As someone who enjoys gardening and spends a lot of time tending to my plants, I understand the importance of having the right tools for the job.
When it comes to digging, a good spade is essential, and I recently tried out the Wilko Carbon Steel Digging Spade to see how it measures up. In this review, I’ll share my honest thoughts on this tool and whether it’s worth the investment.
IN THIS ARTICLE
COMPARE PRODUCTS
1  | SCORE: 8.6 Brand: Metal Concepts  | |
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3  | SCORE: 8.0 Brand: Spear Head Spade | |
4  | SCORE: 7.6 Brand: Radius Garden | |
5  | SCORE: 9.2 Brand: Metal Concepts | |
6  | SCORE: 8.2 Brand: Radius Garden | |
7  | SCORE: 9.2 Brand: Fiskars |
Buying Guide
Before we dive into the review, let’s talk about what to look for when buying a digging spade. There are a few key factors to consider:
Material
The material of the spade is important for durability and strength. Carbon steel is a popular choice as it is strong and long-lasting, but it can be prone to rust. Stainless steel is another option that is rust-resistant, but it may not be as strong as carbon steel.
Blade Shape
The shape of the blade will affect how well the spade can penetrate the soil. A pointed blade is better for cutting through hard soil, while a rounded blade is better for digging in loose soil.
Handle
The handle should be comfortable to hold and grip, with a non-slip surface. Look for a handle made from a durable material like wood, fiberglass or plastic.
Size and Weight
Consider the size and weight of the spade, as this will affect how easy it is to use. A heavier spade may be more durable, but it can also be more difficult to maneuver.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to the review.
Review
The Wilko Carbon Steel Digging Spade is a budget-friendly option that promises to be strong and reliable. Here are my thoughts after putting it to the test:
Material
The spade is made from carbon steel, which is a good sign for durability. The blade is quite thick, which makes it strong and less likely to bend or break. However, after a few uses, I did notice some rust starting to form on the blade. While this is not unexpected with carbon steel, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a spade that will last a long time.
Blade Shape
The blade is pointed, which makes it good for cutting through hard soil. I found that it was able to penetrate the ground easily and make clean cuts. However, the pointed blade does mean that it’s not as effective for digging in loose soil. If you primarily work with softer soil, you may want to consider a spade with a rounded blade instead.
Handle
The handle is made from wood and has a comfortable grip. It’s not the most ergonomic handle I’ve ever used, but it gets the job done. The wood is a nice touch and adds a traditional feel to the tool. However, I did notice that the handle started to splinter after a few uses. This may not be a problem for everyone, but if you have sensitive hands or plan to use the spade for extended periods of time, you may want to look for a handle made from a different material.
Size and Weight
The spade is a good size for most people, and the weight is manageable. It’s not the lightest spade out there, but it’s not so heavy that it’s difficult to use. I found that it was well-balanced and easy to maneuver.
FAQs
1. Is the spade good for digging in hard soil?
Yes, the pointed blade makes it easy to cut through hard soil.
2. How long does the spade last?
The carbon steel blade may rust over time, but with proper care, the spade should last several years.
3. Is the handle comfortable to hold?
The wooden handle is comfortable, but it may splinter after extended use.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think the Wilko Carbon Steel Digging Spade is a solid choice for those on a budget. It’s strong and reliable, with a comfortable handle and good weight distribution. However, the blade may rust over time and the handle may splinter with extended use. If you’re looking for a spade that will last a long time, you may want to invest in a higher-end option. But if you need a basic spade for occasional use, the Wilko spade is a good choice.
