If you’re an offroad or overland enthusiast, then you know that having a shovel on hand can be a lifesaver. It is simply a tool that no off-roader should be without. It’s useful for everything from digging your vehicle out of a ditch to building a shelter in an emergency situation. Whether you’re buried in snow or stuck in the mud, a good shovel can help you get traction and back on the road.
10 Best Off-Road and Overland Shovels
When you’re out on the trails, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your shovel will be up to the task when you need it. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best off-road and overland shovels on the market today. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight option to keep in your vehicle for emergencies or a durable shovel that can handle anything you throw at it, we’ve got you covered.
Gerber Gear 22-41578N Gorge Folding Shovel
The Gerber Gear 22-41578N Gorge Folding Shovel is a great choice for those who want a versatile tool that can be used for both digging and chopping. The sharp edge on the blade is great for cutting through roots and branches, while the pointed tip is perfect for making quick work of soft soil.
The Gerber Gear 22-41578N Gorge Folding Shovel also features a collapsible handle for easy storage making it a nifty tool to add to your offroad kit.
DMOS Collective Delta Folding Shovel
Looking for a quality shovel that will last you a lifetime? Look no further than the DMOS Collective Delta Folding Shovel!
This versatile shovel is perfect for everything from gardening to off-roading. The blade is made from 12-gauge cold-rolled steel, which is twice as thick as a typical garden shovel and virtually impossible to bend. The handle is also made from tough, durable materials that will last a lifetime.
Plus, the Delta Folding Shovel is easy to store – just fold it up and stow it away in your garage or shed when you’re not using it.
So if you’re looking for a buy-it-for-life shovel, the DMOS Collective Delta Folding Shovel is a perfect choice. It’s built to last and will make light work of any digging task.
Super Shovel by Krazy Beaver
Looking for a shovel that can handle anything you throw at it? Look no further than the Super Shovel by Krazy Beaver. This shovel is built for serious digging, with a root-busting steel head and a lightweight fiberglass handle.
The powder-coated finish on both the inside and outside of the shovel protects against rust and wear, so you can use it for years to come.
Furthermore, its penetration power is second to none, making it perfect for breaking through tough soil or clay.
So whether you’re using it on the trail or defending yourself, the Super Shovel is up to the task.
Hi-Lift Jack Handle-All Off Road Shovel Tool Kit
We all know that going off-roading can be a bit of an adventure. And while we don’t always need a lot of gear, there are certain items that can make the experience a whole lot better – like the Hi-Lift Jack Handle-All Off Road Shovel Tool Kit.
This versatile tool kit includes everything you need to make light work of shoveling, digging, and even chopping wood. It all packs down into its own small bag, so you can easily store it in your 4×4. And because it includes the most essential tools for off-roading, you’ll be prepared for anything the trail throws your way.
So whether you’re looking to make trail maintenance a breeze or you simply want to be prepared for anything, the Hi-Lift Jack Handle-All Off Road Shovel Tool Kit has got you covered. So go ahead and add it to your gear list – you won’t regret it.
TAC9ER Heavy Duty Folding Camping Shovel
For those who need the ultimate in durability, we recommend the TAC9ER Heavy Duty Folding Camping Shovel. This shovel is made from heat-treated carbon steel for maximum strength and durability and features a powder-coated finish to resist rust and corrosion. It also has a serrated edge for easy digging and an extendable handle for added reach. At just over 3 pounds, it’s not the lightest option available, but it’s still relatively easy to carry.
Mag-Lok Offroader’s Shovel Kit
Have you been looking for a versatile and modular set of off-road tools? Look no further than Mag-Lok Offroader’s Shovel Kit! This kit comes with four essential items – a shovel, an axe, a machete blade, and a powerful 8 lb sledgehammer. And don’t forget about all the different handles available from this company; they have over 60 choices so you can always add on as your needs change.
Whether you’re an experienced off-roader or a casual weekend warrior, this is the perfect set of tools for you. So don’t wait – order your Mag-Lok Offroader’s Shovel Kit today!
SOG Collapsible Folding Shovel
If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact shovel that won’t break the bank, then check out the SOG Collapsible Folding Shovel. This handy tool features a collapsible handle and serrated blade that make it easy to use and store. Despite its small size, the SOG Collapsible Folding Shovel is surprisingly sturdy and durable. It costs around $30, making it a great value for the money.
True Temper 18-Inch Snow Pusher.
