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An essential part of your backcountry safety gear is an
avalanche shovel, a necessity for digging victims out of the snow in an avalanche. The action of shoveling avalanche debris is more of a chop and removal of debris than it is shoveling. A good shovel and strategic shoveling technique is critical for a timely rescue.
Things to consider when choosing an avalanche shovel:
Material
Metal is the most effective material for an avalanche safety shovel that you plan to use in the backcountry. Aluminum shovels allow for less deflection and are stronger and more durable than plastic shovels. Plastic may be lightweight but metal allows for more successful snow removal.
Blade Size and Shapes
Most shovel blades these days are about the same size. However, smaller blades are easier to handle but less efficient at chopping and moving snow while larger blades can move more snow but take more strength to operate. Your shovel blade should fit easily in your backpack. It should be strong and capable of chopping through hard and dense avalanche debris. When digging snow pits and making smooth walls the angle of the shovel blade is a factor to consider, a flat blade will help you create a smoother pit wall. Some shovel blades are flat others have serrated or pointed blades that help cut through snow and ice.
Handles and Grips
Look for a handle that provides good ergonomics while shoveling and will also store inside of your backpack. Most shovels have telescoping handles. Longer handles give you more leverage for digging. There are two common grip types. T-shaped grips are often lighter, while larger D-shaped grips are often more comfortable to hold and can be used with mittens. Choose a shovel grip that works well for you.
Weight
When touring, we often try to pack as light as possible, however your shovel is not the place to cut back on weight. You want the burliest shovel around for the most effective digging and shoveling during a rescue situation.
American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education // American Avalanche Association // Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center
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