My shovel went to the beauty shop...

It's getting close to DIV so I figured I would get my shovels ready for what could lie ahead. I've noticed that when it's raining outside, I can barely get any grip on my digging tools because they are smooth metal, especially after the paint job fades.

I sanded my [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] Model 80 Relic Pro down to remove any rust and dirt. Sharpened the blade up a bit. After a thorough cleaning, I gave the handle and shaft a couple of coats of Rustoleum primer. This gives a nice finish and one that gives your gloves a little extra grip in wet conditions. I then gave the blade a couple of coats of Rustoleum gloss black. After the paint had dried, I waxed the blade using car wax.

In theory, if it's raining, this would help with the mud/clay sticking to the blade. I'm hoping we don't have to worry about the rain/snow, but it's good to plan ahead regardless. Here is the finished Model 80 sitting beside my Model 88 Hercules.

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I will be dropping my shovels off at your place in the morning.

Ian,

I never leave home without my long handled Model 80 (Mr. T) and my Model 55 Pegasus (long handle). If you haven't tried the Pegasus it is great in tough soil and heavy roots. The narrow blade sinks into the ground like a warm knife in butter and pulls a perfect 8 inch plug and the long handles are a lot easier on old backs and shoulders.

Tom Henrique