7 Best Survival Shovels for Outdoor Adventures

Discover the top 7 survival shovels designed to be your trusty companion in the great outdoors. From compact and versatile options to heavy-duty tools built for rugged terrains, this roundup will guide you in choosing the ideal survival shovel for your next adventure.

1
Tyger Auto TG-SV8U3217 Military Shovel
✯ Highly recommended ✯
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9.6
2
Sahara Sailor Folding Survival Shovel Kit
Versatile and Reliable
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9.3
3
RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel
Highly versatile
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9.3
5
AugTouf Military Folding Shovel
8.9
6
SOG F08-N Survival Shovel with Saw
Portable and durable
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8.9
7
Rhino USA Survival Shovel with Pick
Versatile and Compact
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8.9
1

Tyger Auto TG-SV8U3217 Military Shovel

Amazon.com
9.6
Highly recommended
The Tyger Auto Shovel TG-SV8U3217 is a well-built, versatile, and quality compact tool with 16-in-1 multifunctionality suited for various outdoor activities and emergencies. Despite its heavy weight and potentially high price, its lightweight and practical design, along with easy packability and assembly, make it a valuable addition for off-roading, camping, and survivalist needs.
Pros
  • Well-built
  • Versatile features
  • Quality construction
  • Lightweight and practical
  • Compact and easily stowed
  • Multi-functional
  • Easy to pack and assemble
CONS
  • Heavy weight
  • Price may be high

The Tyger Auto Shovel TG-SV8U3217 is a military-grade folding compact tool made from solid carbon steel and aerospace-grade aluminum. Its 16-in-1 multifunctionality makes it ideal for off-roading, camping, survivalist activities, and emergencies. Users praise its quality construction, portability, and versatility, with one reviewer highlighting its practicality for a bug out bag. The shovel’s unique instant switch mechanism and optional extension handle add to its appeal as a reliable and well-made tool for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.

 
Durable and Versatile Multi-Tool
  • Made from military grade solid carbon steel and aerospace grade anodized aluminum tubes
  • Unique instant switch mechanism for fast and sturdy mode changes
  • 16-in-1 multifunctionality for various outdoor activities and emergencies
  • Extension handle (TG-SV8U3217EH) available for purchase
  • Compact size for easy storage in vehicles
  • Includes storage bag for portability during outdoor adventures
2

Sahara Sailor Folding Survival Shovel Kit

Amazon.com
9.3
Versatile and Reliable
The Sahara Sailor Survival Shovel impresses with its sturdy, multi-functional design that makes it a versatile tool for camping, hiking, and emergencies. Despite being a bit heavy, its durable construction and array of tools make it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a compact and sharp-edged shovel.
Pluses
  • Sturdy and durable construction
  • Compact and easy to store
  • Sharp edges for effective digging
  • Multi-functional with 23 tools in 1
  • High-quality materials and fittings
Cons
  • The product is a bit heavy
  • The knife blade could be longer

The Sahara Sailor Survival Shovel is a versatile and sturdy tool perfect for camping, hiking, and emergency situations. Constructed with military-grade carbon steel and aerospace-grade aluminum, this shovel boasts 12 additional functions including a saw, knife, and emergency hammer. Users appreciate its compact size and sharp edges, making it ideal for various outdoor activities. The shovel’s durability and multi-functionality have impressed customers, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a high-quality survival tool.

