of your shovel matters. Look for high-carbon steel or stainless steel for long-lasting durability. You don’t want it bending or rusting after just a few uses.
• Multi-functional Tools: As mentioned earlier, most survival shovels come with added features like a saw blade, knife, fire starter, or even a compass. The more features, the more useful it becomes in survival situations.
• Adjustable Handle Lengths: A telescopic or adjustable handle is a big plus. It allows you to extend the shovel when you need extra leverage or collapse it when you need portability.

4. Types of Survival Shovels

Not sure which type of survival shovel is right for you? Let’s break down the most common types:

• Standard Survival Shovels: These are basic, fixed-handle shovels that are compact and sturdy.
• Folding Shovels: These fold down into a smaller size, making them perfect for backpackers or people with limited storage.
• Entrenching Tools (E-tools): Used by military forces around the world, these shovels are designed for heavy-duty tasks like digging trenches or breaking through ice.
• Tactical Shovels: These are specifically designed for self-defense, often with sharpened edges and other tactical features.

5. How to Choose the Right Survival Shovel

Choosing the right survival shovel isn’t just about aesthetics or picking the latest model. It’s about understanding your needs, the environment you’ll be using it in, and the tasks you’ll perform. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, camping in the wilderness, or prepping for an emergency in an urban setting, the shovel you choose can be a game-changer. Let’s break down the key factors to consider.

Intended Use and Environment

The first question you should ask yourself is: where will I be using this shovel? The environment you plan to explore plays a significant role in determining which survival shovel you need. Different terrains demand specific features, and choosing the wrong tool could leave you unprepared.

• Wilderness: If you’re venturing into forests or deserts, you’ll want a survival shovel with multi-tool functionality. Look for features like a saw blade for cutting wood or a fire starter for setting up camp.
• Mountains: In rugged, rocky terrain, durability is key. A sturdy, high-quality carbon steel shovel is your best bet, as it can withstand tougher ground conditions.
• Urban Environments: If you’re prepping for emergencies in an urban area, consider a more compact and lightweight survival shovel that can help with digging through debris or breaking barriers.

Understanding your intended use helps you avoid overpacking while ensuring you have the right tool for the job.

Weight and Size Considerations

Weight and size can significantly impact the usability of your survival shovel. A heavy shovel might be durable but could weigh you down, especially if you’re carrying it on long treks. On the other hand, a lightweight, foldable model might not be as sturdy but can be easily stored in a backpack.

• Backpackers and Hikers: If you’re covering long distances on foot, opt for a lightweight, foldable survival shovel. These models are easy to carry but may sacrifice a bit of strength.
• Heavy-Duty Tasks: If you’re performing more demanding tasks like digging trenches or breaking through hard ground, a sturdier, slightly heavier shovel is worth the added weight. Some tactical shovels come with reinforced handles and blades specifically designed for tough conditions.

The key is to find a balance between portability and functionality, ensuring the shovel won’t slow you down but can still handle the tasks you need it for.

Materials: Carbon Steel vs. Stainless Steel

The material of your survival shovel can make a world of difference in terms of performance and longevity. The two most common materials are carbon steel and stainless steel, each with its pros and cons.

• Carbon Steel: This material is known for its strength and durability. Carbon steel shovels are tough enough to handle rocky or compacted soil. However, they are prone to rust, so you’ll need to take extra care to clean and oil them after use. For heavy-duty survivalists or preppers who prioritize strength, carbon steel is the go-to option.
• Stainless Steel: While not as tough as carbon steel, stainless steel is rust-resistant and easier to maintain. This makes it a good option for casual campers or those who need a reliable tool that requires minimal upkeep. However, stainless steel might struggle with more challenging terrains and tasks.

Your choice between these two depends largely on your intended use and how much maintenance you’re willing to perform.

