Best Survival Shovels

Close up of black tactical military folding survival shovel
Shaman Mountain is reader-supported. We may earn a small commission on certain links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more.

Survival shovels are a versatile and essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast or emergency preparedness kit. Designed to provide the user with multiple functions, survival shovels can be used for digging, chopping, sawing, hammering, and even self-defense. Their compact and lightweight design makes them easy to carry on backpacking trips or keep in a car for emergencies. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the benefits of owning a survival shovel, the various features to consider when selecting one, and some of the top options on the market. Whether you’re an avid camper, or hiker, or just want to be prepared for any situation, these shovels are a must-have tool in your kit.


RHINO USA Military Folding Survival Shovel with Pick Axe

RHINO USA 

If you're planning a camping or hiking trip, or any other outdoor activity, the RHINO USA military folding survival shovel with pick axe is a crucial tool to have on hand. With its rugged construction and versatile design, this e-tool can handle any task you throw at it, from digging to sawing and chopping. Its sawtooth edge and heavy-duty pickaxe ensure that you'll be ready for any situation. And when it's time to pack up, the shovel conveniently folds up for easy transport and storage.

Pros:
  • Carry case included
  • 90 Degree angle turns it into a pick as well
  • Lightweight
Cons:
  • On the shorter side
Key Features:
  • Carbon steel construction
  • 2 LBS
  • 23" Inches long extended
Buy from Amazon

Special Forces Survival Shovel with Hardwood Handle

Cold Steel 

The Cold Steel Spetsnaz Survival Shovel is an incredibly durable tool modeled after a Soviet military entrenching tool. With its stout hardwood handle, broad flat steel blade, and three sharp edges, this shovel is versatile enough to handle a wide range of tasks, from digging foxholes and bunkers to chopping branches and constructing shelters. Its head-heavy design also makes it an excellent option for throwing. If you're searching for a shovel that can withstand anything you throw at it, the Cold Steel Spetsnaz shovel is a perfect choice.

Pros:
  • Durable steel head
  • Lightweight due to wood handle
  • Comfortable grip
Cons:
  • Sheath sold separately
Key Features:
  • Carbon steel
  • Hardwood handle
  • 1.6 LBS
Buy from Amazon

Heavy Duty Military Folding Survival Shovel with Pick Axe

REDCAMP 

Looking for a durable and versatile survival shovel for your outdoor adventures? This military folding survival shovel with a pickaxe is a perfect fit! Constructed from high-carbon steel, it boasts exceptional toughness and durability. The tri-fold handle design ensures easy storage and portability. Plus, it features a sawtooth edge that can easily slice through various materials. Whether you're camping, hiking, or exploring the wilderness, this heavy-duty shovel is an essential tool that you won't want to leave behind.

Pros:
  • Edge has saw tooth design
  • Can be used as a pickaxe as well
  • Comfortable triangular handle
Cons:
  • Sheath needs reworking
Key Features:
  • 1.5 MM Carbon steel construction
  • 2.5 LBS
  • Foldable
Buy from Amazon

Mini Folding Survival Shovel with Pick Axe

Dartmoor 

If you're in need of a reliable entrenching tool for emergencies, look no further than this mini folding survival shovel with a pickaxe. Despite its compact size, this shovel is a mighty powerhouse that can be used for digging trenches, graves, or anything else you might need. Its sawtooth blade makes cutting through materials a breeze. Thanks to its military style, this shovel can withstand even the most demanding use. And with its portable and lightweight design, it's easy to take with you on the go. For a tool that won't let you down in a crisis, choose this mini folding survival shovel.

Pros:
  • Extra lightweight
  • Basic sheath
  • Foldable into a pickaxe
Cons:
  • Fairly small to do any serious digging
Key Features:
  • Steel head
  • 28 Ounces
  • 18" Inch overall length
Buy from Amazon

SOG Entrenching Tool Folding Survival Shovel

SOG 

Are you searching for a heavy-duty, yet lightweight and compact entrenching tool? Look no further than the multi-use folding survival shovel by SOG. This tactical shovel is constructed from hard case black carbon steel and boasts a sawtooth edge, perfect for cutting through roots and branches. Its ergonomic triangular handle design conveniently folds down to the size of the shovelhead, making it a breeze to store or transport. Whether you're camping, hiking, or exploring the great outdoors, this versatile shovel is an essential tool to have by your side.

