Rating of the best car shovels for 2022

One of the simplest digging devices invented by our primitive ancestors is a shovel. Any car owner who at least once drove off-road or found a huge snowdrift in the parking lot instead of a car on a winter morning does not need to be convinced of the need to have such a necessary tool at hand. It has long been a rule for experienced drivers to never go on even short trips without a small foldable or compact paddle. It will always help you efficiently and quickly dig up soil or snow, tighten a massive screw, and also overcome obstacles in the form of a large array of snow or fallen wood on the road.

The market offers a large selection, which depends on various conditions - how often you have to travel to areas where there are no roads, the complexity of the terrain and the ability to place a shovel in a car. In addition, the time of year and current weather conditions become a serious factor.This review provides basic information that will help you understand the best products from leading manufacturers to avoid making a mistake when choosing.

What it is

A car shovel is a type of hand tool for earthworks with a short, folding or telescopic handle.

With a weight of up to 1 kg, the total length when unfolded is 66-100 cm, the bayonet is 14.5-21 cm, the handle is up to 60 cm. The handle, as a rule, is made in the shape of the letter V to increase the emphasis and pressure when working in extreme conditions.

Such a device is designed for digging, clearing, carrying soil, snow or other bulk materials, as well as for cutting through wood or splitting ice blocks.

purpose

Most often, getting behind the wheel and taking on a shovel is necessary in winter in the following cases:

• the presence of snow crossings on field roads and getting stuck in a snowdrift;
• creation of a parapet at the exit from the yard after the passage of a column of snowplows;
• the formation of blockages at the gates of the cottage.

From the snowdrift, the elements of the chassis and the entire bottom are released from the snow so that the car stands on the ground at the lowest points of the tires. To do this, first, a place is cleared along the sides in order to free up space for ejection from under the car. Then a cave under the bottom is methodically excavated - from both sides to the middle. Then the overhangs are released. Digging directly under the wheels is not recommended. You can return behind the wheel and drive after the snow on the ground does not touch the bottom, and it will be able to move independently.

Digging dry sand is slightly harder and longer than snow. After all, such a loose substance constantly slides into an open pit. To avoid this, the space around the machine must be excavated wider, and the slopes made more gentle. The rest of the steps are similar. However, then the exit from the ambush will have to be leveled so as not to put the car there again.

When leaving the rut, it is required to wave the spatula prudently and wisely. First of all, for at least three meters, it is necessary to remove the high sides so that the car has enough room to maneuver to the side with a smooth exit for all wheels.

In the case of a strong suction of a car into a viscous puddle, the water barrier should be drained by digging a groove in the direction of a natural slope or diverting it into a nearby dug hole. The dehydrated bottom surface quickly strengthens and restores its bearing capacity, which greatly facilitates the removal of the machine from captivity.

Design

The device of a standard tool includes the following elements:

1. Canvas (bucket) - the main working part with a sharp edge (blade), which determines the purpose.
2. Handle (handle, holder) - for holding during operation.
3. Tuleyka - to hold the handle in a rigid hitch with the canvas.It is carried out as a separate part (sleeve) or is an integral part of the canvas.

Main advantages;

• compactness;
• light weight;
• ease of use;
• ease of assembly;
• multifunctionality;
• additional removable nozzles.

Varieties

By type of construction

1. Monolithic compact - from a single fragment.

2. Foldable - dimensions are reduced due to folding by turning the blade 180⁰ up with the blade due to the presence of a special mechanism.

3. Collapsible - from several parts connected by durable and functional fasteners. The size of the handle can be changed by adding (docking) new elements.

According to the form of the working part

1. Bayonet - a practical flat blade with a rounded or wedge-shaped blade.
2. Scoop - a cloth in the form of a tray with sides located at an angle to the holder.

By type of handle on the handle

1. Ordinary.
2. V-shaped.
3. T-shaped.

By canvas material

1. Metal - from rail (spring) or stainless steel, aluminum, titanium for work requiring increased strength.

They can be:

• hardened;
• polished;
• with powder coating;
• with teflon coating.

2. Wooden from thick plywood.

3. Plastic.

Handle material

1. Metal tubes made of light alloy or steel - with a low weight, comfortable and reliable.
2. Wooden - easily changed in case of breakage, inexpensive.

By type of attachment

1. Bolted - for completing products with metal and wooden holders.
2. Threaded - in the manufacture of metal and plastic products.

How to choose

In order not to make mistakes when choosing, experts recommend paying attention to the following criteria:

• give preference to metal or combined (wood / metal) models with high-quality parts and fasteners, which are reliable, although they are more expensive;
• less expensive plastic shovels are useful only when working with loose snow, so it is better to take a product with a small bucket volume, which will reduce the intensity of the load, but extend the service life and be more convenient when stored in the trunk or garage;
• pick up the handle so that no discomfort is felt;
• the presence of a solid body will increase the service life of the tool by two to three times, since the place where the plate contacts the handle is the most vulnerable spot.

Where could I buy

Popular models can be purchased at gardening stores and retail outlets or specialized departments of auto shops that offer car accessories. Tools from leading manufacturers are available there for study and testing in real conditions. Consultants will assist with advice and recommendations - which company is better to buy, how much it costs, how to store and maintain.

