Back-Saving Two-Handled Snow Shovel

Step 3 Drill and assemble

Stack the two ply pieces and drill holes where you marked them.  Then clamp the ply onto the shovel with 4 (or 6) bolts, fit the second handle in where the holes are predrilled for it, and mark on the second handle.  Remove the second handle, drill the two holes in it where marked, and bolt it into the ply pieces. 

Note my posture - not bent over at all!  This also prevents uneven weight distribution on the back helping prevent dislocation.  And yet the shovel can be used normally, like to push it in front of you if you want.  Enjoy!

Comments

[GishPup]

This needs to be lightened as much as possible. Remember how difficult it can be to throw a large (heavy) load of snow!

I see some pencil marks on the plywood, which seem to suggest that the author has that in mind.

[HaPPI]

Yes, GishPup, you could lighten it a few ounces by trimming the ply, but the best way is to pick a light second handle, like from a cheapie snow shovel. My prototype was a light cheapie shovel as you can see and a fairly light hardwood and steel second handle from a broken garden spade, so it's not bad.

The real advantage of this rig is the load it takes off your lower back from being able to use two hands at waist level, and even a large shovelfull of slushy snow was manageable - the end of the driveway where the city plow plowed us in.

Free tip: use some car wax on the shovel blade to keep it slippery and light.

Happi Trails!