 
Versatile and Compact Survival Tool
  • Unbreakable solid carbon steel construction
  • 180 degree folding design for easy storage and portability
  • 23 tools in 1, including shovel, saw, bottle opener, knife, and more
  • Multi-functional for camping, hiking, gardening, and emergency situations
  • Durable carry storage bag included
  • Lifetime warranty and satisfaction guarantee
3

RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel

Amazon.com
9.3
Highly versatile
The RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick is a durable, compact, and multi-functional tool that offers great value for outdoor enthusiasts. While some users may find the shovel short for larger jobs, its portability and sturdy construction make it a versatile option for various activities.
Pluses
  • Great value
  • Durable metal with threaded connections
  • Very compact
  • Quick to unfold
  • Small footprint when folded
  • Easy to assemble
  • Made in USA
Cons
  • Joint between handle and spade may stress with large jobs
  • Some customers find the shovel quite short once assembled

The Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel with Pick is a heavy-duty entrenching tool made of 2lbs of powder-coated carbon steel, featuring a tough pickaxe and sharp saw teeth. Ideal for various uses like camping, gardening, and off-road adventures, this compact and portable shovel extends to 23″ but folds down to a mere 9″ x 6″, making it convenient for travel. Customers have praised its durability, ease of assembly, and versatility in handling tasks like digging up rocks, dirt, and even snow. Despite some concerns about its country of origin, the shovel’s quality and performance have garnered positive reviews, with users appreciating its sturdy build and functionality for different outdoor activities.

 
Compact and versatile multitool
  • Folding design for easy portability
  • Made from heavy duty carbon steel for durability
  • Multi-functional tool for various outdoor activities
  • Includes a sharp pickaxe and saw teeth for versatility
  • Compact size when folded into carry case
  • Backed by Rhino USA’s customer service and replacement policy
4

Gerber Gorge Folding Shovel, Black, 47.5cm

Amazon.com
9.1
Compact and versatile
The Gerber Gear Gorge Folding Shovel is a sturdy and compact tool ideal for camping and backpacking. Its multi-functional design with a hammer feature and durable construction make it a versatile choice, though it may have limited leverage due to its small size and be a bit tricky to pack away fully in the included nylon bag sheath.
PROS
  • Sturdy construction
  • Compact size when folded
  • Heavy-duty steel shovel plate
  • Locks in L position for pick or hoe function
  • Well-balanced weight
  • Durable plastic handle
  • Multi-functional with hammer function
Drawbacks
  • Limited leverage due to small size
  • Difficult to fit completely into drawstring bag when collapsed

The Gerber Gear 22-41578N Gorge Folding Shovel is a versatile tool designed for camping and outdoor activities. It features a push-button slide mechanism for easy use, a pick for hard-packed ground, and a hammer feature at the base for tent stakes. Despite being compact and small, it is sturdy when fully extended. However, some users found it cumbersome to use and had issues fitting it into the drawstring bag when collapsed. Overall, it is a well-made, heavy-duty tool suitable for car camping and emergency situations.

 
Versatile and Compact Digging Tool
  • Push button slide mechanism
  • Pick for hard packed ground
  • Hammer feature at base
  • Small and compact size
  • Ideal for camping and backpacking
  • Comes with a nylon bag sheath
5

AugTouf Military Folding Shovel

Amazon.com
8.9
Handy and durable
The 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel by AugTouf is a versatile, compact, and durable tool made of high-quality high-carbon steel. While it is sturdy and multi-functional, some users may find the handle lacking in length and torque capabilities. Overall, it is a handy and lightweight shovel suitable for emergencies with a 90-day warranty for added peace of mind.
PROS
  • Good quality
  • Compact and easy to carry
  • Sturdy and compact
  • Multi-functional
  • Strong steel
  • Holds up well
  • Great for emergencies
Cons
  • Needs a longer pole
  • Handle doesn’t telescope for better torque

The AugTouf 18” Military Folding Camping Shovel is a compact and lightweight tool made of durable 50# high-carbon steel. It comes with a versatile heavy-duty nylon case for easy transport and can be folded easily for various uses like entrenching, shoveling, digging, sawing, chopping, and hammering. Users appreciate its sturdiness and compact design, making it a great addition to camping gear or for emergency situations, although some have noted minor issues with rust and wear over time. Overall, it is seen as a good quality and handy tool for various outdoor activities.

