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Post by rachelsdad on Jan 8, 2021 0:49:24 GMT -8
We've moved into a new home recently and while arranging/stowing my gear, (11' high on existing wooden shelving in an incredibly wonderfully tall laundry room), I realized my old snow/avalanche shovel is MIA.
Went back to the old house, (just put on market), and nowhere to be found...but yeah, gotta grab the Hornbeck!!! duh.
It would be for general backpacking use, not skiing. Digging a "porch" or table in the snow. Former shovel was a Voile. Aluminum, short fixed handle but very strong. The msrp is $50 so certainly no deal breaker for something that can save your hind end but I'm looking for some suggestions...if we ever get any snow this year!!
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Post by johntpenca on Jan 8, 2021 10:16:07 GMT -8
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walkswithblackflies
Trail Wise!
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Post by walkswithblackflies on Jan 8, 2021 10:40:55 GMT -8
Former shovel was a Voile That's what I have. |
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BigLoad
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Post by BigLoad on Jan 8, 2021 14:34:42 GMT -8
Former shovel was a Voile That's what I have. Same here. I also keep a Voile shovel in my car during winter. The blade is a bit worn now from scraping on pavement, but it's way better than any other small shovel for moving snow in a hurry, especially if it's been packed hard by a snowplow or frozen. |
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Post by johntpenca on Jan 8, 2021 16:55:15 GMT -8
Definitely need an aluminum blade and a T-handle. I have an old Black Diamond shovel, but there are better options now. Polycarbonate blades are worthless in hardened snow.
For non avi use as the OP describes, weight may be a consideration.
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Post by High Sierra Fan on Jan 8, 2021 17:09:04 GMT -8
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Post by bobcat on Jan 8, 2021 17:23:59 GMT -8
I’m curious about the handle. Why Would a T-handle be preferred over an open-grip handle that works with mitts on? I don’t know what the real name of the feature, but some shovels have it instead of a t-grip.
I have an avalanche shovel bought for winter camping back when I used to live in Minnesota, with an extendible handle And the mitt-style grip. It lives in the trunk of my car now. I’ve used it several times to dig cars out of snow. Living in a condo, I don’t need more snow shovel than this!
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Post by johntpenca on Jan 8, 2021 17:44:05 GMT -8
Why Would a T-handle be preferred over an open-grip handle that works with mitts on? Yes, an open loop handle is better than a t-handle. Some shovels just have a straight handle, like a broom. |
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BigLoad
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Post by BigLoad on Jan 8, 2021 18:26:01 GMT -8
Loop handle only for me. As noted above, operation with mitts is a must-have for me.
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Post by bradmacmt on Jan 8, 2021 18:29:12 GMT -8
Apparently google isn’t working...
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BigLoad
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Post by BigLoad on Jan 8, 2021 18:40:00 GMT -8
Apparently google isn’t working... I must say, reading reviews on Amazon makes me wonder how most people are able to feed and dress themselves. I can understand asking a group more likely to have a basic understanding of life. |
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Post by rachelsdad on Jan 9, 2021 1:33:25 GMT -8
Wow...thanks all!. I never thought to consider MSR! I have their snowshoes, a tent, stove etc. from them. Love their stuff. While I'm sure most other shovels do this I like how they highlight the benefits of one feature. Just shows their holistic approach to the outdoors Versatile: Shaft’s upper section fits equally well into the blade, allowing you to choose the shovel length you need. Blade’s flat back shaves smooth snow pit walls or offers a platform for stoves.[/b] This Mammut color would probably get lost overnight!  Ortovox has some pretty slick stuff too...hmmm, considering $50+/- target price there are some outstanding options vs what I bought 20+ years ago. |
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Post by bradmacmt on Jan 9, 2021 5:03:58 GMT -8
I must say, reading reviews on Amazon makes me wonder how most people are able to feed and dress themselves. I can understand asking a group more likely to have a basic understanding of life. Lol, well said on all counts. |
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Post by johntpenca on Jan 9, 2021 16:31:21 GMT -8
there are some outstanding options vs what I bought 20+ years ago. Yup. Like a tent or backpack bought 20 years ago, technology and design have improved considerably. |
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Post by bradmacmt on Jan 9, 2021 19:09:27 GMT -8
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