Return of an Old Friend

[BB57]

I carried an M1943 US entrenching tool for years in the back of my jeep. Someone walked off with it in the late 1990s. It was a great tool. The M1943 was a knock off of the German 1938 Klappspaten foldable spade. Both had a longer handle than the earlier German and current Russian entrenching tools. As such they were better shovels, but arguably not as good at close quarter combat.

All of the above are more durable and functional than the craptastic tri-fold E-tools I was issued.

 

[6GUNSONLY]

I still have one of the USGI entrenching tools, bought to put in my first 4x4 in 1975. And my grandsons have had a ball digging in the woods with it. I may have to get me one of the Cold Steel versions. I always have a good quality D-handle shovel and a Collins axe in the toolbox of my F-250 4x4.

 

[steveno]

the shovel just got here and it appears to be a pretty stout tool. I guess I didn't realize that sharp edges went all the way around the blade and yes the edges are pretty sharp. since I have already been to the range this morning I have to go find another place to dig and chop things.

 

[Frank46]

I have one of the post war German e-tools. This has a different latching mechanism found on the German ones.And they added a small pick so you can choose shovel, shovel and pick or just the pick. Cost me a grand total of 5 bucks out the door. Made in 1965 and comes with a leather case and is dated 1965. and there is enough metal on the shovel part to file down to get a good sharp edge. Frank

 

[usm1rifle]

When Cold Steel first came out with them they were called the
Spetsnaz shovel. I cut up a Dodge minivan quarter panel with
one. The handle broke on the last cut and I had to buy a new one.
But other than the epoxy finish being scratched up it's still good to
go. Very tough shovel.I wish CS would make a shovel handle out
of the same material as the Brooklyn Crusher. Then the thing would
be perfect.

There is a handle on ebay for $9.99 free shipping. Not mine...

 

[Mr.Harry]

Nifty! Good "bug out" item.

 

[SPEEDGUNNER]

Now THAT would HURT!