Using the wrong shovel can waste time and wear you out. At Tool Kit Depot, we help you dig smarter—not harder. Beyond just digging, shovels and spades are essential kit for tackling a range of gardening and landscaping jobs. Whether you're planting, edging, or trenching, having the right tool makes all the difference. From trenching shovels designed for narrow, deep holes, to long handle shovels that provide extra leverage for lifting soil, Tool Kit Depot has everything you need.
Shovels and Spades FAQ
Do I need a shovel or a spade?
Spade, shovel, how do you know which one to choose? The difference between a shovel and a spade comes down to design and purpose. Shovels typically feature a curved, pointed blade designed for digging and moving loose materials such as soil, gravel, or mulch. They are ideal for general-purpose digging. Spades, on the other hand, have a flat, straight blade, making them perfect for edging, cutting through turf, or lifting sod.
For tasks like gardening or landscaping, a shovel is great for digging, while a spade excels in edging or creating clean lines around plants. If you’re digging trenches or deep holes, a trench shovel may be the best option.
Here are their key differences:
Blade shape:
- Shovel: Curved and pointed blade for digging and moving materials like dirt, mulch and gravel.
- Spade: Flat, straight blade for cutting through turf and creating clean edges.
Primary use:
- Shovel: Perfect for digging and transferring loose materials.
- Spade:Best for precise tasks like edging, lifting sod, and cutting through grass.
Digging depth:
- Shovel: Great for general digging but not ideal for precise work like edging.
- Spade:Designed for tasks needing more precision, like trenching or creating borders.
Whether you're in the market for a shovel or a spade, we’ve got you covered with top-quality brands like
Spear & Jackson,
Bahco,
Ridgid, and more. Choose from a wide range of trusted names to get the job done right.
What are different shovels used for?
Here’s a quick guide to the top shovels and what they’re used for:
- Post hole shovel: With a narrow blade, this shovel is perfect for digging deep, round holes for fence posts or similar tasks
- Trench shovel: Featuring a long, narrow blade, this shovel is ideal for digging clean, narrow trenches.
- Folding shovel: Compact and collapsible, it’s great for camping, off-roading, or emergency kits.
- Square mouth shovel:With a flat edge, this shovel is excellent for scooping, edging, and moving material on hard surfaces
Whether you're building a fence, planting a garden, or preparing for a landscaping project, Tool Kit Depot has the perfect shovel to get the job done.
How do I choose a shovel?
When selecting a shovel, consider the task at hand:
- Intended task:Are you digging, lifting, or scraping? Choose a shovel with the right blade shape and size for the job.
- Blade shape and size:For digging trenches or large holes, opt for a narrow blade. For scooping or edging, a wider blade works best
- Handle length and material:Longer handles offer more leverage for digging, while shorter handles provide better control. Consider materials like wood for comfort or fiberglass for durability.
- Storage and transport:If space is tight, a folding shovel may be the best option.
If you're working on a specific project, tools like a post hole pincer for fence posts or a digging fork for breaking up compact soil can be ideal alternatives.
Don’t let the wrong tool slow you down. Whether you're digging trenches, planting, or edging, the right shovel can save time and effort. Shop online or visit your nearest Tool Kit Depot for more garden tools today!
