Wooden handles in particular will eventually give way and burst. The process is accelerated by moisture or very hard work. A high-quality new shovel can cost around €50. But fortunately, replacing the handle of a shovel isn't difficult at all. Learn how to handle your shovel below.
How do I handle a shovel?
To insert a shovel handle, remove the old handle, insert the new handle in the correct orientation and screw it onto the shovel head. Choose a suitable handle in terms of material, handle shape, length and diameter.
Which stem is suitable?
In specialist shops you will find many different handles that differ, among other things, in material, handle shape and of course length and diameter. In terms of material, wooden handles are still the most popular and are the easiest to replace. To find the right size, you should remove the old spade handle and measure the diameter of the opening. For the length, it is best to measure the old shovel handle and choose the same one.
Shovel handle shape
In principle there are three different handle shapes for shovels, spades etc.:
- Button handle
- T-handle
- D handle
The button handle makes less ergonomic sense as it offers no support for the hands, which is why it is rarely used anymore. T and D handles, on the other hand, are equally popular and are probably more of a question of taste: With the D-handle you reach into a D-shaped triangle and thus have a secure hold; with the T-handle you grip a horizontal bar, which also makes it easy to shovel and dig. It's best to choose the handle shape that you've had before and that you're used to.
Step by step shovel handle
- new shovel handle
- Screw
- Hammer
- Screwdriver
- Cordless screwdriver
- pliers
1. Remove old shovel handle
First loosen screws or nails that secure the shovel handle to the shovel head. Then turn your shovel over and hit the part of the old handle that is slightly protruding from the opening with the narrow side until the remainder of the handle can be pulled out.
2. Insert new handle
Make sure that you set up the handle (€33.00 on Amazon) in the correct orientation: The handle has a slight bend; this must point backwards and should under no circumstances be at an angle. Insert the handle (€33.00 at Amazon) into the opening, grab the metal neck with both sides and hit the head with the handle downwards on the ground several times so that the handle slides deep into the opening.
3. Screw on the handle
Finally, screw the shovel head into the designated place on the handle.
