shovel mod

[outofrshell]

After reading the feature article Essentials:Recovery Gear it got me to thinking that I had the means to make an aluminum handle for my shovel. I had found a piece of aluminum tubing about 8ft long X 1.5 OD X 1.0 ID and had been looking for a use for it. After cutting it to about 3ft which makes the shovel short enough to fit across inside my Trooper if I need to (like security). I made the taper by machining steps down to 1" and then smoothed it up with a file ( I don't have a taper attachment) and then fastened it the same as a wood handle with 2 rivets thru the socket of the shovel. I think this will be stout enough that if needed it could be used for other uses like a cheater pipe,pry bar or self defense against mad squirrels and such.
Dave

 

[AFBronco235]

Normally, I'm not one for metal shovel handles, but that one looks decent. Only thing I'd do different is replacing the rivets with a single steel pin at the joint. That way, you can use the handle as a cheater bar without a shovel head in the way. You may want to think about wrapping some kind of grip tape around the handle. Wet, muddy aluminum isn't much for grip. Or if you can, you could knurl it I guess.

 

[outofrshell]

I thought of knurling the handle but only after I finished the shovel (seems my thinking always follows my actions). I just order a follow rest for the lathe so when it gets here I'll set up to knurl the handle. The solution to removing the handle would be to use Grade 8 bolts and self locking nuts.
I use this saw when I have a car parked in the shop versus the chop saw, I have already ruined 1 window in my Trooper with the chop saw and thanks I bought it at an auction for just that reason I thought it was a neat old school tool. Dave

 

[rayra]

not a bad idea, combo tools are good. Round the end off and wrap the last couple feet with grip tape.

Get fancy and make both ends work with the shovel head, in case something goes wrong. Wrap a spare bolt/nut in a rag and stuff it in the end.

 

[TerryD]

You may also want to whip up a little plug for the opposite end out of plastic or something. Looks like a haven for bees and debris if left unattended for any length of time. Otherwise it looks awesome!

My Dad is trying to get me one of those saws from a friend of his back home and I just scored a early 1900's belt driven drill press. Super dangerous to use because of all the open belts and pulleys but super stout. Had to set it with my engine hoist because the hand truck axle bent when I tried to move it.