Shovels, Spades & Rakes

Learn more about shovels, spades & rakes

A pointed digging blade helps with penetration. A flat square shovel is better for loading and moving loose material, such as sand, gravel and rubble. That difference matters on site, especially when you are working across mixed ground and different substrate conditions.

Material and handle design also affect performance. Steel shovel and steel spade options suit hard, repeated use, while lighter designs are easier to manoeuvre when you are lifting all day. A longer handle gives reach, and a D handle can give better control in tighter working positions.

On many landscaping jobs, you may need both a spade and shovel to hand. One tool cuts in, the other clears, so you spend less time fighting the material.

Typical uses

• Digging soil and breaking into compacted ground with a digging shovel or steel spade.

• Moving gravel, sand, rubble and other loose materials with a square shovel.

• Landscaping work where a spade and shovel may both be useful, depending on whether you need to cut in, lift or shift material.

• Snow clearance, coal handling and other specialist uses where a shaped shovel is better matched to the material.

How to choose the right shovel

• Match the blade shape to the task, a pointed blade suits digging, while a square shovel suits lifting loose material.

• Choose the material for the conditions, a steel shovel is usually better for hard use, while lighter designs can be easier to handle for repeated lifting.

• Think about handle length and grip, a longer handle improves reach, while a D handle can give better control in tighter working positions.

• Check the weight against the job, lighter tools are easier to manoeuvre, but heavier duty options give more stability in tougher ground.

• If you are working in clay or wet ground, choose a shovel profile that helps reduce sticking and makes it easier to get the blade into the substrate.

Before you order

• Decide whether the tool is for digging, landscaping or moving building materials.

• Review the product specifications for blade shape, handle type, overall length and material so you know it suits the way you work.

• If you need to compare options quickly, check the range online, then pick up your order from your local branch if that suits the job.

• For regular site use, make sure the shovel is suitable for the wear you expect and the conditions you work in.

Explore our range of shovels

Browse shovels, spades & rakes to find the right tool for your work. Compare diggings spades, square shovels and other related hand tools for landscaping and demolition tasks.

If you are not sure which shovel to choose, check the product details, compare blade type and handle options, or speak to your local branch. That is usually the quickest way to get sorted and crack on.