Ergonomics and Ease of Use

In a survival situation, ease of use can be just as important as durability. A survival shovel should be intuitive and comfortable to handle, especially when you’re in high-stress situations or need to work quickly. Pay attention to the following ergonomic factors:

• Handle Grip: A comfortable, non-slip grip is essential. Look for shovels with rubberized or textured handles that will remain secure even when wet or muddy.
• Adjustable Length: Some shovels come with adjustable or telescopic handles, allowing you to extend the length when you need more leverage or fold it down for easy storage.
• Weight Distribution: A well-balanced shovel is easier to use over extended periods. Test the weight distribution to make sure it doesn’t feel awkward or unbalanced when digging or chopping.

Ultimately, the best survival shovel is one that feels like an extension of your arm, allowing you to work efficiently without added strain.

6. Multi-functionality: More Than Just a Shovel

A survival shovel is far from just a digging tool. Today’s models are designed to be multi-functional, incorporating a wide range of features that make them indispensable in survival scenarios. Having a shovel that can serve multiple purposes saves you the trouble of carrying extra tools, reducing weight and increasing your efficiency. Here’s a look at some of the most useful features beyond the shovel itself.

Saw Blade for Cutting Wood

Many modern survival shovels come with a serrated edge along one side of the blade, turning your shovel into a makeshift saw. This feature allows you to:

• Cut small branches: Perfect for gathering firewood or clearing a campsite.
• Trim poles for shelter: If you need to construct a temporary shelter, the saw edge makes it easy to cut through thin trees or saplings.

A shovel with a saw blade gives you the ability to handle multiple tasks without needing to carry a separate saw, making it a space-saving addition to your survival kit.

Bottle Opener and Fire Starter Tools

In survival situations, the ability to make fire and find water can be critical. That’s why many survival shovels now come with extra features like bottle openers and fire starters.

• Bottle Opener: While not a life-or-death feature, having a built-in bottle opener can come in handy if you’re carrying bottled liquids or need to open containers.
• Fire Starter: Some shovels include a fire starter tool, often stored in the handle or sheath. In situations where lighters or matches fail, a fire starter ensures you can still get a flame going. This is especially useful in wet or windy conditions where traditional fire-starting methods might struggle.

These small but powerful additions make a survival shovel a more comprehensive tool for camping, hiking, or emergency prepping.

Digging, Cutting, Hammering, and More

A high-quality survival shovel can do a lot more than dig holes. Its design allows it to handle a variety of tasks, making it one of the most versatile tools in your gear.

• Digging: Whether it’s a fire pit, latrine, or a trench for water drainage, a survival shovel is perfect for digging tasks, even in tough terrain.
• Cutting: Use the edge of the shovel for slicing through roots or chopping small branches. It’s not as efficient as an axe, but in a pinch, it’ll do the job.
• Hammering: The flat side of the blade or the end of the handle can be used to hammer tent stakes, nails, or even crush small objects. Some models are specifically reinforced for hammering tasks.

With all of these features packed into one tool, a survival shovel offers unmatched versatility for outdoor adventures or emergency preparedness.

7. Survival Shovel for Emergency Situations

A survival shovel is more than just an outdoor tool—it’s a lifesaver in emergencies:

• Self-defense: In a pinch, a sharp-edged shovel can be used for self-defense against animals or, in worst-case scenarios, other people.
• Shelter Building: Need to build a shelter quickly? A shovel can help you dig foundations or trenches for water drainage.
• Digging Trenches: If you’re camping in wet weather, a trench around your tent will prevent flooding.
• Clearing Debris: After a natural disaster like a storm or earthquake, a survival shovel can help clear away debris.

8. Maintaining and Caring for Your Survival Shovel

Like any tool, your survival shovel needs proper care to last long:

• Cleaning Tips After Each Use: Always clean off dirt and moisture to prevent rust, especially if it’s made of carbon steel.
• Proper Storage and Rust Prevention: Store your shovel in a dry place and consider applying a thin layer of oil to prevent rusting.

9. Top Survival Shovel Brands

When you’re choosing the best survival shovel, it’s important to go with a brand that has a reputation for quality and reliability. Not all shovels are created equal, and certain brands have stood out for producing tools that can withstand the toughest conditions. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top survival shovel brands, breaking down what makes each one special.

