Coleman Folding Shovel​ & Pick Review

We’re talking about a classic design from Coleman that is built from tempered forged steel. We’ve spent time using this shovel for everything from digging fire pits to light recovery work to determine if it’s tough enough to earn a permanent spot in your outdoor kit.

What You’re Getting

A multi-purpose folding shovel and pick combo made from tempered forged steel. It weighs 590g and features a saw edge and a positive locking collar for secure deployment.

First impressions

The moment you pick up the Coleman folding shovel, its compact design is immediately impressive. It folds down to a tiny, easy-to-manage bundle measuring just 18.4 cm long, fitting effortlessly into the included green carry bag. For a tool made of forged steel, it’s surprisingly light at 590g.

The black finish gives it a sharp look, and the handle features a good grip, which is essential for any digging tool. Unfolding it is simple, just pivot the blade and the pick out and secure them using the positive locking collar. After screwing on the handle, it transforms instantly from a small, flat package into a handy shovel/pick combo.

Materials & Build Quality

The main construction of the Coleman folding shovel is made from tempered forged steel components . This is a huge advantage over cheaper shovels made of stamped or brittle metal, as forging aligns the metal grains, creating a stronger, more impact-resistant tool. This makes the blade less likely to bend or break when you hit a stubborn rock or root.

While the steel itself is durable, the folding mechanism is the key to its build. It features a positive locking collar, which tightens down to hold the blade firmly in either the shovel position or at a 90-degree angle for use as a trenching tool/hoe. The pick is also secured by the same collar mechanism. The handle has a decent plastic grip that feels comfortable in the hand. The main constraint in the build is the pivot points; these are where dirt can build up, so keeping the mechanism clean is essential to ensure the locking collar doesn’t seize when you need it most.

Ergonomics & Weight

At only 590g, you can practically forget the Coleman folding shovel and pick is in your pack. This makes it an ideal piece for short hikes where minimal digging is required. Its compact folded size of 18.4 cm is perfect for stowing in small spaces, like under a seat or in a drawer unit within your 4WD Storage.

When fully extended, the shovel is small, and the handle length is fairly short. You are definitely stooping over to dig, making it unsuitable for large volume excavation. However, for quick jobs like levelling a tent site, digging a cat hole for waste, or breaking up fire pits, the short handle gives you precision and control.

The dual function as a pick is excellent, it pivots out easily and is perfect for breaking up hard, compacted soil before you start shovelling. The plastic grip on the handle also provides enough leverage to push and pull comfortably without rubbing your hand raw, making it a functional and portable tool.

Performance & Features

The Coleman folding shovel and pick is a multi-purpose tool that performs best at light to medium tasks. The shovel blade is strong enough for digging in typical campsite dirt, and the serrated saw edge along one side of the blade is surprisingly useful for cutting through small roots or breaking up thick sod when clearing a pitch for a Swag or tent.

The standout feature is the integrated pick. By flipping the blade 90 degrees, you can use the pick to break up stubborn, hard-packed earth or clay. This capability is fantastic for making a small trench around your tent or creating a drainage channel. If you take your vehicle off-road, the Coleman folding shovel can even serve as an emergency tool to clear mud or sand from around a tyre for light recovery situations, though you wouldn’t use it to replace a full-sized recovery shovel. It’s a versatile, three-in-one design (shovel, pick, saw) that delivers utility far exceeding its minimal 590g weight.