Let’s Talk About Schrade Shovel Saw Combo W/ W/ Sheath And Other Tools
The Schrade Shovel Saw Combo W/ W/ Sheath And Other Tools is a multi-tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists, promising a blend of practicality and portability. Made by Schrade, a name often associated with affordable utility, this combo attempts to pack several essential functions into a single, compact package. It aims to be the go-to tool for digging, sawing, and even basic survival tasks, all while being easy to carry.
I’ve always been on the lookout for versatile tools that can lighten my load during backcountry trips. The promise of a shovel, saw, and survival kit in one package intrigued me, especially given Schrade’s reputation for delivering functional, if not always high-end, gear. The idea of having a compact tool that could handle tasks ranging from digging a fire pit to building a shelter was very appealing.
Upon unboxing the Schrade Shovel Saw Combo, my initial impression was mixed. The tool felt surprisingly lightweight, thanks to the aluminum handle, which raised concerns about its durability. The black oxide coating on the steel shovel and saw blades looked decent, but the overall finish seemed somewhat basic.
I considered several other options before settling on the Schrade combo. There were dedicated folding shovels from Gerber and E-Tool, and folding saws from Sven-Saw and Bahco. However, those options only solved one problem, where this Schrade attempts to solve many.
My first impression was a blend of cautious optimism and healthy skepticism. The concept was excellent, but I needed to see if the Schrade Shovel Saw Combo could deliver on its promises in real-world situations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Schrade Shovel Saw Combo W/ W/ Sheath And Other Tools to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Schrade Shovel Saw Combo took place during a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. I used the shovel to clear a fire pit area and to level a small patch of ground for my tent. The saw came in handy for trimming small branches for kindling.
The shovel worked surprisingly well in soft soil, but it struggled with rocky terrain. The saw blade, while sharp initially, became noticeably dull after cutting through a few pieces of hardwood. The compass was cheap and inaccurate, giving me a feeling of distrust.
It took a little getting used to the interchangeable heads, but the lightweight aluminum handle made maneuvering the shovel and saw manageable. The small ruler etched onto the shovel head proved useful for measuring firewood, but the bottle opener felt flimsy and likely to break.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of sporadic use, the Schrade Shovel Saw Combo’s shortcomings have become more apparent. The aluminum handle has held up surprisingly well, but the black oxide coating on the shovel and saw blades is showing signs of wear and rust.
The shovel has developed a slight wobble at the connection point, and the saw blade needs frequent sharpening to maintain its cutting ability. The ferro rod still sparks, but it’s small and awkward to use with cold or gloved hands. The survival kit, though compact, is very basic.
Compared to my experience with a dedicated Gerber folding shovel, the Schrade shovel is less durable and efficient. I also compared it to my folding Bahco Laplander saw, and the Schrade falls far short in cutting performance and longevity. Ultimately, the Schrade Shovel Saw Combo tries to do many things, but does none of them exceptionally well.
Breaking Down the Features of Schrade Shovel Saw Combo W/ W/ Sheath And Other Tools
Specifications
- The Schrade Shovel Saw Combo features a 3CR13 Steel Blade, chosen for its balance of hardness and corrosion resistance. However, this type of steel is at the lower end of the scale for edge retention.
- The handle is made of lightweight Aluminum, which helps reduce overall weight but compromises durability compared to steel. Aluminum dents easily.
- The overall dimensions of the kit are 2.15 X 6.70 X 12.60 in, making it relatively compact for storage and transport. It is easy to pack.
- The shovel head is 6.5″ long, suitable for basic digging tasks but less efficient than a full-sized shovel. Expect to spend more time digging.
- The saw blade has a 7.6″ cutting length, adequate for small branches and kindling, but underpowered for larger tasks. You will struggle to fell trees.
- The kit includes a built-in ruler, bottle opener, several hex wrenches, a compass, and a ferro rod. However, the overall quality of these tools is questionable.
These specifications matter because they define the tool’s intended use and limitations. The lightweight aluminum handle is great for portability, but it sacrifices some durability. The steel blade is okay for basic tasks, but it requires frequent sharpening.
Performance & Functionality
The Schrade Shovel Saw Combo performs adequately for light-duty tasks. It’s suitable for clearing a campsite, digging small holes, and cutting small branches.
The shovel struggles in hard or rocky soil, and the saw blade dulls quickly. The included survival tools are a nice bonus, but their quality is subpar.
The combo meets basic expectations for a multi-tool at its price point, but it doesn’t exceed them. A dedicated shovel or saw would perform significantly better for any particular task.
Design & Ergonomics
The Schrade Shovel Saw Combo is designed with portability in mind, featuring a lightweight aluminum handle and interchangeable heads. However, the handle can feel slippery when wet.
The quick-release mechanism for swapping between the shovel and saw heads is relatively easy to use. However, the locking mechanism can feel a little flimsy.
The design prioritizes compactness over comfort and efficiency. The handle is short and not ergonomically shaped.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Schrade Shovel Saw Combo is a concern, particularly with the aluminum handle and lower-grade steel blades. The black oxide coating is prone to scratching and rust.
The tool requires regular cleaning and oiling to prevent rust and maintain functionality. The saw blade will require frequent sharpening.
With proper care, the Schrade Shovel Saw Combo should last for a few seasons of occasional use. But it’s not built for heavy-duty tasks or frequent abuse.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Schrade Shovel Saw Combo comes with a sheath for storage and transport, which is a welcome addition. The sheath is made of nylon and has a belt loop for easy carry.
There are no readily available customization options for the Schrade Shovel Saw Combo. The handle and blades are proprietary and not easily interchangeable with aftermarket parts.
The included accessories are basic but functional. The compass is cheap and inaccurate, and the ferro rod is small and difficult to use.
Pros and Cons of Schrade Shovel Saw Combo W/ W/ Sheath And Other Tools
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Lightweight and compact design for easy portability.
- Multiple functions including shovel, saw, and basic survival tools.
- Includes a sheath for convenient storage and transport.
- The shovel is functional in soft soil.
Cons
- Lower-grade steel blade dulls quickly and is prone to rust.
- Aluminum handle lacks durability compared to steel.
- Included compass is cheap and inaccurate.
- Questionable durability of the locking mechanism for the heads.
Who Should Buy Schrade Shovel Saw Combo W/ W/ Sheath And Other Tools?
The Schrade Shovel Saw Combo is perfect for:
- Casual campers and hikers looking for a lightweight, multi-purpose tool.
- Budget-conscious individuals who need a basic shovel and saw for occasional use.
- Those seeking a compact emergency tool for their car or bug-out bag.
Who should skip this product?
- Serious outdoorsmen and survivalists who require durable and reliable tools.
- Individuals who frequently work in harsh environments or require heavy-duty tools.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A sharpening stone or file to maintain the saw blade’s cutting ability.
- A higher-quality compass for accurate navigation.
- Replacement ferro rod.
Conclusion on Schrade Shovel Saw Combo W/ W/ Sheath And Other Tools
The Schrade Shovel Saw Combo W/ W/ Sheath And Other Tools is a jack-of-all-trades, master of none. It offers a decent value proposition for casual users who prioritize portability and affordability.
The price is definitely justified for what you get: a basic multi-tool that can handle light-duty tasks. But serious outdoorsmen and survivalists will be better served by investing in dedicated, high-quality tools.
I would cautiously recommend the Schrade Shovel Saw Combo to individuals who understand its limitations and use it accordingly. Don’t expect it to replace a full-sized shovel or a high-quality saw. It’s a decent option for emergency preparedness, but not for heavy use. If you need a compact, lightweight, and affordable tool for occasional use, this might be worth considering.