SOG: Tactical and Lightweight Designs

SOG is a well-known brand in the world of tactical gear, and they’ve earned a solid reputation for making durable, lightweight survival shovels. Their products are especially popular among military personnel and survivalists. Here’s why SOG shovels are so highly regarded:

Gerber Gear: Ergonomic and Heavy-Duty

Gerber Gear is another trusted name in the outdoor and survival gear market. Known for their knives and multitools, Gerber also produces some of the most durable and ergonomic survival shovels. Let’s break down why Gerber stands out:

Fiskars: Strong and Ergonomically Designed

Fiskars might be best known for their gardening tools, but they also produce high-quality survival shovels that are great for extended use. Here’s what sets Fiskars apart:

Cold Steel: Built for Strength and Self-Defense

If you’re after a survival shovel that’s no-nonsense and built for tough conditions, Cold Steel is a brand worth checking out. Known for their tactical knives and self-defense tools, Cold Steel designs shovels that can double as weapons in survival situations. Here’s why Cold Steel shovels are top-notch:

Schrade: All-in-One Survival Tools

Schrade is known for producing multi-functional survival shovels that come equipped with a range of built-in tools. If you’re a fan of all-in-one solutions, Schrade shovels might be perfect for you. Here’s what makes them unique:

10. DIY Survival Shovel Modifications

Owning a survival shovel is great, but customizing it to better suit your needs can take it to the next level. Whether you want to improve its cutting power or enhance its grip, there are several DIY modifications that can make your survival shovel even more effective. Let’s dive into a few simple ways you can personalize your shovel.

Sharpening the Edge

Many survival shovels come with a dull edge for safety reasons, but sharpening the blade can significantly enhance its usefulness. A sharpened shovel edge allows you to:

• Cut Through Wood and Roots: A sharp blade can help you chop through small branches or roots when digging. It can also be useful for cutting firewood in a survival situation.
• Defensive Capabilities: In an emergency, a sharpened shovel edge can also be used for self-defense, making it a versatile tool.

To sharpen your shovel, use a metal file or sharpening stone. Just be careful not to over-sharpen, as you could weaken the blade.

Adding Paracord Wraps to the Handle

Paracord is a staple in the survival world, and wrapping it around the handle of your survival shovel is both practical and stylish. Here’s why adding paracord wraps is a great modification:

• Improved Grip: A paracord wrap provides extra grip, ensuring your shovel won’t slip out of your hands, even in wet conditions.
• Extra Survival Cordage: In a pinch, you can unravel the paracord and use it for various survival tasks, such as building a shelter, setting up traps, or even as fishing line.

You can wrap the handle in a variety of patterns, making it not only functional but also customized to your personal style.

Attaching a Compass

If your survival shovel doesn’t come with a built-in compass, attaching one is a simple and effective way to upgrade your tool. Here’s how a compass can improve your survival shovel:

• Navigation in the Wilderness: Having a small, lightweight compass attached to your shovel ensures that you’ll always have a reliable way to navigate. This can be especially useful in dense forests or vast open areas where landmarks are sparse.
• Compact and Convenient: A compass doesn’t take up much space or add significant weight, making it a valuable addition to your shovel without hindering portability.

Simply attach a small compass to the handle or shaft using strong adhesive or paracord.

Personalizing the Grip

A comfortable grip can make a big difference in how long you can use your survival shovel without experiencing hand fatigue. Adding a customized grip ensures you have better control and comfort during long-term use.

• Foam Wraps for Comfort: Adding foam wraps to the handle can make the shovel more comfortable, especially if you’re using it for extended periods.
• Leather Wraps for Durability: Leather wraps not only add comfort but also provide a stylish, rugged look. Leather grips are long-lasting and can withstand harsh weather conditions better than foam.

By customizing your shovel’s grip, you make it easier to use and more suited to your specific needs.

11. How to Use a Survival Shovel in the Wilderness

A survival shovel is more than just a digging tool; it’s a multi-functional, life-saving device that can perform a variety of essential tasks in the wilderness. Whether you’re on a multi-day hike, camping trip, or find yourself in a survival situation, this tool can make all the difference. Below, I’ll break down some of the most practical ways you can use your survival shovel when you’re out in the wild.