 
Versatile Multi-Tool Shovel Features
  • Handy and lightweight
  • Versatile case with heavy-duty nylon case
  • Compact and durable design
  • Made of 50# high-carbon steel
  • Easy and fully foldable with 3-fold design
  • Hassle-free 90-day warranty
6

SOG F08-N Survival Shovel with Saw

Amazon.com
8.9
Portable and durable
The SOG Entrenching Tool is a versatile and high-quality survival shovel that is compact and portable, making it a great tool to have for outdoor adventures. Despite its short handle length and heavy weight, the sturdy construction and included carry case add value to this multifunctional tool.
Advantages
  • Compact design
  • High-quality materials
  • Versatile tool
  • Lightweight
  • Carry case included
  • Can adjust to different angles
  • Sturdy and durable
Drawbacks
  • Short handle length
  • Heavy weight

The SOG Entrenching Tool is a compact and versatile folding survival shovel equipped with a wood saw edge for cutting branches and trees. Made from high-carbon steel, this lightweight tool can handle a variety of tasks like digging, trenching, and cutting in extreme conditions. It features a 3-way folding design, allowing it to collapse into a portable size ideal for camping, hiking, or emergency situations.

Overall, the SOG Entrenching Tool- 18.25 Inch Folding Survival Shovel has received positive reviews for its durability, compactness, and versatility. Users appreciate its lightweight design, sturdy construction, and multiple functions such as sawing, digging, and cutting. The included tactical shovel carry case adds convenience for transportation and storage, making it a reliable and efficient tool for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency preparedness kits.

 
Multi-functional Survival Tool Features
  • 18.25 inch full length
  • Lightweight at 24.5 ounces
  • Wood saw edge for cutting small branches
  • Compact and portable when folded
  • High-carbon steel construction
  • 3-way folding design for versatility
7

Rhino USA Survival Shovel with Pick

Amazon.com
8.9
Versatile and Compact
The Rhino USA Survival Shovel w/Pick is a versatile and well-built multitool that is compact, portable, and packed with survival features. While it excels in various outdoor activities, its small size may limit heavy-duty digging tasks, and some users have expressed concerns about the durability of the rivets securing the blade/pick.
Pluses
  • Compact and easy to carry
  • Well-built and durable
  • Comes with a carrying case
  • Versatile for various outdoor activities
  • Feature-packed with survival tools
  • Solid construction
  • Can handle digging in dirt, rocks, and sand
CONS
  • Small size may not be suitable for all types of heavy duty digging tasks
  • Some reviewers have mentioned concerns about the durability of the rivets securing the blade/pick to the handle

The Rhino USA Survival Shovel with Pick is a compact and powerful multi-tool designed for off-road adventures, camping, gardening, and more. With features like a fire starter, whistle, bottle opener, saw, hoe, and fish scaler, this heavy-duty carbon steel tool is a versatile companion. Despite its small size, it boasts a solid construction and innovative design, making it perfect for various outdoor activities. Customers praise its sturdiness, portability, and functionality, making it a must-have tool for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether digging in dirt, rocks, sand, or snow, this survival shovel delivers consistent performance and reliability.

 
Multi-functional survival tool in one
  • American owned, family operated
  • Ultimate multitool with various functions
  • Compact and portable design
  • Multi-functional use for gardening, backpacking, and metal detecting
  • Guaranteed 5-star experience with money-back guarantee

Pricing Details for the Survival Shovel

  • Budget range: $10-$30
  • Includes basic survival shovels made of lighter materials like aluminum
  • Suitable for occasional use or emergencies
  • Mid-range: $30-$50
  • Offers a balance between durability and affordability
  • Features may include multi-functionality, collapsible design, and higher-quality materials like stainless steel
  • Premium range: $50+
  • High-quality survival shovels designed for frequent use or more demanding survival situations
  • Often made of heavy-duty materials such as carbon steel or titanium
  • Advanced features like integrated saws, fire starters, or bottle openers may be included

The Most Effective Survival Shovel I’ve Tried: iunio Survival Folding Shovel Featuring Handle Lock Design

Answers to Your Survival Shovel Questions

How do you properly maintain and care for a survival shovel?

