We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Folding Shovels 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Rhino USA Survival Shovel w/Pick - Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road, Camping, Gardening, Beach, Digging Dirt, Sand, Mud & Snow. (Recovery Shovel)

The Rhino USA Survival Shovel w/Pick is a versatile and robust tool designed for a variety of outdoor and survival tasks. Made from heavy-duty carbon steel, this shovel is known for its strength and durability, making it suitable for digging through dirt, sand, mud, and snow. The carbon steel construction, along with a black powder-coated finish, ensures resistance to corrosion and adds to its sleek appearance.

Measuring 24 inches when extended and folding down to just 9 x 6 inches, this shovel is compact and portable, fitting easily into the included heavy-duty carry case. Weighing only 2 lbs, it's lightweight enough for effortless transport during camping, off-roading, gardening, or beach trips. The 3-in-1 multipurpose design features a 180-degree shovel, 90-degree pickaxe, and 90-degree pick hoe, allowing users to perform various tasks with a single tool.

The D-Grip handle design may not suit everyone, as handle comfort can be subjective and vary between users. Additionally, while the product boasts a lifetime replacement guarantee and strong customer support, it's worth noting that it is manufactured in China, which might be a consideration for those prioritizing US-made products. It is an excellent choice for those needing a reliable and sturdy folding shovel for diverse outdoor activities.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Material
The shovel's sturdy steel construction and pick feature make it ideal for digging through dirt, mud, and even snow.
Size and Weight
This small but heavy-duty shovel is a lifesaver for tight spaces and tough jobs, easily outperforming regular shovels.
Folding Mechanism
With a robust carrying case and foldable design, it’s perfect for camping or off-road trips.
Additional Features
The Rhino USA Survival Shovel stands up to heavy abuse and is built well, making it perfect for wilderness outings and camping.
#2

DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel High Carbon Steel, Portable Lightweight Outdoor Tactical Survival Foldable Mini Shovel, Entrenching Tool, Camping, Hiking, Digging, Backpacking, Car Emergency

The DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel is a compact and versatile tool made from high-carbon steel, offering durability and resistance to rust and deformation. Its lightweight design, weighing only 28 ounces, makes it easy to carry during outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and backpacking.

The ergonomic handle measures 11.8 inches, providing decent grip and comfort during use, while the 6.3 x 4.7-inch shovelhead allows for efficient digging and other tasks such as sawing and chopping. Additionally, the shovel includes a nylon carry case for convenient storage and transportation.

The small size may limit its effectiveness for larger tasks, and the folding mechanism, while practical, could potentially wear out over time with frequent use. Despite these minor drawbacks, the DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel stands out as a reliable and handy tool for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency preparedness.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Material
Held up to both intended and unintended abuse.
Size and Weight
Compact and sturdy, perfect for emergencies.
Folding Mechanism
Quick fix for loosening issue, standard for folding shovels.
Blade Design
Performed well in rocky soil and various tasks.
Handle Comfort
Well-built but could use a larger handle.
#3

SOG Entrenching Tool- 18.25 Inch Folding Survival Shovel with Wood Saw Edge and Tactical Shovel Carry Case- Black (F08-N)

The SOG Entrenching Tool stands out as a durable and versatile folding shovel made of high carbon steel, which ensures longevity and strength. Weighing only 24.5 ounces, it is lightweight and easy to carry, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and military personnel. It folds down to a compact size of 10 inches, taking up minimal space in your backpack or camp kit, which is a significant advantage if you need to travel light or have limited storage space.

The triangular handle design provides a firm and comfortable grip, aiding in tasks like digging, trenching, and chopping. Additionally, the shovel's blade features a wood saw edge, adding versatility for cutting or chopping small branches and trees, an essential feature for survival situations. The 3-way folding mechanism allows the tool to be used as a shovel, pick, or hoe, enhancing its utility for various outdoor tasks.

The included tactical carry case ensures the shovel is protected and easily accessible. However, the handle length is relatively short at 7 inches, which might not be comfortable for extended use or for users with larger hands. While the product is strong and functional, its compact size may limit its capacity for larger digging tasks compared to full-sized shovels. Despite these minor drawbacks, the SOG Entrenching Tool offers a practical and robust solution for a multitude of outdoor activities.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Material
The build quality is outstanding, with durable carbon steel that easily digs through various types of soil and debris, and a reinforced steel handle that provides a sturdy and comfortable grip.
Size and Weight
The SOG Entrenching Tool has quickly become an essential part of outdoor gear due to its compact and easy-to-carry design, making it perfect for camping, hiking, and emergencies.
Folding Mechanism
The folding design is a major advantage, allowing the shovel to collapse into a compact size, making it convenient to carry and store for outdoor adventures or emergencies.
Blade Design
This shovel is sturdy and well-made, capable of handling tough digging tasks, and features a wood saw edge that adds versatility for cutting through small branches and roots.
Additional Features
The included carrying case protects the shovel when not in use and offers multiple carrying options with a belt loop and shoulder strap.

Buying Guide for the Best Folding Shovels

Folding shovels are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tasks, from camping and hiking to emergency situations and gardening. When choosing a folding shovel, it's important to consider the specific needs and situations in which you'll be using it. Here are some key specifications to help you make the best choice for your needs.
MaterialThe material of the folding shovel is crucial as it determines the durability and weight of the tool. Common materials include steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber. Steel is very durable and strong, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks, but it can be heavier. Aluminum is lighter and resistant to rust, making it a good choice for general use and portability. Carbon fiber is extremely lightweight and strong, but it can be more expensive. Choose a material based on the balance between durability and weight that suits your intended use.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the folding shovel affect its portability and ease of use. Smaller, lighter shovels are easier to carry and are ideal for activities like hiking and backpacking. Larger, heavier shovels can handle more demanding tasks and are better suited for car camping or emergency kits. Consider how you plan to transport the shovel and the types of tasks you'll be performing to determine the right size and weight for you.
Folding MechanismThe folding mechanism of the shovel determines how compact it can be when not in use and how quickly it can be deployed. Common mechanisms include tri-fold, which folds into three sections, and telescoping, which extends and retracts. Tri-fold shovels are generally more compact and easier to store, while telescoping shovels can offer more length and leverage. Choose a folding mechanism that balances compactness and ease of use based on your needs.
Blade DesignThe design of the shovel blade can impact its effectiveness for different tasks. Some blades have serrated edges for cutting through roots and tough soil, while others have a flat edge for digging and scooping. Consider the types of tasks you'll be performing and choose a blade design that matches those needs. A versatile blade with both serrated and flat edges can be a good all-around choice.
Handle ComfortThe comfort of the handle is important for prolonged use and preventing hand fatigue. Look for handles with ergonomic designs and non-slip grips. Some handles are padded for extra comfort. If you plan to use the shovel for extended periods, prioritize a comfortable handle to make the task easier and more enjoyable.
Additional FeaturesSome folding shovels come with additional features like built-in compasses, saws, or fire starters. These can add versatility and convenience, especially for outdoor and survival situations. Consider whether these extra features are useful for your intended use and if they justify any additional cost or weight.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now