If you’re looking for a bit more heft, then take a look at the True Temper 18-Inch Snow Pusher. This shovel is made from heavy-duty steel and weighs in at just over 6 pounds, making it one of the heaviest options on our list.
But its weight is well worth it, as it allows the shovel to push more snow with each scoop. It also features a wear strip to protect against wear and tear, and a D-grip handle for added comfort and control.
BCA Avalanche Rescue Shovel
If you’re looking for an avalanche shovel that can do it all, then look no further than the BCA Avalanche Rescue Shovel. This versatile shovel can be used for digging out your vehicle, building emergency shelters, or even self-arresting if you find yourself sliding down a slope. With a strong aluminum blade and telescoping handle, the BCA Avalanche Rescue Shovel is built to last.
Life-Link Pit Boss Avalance Shovel
If you’re looking for an ultra-durable avalanche shovel that will never let you down, then check out the Life-Link Pit Boss Avalance Shovel. This heavy-duty shovel is made with aircraft-grade aluminum and features a lifetime warranty. With its extra-long handle and large blade, this shovel is designed for serious avalanches and tough excavations.
Why Do You Even Need An Offroad/Overland Shovel?
You Might Need to Clear a Path
One of the most obvious reasons to bring a shovel when you go offroading is to clear a path.
You just never know what the weather will bring. For example, if you get caught in a snowstorm or come across an obstacle that is too big or too difficult to drive around, you’ll be glad you have a shovel to help dig your way out.
Even if it’s just a light dusting of snow, having a shovel can help you clear a path so you can continue on your journey.
You Could Use It as a Weapon
In addition to being a useful tool, a shovel can also be used as a weapon if necessary. In some remote areas, there are dangers such as the wildlife that could pose a threat to your safety. So if you’re being attacked by an animal or another person, having a shovel can help you defend yourself. In some cases, it might even be your only option.
It Can Help You Start a Fire
If you need to start a fire but don’t have any matches or lighter fluid, a shovel can come in handy. You can use the shovel to dig a small hole in the ground and then use it to funnel air into the hole to help get the fire started. Once the fire is going, you can use it to cook food or keep warm.
It Can Be Used for Self-Defense
As mentioned before, one of the benefits of having a shovel is that it can be used for self-defense if necessary. If someone is attacking you, you can use the shovel to hit them and hopefully deter them from continuing their attack
To Signal for Help
If you find yourself in an emergency situation while you are offroading, a shovel can be used to signal for help. You can use it to build a fire or to create an SOS sign in the sand or snow
What different kinds and designs of Offroad/Overland Shovels are there?
There are a variety of different offroad and overland shovels available on the market, each designed for a specific purpose.
Foldable Shovel
The most common type of offroad shovel is the foldable shovel, which is designed for easy storage and transportation. These shovels typically have a serrated edge for cutting through roots and branches, and a pointed tip for digging in soft soil.
Telescoping Shovel
Another popular type of offroad shovel is the telescoping shovel, which is designed for extendable reach. These shovels have a long handle that can be extended to reach areas that are difficult to access with a traditional shovel. They also typically have a serrated edge and a pointed tip.
Snow Shovel
Snow shovels also referred to as avalanche shovels, are another type of offroad shovel that is designed specifically for clearing snow. These shovels typically have a wide blade to make clearing large areas of snow easier, and they often have an ergonomic handle to reduce fatigue while shoveling.
When you’re Overlanding, you never know when you might need to clear a path through deep snow, so it’s always a good idea to have a snow shovel on hand.
Garden Shovel
Garden Shovels are another type of offroad shovel that can be used for a variety of purposes, including digging in garden beds, transplanting plants, and moving mulch or soil around.
Garden shovels typically have a smaller blade than other types of offroad shovels, and they often have an ergonomic handle to reduce fatigue while working in the garden.
This probably won’t be the first tool you reach for when you’re Overlanding, but it’s a good one to have on hand in case you need to do any camping while you’re on the road.
Pavement Shovel
A pavement shovel is a specialized type of offroad shovel that is designed for use on hard surfaces, such as sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. Pavement shovels have a narrower blade than other types of offroad shovels, and they often have a serrated edge to help with cutting through tough materials.
Pavement shovels are also usually lighter weight than other types of offroad shovels, making them easier to carry around.
Pavement shovels are a great choice for overlanders who need a shovel that can handle hard surfaces. If you’re planning on doing any offroad driving, though, you’ll probably want to bring this kind of shovel in along with a more traditional offroad shovel.