If it is impossible to find a suitable model at the place of residence, a worthy product is available for ordering online in online stores or on the pages of the largest aggregators, where descriptions, parameters and characteristics, as well as photographs of goods are presented.

Offers for car shovels in Moscow:

• folding - from 438 rubles. (AT) up to 13,400 rubles. (Adimanti AD220A);
• compact - from 413 rubles. up to 6 395 rubles. (Stainless Steel Scrab 28440).

The best car shovels

The rating of quality tools and new products is developed according to the opinions of users who have purchased similar products.The popularity of models is due to positive reviews, comparison of quality indicators of functionality, service life, reliability and average price.

The review includes ratings among the best compact and folding models that are widely represented on the domestic market.

TOP of the best compact products

SIBRTECH 61623

Brand - SIBRTECH (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

Inexpensive domestic model for use in unforeseen situations on the roads, especially with loose snow. Great for family holidays as a children's shovel. The plastic handle is a solid stiffening rib, which has a positive effect on the strength of the structure. The medium carbon steel blade has good reliability indicators.

Price - from 439 rubles.

• small sizes;
• light weight;
• stylish design;
• great price.

• sometimes paint peels off and rust forms there.

AMIGO 78004

Brand - AMIGO (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

A collapsible model for digging out a stuck vehicle in difficult weather or off-road conditions. The aluminum handle can be removed for easy storage and transport. The wide bucket is made of durable frost-resistant plastic. The tool remains operational in a wide temperature range (-60–+140°С).

Price - from 1,259 rubles.

• compact dimensions;
• a light weight;
• strong construction;
• quality manufacturing;
• reliable fastening of the handle;
• convenient use.

• the stalk slides when working in knitted gloves;
• overcharge.

ZINLER type 1 Z1.1AH8G

Brand - ZINLER (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

Scoop model to assist owners of SUVs or trucks in unforeseen situations, as well as work in cramped conditions. It takes up little space and is conveniently stored in small spaces for gardening tools. The load on the wrist is reduced by equipping with an ergonomic handle made of impact-resistant plastic, which excludes the rotation of the handle in the hand. High moisture resistance and wear resistance are achieved by using durable wood species in the manufacture of the handle, followed by varnishing. The strength of the working part is provided by structural steel HRC45 with anti-corrosion coating. To reinforce the canvas, stiffening ribs are used in areas of the greatest loads. The sharpness of the factory sharpening allows you to cut ice, soft metals and wood, chop off dense turf and roots.

Price - from 978 rubles.

• strong metal;
• quality performance;
• reliable fastening;
• convenient use;
• fits well in the trunk;
• the wooden stalk does not break.

• no cover;
• after removing the stickers, traces of glue remain.

Bison FAVORIT-A

Brand - Zubr (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

A compact model for quickly digging a stuck car out of loose soil or tilting snow obstacles in winter. For the manufacture of a durable blade, hardened high-carbon steel with applied anti-corrosion paint is used. The ash handle is pleasant to the touch and able to withstand high loads. The service life is increased due to the moisture-resistant varnish coating of the handle. Comfortable grip is provided by an ergonomic plastic V-shaped handle. Suitable as a gift.

Price - from 728 rubles.

• compact dimensions;
• a light weight;
• without snow sticking;
• sits comfortably in the hand;
• quality manufacturing;
• reliable fastening of the handle;
• does not interfere in the car;
• great value.

• small in width.

Video review FAVORITE-A:

Inforce 06-12-10

Brand - Inforce (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

A miniature model for use in case of need to dig out the stalled wheels of a stuck car in clay soil or snow barrier. Conveniently fits in the trunk of a vehicle. Great for small garden jobs. The canvas is made of durable rail steel, characterized by high reliability. Reinforced 1.5 mm thick aluminum handle painted black. The welded tuleyka provides a rigid fastening of the working part with the handle. The ergonomic firm handle gives additional comfort during the work.

Price - from 867 rubles.

• compactness;
• ergonomics;
• light weight;
• sharp canvas;
• Ease of use;
• fits well in trunk.

• does not like heavy workloads.

comparison table

	SIBRTECH 61623	AMIGO 78004	ZINLER type 1 Z1.1AH8G	Bison FAVORIT-A	Inforce 06-12-10
The form	shovel	shovel	shovel	bayonet	bayonet
Length cm
general	64	88	93	68	83
handles	38	58	54	21	56.5
working part	26	30	29.3	47	26.5
Width, cm	20.5	22.5	24.7	14.5	20
Weight, kg	0.57	0.64	1.2	0.83	1.1
Material
canvases	steel	polycarbonate	carbon steel	carbon steel	rail steel
cutting	plastic	aluminum	wood	wood	aluminum
Handle on handle	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
collapsible	No	Yes	No	No	No
Warranty, years	0.25	No	10	5	life

TOP best folding tools

AutoDelo 580 mm

Brand - AvtoDelo (Russia).
The country of origin is China.

