How to Choose Snow Shovels

Featuring a D-grip handle, oval/concave shaft, and a stomp edge on the blade, the Backcountry Access Dozer 2D is a sturdy and reliable midsize avalanche shovel to carry on those backcountry tours.




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Imported.
View all Backcountry Access Snow Shovels| Best Use | Backcountry Skiing |
|---|---|
| Blade Construction | Heat-treated 6061 aluminum |
| Blade Size | 11.5 x 9.75 inches |
| Packed Length | 15.25 inches |
| Extended Length (in.) | 23.25 inches |
| Weight | 1 lb. 9 oz. |
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I bought this shovel last season, and I'm pleased to say it performs. My initial thought was to have a packable scoop for building ski jumps and camp sites, but it has proven its worth all around. This shovel has come in clutch to clear snow plow ridges from driveways, and even extract my brother's car when he high-sided on a snowbank. Well worth the asking price. Of course it's collapsible and comes apart, so you can pack it in a few configurations. It conforms to the outside of a medium-sized backpack pretty well. Attached is a photo of how I carry it in the woods or on the mountain. Should be quick enough to put together after a snow slide. Broken down, the scoop and handle don't take much space inside a pack. In terms of design, the square scoop shoulder is definitely "stompable" when digging in packed/icy snow. It's built right. Additionally, the D-handle is sturdier and more ergonomic than I was expecting. I'm happy to have the 2D instead of the 2H, but the hoe function seems like it has its place for digging snow test pits. One thing I've noticed after a while is the blue anodizing wears off between the handle and the retaining socket. That's how you know you've gotten your money's worth. This shovel will make a perfect gift for my brother, and will serve you well too.
The product copy on the REI website lists the extended length as 23.5". That is the length of THE SHAFT ONLY WHEN OFF THE SHOVEL. The extended length of the shovel with the shaft on the blade is about 31". Much more useful than the listed 23.5"! I haven't used it in the snow yet, but this seems like a sturdy, lightweight back country shovel. Light enough to take with you but a big enough blade to move snow. I will use it more for day trips than overnight trips, and use a heavier shovel with a longer shaft for all the digging I do when snow camping.