Choose the right tool for the job
Digging tools should be selected in four stages:
- The type of handle
- The strength and type of shaft
- The blade
- The size of blade
For digging near electric cables, insulated tools should be chosen.
HANDLE TYPE
T Handle - Quality hardwood shaft mortise and tenon jointed for strength.
MYD - Metal Y shaped handle with wooden grip for warmth and comfort.
YD - The highest quality ash handle mainly available on horticultural tools.
PD - Plastic D shaped handle mainly used on open socket shovels.
STRENGTH
Tools are available with a number of different handle, shaft and blade formats.
These are the key types of shaft listed in order of strength:
Solid Fibreglass Shaft
A product of ultimate strength, virtually unbreakable which will resist electrical currents up to 10,000 volts. Hand crafted with a range of blades forged from one piece of metal for any digging task.
Solid Socket Poly/Fibreglass Shaft
Hand crafted with a range of blades forged from one piece of metal, this is the new alternative to all metal shafted tools, won’t rot or shrink and the handle will not rust. The shaft is approximately 50% stronger than wood.
Solid Socket All Metal Shaft
Handcrafted with a range of blades forged from one piece of metal, the tubular steel shaft is also approximately 50% stronger than wood and features a metal Y-shaped handle with wooden grip.
Solid Socket Wood Shaft
Forged from one piece of metal, the general workhorse of the industry is strong, reliable and fitted with either a Y or T shaped handle.
Open Socket Wood Shaft
Available in a number of sizes and ideal for moving lightweight materials such as sand, ash and coal.
BLADE FORMAT
A whole variety of blades are available depending on the task. Treaded blades can help prevent much wear and tear to workers' boots.
Square Mouth
For shovelling, backfilling, concrete mixing and working with tarmac.
Taper
A shovel for backfilling, concrete mixing and working with tarmac.
Round
For use in gravel and other loose material as its round point pierces the material more efficiently.
Trench
Used for digging and bottoming out narrow trenches for cables.
Cable
Designed for digging and bottoming out narrow trenches for cables.
Grafting
A slightly dished blade and round cutting edge designed for clay digging and heavy, ground breaking work.
Drainer
Ideal for digging pipe and drain channels and post holes.
Fork
Ideal for breaking ground and for use in heavy clay or stony soil.