Pros:
  • High quality steel
  • One of the lightest shovels available
  • Saw tooth edge
Cons:
  • Thread nut can tighten over time making folding more difficult
Key Features:
  • Carbon steel head
  • Foldable
  • 24 Ounces
Buy from Amazon

Military Tactical Multitool Survival Shovel with Pick Axe

Yeacool

For those who enjoy outdoor activities and survival, the mini foldable tactical military survival shovel with a pick axe is a must-have. This innovative multitool is versatile and can serve as a military survival shovel, saw, bottle opener, nail puller, pick axe, and more. It is compact and easy to carry, making it an ideal addition to your camping gear or car emergency kit. Made from high-carbon steel, the shovel head is strong and durable, while the non-slip soft rubber grip handle ensures a secure grip. This multitool is tough, reliable, and built to withstand any situation.

Pros:
  • Great carrying bag
  • Nail puller on edge
  • Non slip handle helps dig quicker
Cons:
  • Heavy
Key Features:
  • Carbon steel head
  • Non slip handle
  • Cutting edge
Buy from Amazon

Coleman Folding Survival Shovel and Pick Axe

Coleman

The Coleman folding survival shovel entrenching tool combo with a pick axe is a versatile tool that is perfect for various outdoor activities, such as digging fire pits, picking out roots, and cutting small branches. Its compact and sturdy design allows it to fold up to 7 inches for convenient storage and includes a carrying case. For safety purposes, the shovel locks into place, and the serrated edge easily saws through wood. In winter, keep the shovel and pick axe multitool in your trunk to clear snow and ice during emergencies. This shovel and pick axe combo is the ideal addition to your outdoor gear, and it is built to handle any task with ease.

Pros:
  • Great for one handed operation
  • Basic carry bag
  • Rubberized grip
Cons:
  • Not for 2 handed operation
Key Features:
  • Basic folding design
  • 7.25" Inch long
  • Pick end
Buy from Amazon

Gerber E-Tool Folding Survival Shovel with Serrated Edge

Gerber Gear

For those in search of a lightweight and durable shovel that can be relied upon in emergencies, look no further than the Gerber E-Tool folding survival shovel with a serrated edge. This compact tool is perfect for camping and small utility tasks, and it comes with a locking mechanism to ensure its safety when not in use. Highly recommended by experts, this sturdy shovel is designed to withstand even the toughest tasks, making it unbreakable and overbuilt. Whether you're planning a camping trip or preparing for an emergency situation, the Gerber E-Tool folding survival shovel with a serrated edge is a must-have. So, be sure to check it out if you're looking for a reliable and robust shovel.

Pros:
  • Lightweight
  • Nylon handle doesn't hurt hands
  • Heavy duty construction
Cons:
  • No sheath included
Key Features:
  • Stainless steel
  • Folding design
  • Serrated edge
Buy from Amazon

M48 Kommando Survival Shovel

M48

The M48 Kommando Survival Shovel is the perfect tool for camping and outdoor use. With its tempered 2Cr13 stainless steel shovel head and hard black oxide coating, it can handle light chopping or be used as a defensive weapon in an emergency situation. The shovel point edge is sharpened and includes a partially serrated edge on one side and a concave chopping edge on the other. The injection-molded nylon handle is reinforced with 30% fiberglass & nylon, making it virtually indestructible. It also comes with a reinforced nylon belt pouch for easy transport.

Pros:
  • Sharp point allows for fast digging
  • Serrated edge is sharp for fast cutting
  • Great handle design with a T end
Cons:
  • Expensive
Key Features:
  • Stainless steel head with black oxide outer coating
  • Fiberglass injected handle
  • Sharpened point
Buy from Amazon

FAQs:

Videos:

DIY Survival Multi Tool Shovel
Building a Shelter With a Shovel

Related Posts:

An RV is parked in a lush Pennsylvania campground, surrounded by tall trees and a peaceful stream. The sun is setting, casting a warm glow over the scene

Best RV Camping in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania offers a diverse array of campgrounds that cater to every type of RV camping enthusiast. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the natural

A couple traveling together in a vintage RV campervan with their cute dog

Best RV Camping in California

In the vast tapestry of California’s natural wonders, RV enthusiasts find their haven amidst breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled adventures. From the majestic heights of Yosemite

Texas Neon Sign with American Flag in the Background - Best Camping in Texas

Best Camping in Texas 

Welcome to our blog, where we embark on a journey to uncover the hidden gems of camping in Texas. From the vast landscapes of Big