Best Digging Shovel For Clay Soil This Year – Outdoor Tools Reviews

Our winners of the Best Digging Shovel For Clay Soil this year are:

Fiskars Long Handle Digging Shovel

Fiskars Long Handle Digging Shovel
  • Hardened steel blade
  • Long handle for leverage
  • Ergonomic grip
  • Rust-resistant
  • Lightweight design

Bully Tools 82515 14-Gauge Round Point Shovel

Bully Tools 82515 14-Gauge Round Point Shovel
  • 14-gauge steel blade
  • Fiberglass handle
  • Round point design
  • Reinforced handle
  • Made in the USA

Ames True Temper Round Point Shovel

Ames True Temper Round Point Shovel
  • Tempered steel blade
  • Hardwood handle
  • Round point design
  • Comfortable grip
  • Lightweight

Introduction

Digging in clay soil can be quite a challenge, but having the right shovel can make all the difference. Whether you’re planting a new garden or doing some landscaping, a good digging shovel is essential for dealing with tough clay soil. Finding the best shovel for this task involves considering various features and types to ensure you get the job done efficiently.

In this article, we’ll guide you through selecting the best digging shovel for clay soil, covering important factors to consider and reviewing top products available on Amazon. Let’s dive in!

Best Digging Shovel For Clay Soil

Reviews & Comparisons

1. Fiskars Long Handle Digging Shovel

The Fiskars Long Handle Digging Shovel is designed for efficient digging in tough clay soil. Its sturdy construction and ergonomic design make it a favorite among gardeners.

Fiskars Long Handle Digging Shovel

Read Customer Reviews Here »

Why we like it

We like the Fiskars shovel for its long handle, which offers excellent leverage and reduces strain on your back. The strong steel blade easily penetrates clay, making your work more efficient.

Features

  • Hardened steel blade
  • Long handle for leverage
  • Ergonomic grip
  • Rust-resistant
  • Lightweight design
  • Durable construction
  • Comfortable to use
  • Efficient in hard soil
  • Rust-resistant blade
  • Lightweight
  • Handle might be too long for short users
  • Higher price point
  • Limited color options
  • Requires maintenance
  • May not fit compact storage spaces

Our Verdict

The Fiskars Long Handle Digging Shovel is an excellent choice for those dealing with tough clay soils. Its durable design and ergonomic features make it a reliable tool for any gardener.

2. Bully Tools 82515 14-Gauge Round Point Shovel

The Bully Tools 14-Gauge Round Point Shovel offers a robust design for heavy-duty digging. It’s built to withstand tough conditions and provide long-lasting performance.

Bully Tools 82515 14-Gauge Round Point Shovel

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Why we like it

We appreciate the Bully Tools shovel for its strength and durability. The 14-gauge steel blade is perfect for breaking through compact clay soil, and the fiberglass handle adds comfort and longevity.

Features

  • 14-gauge steel blade
  • Fiberglass handle
  • Round point design
  • Reinforced handle
  • Made in the USA
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • Comfortable handle
  • Efficient in hard soils
  • Long-lasting
  • American made
  • Heavier than some models
  • Higher price
  • Limited mobility
  • Handle might feel bulky
  • Requires storage space

Our Verdict

The Bully Tools 14-Gauge Round Point Shovel is a powerhouse for clay soil. With its robust design, it’s ideal for those who need a reliable tool for challenging digging tasks.

3. Ames True Temper Round Point Shovel

The Ames True Temper Round Point Shovel is a versatile tool suitable for various digging tasks, including those in clay soil. Its classic design and solid construction make it a reliable choice.

Ames True Temper Round Point Shovel

Read Customer Reviews Here »

Why we like it

We like the Ames True Temper shovel for its balance of durability and ease of use. The round point blade is effective for penetrating tough soils, while the hardwood handle offers a traditional feel.

Features

  • Tempered steel blade
  • Hardwood handle
  • Round point design
  • Comfortable grip
  • Lightweight
  • Durable blade
  • Traditional handle
  • Effective in clay
  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Handle may splinter
  • Requires maintenance
  • Not rust-resistant
  • Limited leverage
  • Basic design

Our Verdict

The Ames True Temper Round Point Shovel is a solid option for those looking for a traditional, effective tool for clay soil. Its affordability and classic design make it a practical choice.

