Spade Shovel Definition

Shovels

• Shovels have spoon-shaped blades that are set at an angle to the handle. Shovels are designed for moving things in the garden, such as dirt, compost and sand. Most garden shovels have a pointed blade that, if kept sharpened, will cut into the soil, although for digging, shovels aren't as efficient as spades. However, if you only have room for one digging tool, a sharp garden shovel is a good all-purpose choice.

Spades

• Spades have flat blades that are set in a straight line with the handle. Spades are digging tools and usually have a flat or rolled edge on the top for you to put your foot on to help with inserting the blade into the soil. The cutting edge on most spades is straight across and should be sharpened between uses. There are specialized spades available, such as a half-round edging spade and a long, narrow perennial spade, which is designed for working in tight spaces in flowerbeds.

Handles

• Spades and shovels both come with either long, straight handles or shorter, D-shaped handles. There are advantages and disadvantages to both styles. Straight handles give you more leverage when you rock back to pick up the load, but holding them can be awkward if you're short or if you have arthritis in your hands or wrists. D-shaped handles don't offer as much leverage, but they are easier to grasp and allow you to lean over the spade or shovel and use your body weight to push the tool into the soil. In addition, D-shaped handles are often thicker and stronger. The ultimate choice is yours, so choose the handle that feels the most comfortable to you.

Digging Safely

• No matter which tool you're using, the proper shoveling and spading techniques ensure efficiency and safety. The U.S. Department of Labor has several tips for safe shoveling. First, always start with a wide, solid base of support, with your legs spread, back straight and knees slightly bent. Put your weight on your front foot, and use your body weight to slide the shovel into the material you're moving. Take moderately sized loads. Bending your knees, slide your hand down toward the shovel glade, then lift the shovel with your legs, holding the shovel close to your body. Your back should remain straight at all times. Finally, pivot, don't twist, to dump the load. The same safety techniques apply when using a spade -- take small bites out of the soil, keep your back straight and pivot, don't twist.