Digging Fire Pits

Building a safe fire is one of the most crucial survival skills. A survival shovel is perfect for digging fire pits, which can prevent flames from spreading and help you control the fire’s size. Here’s how you can use your shovel effectively:

• Dig a Shallow Pit: Use your shovel to create a shallow pit in the ground. Aim for a depth of about 6-8 inches to contain the fire while still allowing airflow.
• Surround the Pit with Rocks: Once the pit is dug, collect nearby rocks and arrange them around the edges of the pit. This helps to contain the fire and provides a surface for cooking or drying clothes.
• Clear the Area of Debris: A survival shovel can also be used to clear leaves, twigs, and other flammable debris from around the fire pit, reducing the risk of wildfires.

Fire is not just about warmth. You’ll need it to cook, boil water, and even signal for help if you’re in distress. The shovel makes the whole process safer and easier.

Making Traps

In a wilderness survival scenario, finding food can be a challenge. A survival shovel can help you dig small holes and set up basic traps to catch small animals for food.

• Digging Small Pits: Use your shovel to dig shallow pits, which you can cover with leaves and branches to create pitfall traps for small animals like rabbits or squirrels.
• Setting Deadfall Traps: A sharpened shovel can also help you gather branches and stones to build deadfall traps. These traps can be set to drop weight on small animals when they trigger the trap mechanism.

This tool gives you the ability to supplement your food sources when foraging isn’t enough. Traps take time to build, but the shovel significantly speeds up the process.

Building a Shelter

A survival shovel is invaluable when it comes to building emergency shelters, particularly in harsh weather conditions.

• Snow Shelters: If you’re caught in snowy conditions, a shovel is essential for digging out a snow cave or building an igloo. These types of shelters provide excellent insulation and protection from the wind.
• Lean-to Shelters: In a forested area, you can use your shovel to dig shallow holes to anchor the branches and support poles needed to construct a lean-to.
• Trenching: If rain is on the horizon, you can dig small trenches around your shelter with your shovel to prevent water from pooling around you and potentially flooding your sleeping area.

The faster you can set up a sturdy shelter, the better protected you’ll be from the elements. A survival shovel is crucial for making that happen efficiently.

Clearing Campsites

Before setting up camp, you’ll need a clean and level surface. A survival shovel can help you clear away debris like branches, rocks, or even compacted soil to create a flat, safe area for your tent.

• Remove Rocks and Roots: Use the shovel to dig out rocks and clear away roots that could damage your tent or sleeping mat.
• Level the Ground: A shovel can be used to level uneven ground, ensuring that you have a comfortable and safe space to sleep.
• Create Safe Perimeters: In some cases, you might want to dig small trenches or boundaries around your campsite to define a safe area, particularly if you’re camping in regions prone to flooding or wildlife intrusions.

Clearing your campsite with a survival shovel makes the area safer and more comfortable, ensuring a better night’s sleep, which is vital in survival situations.

Self-Defense

While it’s not the first use that comes to mind, a survival shovel can also be a last-resort self-defense tool. In extreme survival situations, where wild animals or even dangerous individuals may pose a threat, a sharp-edged shovel can be used to protect yourself.

• Sharp Edges for Defense: Many survival shovels come with sharpened edges that can be used like an axe or blade. These edges can help you fend off aggressive animals.
• Blunt Force Protection: The solid handle and weight of a survival shovel make it a powerful blunt-force weapon in a pinch, providing a deterrent in life-threatening situations.

A survival shovel is not a weapon by design, but in a survival situation, it can be used to protect yourself if no other options are available.

12. Survival Shovel for Urban Preppers

While most people associate the survival shovel with wilderness use, it’s an equally essential tool for urban preppers. In the aftermath of natural disasters or other emergency scenarios, a survival shovel can be the difference between getting out of a dangerous situation or being stuck. Below are some practical ways this tool can benefit urban preppers.

Digging Out of Debris

Urban environments, especially after earthquakes, tornadoes, or hurricanes, can leave large amounts of debris in your path. A survival shovel can help you dig your way out or clear pathways to safety.

