Introduction: Back-Saving Two-Handled Snow Shovel
Never bend over again to shovel snow! Add a second handle from any broken tool with a D-handle (or even a cheapy shovel cut off), two pieces of plywood and a few nuts and bolts. It works even better than those expensive curved handle shovels you see in the store.
Step 1: A Little Prep
Cut two pieces of scrap ply approx 9x16", cut a handle down to about 20" long, buy six bolts, washers and nuts the appropriate length for the thickness of the second handle and two pieces of ply, typically 3 inches.
Step 2: Layout on the Ply
Lay out the placement of the shovel's handle, and the second handle on one of the pieces of ply. Four of the bolts go AROUND the shovel handle (making it transferrable to a new shovel when the blade cracks or whatever) and two of the bolts go THROUGH the second handle. I have eight on mine, but six is ok. The angle can be whatever is comfortable for you. For me it was about 60 degrees, and the top of the second handle should be about the same height from the ground as the shovel handle when its in use, at a good angle to the ground.
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!
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!