Why don’t American shovels have handles? SPOILER ALERT: There Are

There is a popular belief among gardeners in the United States that shovels sold in this country do not come with handles. This rumor may have started because American-made shovels are typically heavier and have a larger blade than those found in other parts of the world. While it is true that some U.S. manufacturers opt for this design, the reasoning behind it has more to do with function than tradition. So why are American shovels made without handles? Let’s take a closer look at this question.

So Why don’t American shovels have handles?

The origins of this strange design choice are a bit of a mystery, but there are a few possible explanations. One theory suggests that it has to do with the type of soil in America. Since American soil is often wet and heavy, and the lack of a handle makes it easier to grip the shovel without getting muddy and losing grip.

Another explanation is that the design was originally meant to be more ergonomic. Shovels with no handles would allow you to bend your wrists more, which is less tiring than bending your arms at a right angle. This theory may be more plausible, as shovels with no handles are starting to become more popular in other countries as well.

Whatever the reason may be, it’s a bit of a mystery why American shovels have no handles. Although there are many types that indeed do have handles, it is typically the norm to use without, but also depends on the type of work performed.  

Do All Shovels Come with Handles in Other Counties?

There are many shovel designs on the market, and not all of them have handles. For a variety of reasons, some, such as the American shovel, are made without handles. A handle is included with other shovels, such as the European shovel, for a more traditional appearance.

However, the absence of a handle does not make these any less effective. In fact, many people find that shovels without handles are easier to grip and less tiring to use. So, if you’re looking for one that is easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of strength, a shovel without a handle may be the right choice for you.

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Do Shovels need Handles?

There is no definitive answer to this question, but some people believe that shovels do need handles, as they provide a more comfortable and grip. Others argue that the lack of handles makes it easier to grip the blade and move the shovel around.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you find that shoveling is more comfortable with a handle, then by all means use one, but it seems that most with handles come with shorter shafts making it heavier to dig large amounts of dirt and soil.

At the end of the day, it’s up to you whether or not you want to use this tool with or without a handle. You may find it easier and more efficient to use one with one.

To view more information on what tools gardeners need, click here: What Tools Should a Beginner Gardener Have?

What Are the Benefits Handles Have on Shovels?

There are many benefits that come with using a shovel with a handle, but they are not very obvious until you need one. Such times would be when space is confined and you need more grip and digging precision. Also, shovels with handles comes in shorter lengths, and can be stored away in backpacks.   

While there are many benefits, some include:

• A more comfortable and ergonomic grip
• Less fatigue when digging
• More control over the shovel
• Can be bought at short lengths and blade widths
• Some are foldable
• Etc..

Although the list is short, these types, at times can be extremely useful and lifesaving depending on the application and circumstances that arise, especially during backpack nature stays and walks.

What types of Shovels Have Handles?

Below are a few different types that come with handles that are commonly bought and sold that are widely known and accepted. Again, it comes down to preference, and what gets the job done.   

1. The most common type is the garden shovel, which has a curved blade and a long handle. This type of shovel is ideal for digging in soil and moving large amounts of earth.
2. Another popular type is the trenching shovel. This type has a pointed blade that is perfect for digging trenches or making holes in the ground. It also has a shorter handle, which makes it easier to use in tight spaces.
3. Finally, there is the snow shovel. This type of design is specifically for removing snow from sidewalks and driveways. It has a wide blade and a short handle, making it easy to scoop up snow quickly.

While there are many other options, its always better to use the right tool for the job while letting the tool do all the work.

What Types of Shovels Don’t Have Handles?

There are a few different types of shovels that don’t have handles, but are not limited to what’s listed below.

1. The most common type is the American shovel, which has a wide blade and no handle. This type is perfect for moving large amounts of earth or snow.
2. The European shovel, which has a narrow blade and a long handle. This type is ideal for digging in soil and moving small amounts of earth.
3. The spade shovel, which is a flat blade that is perfect for removing weeds or breaking up soil. This type is typically has a short handle, making it easy to use in tight spaces.

Although picking a shovel is not supposed to be difficult, each tool has its own unique purpose. But, one observable difference would be a shovel that DOES have a handle might tend to get in the way digging something rather large. Whereas, one with no handle may have a thicker shaft to lift and dig with a wider blade providing more leverage and sturdiness.

Nevertheless, shovels without handles are a common tool on most, if not all, outdoor jobsites and maintenance jobs. It all comes down to what is required and the space you have to work with.

Final Thoughts

Many times, many people get caught up in what tool works best, but in most cases, you can work with just about any tool to get a job done. For the purposes of digging dirt, you want something comfortable while achieving maximum effort with little strain on the body. As we all know, all dirt, and no matter what shovel you choose gets heavy and we all get tired.