To properly maintain and care for a survival shovel, it is important to follow these steps:

  1. Clean the shovel after each use to remove dirt, debris, and moisture. Wipe it down with a dry cloth and ensure it is completely dry before storing.
  2. Inspect the shovel regularly for any signs of damage, such as bent or chipped edges. If any damage is found, repair or replace the shovel as needed.
  3. Store the shovel in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion. Consider applying a light coating of oil to the metal parts for additional protection.
  4. Sharpen the blade of the shovel as needed to maintain its effectiveness. Use a file or sharpening stone to sharpen the edge.
  5. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for any specific care instructions provided with the shovel.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your survival shovel remains in good condition and ready for use when needed.

Are there different types of survival shovels available on the market?

Yes, there are different types of survival shovels available on the market. Some common variations include folding shovels, entrenching tools, tactical shovels, and multi-functional survival shovels. Each type is designed with specific features and purposes tailored to different survival situations.

How does the design of a survival shovel impact its functionality in different scenarios?

The design of a survival shovel can impact its functionality in different scenarios in several ways. For example, a survival shovel with a compact, foldable design is more portable and easier to carry in a backpack or survival kit, making it ideal for hiking or camping situations. Shovels with multiple tool functionalities, such as a saw edge or firestarter, can be more versatile and useful in various survival scenarios. Additionally, the material and durability of the shovel can affect its performance – a sturdy, high-quality construction can withstand heavy use in tough conditions, while a lightweight but less durable shovel may not hold up as well in more demanding situations. Ultimately, the design of a survival shovel plays a crucial role in its functionality and effectiveness across different survival scenarios.

Can survival shovels be used for purposes other than digging?

Yes, survival shovels can be used for purposes other than digging. Many survival shovels come with additional features such as a saw blade, hammer, bottle opener, fire starter, and even a compass. These extra functions make survival shovels versatile tools that can be used for tasks such as cutting branches, pounding tent stakes, opening bottles, starting fires, and navigation.

Can survival shovels be used in different types of terrain?

Yes, survival shovels can be used in different types of terrain. They are designed to be versatile and durable, allowing them to be effective in various environments such as snow, sand, dirt, and rocky terrain. The different features and attachments on survival shovels make them suitable for a range of outdoor activities and survival situations.

Are there any safety considerations to keep in mind when using a survival shovel?

Yes, there are safety considerations to keep in mind when using a survival shovel. Some important factors to consider include using the shovel in a controlled manner to avoid injury, being cautious of sharp edges, and ensuring proper storage to prevent accidents. It is also important to follow instructions provided by the manufacturer and use the shovel for its intended purpose to ensure safe usage.

What are some key factors to consider when choosing a survival shovel?

When choosing a survival shovel, some key factors to consider include the material it is made from, its weight and portability, the type of blade it has (e.g. serrated edge, shovel head), additional features such as a fire starter or whistle, and the overall durability and reliability of the shovel. It is important to select a sturdy and versatile tool that can handle various survival tasks in different environments.

How important is durability when it comes to survival shovels?

Durability is extremely important when it comes to survival shovels. These tools are designed to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use in emergency situations. A durable survival shovel can be essential for tasks like digging through tough terrain, creating shelter, or even self-defense. Having a sturdy and reliable shovel can greatly increase your chances of survival in challenging environments.

What are some common features of survival shovels?

Common features of survival shovels include a compact and lightweight design for easy transport, multifunctional capabilities such as serving as a shovel, pickaxe, saw, or bottle opener, durable construction from materials like steel or aluminum, and often include additional tools like a fire starter or compass. These features make survival shovels versatile and useful for outdoor activities and emergency situations.

 

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