The best model for outdoor activities and travel by car. Easily digs up a section of soil on the road when the car gets stuck in a rut, and also allows you to organize living conditions in the parking lot. Made of high quality steel 50G, resistant to constant mechanical stress. Special skills are not required for use. Branches can be cut with the saw blade. Stored in a durable textile case.

Price - from 619 rubles.

• compact dimensions;
• light weight;
• the presence of a cover;
• easily unfolds.

• Chinese quality corresponds to the cost.

Fiskars 1000621

Brand - Fiskars (Finland).
Country of origin - Poland.

Lightweight compact model for use by motorists and travelers. For manufacturing, hardened boron steel, strong durable aluminum alloy and special plastic are used. Fast and precise work is guaranteed by the classic shape of the bayonet blade. Easy folding is provided by strong fastening. The working part of the tool rotates to the desired position for easy digging or storage. Can act like a hoe. The kit comes in a durable canvas case.

Price - from 5,169 rubles.

• small dimensions;
• light weight;
• grippy V-shaped handle;
• durable material;
• convenient use;
• the presence of a cover.

• overcharge;
• brand cover.

Fiskars video review:

PALISAD 61428

Brand - PALISAD (Germany).
The country of origin is China.

Universal model for multi-purpose use by vehicle owners, as well as in field conditions or when carrying out horticultural work.The structure is made of steel, corrosion protection is provided by powder coating. The presence of teeth on one side of the blade allows you to use it as a saw. The metal handle fits well on the hand, facilitating hard work. Thanks to the nylon sheath, the tool is easy and neat to carry. Reliable fixation of the working canvas in the desired position is achieved by a threaded clamp.

Price - from 1,079 rubles.

• compact dimensions;
• a light weight;
• convenient to carry in the trunk of a car;
• foldable design;
• simple assembly.

• weak fixation washer;
• does not like heavy loads.

WMC-171U

Brand - WMC TOOLS (Taiwan).
The country of origin is China.

A multifunctional model for use by motorists in various situations when driving off-road or in winter to dig a car out of snowdrifts. A set with three extension handles allows you to additionally use it as an ax, saw, can opener, rescue hammer, whistle, tactical knife, and also a magnesium rod.

Price - from 2,040 rubles.

• universal application;
• compact dimensions;
• light weight;
• durable metal;
• simple assembly.

• narrow canvas.

Golden Snail GS7033

Brand - Golden Snail (Austria).
The country of origin is China.

A compact model for releasing a car from various obstacles in unforeseen situations. The small size makes it easy to fit in the trunk of a car. The bucket is made of high strength carbon steel. Accurate storage is ensured by the presence of a durable bag-case.

Price - from 1,087 rubles.

• very compact when assembled;
• wide scoop;
• comfortable handle;
• simple assembly;
• quality manufacturing;
• the presence of a dense cover for storage.

• rather weak threaded fixation of the handle, which sometimes leads to unwinding.

comparison table

	AutoDelo 580 mm	Fiskars 1000621 (131320)	PALISAD 61428	WMC-171U	Golden Snail GS7033
The form	bayonet	bayonet	bayonet	bayonet	shovel
Length cm
general	58	59	62	77	66
handles	30	38	34	55	38.5
working part	28	21	28	28	28.5
Width, cm	25	16.5	16	12.5	36
Weight, kg	1.13	1.04	0.94	1.22	1.36
Material
canvases	steel	boron steel	steel	stainless steel	steel
cutting	steel	aluminum	plastic	steel	carbon steel
Handle on handle	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
collapsible	No	No	No	Yes	No
Warranty, years	5	2	2	1	1

DIY manufacturing

A shovel is one of those tools that you can quickly construct yourself from improvised materials very quickly. There are a lot of tips and how-tos on the Internet with step-by-step instructions for how to do it. To make your own snow blower, you will need:

• rectangular plywood sheet with dimensions of 0.5x0.4 m;
• wooden block 0.4x0.07 m;
• pieces of galvanized metal or tin;
• handle;
• self-tapping screws.

1. A through hole is made in the bar for the handle, which should be slightly smaller than its diameter. Plywood is attached to the bar with self-tapping screws. Fastener strength is increased by using galvanized or tin strips on both sides of the plywood at the contact points.
2. At the attachment point, the handle is cut off at an angle of 45⁰ and, after wrapping with a galvanized sheet, is installed in the prepared hole, where it is fixed with self-tapping screws.
3. To disassemble the blade, simply unscrew the screws.

Storage and care

Store the shovel in a clean, dry, ventilated place.

Simple care rules will ensure long-term operation:

1. After work, the tool should always be cleaned of moisture and organic substances that remain on the surface and have a destructive effect on it.
2. Periodically strengthen and paint the wooden handle, control its retention without staggering. When "bumpy" strengthen it with bolts or nails.
3. Regularly grind the edges of the working plate made of steel, stainless steel or aluminum as it wears out with a rasp or grinder, smooth out dents and bends.
4. Do not expose to aggressive chemicals, open flames and high temperatures.

It should be remembered that traces of corrosion, chips and scratches that appear during the operation of the tool are not signs of flaws, but relate to natural wear and tear and are not considered warranty cases.

Good luck choosing. Take care of yourself and your loved ones!