Epic MilitariaNATO Emergency Lightweight Multi-Functional Military Folding Shovel with Case

How much can you say about a folding shovel? Well, quite a lot actually as it turns out - there are TONS of different ones available. I think most are made in the same Chinese factories and rebranded by various sellers, so I figured I'd buy from the proper military surplus place for a better chance at quality.I'm glad I did. It feels rock solid and there's no gimmicks, it's just a well made copy of the NATO-style entrenching tool. I'm not sure where Epic source their shovels, I'd expect it to be made in China like the various other shovels on here; but since it's sold by a military specialist you expect they will have found the best one available for the money.The real disappointment is the carrying pouch. The belt loop has already come unstitched, and overall it doesn't feel like it'll last all that long. I'd really like to see a proper canvas one even if it added a few pounds to the price.There's a heavier version for a few quid more but honestly, this seems like a tough enough cookie for almost any job.

I needed a spade to support my granddaughter who has decided to try metal detecting, I needed to carry it in a small rucksack for travelling between venues. It is easy to assemble, robust and makes light work of most soils, sands etc

Bought that one in case I ever got in trouble on the road.Very sturdy built and happy to not have had to use it yet.The good thing is it's small size - I can leave it in the trunk without even thinking about it as it takes do little space.

Used this a lot for metal detecting but if you want to use it on the beach and then fold it up forget it, sand gets in the threads and I've found no way of cleaning it out. But it does seem extremely strong and I just leave it assembled. If you want an emergency spade in a pouch for other reasons you can't go wrong really.

Does what it says on the tin.

Forget all the shovels that promise to keep you going come the apocalypse. this is the real deal. solid, great size, packs away. perfect.

A little cumbersome to assemble but handy for the car.

Boyfriend wanted this in the car in case of any snow issues. I'm not sure the UK ever gets that snowed in, but it gives him peace of mind, and the shovel seems sturdy and folds down quite small.