quality metal entrenching tool

[Timelord]

Entrenching tools are a handy bit of kit and will perform other jobs too. They make very effective self defence weapons and have far more power & reach than a knife. In this circumstance they act just like a battle axe and the results are frightening. I think most people underestimate their usefulness and the ability to dig & move earth around has many purposes. That is why I am mainly building my multipurpose camp tool - because I realise the extra arsenal the entrenching tool gives you. However, I do not recommend the folding type. They are weak at the screw joint. The old fixed type with webbing carrying pouch was much more robust and is now sought after but still readily available. The only downside to a specific entrenching tool is the extra weight and clutter if intended for foot based bug out kit. For a vehicle they are excellent. Why anyone would want a full size shovel for the usual survival scenarios is unknown to me. I don't think the originator of the thread was suggesting an entrenching tool for home use..

By the way - just because in the military it is called an "Entrenching Tool", does not mean it is only for digging entrenchments.