Post Hole Shovels Built to Cut Clean, Straight Holes

Setting a fence line is only as fast as the tool cutting the holes. Metal Concepts Sharpshooter® post hole shovels are built to slice narrow, straight-walled holes for fence posts, mailboxes, deck footings, and sign posts — without the blade flexing or the handle giving out halfway down the run. The pointed blade drives through compacted soil, clay, and rocky ground that snaps fiberglass-handled shovels. Trusted by fence contractors, landscapers, and utility crews who set posts all day. Browse the catalog below. Not sure which model fits your dig? The standard Sharpshooter® is the workhorse, or start with the Dig Bar Sharpshooter® when you're breaking hardpan. Need a lot of them? Check fleet pricing.

Not sure which model to grab? Here's a quick breakdown based on the job:

  • Setting standard fence or mailbox posts: The standard Sharpshooter® (78", 13 lbs) is the workhorse. The weight drives through packed soil and the long shaft reaches depth without extra digging tools.
  • Digging in hardpan, clay, or rocky ground: Start with the Dig Bar Sharpshooter®. The 12" forged hex bar breaks the surface and loosens rock first, then you switch to digging. Saves the blade and saves your back.
  • Working close to existing posts, fences, or lines: The D-Handle gives you more control in tight spots. The shorter grip means you're not fighting the handle when clearance is limited.
  • Grab-and-go crew kit or lighter load-out: The Shorty is lighter and easier to maneuver in low-clearance spots. Good option for teams that want a compact tool on the truck.

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Shorty Sharpshooter Shovel | Metal Concepts

Shorty Sharpshooter Shovel | Metal Concepts

Regular price $119.99
Sale price $119.99 Regular price
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  The "Shorty" Sharpshooter Shovel: Compact Power for Everyday Digging Meet the blue "Shorty" Sharpshooter...
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Frequently Asked Questions

+What kind of shovel is best for digging fence post holes?

 A narrow, pointed shovel like the Metal Concepts Sharpshooter® cuts clean, straight-walled holes with less soil disturbance than a wide spade. The pointed blade penetrates compacted ground, and the all-steel build holds up to repeated post-setting without bending or snapping.

+Can I use a Sharpshooter shovel instead of a post hole digger?

 Yes. For most residential and commercial post work, a Sharpshooter® digs and clears a tight hole faster than a clamshell digger, especially in hard or rocky soil where clamshell diggers stall. Many crews carry both, but reach for the Sharpshooter® first.

+Will it work in hard clay or rocky soil?

Yes. Metal Concepts shovels are built for compacted clay, rock, and hardpan that break cheaper tools. For the toughest ground, start with the Dig Bar Sharpshooter® to break the surface, then switch to the blade for digging.

+How deep can I dig a post hole with a Sharpshooter?

The standard Sharpshooter® is 78 inches long, so it reaches the depth most fence, mailbox, and sign posts require without a separate tool. For deeper footings, pair it with the Dig Bar to loosen ground as you go.

+Do you offer bulk or crew pricing on post hole shovels?

Yes. Orders of 2 or more shovels qualify for 15% off with promo code METALCONCEPTS at checkout. For larger crews and repeat orders, see our fleet pricing page.

+How long will a Metal Concepts shovel last?

With normal professional use, Metal Concepts shovels are designed to outlast multiple seasons. They're guaranteed free from defects in materials and workmanship, and Metal Concepts will replace any tool with a manufacturing defect at no charge. See full details on the warranty page.

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Our Promise

American-made tools, guaranteed to last.

What's Covered

Free replacement for defects with proof of purchase.

What's Not Covered

Wear, missing parts, misuse, or modifications.

Use With Care

Built for digging — not for unintended jobs.

What Our Customers Are Saying

Turns Digging from Chore to Enjoyable

This shovel’s extended handle, weight and sharpened straight blade have changed my attitude towards digging. What was once a slow tiresome chore is now efficient and enjoyable. Coupled with a lightweight spade for dirt removal, I can quickly blast a large hole or trench into almost any terrain or take out a stubborn stump or post. Must-have tool for DIYers and tradesmen.(Amazon.com)

Amazon Customer

The Best Shovels for Every Job, Built to Last

I've been a General Contractor for most of my adult life. I have dug holes in every soil type. The Metal Concepts shovels are the best hand digging shovels on the market. All their products are of high quality and will last. If you need a custom product, they have a team of people that can help. Thank you, Metal Concepts, for making our jobs a little easier.(WLF Development LLC)

Woody Farnsworth

The Ultimate Tool for Tough Excavations and Precision Work

For really hard conditions, we have the utmost need for the best manual digging tool in existence, to be used along with a shovel. I reserve that accolade of the best manual digging tool for a perfectly engineered and constructed piece of iron ingenuity called a Sharpshooter (pictured). We use it every day; it’s fantastic for everything involving excavations, prying and leveraging.(John & Bob’s Blog)

John Valentino

Putting the Sharpshooter Shovel to the Test

Watch as one of our team members takes on a massive tree with tough, tangled roots using the Metal Concepts Sharpshooter Shovel. See firsthand how precision design and durable construction make the toughest jobs easier.