How to Choose the Best Pickaxe for You

Your Guide to buying the best Pickaxe

Overview

A pickaxe is an essential tool for anyone who works in construction, mining, gardening, and other related industries. It is a multi-purpose tool used to break apart rocks, tear up hard soil, and even cut through roots and other materials. When choosing a pickaxe, it is important to consider factors such as the weight, length, and material of the pickaxe, as well as the purpose for which it will be used. This buying guide will help you find the perfect pickaxe for your needs, so you can get the job done efficiently and safely.

Key features

  1. Type: Consider the type of pickaxe you need. Do you need a standard pickaxe, one with a hammering end, or a lightweight version?
  2. Material: Look for pickaxes made out of sturdy, long-lasting materials such as metal, steel, and reinforced wood.
  3. Head Shape: Consider the shape of the head you need - pointed, flat, or rounded?
  4. Handle: Look for a handle that is comfortable to hold and has a non-slip grip.
  5. Blade: Look for a pickaxe with a sharp edge that will stay sharp for a long time.
  6. Weight: Heavier pickaxes can be difficult to use, so consider the weight of the pickaxe before you purchase it.
  7. Size: Look for a pickaxe that is the right size for the job you need it for. A pickaxe that is too large or too small may not be effective.

See the most popular Pickaxe on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability - Pickaxe tools are made of tough, heat-treated steel, making them extremely durable and able to withstand hard use.
  • Versatility - Pickaxe tools can be used for a variety of tasks including digging, prying, splitting, breaking, and cutting.
  • Ease of Use - Pickaxes are designed to be easy to handle and use, making them suitable for both novice and professional users.
  • Affordability - Pickaxe tools are generally inexpensive and widely available, making them a cost-effective and accessible option for many potential buyers.
  • Maintenance - Pickaxe tools require minimal maintenance, so they can remain in good working condition for a long period of time.

Cons

  • Weight - Pickaxes can be heavy and bulky, making them difficult to carry around and use in tight spaces.
  • Price - Pickaxes can be expensive, depending on the type and brand.
  • Durability - Pickaxes can wear down over time or break if used for heavy-duty tasks.
  • Maintenance - Pickaxes require regular maintenance to keep them in good working condition.
  • Safety - Pickaxes can be dangerous tools if used incorrectly.

Best alternatives

  1. Shovels - These are the most common type of digging tool used in gardening and construction. They have a wide blade and are great for digging and moving dirt or sand.
  2. Hoes - This is another traditional tool used for gardening and landscaping. Hoes have a wide, flat blade and are excellent for breaking soil, clearing weeds, and leveling soil.
  3. Spades - A spade is a long-handled digging tool with a pointed blade. It’s ideal for digging in hard soil, as well as for cutting through roots or breaking up soil.
  4. Rakes - Rakes are used for leveling soil, breaking up clumps of dirt, and removing debris and weeds. They come in various sizes and shapes, and can be used for both gardening and landscaping.
  5. Hammers - Hammers are great for pounding in nails and other fasteners, as well as for breaking up hard surfaces like masonry and concrete.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Pickaxe - A tool with a pointed, adze-like cutting head and a handle, used for shattering, digging, and chopping.
  • Safety Gloves - Gloves designed for protection from sharp edges and sharp objects.
  • Safety Goggles - Goggles designed to protect your eyes from flying debris.
  • Face Mask - A mask designed to keep dust and other particles from entering your lungs.
  • Hard Hat - A hat worn to protect your head from falling debris or objects.
  • Steel Toe Boots - Boots with a steel toe for extra protection while working.

Common questions

  1. What size pickaxe should I buy? Pickaxe size should depend on the job you have in mind. A smaller pickaxe is better for lighter jobs such as chipping and prying, while a large pickaxe is better for breaking and pushing through harder materials.
  2. Should I buy a wooden or steel handle? Both wooden and steel handles offer advantages, so it depends on the job type and personal preference. Wooden handles are more comfortable and provide shock absorption when striking, while steel handles are more durable and last longer.
  3. What type of head do I need? Pickaxe heads come in many shapes and sizes, and the type you need will depend on the job. A pointed head is best for chipping and prying, while a flat head is better for breaking and pushing through harder materials.
  4. What other features should I consider? When shopping for a pickaxe, consider factors such as weight, grip, and overall balance. A pickaxe should feel comfortable in your hand and be easy to control. Also, look for pickaxes with anti-corrosion coating or rust-resistant materials to ensure long-term durability.

Trivia

In 2015, a pickaxe was used to break into the Hamburg, Germany branch of the German Federal bank. The thieves used a pickaxe to break open a large reinforced window, making away with more than €3.5 million euros in cash. Initially, the bank believed the thieves used a sledgehammer to break the window, but upon further investigation, a pickaxe was discovered nearby. It was later determined that the thieves had used the pickaxe to break the window. The case remains unsolved. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.