• Earthquake Aftermath: In the aftermath of an earthquake, buildings and structures may collapse, blocking exits or trapping people inside. A sturdy survival shovel can be used to clear debris and create escape routes.
• Clearing Cars: If you’re caught in a situation where your vehicle gets stuck under debris, or if snow or mud is blocking your car, a survival shovel can help you dig it out and get back on the road.

Urban environments can become just as treacherous as the wilderness in the wake of a disaster. Having a survival shovel at your disposal makes sure you’re better prepared to face such challenges.

Self-Defense in Urban Environments

While you hope never to need it, self-defense becomes a concern in chaotic, post-disaster urban environments. In emergencies where resources are scarce, conflicts can arise. A survival shovel with a sharp edge can serve as a deterrent or a last-resort defensive weapon.

• Sharp-Edged Shovels: Many survival shovels are designed with one or more sharpened edges, making them suitable for use as a cutting tool. This feature can double as a self-defense tool if you’re confronted by an attacker.
• Blunt Force Protection: Even if your shovel lacks a sharpened edge, its weight and structure allow it to be used as a blunt-force weapon in extreme situations.

While it’s not ideal, having a survival shovel for self-defense provides peace of mind in urban settings where security may be compromised.

Breaking Through Barriers

In urban environments, you may find yourself needing to break through barriers, whether you’re trying to access emergency supplies or escape a dangerous area. A survival shovel is designed to withstand heavy impact, making it useful for breaking through light barriers.

• Breaking Locks or Doors: If you find yourself trapped or need to access emergency supplies, a durable survival shovel can be used to break padlocks or force open jammed doors.
• Clearing Paths: In the event of structural collapse or other urban disasters, a survival shovel can help you clear rubble and create a path to safety.

Breaking through barriers or debris could be the difference between getting out of a disaster zone or remaining trapped. A survival shovel gives you the strength and durability to clear your path.

13. The Budget vs. Premium Survival Shovel Debate

When you’re shopping for a survival shovel, you’ll come across a wide range of prices. So, is it worth investing in a premium model, or can you get by with a budget-friendly option?

Here’s the breakdown:

• Budget Survival Shovels: These typically cost anywhere from $20 to $40. While they may lack some of the fancy features of premium models, they are still highly functional for basic tasks like digging and cutting. They’re perfect for beginners or casual campers.
• Premium Survival Shovels: On the other hand, premium models can cost upwards of $100. These often come with high-quality materials, more features (such as multi-tools), and added durability. If you’re serious about survival or prepping, a premium survival shovel can be a worthwhile investment.

14. Conclusion

A survival shovel is more than just a digging tool—it’s a lifeline in emergency situations. Whether you’re out in the wilderness, prepping for an urban disaster, or just want to be ready for anything, this tool is a must-have. Its multi-functional design allows you to dig, cut, build, and even defend yourself, making it one of the most versatile pieces of equipment you can own.

When choosing your survival shovel, consider your needs, environment, and the specific features that will make the most sense for you. And remember, a well-maintained shovel can last a lifetime, so take good care of it!

15. FAQs

1. Can a survival shovel replace other tools?
   While a survival shovel is incredibly versatile, it’s best used alongside other tools. It can’t fully replace dedicated items like axes or knives, but it’s excellent for quick, on-the-go tasks.
2. How do I sharpen a survival shovel?
   You can use a sharpening stone or file to keep the edges sharp. Just be cautious, as too much sharpening can weaken the metal over time.
3. Are survival shovels legal to carry?
   In most places, yes. However, if your shovel has sharp edges or is classified as a weapon, there may be restrictions, especially in urban areas. Always check local laws before carrying one in public.
4. Can a survival shovel be used for self-defense?
   Yes, many survival shovels are designed with self-defense in mind. Their sharp edges and sturdy construction make them useful as last-resort weapons.
5. What is the average lifespan of a survival shovel?
   With proper care and maintenance, a survival shovel can last for decades. High-quality materials like carbon steel and stainless steel ensure long-lasting durability. Keep it clean and store it properly to extend its life even further.

Resources

• https://www.instructables.com/How-to-Use-a-Shovel/