Dig Dig Dig! The Best Camp Shovels for Your next Camping trip

As I have mentioned in some of my other articles here, Glock makes more than pistols. Glock actually started making entrenchment tools for the military and although it looks quite simple, it’s actually packed with little features that make it one of the best camp shovels on the market. The Glock E-Tool (also known as the Feildspaten) of course features a triangle-shaped spade, a telescoping and folding handle, and even a stable saw in the rear of the handle for tackling small branches. The Glock E-Tool can generally be found for around $100 which is a steep price to pay but I definitely think its well worth the price considering its hands down one of the best E-tools.

Very similar to a standard USGI entrenching tool. The SOG Entrenching tool features a tri-fold design, an aggressively serrated blade edge, and a more traditional spade shape that most people are used to. In addition to this, the SOG also features a nice carry pouch and of course a comfortable triangle-shaped grip for easier use than a standard grip. While the twist-lock mechanism isn’t my favorite, it is time-tested and allows for quick and easy deployment and locking of the spade. The serrated blade can also be used like a simple hack saw for some quick cutting of wood but is probably better suited to getting through tough clay and rocks.

Featuring both a telescopic and folding handle/spade, the Gerber Gorge folding shovel is lightweight and features a strong fiberglass handle that isn’t too skinny meaning you can get a better grip on it while going through tough rock and soil. What is unique about the Gerber Gorge is that it features a fast push-button slide mechanism for extending the fiberglass-filled nylon handle for quick deployment. Gerber is one of those companies that specializes in not only making high-quality outdoorsman gear but manages to bring their gear in at very competitive pricing as well.

If you want simplicity then this is it. The United Cutlery Kommando Shovel (also known as the M48 shovel) is a dead-nuts simple, stainless steel entrenchment tool that is also durable to boot. The stainless steel blade is paired with an injection-molded glass-reinforced nylon handle and this winning combo comes in at less than a pound (actually less than half a pound). So for those who are extremely weight conscious, this would be a top consideration. Lastly, the M48 features a serrated blade on one edge and a smooth blade on the opposing side making this as much of a defensive tool as a camping tool.

This one is for the tactical gear junkies out there. This opinion is more of a multitool rather than just a dedicated camp shovel or entrenchment tool. The Zune LoToo Tactical shovel features not only a durable aluminum body, but also features several additional tube extensions, a bottle opener, fire starter, survival whistle, wire saw, and rope. The shovel also features a 7-position adjustable head (from 0° to 150°). The shovel comes with its own dedicated backpack which can house not only the shovel in an assembled configuration but also can stow all the extensions and tools.