With the multitude of shovels on the market, picking one that is right for you isn’t always easy. As Bob Denman, a gardener who makes, sells, and repairs garden tools at his store in Orange, California, explains, how tall you are, how strong you are, and how you intend to use your shovel all affect your choice.

From head size and shape to handle length, thickness, and orientation, Denman shares a whole list of things to look for when purchasing a shovel. Now, if you could just get someone to use it for you . . .

Denman’s article “Choosing and Using the Right Tools” in the November/December 2001 issue of Fine Gardening (#82), has tips for choosing and using shovels and other gardening tools as well. Check out his other video tip, How to Use a Shovel Safely.