digging tools

[BK]

I bought the ground shark years ago and grew to hate it. With the narrow blade it takes to long to dig a big hole for deep targets. Traps mud in blade because blade is to curved. More easily tears up turf when pulling out of ground cuz blade is to curved. ETC. I bought the Predator, Mauler model, was offered in 2 handle lengths. I like the mauler. I bought the 41 inch model and shortened the handle to my preffered length. BK

 

[Chris/MA]

I currently use the predator model 85 (slightly larger than the model 75), and the predator "little eagle"

I chose the little eagle over some of the other long handled diggers, because it's blade is small enough to still cut smaller plugs in grass if I need to be especially neat, but gives good leverage at the same time. I also have a predator "relic pro" but have never bothered using it.

I carry both with me at once generally. Normally I cut the plug with the long handled shovel, and then if I need to dig around within the hole I use the smaller tool. This makes for a bit easier digging which is nice when you're digging a lot of iffy signals.

One word of caution regarding longer shovels. They don't exactly fit in your pocket or on your belt, so you end up carrying them. While they don't weigh all that much, they weigh enough that several hours of the strain of carrying it and holding it will make for a tensed up and/or sore shoulder later.
I just bought a 2 foot length of chain and an adjustable link (one of the chain links that screw shut) so I can hang it off the the other digger that's on my belt while walking instead of carrying it. Since the T-handle is hollow I was able to put the chain through the handle.

 

[Coinseeker 78]

The digger that you can get at Ace Hardware can also be purchased at Lowels. I used one and they are good for the money but are more difficult to dig with in hard dirt than the Lesche. When theu get dull the are harder to use than the Lesche.

 

[treasurefiend]

The $15 one is good in soft dirt but I have seen those break at the handle in hard dirt or if you get hooked on a root and try to pry it out. I hunt out in the woods all the time and luckily this hasn't happened to me. I still have it and lend it out if people forget their digging tool. The tang only goes about an inch into the handle. Also the bottom end of the handle will give you blisters as it flares out, I used my pocket knife to soften the edge and that helpt out a lot!!! I finally used a buddies Leache and I ordered one that very same day, I love it!!!!

If I encounter a big root I also started carrying a keyhole saw and that makes quick work of them.

Oh and those Minelab diggers, I have friends that bent them within an hour of using them, save yourself the time and just order a quality digger.

 

[Bayrat76]

I might try that instead, I need some thing for all conditions. In the town I live in it is sand, start with a small plug it will just keep caving in on you. When you get to the west side of town super hard clay and black gumbo mix. I started carrying a sharp shooter shovel with me, but people don't like to see that, it draws way to much attention. Takes for all the info.

 

[txbluzman]

I prefer the Treasure Wise 3 in 1 digging tool. Less than half the price of a Lesche and will take a beating. It cuts a grass plug better than a Lesche IMO.

 

[dippodigger]

I am still using the same Lesche I bought years ago when i bought my XS.