4. Spear Head Spade Reinforced Fiberglass Shovel

The Spear Head Spade Shovel is designed with a unique blade shape for efficient digging in clay soil. Its reinforced fiberglass handle ensures durability and comfort.

Spear Head Spade Reinforced Fiberglass Shovel

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Why we like it

We love the Spear Head Spade for its innovative blade design, which makes cutting through clay soil easier. The fiberglass handle is both strong and lightweight, enhancing user comfort.

Features

  • Unique blade shape
  • Reinforced fiberglass handle
  • Lightweight
  • Ergonomic
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Innovative design
  • Comfortable to use
  • Durable
  • Lightweight
  • Lifetime warranty
  • May be pricey
  • Unique design not for everyone
  • Limited color options
  • Requires specific storage
  • Not suitable for all tasks

Our Verdict

The Spear Head Spade is perfect for those who need an innovative tool for tackling clay soil. Its unique design and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious gardeners.

5. Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel

The Radius Garden Root Slayer Shovel is engineered to cut through tough roots and clay soil with ease. Its ergonomic design and sharp blade make it a powerful tool for any garden.

Radius Garden 22011 Root Slayer Shovel

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Why we like it

We like the Root Slayer for its ability to handle both roots and clay soil. The unique blade design saves time and effort, while the ergonomic handle ensures comfort during extended use.

Features

  • Serrated blade
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Root-cutting capability
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Durable construction
  • Cuts through roots and soil
  • Comfortable to use
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Durable
  • Efficient design
  • Higher price
  • Unique design may not suit all
  • Heavier than others
  • Requires maintenance
  • Limited to specific tasks

Our Verdict

The Radius Garden Root Slayer is ideal for gardeners who need a multitasking tool for clay soil and roots. Its innovative design and durability make it a top pick for challenging gardening tasks.

6. Truper 33119 Tru Pro Round Point Shovel

The Truper Tru Pro Round Point Shovel is built for professional use, offering a durable design suitable for tough digging tasks in clay soil.

Truper 33119 Tru Pro Round Point Shovel

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Why we like it

We appreciate the Truper Tru Pro for its professional-grade construction and reliability. It’s designed to withstand tough conditions, making it a great choice for both professionals and serious gardeners.

Features

  • Professional-grade
  • Round point blade
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • Ash handle
  • Comfortable grip
  • Durable
  • Comfortable handle
  • Professional quality
  • Efficient in clay soil
  • Affordable
  • May be too heavy for some
  • Limited flexibility
  • Requires maintenance
  • Basic design
  • Handle may splinter

Our Verdict

The Truper Tru Pro Round Point Shovel is a reliable choice for those who need a durable tool for clay soil. Its professional-grade design ensures it can handle tough conditions with ease.

7. Bond LH015 Mini D Handle Shovel

The Bond Mini D Handle Shovel is a compact tool ideal for smaller digging tasks in clay soil. Its lightweight design and sturdy construction make it a handy addition to any gardener’s toolkit.

Bond LH015 Mini D Handle Shovel

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Why we like it

We like the Bond Mini Shovel for its compact size, making it perfect for tight spaces. Despite its small stature, it performs well in clay soil, providing versatility in the garden.

Features

  • Compact size
  • D-handle grip
  • Steel blade
  • Lightweight
  • Durable construction
  • Compact and easy to store
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Affordable
  • Great for tight spaces
  • Not suitable for large tasks
  • Limited leverage
  • Handle may be small for some
  • Basic design
  • Requires maintenance

Our Verdict

The Bond Mini D Handle Shovel is a convenient tool for smaller tasks in clay soil. Its compact size and durability make it a versatile choice for gardeners with limited space.

8. Corona AS90300 Aluminum Scoop Shovel

The Corona Aluminum Scoop Shovel is designed for efficient scooping and moving of clay soil. Its lightweight aluminum construction and comfortable handle make it easy to use.

Corona AS90300 Aluminum Scoop Shovel

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Why we like it

We like the Corona Scoop Shovel for its lightweight design, which reduces fatigue during extended use. The aluminum blade is strong yet easy to maneuver, perfect for moving clay soil.

