Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 Review

Let’s Dive into Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065

The Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 is a compact and affordable tool designed for a variety of outdoor tasks. Coghlans promises a durable, portable digging solution that can be easily stowed in a pack or vehicle. This shovel’s simple design and low price point make it an attractive option for anyone needing a basic digging tool without breaking the bank.

I was looking for a lightweight and compact shovel to keep in my truck’s emergency kit and for occasional use during camping trips. Weight and packability were my primary concerns, and I needed something that could handle basic digging tasks without taking up too much space. The Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 seemed to fit the bill.

Unboxing the Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065, my initial impression was one of utilitarian simplicity. It felt surprisingly solid for its size and price. The metal handle and shaft appeared sturdy, and the locking collar seemed secure enough to prevent accidental collapse during use.

I considered several other folding shovels, including models from Gerber and SOG. However, those options were significantly more expensive and, for my intended use, seemed like overkill. I chose the Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 because it offered a balance of functionality, portability, and affordability.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It didn’t scream “high-end,” but it seemed capable of handling basic tasks and its compact size was definitely a plus. I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 during a weekend camping trip in the local national forest. I primarily used it for digging a small fire pit and burying human waste. The soil was a mix of loose dirt and small rocks.

In dry conditions, the shovel performed adequately. The forged steel blade was sharp enough to penetrate the soil with moderate effort, and the locking collar held securely. However, I quickly realized the shovel’s limitations when encountering larger rocks and roots.

The short handle made it somewhat awkward to generate significant leverage, and the small blade size meant it took considerably longer to dig than with a full-sized shovel. I also noticed some slight flexing in the handle when applying significant force.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 has held up reasonably well. There are no major signs of damage or breakage. The blade still shows no significant rust, despite being stored in a damp truck bed toolbox at times.

The paint on the handle has started to chip in a few places. The locking collar has become slightly looser but still functions effectively. Maintenance is simple: I usually wipe it down with a cloth and apply a light coat of oil to the blade after each use to prevent rust.

Compared to a full-sized shovel, the Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 is clearly less efficient for serious digging. However, its compact size and portability make it a worthwhile compromise for situations where space is limited. I have used sturdier options in the past, but not at this price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065

Specifications

• Tempered Forged Steel Blade: This provides a moderately durable cutting edge for digging in various soil conditions. The steel should resist bending or breaking under normal use.
• Metal Handle and Shaft: Offers decent strength and stability, albeit with a potential for flexing under heavy loads. Metal offers some resistance to breakage compared to plastic, at the expense of added weight.
• Positive Locking Collar: Secures the blade in the open position to prevent accidental folding during use. The reliability of the collar is crucial for user safety and efficiency.
• Length Open: 23 inches: Provides a reasonable reach for digging while standing or kneeling. This length is a compromise between portability and usability.
• Length Folded: 10 inches: Allows for compact storage in a backpack, vehicle, or gear kit. The small folded size is a key selling point for portability.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the shovel’s usability and durability. The steel blade’s quality determines its cutting ability and resistance to wear. The handle and shaft’s strength affect how much force you can apply without bending or breaking the shovel. The locking collar ensures the shovel remains safely open during use.

Performance & Functionality

The Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 performs adequately for basic digging tasks. It’s suitable for creating small fire pits, burying waste, and clearing debris. However, it struggles with hard-packed soil, large rocks, or dense root systems.

Its main strengths are its portability and low cost. Weaknesses include limited leverage due to the short handle and potential for flexing under heavy loads. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly folding shovel but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The materials are basic but functional. The shovel feels somewhat lightweight, which is both a pro and a con; it’s easy to carry but lacks the heft of a more robust tool.

The design is simple and straightforward, and there’s no real learning curve. The ergonomics are adequate but not exceptional. The handle could be more comfortable for extended use.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 should last for several years of occasional use. It’s not designed for heavy-duty tasks but can withstand reasonable wear and tear.

Maintenance is relatively easy. Keeping the blade clean and lightly oiled will prevent rust. The locking collar may require occasional tightening or lubrication.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 comes with no accessories. There are no readily available customization options. It’s a basic, no-frills tool designed for simple functionality.

Aftermarket modification would be limited due to the construction of the handle and blade. It is designed as-is and not to be easily modified.

Pros and Cons of Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065

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Who Should Buy Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065?

Perfect for: Budget-conscious campers, hikers, and those assembling emergency preparedness kits. It’s also suitable for gardeners who need a small, portable tool for light tasks.

Who should skip this product? Those who require a heavy-duty shovel for frequent or demanding digging tasks. Landscapers, contractors, and serious survivalists will need a more robust tool.

Must-have accessories or modifications? None are truly essential, but a small sharpening stone could help maintain the blade’s edge. A pair of work gloves would improve comfort and grip.

Conclusion on Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065

The Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065 is a decent option for those needing a basic, portable digging tool on a budget. It’s not a high-performance shovel, but it offers acceptable functionality for its price. It is very portable, and capable of light tasks.

The price is justified for what it is: a simple, no-frills tool that gets the job done in a pinch. Don’t expect to move mountains, but for basic tasks, it’s a worthwhile addition to your gear.

I would recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and compact shovel for light-duty tasks. If you need a shovel for anything more strenuous, invest in a higher-quality, full-sized option. So go ahead and grab the Coghlans Folding Shovel 9065, and get digging!