Lesche ground shark?

[JHM]

I'm thinkng about investing in a new shovel. And I was wondering which model is the best?

 

[ConfCav]

For what its worth I do not recommend the Ground Shark. Although the durability and concept is excellent, to me the design needs work. I do not like the small sized shovel/scoop end because it requires multiple pentrations into the soil to get a decent size hole, especially for deep targets to avoid damaging finds. Don't get me wrong, I'm not wanting to dig a crater and make my digging obvious to landowners and others, but if they would come out with a wider scooped end resulting in less perimeter penetrations to get the soil out to check the find, I would buy it as soon as available because it does excellent in hard ground or areas with lots of roots.

I've actually quit using my Ground Shark and started using a mason's hammer with a pick-style end. I carry it in a leather holder on my utility belt, along with a surplus bayonet for probing around the hole, its light-weight, and allows you to always keep one hand free to switchover to if the other hand gets tired from swinging the machine.

If they asked me I would tell Lesche to make the scoop twice the width it currently is. If they do make one in this fashion I'm not aware of it.

If you can find one, the Penetrator is a real good from what I've heard is a good durable digging tool, but I don't think its still in production but know there are sites that still offer it. Do a google search if interested.

 

[TnDirtDigger]

After a lot of research, I went withe the Lesche D handle 38". Great tool. I would buy again. A little heavy at 5lbs, but will be there when the cows come home.

 

[brnn53]

I got the model 80T. It will cut through anything. I welded a 8" bolt on the right side for more "foot leverage". Thats the only disadvantage that I see with these shovels. Not enough room for your foot. I like the T handle better than the regular shovel type handle.
Mike

 

[HighPlainsHunter]

Here's my favorite field shovel, the Lesche Sampson. The blade is narrow enough to penetrate the ground easily while removing just the right amount of soil. The "T" handle makes it easy to carry, or can be hung on a belt with a hammer hook.

[attachment 118989 sampsonthandle.jpg]

Good hunting,
HighPlainsHunter

 

[JHM]

I'm leaning toward the 80T or the 38 inch D handle one. I was wondering if the handle on the 80t is long enough. I'm about 6 ft tall. I know the shorter handle would be easier to carry.

 

[brnn53]

I'm 6' 2" and have no problem with the height of the shovel. The only problem I have is that on cold mornings the thing is very cold in the hand even with gloves on! I put some wrap on the "T" to insulate it.
Mike

 

[JHM]

Thanks for the information. It's better to ask before you lat down the $$$$.

 

[Anonymous]

IMHO, nothing beats their 38" Relic Hunter shovel. Pic on my web site in the Digging tools page. I've had mine about 5 years and wouldn't part with it. Cuts a good size plug and is made of hardened steel. Wouldn't be without mine. GH, David@Dixie

 

[ConfCav]

Looks to me like maybe you have what I'm looking for Dave by the pic; what is the width of the head vs. the Ground Shark? Is it wider as it appears or is it just me? Thanks for sharing.