Spade Shovel
Spade Shovels are another type of offroad shovel that can be used for various purposes, such as digging holes, trenches, or post holes. Spade shovels typically have a rectangular blade that is sharpened on both sides, making them ideal for cutting through roots and compacted soil. They also often have an ergonomic handle to reduce fatigue while using them
How to Choose the Right Off-Road/Overland Shovel for Your Needs – What to Look For
An off-road/overland shovel is a tool that every off-roader should have in their vehicle. It can be used for a multitude of purposes, from digging out your tires if you get stuck in the mud, to building an impromptu shelter in case of an emergency.
But with so many different shovels on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? Here’s a quick guide on what to look for when choosing an off-road/overland shovel.
Blade size and shape
The blade on an off-road/overland shovel should be relatively small and compact. This will make it easy to carry in your vehicle and will also make it more maneuverable when you’re using it.
The shape of the blade is also important. A curved blade will allow you to dig deeper trenches, while a flat blade will be better for moving large amounts of material.
Blade Material
The blade of the shovel is going to be the part that does most of the work, so you want to make sure it’s made out of a durable material that can withstand a lot of abuse.
Steel is always a good option, but if you’re looking for something a bit lighter weight, aluminum or titanium might be better suited for your needs. Just keep in mind that lighter materials will generally be more expensive.
Shaft Material
The shaft of the shovel is going to be what you hold onto while you’re using it, so it’s important to choose a material that’s comfortable to grip and won’t slip out of your hands when wet. Aluminum and fiberglass are both popular options. Again, just keep in mind that lighter materials will generally cost more.
Collapsible vs Fixed
One final thing to consider is whether you want a shovel with a collapsible or fixed blade.
Most off-road/overland shovels are designed to be collapsible, so they can be easily stored in your vehicle. Collapsible shovels are great because they’re easy to store and don’t take up a lot of space.
However, there are also some fixed-blade models available. These tend to be stronger and more durable, but they’re also more difficult to store in your vehicle. If you choose a fixed-blade model, make sure it comes with a sheath or carrying case.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of shovel best suits your needs.
Some tips for caring for your offroad/overland shovel
An offroad/overland shovel is a vital tool for any enthusiast. It can help you get unstuck, dig out your campsite, and even start a fire. But like any tool, it needs to be properly cared for to perform its best. Here are 5 tips for keeping your shovel in top condition.
Don’t Leave It Out in the Elements
Offroad/overland shovels are made to withstand tough conditions, but they’re not indestructible. Over time, sun and rain can damage the metal and cause the handle to rot. When you’re not using your shovel, make sure to store it in a dry, protected place.
Don’t Use It as a Lever
Your shovel is not a crowbar. prying open something with it puts unnecessary stress on the blade and handle and increases the likelihood of breakage. If you need to lever something open, find another tool that’s designed for that specific purpose.
Keep it sharp.
A dull shovel is a useless shovel. It can’t dig as well and it’s more likely to slip, which can be dangerous. If you want your shovel to be effective, you need to keep the blade sharp.
Every few uses, take a file or stone to the edge of the blade to keep it sharp and ready for action. This may seem like an unnecessary step, but trust us, you’ll be glad you did it when you’re stuck in the mud and need to dig your way out ASAP.
Clean It After Every Use
Shovels can take a lot of abuse, and that abuse can lead to them becoming caked with mud, dirt, and grime. Not only does this make your shovel less effective, but it can also lead to rust and other problems down the road.
So, after each use, take the time to clean your shovel completely. This will help it last longer and perform better when you need it most.
If it’s particularly dirty, you may need to give it a more thorough cleaning with soap and water or even WD-40 if necessary.
Inspect It Regularly
Even if you take good care of your offroad/overland shovel, normal wear and tear can cause problems over time. Blades can become bent or broken, handles can loosen or break off entirely. Inspect your shovel regularly for any issues and repair or replace parts as necessary.
A well-cared-for offroad/overland shovel is a valuable asset on any adventure. By following these simple tips, you can keep yours in top condition so that it’s always ready when you need it most.
Final Thoughts: Off-Road and Overland Shovels
No matter what your needs are, there’s an off-road shovel out there that’s perfect for you. From lightweight options that are perfect for emergency situations to heavy-duty shovels that can handle anything you throw at them, there’s something for everyone.
So get out there and enjoy the trails this year—knowing that you’ve got the perfect tool for whatever lies ahead.
