On Tue, 18 Oct 2005 21:08:21 -0600, Ed Huesers
wrote:

Booker C. Bense wrote:
Lexan plastic shovels are probably stronger than alloy, but they
tend to bounce off hard snow, rather than chop.

Lexan shovels have got a few things going against them.
First off, the blade is way thicker than a metal blade which means
more snow has to be displaced for the blade to penetrate the snow the
same distance. This requires more energy.
Second, the blade is not ridged and tends to absorb some of the
initial impact that displaces the snow. Much like a shock absorber.
Third, the shape of the bucket is different than the metal blades
I've used and they tend to pop out before the shovel reaches maximum
depth. This means more chops/volume. This popping out also does some
kind of weird twist to the shovel handle and my wrist. I'm getting older
and things like that bother my joints and make it feel like I could
develop carpal tunnel syndrome.
I think I've shoveled a fare bit of snow and should know the difference.

Ed Huesers
Http://www.grandshelters.com

Depends on the local snow, but I would agree with both Booker and Ed.
For really hard pack snow, with a freeze-thaw cycle or two, the metal
shovel is clearly better. In those areas like the Northeast and
Northwest, where wet snow and freeze-thaw is common, very important.

Also, when you say plastic shovel, some will end up with the really
cheapy ones. At least one outdoor retailer I have seen putting the
cheap plastic and good plastic shovels next to each other.

If someone were to be digging me out, I would want them to have the
best shovel available. ;-)

Test a shovel on a plowed snowbank after it freezes. That should tell
you what you need to know.

Happy trails,
Gary (net.yogi.bear)
--
At the 51st percentile of ursine intelligence

Gary D. Schwartz, Needham, MA, USA
Please reply to: garyDOTschwartzATpoboxDOTcom