Let’s Dive into Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel
The Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel is a compact, lightweight tool designed to help backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts Leave No Trace in the backcountry. Manufactured by Sea to Summit, this trowel stands out for its retractable handle and durable nylon construction, offering a convenient solution for proper waste disposal while minimizing pack size. It’s more than just a shovel; it’s a tool that supports responsible outdoor ethics.
I was searching for a more compact and lighter trowel to replace my old, bulky metal one, prioritizing pack space and minimizing weight on long backpacking trips. The promise of a retractable handle and the use of strong, lightweight nylon appealed to me as someone who values efficiency and durability in their gear.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by how small and light the Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel truly is. The orange color is bright and easy to spot, and the nylon felt sturdy despite its minimal weight. The retractable handle mechanism seemed solid and reliable.
Compared to other trowels I’ve used – like the Deuce of Spades (titanium, minimalist) and generic garden trowels (steel, bulky) – the Sea to Summit model strikes a balance between weight, size, and usability. I chose this one for its packability without sacrificing too much digging power.
My first impression was excitement; this little trowel seemed like it could solve a long-standing problem of balancing backcountry hygiene with pack weight. I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel on a three-day backpacking trip in the Lost Coast Trail in Northern California. The terrain varied from sandy beaches to rocky bluffs with dense vegetation.
The trowel performed well in the sandy soil near the beaches, but struggled a bit more in the compacted dirt and rocky sections further inland. Its bright orange color made it easy to find even in low light, and the handle, when extended, provided a surprisingly comfortable grip. There were no initial issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use on various backpacking and camping trips, the Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel has proven to be reliable. There are no significant signs of wear and tear despite being used in diverse conditions.
The nylon shows some minor scratches from digging in rocky soil, but the overall structure remains intact. Cleaning is simple: a quick rinse with water is usually sufficient, and the smooth nylon surface prevents debris from sticking. Compared to my old metal trowel, the Sea to Summit is lighter, more compact, and just as effective for its intended purpose.
Breaking Down the Features of Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel
Specifications
- Material: Strong, ultralight reinforced Nylon 66. This provides a good balance of durability and weight savings.
- Weight: 3 oz. This lightweight design minimizes pack weight, crucial for long treks.
- Color: Orange. The bright color enhances visibility, reducing the chance of losing it in the backcountry.
- Design: Compact with a retractable handle. This allows for easy packing and storage, minimizing the space it occupies in your backpack.
- Features: Includes a storage space in the handle. This is designed for a lighter or toilet paper, adding functionality and convenience.
These specifications are essential for backcountry use, where weight and space are at a premium. The Nylon 66 material ensures the trowel can withstand regular use without adding unnecessary weight to your pack.
Performance & Functionality
The Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel performs its primary job adequately. It allows for digging cat holes (6-8 inches deep) for proper waste disposal, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.
Its strengths lie in its lightweight and compact design, making it easy to carry. The main weakness is its digging power in very hard or rocky soil; it requires more effort compared to a metal trowel. Overall, it meets my expectations for a lightweight backpacking trowel.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is good, considering the Nylon 66 material. The lightweight design is comfortable to hold, especially with the extended handle, and the bright orange color is a nice touch for visibility.
The design is user-friendly, with a simple retractable handle that locks securely into place. There is no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nylon 66 material is durable enough for typical backcountry use, but it’s not indestructible. With proper care, it should last for several seasons of regular use.
Maintenance is minimal; simply rinsing the trowel with water after each use is usually sufficient. The smooth nylon surface resists debris build-up.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel does not come with any additional accessories. However, the storage space in the handle can be used to store toilet paper or a small lighter.
There are no official customization options, but users can add a lanyard to the handle for easier carrying. It is compatible with any standard toilet paper roll that fits in the handle’s storage compartment.
Pros and Cons of Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel
Pros
- Ultralight and Compact: Weighing only 3 oz and featuring a retractable handle, it saves significant pack space and weight.
- Durable Nylon 66 Construction: Strong enough for regular use in the backcountry.
- Easy to Clean: The smooth nylon surface prevents debris from sticking, simplifying maintenance.
- Bright Orange Color: Enhances visibility, reducing the risk of losing it.
- Storage Space in Handle: Conveniently stores toilet paper or a lighter.
Cons
- Limited Digging Power: Struggles in very hard or rocky soil compared to metal trowels.
- Handle Storage Space: The storage space may not be large enough for all toilet paper rolls.
Who Should Buy Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel?
This trowel is perfect for backpackers, thru-hikers, and anyone prioritizing lightweight and compact gear for backcountry adventures. It’s also great for casual campers who want to adhere to Leave No Trace principles without carrying heavy equipment.
This product might not be ideal for those who frequently camp in areas with extremely hard or rocky soil. Also, individuals who prefer the robustness of metal tools might find the nylon material less appealing.
A small roll of biodegradable toilet paper is a must-have accessory. Additionally, a lightweight trowel bag or stuff sack can keep it separate from other gear in your pack.
Conclusion on Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel
The Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel is a well-designed and practical tool for responsible backcountry waste disposal. Its lightweight and compact design make it a valuable addition to any backpacker’s kit.
At $14.95, the price is justified by its durability, functionality, and significant weight savings. It contributes to minimizing environmental impact.
I would definitely recommend this trowel to anyone looking for a lightweight and efficient solution for Leave No Trace practices. It’s a simple tool that makes a big difference. So, ditch that heavy shovel and grab a Sea to Summit Nylon 66 Pocket Trowel for your next adventure – your back (and the environment) will thank you!