Features

  • Aluminum blade
  • Lightweight design
  • Comfortable D-handle
  • Durable
  • Rust-resistant
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Comfortable handle
  • Rust-resistant
  • Easy to use
  • Not for heavy-duty digging
  • Limited blade strength
  • May bend under pressure
  • Basic design
  • Requires maintenance

Our Verdict

The Corona Aluminum Scoop Shovel is ideal for those who need a lightweight tool for moving clay soil. Its durable construction and comfortable design make it a practical choice for gardeners.

9. Emsco Group Workforce Round Point Shovel

The Emsco Group Workforce Round Point Shovel offers a reliable design for tackling clay soil. Its robust construction and ergonomic handle make it a dependable tool for gardeners.

Emsco Group Workforce Round Point Shovel

Read Customer Reviews Here »

Why we like it

We like the Emsco Workforce Shovel for its combination of durability and comfort. The round point blade is effective in clay soil, and the ergonomic handle reduces strain during use.

Features

  • Steel blade
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Round point design
  • Durable construction
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Comfortable to use
  • Efficient in clay soil
  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Handle may be too short for some
  • Requires maintenance
  • Basic design
  • Not rust-resistant
  • Limited leverage

Our Verdict

The Emsco Workforce Round Point Shovel is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable tool for clay soil. Its ergonomic design and durable construction make it a practical option for gardeners.

10. True Temper 1160300 Round Point Shovel

The True Temper Round Point Shovel is designed for durability and efficiency in clay soil. Its sturdy steel blade and comfortable handle ensure long-lasting performance.

True Temper 1160300 Round Point Shovel

Read Customer Reviews Here »

Why we like it

We appreciate the True Temper Shovel for its reliable construction and ease of use. The round point blade is perfect for penetrating tough clay soil, and the handle provides comfort and control.

Features

  • Steel blade
  • Comfortable handle
  • Round point design
  • Durable construction
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Comfortable to use
  • Efficient in clay soil
  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Handle may require maintenance
  • Basic design
  • Not rust-resistant
  • Limited leverage
  • May not suit all tasks

Our Verdict

The True Temper Round Point Shovel is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable and efficient tool for clay soil. Its construction and design make it a reliable addition to any garden toolkit.

Buying Guide

  • Blade Material: Look for shovels with blades made from hardened steel, as they offer durability and strength necessary for clay soil. For more on materials, check out Home Depot.
  • Handle Type: Consider handles that offer a comfortable grip and are made from materials like fiberglass or hardwood, which provide durability and shock absorption.
  • Shovel Shape: A round point shovel is excellent for breaking through tough clay, while a square point is better for scooping. Read more about shovel types on Lowe’s.
  • Size and Weight: Choose a shovel that is the right size for your height and strength. Heavier shovels might be more durable, but ensure they are manageable.
  • Additional Features: Look for features such as a footstep on the blade for extra leverage or ergonomic handles for comfort during prolonged use.

FAQs

What makes a shovel suitable for clay soil?

A shovel suitable for clay soil typically has a strong, durable blade made from materials like hardened steel. It should also have a comfortable handle made from shock-absorbing materials like fiberglass or hardwood. The design should allow for easy penetration and lifting of dense clay.

Are there specific shovel shapes that work best for clay?

Yes, round point shovels are often preferred for breaking through tough clay because they can penetrate the soil more easily. Square point shovels, on the other hand, are better for scooping and moving the soil once it has been loosened.

How important is the handle material?

The handle material is crucial as it affects the shovel’s durability and comfort. Fiberglass handles are known for being lightweight and shock-absorbing, while hardwood handles provide a traditional feel and are very durable. Choose based on your preference for weight and comfort.

Can a heavier shovel make digging easier?

A heavier shovel can provide more momentum and force, which might make penetrating hard clay easier. However, it can also be more tiring to use over extended periods, so it’s essential to find a balance between weight and ease of use.

What additional features should I look for in a shovel for clay soil?

Look for features like a footstep on the blade for extra leverage, ergonomic handles for comfort, and a rust-resistant blade finish. These features can make digging in clay soil easier and more efficient.

Conclusion

Choosing the right digging shovel for clay soil can greatly enhance your gardening or landscaping experience. By focusing on key features such as blade material, handle type, and shovel shape, you’ll be equipped to tackle tough clay terrains more effectively. Consider the reviews and buying guide to find the shovel that best suits your needs.