The main types of shovels are the round-point digging shovel, the square-point (transfer) shovel, the spade, the trenching shovel, the scoop shovel and the snow shovel. Each blade shape suits a different job: round points cut into soil, square points move loose material, scoops lift light bulk material and snow shovels push snow. This guide explains every common shovel, what to look for when buying one and how to use it without hurting your back.
In this article
Shovel Types at a Glance
| Shovel | Blade | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Round-point shovel | Curved, pointed tip | Digging holes, breaking hard soil, planting |
| Square-point (transfer) shovel | Flat, squared edge | Moving gravel, sand, mulch; leveling |
| Garden spade | Flat, nearly straight blade | Edging beds, cutting turf, dividing plants |
| Trenching shovel | Narrow, long blade | Digging trenches for pipes, cables and drainage |
| Scoop shovel | Wide, deep, high sides | Grain, snow, mulch, wood chips, light debris |
| Snow shovel / pusher | Wide, curved, lightweight | Clearing driveways and paths |
| Drain spade (sharpshooter) | Long, narrow, rounded tip | Transplanting, digging in tight spots |
| Post hole digger | Two hinged blades | Fence and mailbox post holes |
| Folding / camping shovel | Small, folding | Camping, car emergency kit |
Digging Shovels
Round-point shovel
This is the all-purpose digging shovel most people picture. The pointed, slightly cupped blade slices into compacted soil and roots, and the curve holds dirt as you lift. Choose one with a forward-turned step on top of the blade so your boot can push down comfortably.
Garden spade
A spade has a flatter, straighter blade and often a shorter D-grip handle. It cuts clean edges along beds and lawns, slices under turf and divides perennials. Gardeners in the UK and Europe often call this the main digging tool.
Trenching and drain spades
Narrow blades dig deep, tidy trenches with less soil removed. A drain spade (sometimes called a sharpshooter) is ideal for transplanting shrubs and digging around roots.
Shovels for Moving Material
Square-point (transfer) shovel
The flat edge sits level on a driveway or wheelbarrow floor, so it scoops gravel, sand, compost and concrete mix cleanly. It is not designed for digging hard ground.
Scoop shovel
Scoop shovels have a wide, deep blade with raised sides, often made from aluminum or plastic to keep them light. Use them for loose, light materials: wood chips, grain, mulch and snow. They are not for heavy wet soil.
Snow Shovels
- Snow pusher: a wide, low blade that pushes snow to the side without lifting.
- Ergonomic snow shovel: a bent shaft reduces how far you bend over.
- Plastic vs metal edge: plastic is light; a metal wear strip lasts longer and scrapes ice better.
- Wheeled snow shovel: rolls snow away, useful for long driveways.
Push snow rather than lifting it whenever you can, and take breaks. Shoveling heavy snow is hard physical work, so warm up first and stop if you feel unwell.
What to Look for When Buying a Shovel
| Feature | What to choose |
|---|---|
| Blade material | Tempered or forged steel for digging; aluminum or poly for scoops and snow |
| Handle material | Fiberglass is strong and weather-resistant; ash wood is traditional and absorbs shock; steel is heaviest |
| Handle length | Long handles (about 48 in / 120 cm) give leverage for digging; short D-grip handles give control |
| Grip | D-grip for spades and scoops; a long straight handle for round-point digging |
| Step / tread | A rolled or forward-turned step protects your boot and lets you push harder |
| Weight | Lighter shovels cause less fatigue; heavier ones dig hard clay better |
How to Use a Shovel Safely
- Stand close to the load and keep your back straight.
- Bend your knees and lift with your legs, not your back.
- Keep loads small, especially with wet soil or snow.
- Turn your whole body to move the load; do not twist at the waist.
- Wear gloves and sturdy closed-toe shoes.
- Before digging deep, contact your local utility-locating service (811 in the US) to mark buried lines.
Shovel Care Tips
- Knock off soil and rinse the blade after each use.
- Dry it and wipe the blade with a little oil to prevent rust.
- Sharpen digging blades with a file once or twice a season.
- Sand and oil wooden handles each year to stop splinters.
- Hang shovels in a dry shed or garage, blade up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a shovel and a spade?
A shovel usually has a curved, pointed blade for digging and scooping, while a spade has a flatter, straighter blade for cutting edges and turning soil.
What shovel is best for digging holes?
A round-point shovel is best for most holes. For narrow, deep holes such as fence posts, use a post hole digger or a drain spade.
What shovel is best for moving gravel?
A square-point transfer shovel. Its flat edge slides under gravel easily and empties cleanly into a wheelbarrow.
The Bottom Line
Match the shovel to the job: a round-point for digging, a square-point for moving loose material, a spade for edging and a scoop or pusher for snow. Choose a strong blade, a comfortable handle and use good lifting technique. For more home and garden guides, visit The Urban Splatter.
