Replace it less. Work More

A trenching shovel is only as good as the crew depending on it. Metal Concepts Sharpshooter® shovels are engineered for clean, narrow trenches - whether you're running irrigation lines, pulling conduit, or digging post footings by hand. The blade geometry is designed for penetrating compacted soil and clay without flexing, bending, or breaking mid-job. Trusted by irrigation contractors, landscaping crews, utility workers, and municipalities, these aren't tools you replace every season. Browse the full catalog below.

 

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

  • Running irrigation line or pulling conduit: The standard Sharpshooter® (78", 13 lbs) is the workhorse. Enough weight to drive through compacted soil, long enough to reach depth on most residential and commercial installs.
  • Digging in ground with heavy hardpan or rocky layers: Start with the Dig Bar Sharpshooter®. The 12" forged hex bar breaks the surface first, then you switch to digging. Saves the blade and saves your back.
  • Working in a tight trench or close to existing lines: The D-Handle gives you more control in confined space. Shorter grip means you're not fighting the handle when the trench walls close in.
  • Compact crew kit or lighter load-out: The Shorty is noticeably lighter and easier to maneuver in low-clearance spots. Works great for teams that need a grab-and-go option.

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Sharpshooter Shovel | Metal Concepts

Sharpshooter Shovel | Metal Concepts

Regular price $139.99
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Sharpshooter Shovel: The Ultimate Digging Tool for Tough Jobs Built to handle the toughest digging...
Dig Bar Sharpshooter Shovel | Metal Concepts

Dig Bar Sharpshooter Shovel | Metal Concepts

Regular price $179.99
Sale price $179.99 Regular price
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Metal Concepts Dig Bar Sharpshooter Shovel: The Ultimate Tool for Tough Groundbreaking Jobs Take on...
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Frequently Asked Questions

+What makes a trenching shovel different from a regular shovel?

A trenching shovel has a narrow, elongated blade designed to cut clean, straight-walled trenches for pipes, conduit, and irrigation lines. Standard shovels have wider blades meant for moving loose material - they're not built for the precision or soil penetration a trenching job demands.

+What's the best trenching shovel for irrigation contractors?

The Metal Concepts Sharpshooter® is purpose-built for irrigation work. Its blade profile cuts narrow, clean trenches for pipe and valve installs, and the handle is designed for all-day use without fatigue. It's the go-to choice for crews running multiple installs per day.

+Can I use a trenching shovel in hard or rocky soil?

Yes - Metal Concepts shovels are built specifically for compacted clay, rocky soil, and hard ground that breaks cheaper tools. The blade is heat-treated for edge retention, and the handle is rated for high-impact use.

+How long does a Metal Concepts trenching 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 - if a tool has a manufacturing defect, Metal Concepts will replace it at no charge. See full details on the warranty page.

+Do you offer bulk or crew pricing on trenching shovels?

Yes - orders of 2 or more shovels qualify for 15% off. Use promo code METALCONCEPTS at checkout.

+What's the difference between a trenching shovel and a drain spade?

The terms are often used interchangeably in the trades. Both have narrow blades for precision digging. Drain spades typically have a slightly rounded tip, while trenching or sharpshooter shovels often have a pointed tip for better soil penetration. Metal Concepts' Sharpshooter® design combines the best of both.

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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.