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Reviews > Snow Gear > Axes and Shovels > Lifeline Sport Utility Shovel > Owner Review by Doug White
LIFELINE ALUMINUM SPORT UTILITY SHOVEL
TESTER INFORMATION
Backpacking Background: I've been backpacking for several years. I have tested a lot of different systems to find what works the best for me. I pack as light as possible without sacrificing comfort and functionality. I enjoy backpacking in all kinds of weather including winter. I also do snowshoeing and year round mountaineering as well. I backpack in the Rocky Mountains just below treeline most of the time. My trips are normally at least a few miles (5 km) or more. Anytime I can get out and enjoy the mountains, even for a day hike, I do. PRODUCT INFORMATION
Manufacturer: Lifeline FIELD USE I have used this shovel on about 10 overnight trips in temperatures as low as 0 F (-17 C). I have used it in thick forested regions and at treeline. I have also used it on day hikes along with multi-day backpacking trips. Since I've owned the shovel, I carry it on all trips where I will encounter snow, even on day hikes. I have used it to dig down to about waist-level and have also used it in shallow snow. I have carried it in my pack both in a collapsed state and in a fully dis-assembled state in its three pieces. My Experience
To start with, I like the shovel so much, that I keep it in my vehicle at all times. I live in an area where even in the summer at higher elevations, snow may be encountered. Any hike I take where there is even a possibility of snow, I carry this shovel. The shovel has served me well during my winter adventures. It feels very sturdy and I have never felt like I would break it. I will note that the aluminum does gouge easily if I try moving chunks of ice or accidentally hit dirt or rock. I normally carry the shovel on the side of my pack in its collapsed position and supported by my side straps on the pack. When I get to camp in the snow, it is normally the first item that I pull off my pack. I move it to its fully extended position and plant it in the snow so it's ready for work. While on my pack, I have noticed that the factory edges of the aluminum blade are pretty sharp, so I have added some Gorilla Tape to the blade where it contacts the strap on my pack to prevent the shovel from cutting my pack strap. I have shown this in the photos. I have noticed the shovel rattles and is a little noisy when carrying it in my pack. At this time, I have not had to use this shovel during an avalanche recovery, thankfully, so I can't comment on its ability to move a large amount of snow in an urgent situation. THINGS I LIKE
Lightweight THINGS I DON'T LIKE
Aluminum gouges easily Summary This has been a great shovel for me. I really feel that backcountry shovels are somewhat similar in a lot of ways, so this particular shovel really has tremendous value for the affordable price that it is offered at. It's a big peace of mind for me to have this in my pack or in my vehicle where I can get myself or someone else out of a bad situation. It's staying in my pack for sure. Signature Product reviewed by Doug White. This report was created with the BackpackGearTest.org Report Writer Version 1. Copyright 2015. All rights reserved.Read more reviews of Lifeline gear Read more gear reviews by Doug White Reviews > Snow Gear > Axes and Shovels > Lifeline Sport Utility Shovel > Owner Review by Doug White |