How to choose the right shovel: position of the blade on Dutch and other shovels

How to choose the right shovel

A shovel is designed to move loose material, such as soil, sand or gravel. We therefore recommend choosing a shovel based on the type of material that you want to move and what you want to use it for. As with spades, there are many types of shovels.

Tip 4 Position of the blade on Dutch and other shovels

The socket determines the position of the shaft in relation to the blade and whether a shovel is more suited for digging or scooping. The greater the angle of the socket, the greater the angle of the shaft will be in relation to the blade. An angled socket is great for shovelling, which is why most shovels have one.

The only exception to this rule are the Dutch shovels, which have a straight socket or a slightly angled socket.

Polet offers the following options:

Straight socket at an angle of 20 mm, which is great for digging. A Dutch shovel can thus be used in place of a spade.

Semi-angled socket at an angle of 35 mm which can be used both for digging and scooping.

Angled socket at an angle of 70 mm, ideal for scooping.

The swan neck socket is a typical feature of French swan neck shovels