Top 8 Lightweight Spades for Long Metal Detecting Sessions

For metal detecting enthusiasts, the right spade can make all the difference to a full day out detecting. A lightweight, efficient spade not only makes digging easier but also reduces fatigue, allowing you to extend your detecting sessions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore and rank the top 8 best lightweight metal detecting spades that will help you dig comfortably for hours without exhaustion.

Why a Lightweight Spade is Crucial for Long Detecting Sessions

Before we reveal our rankings, let’s quickly address why a lightweight spade is essential for extended metal detecting:

1. Reduced Fatigue: Lighter spades minimize arm and back strain over long periods.
2. Increased Mobility: Easy to carry around large areas without feeling weighed down.
3. Improved Endurance: Less energy expended on digging means more time detecting.
4. Better Control: Lighter tools often allow for more precise digging, especially important for fragile finds.

But what actually qualifies as a lightweight metal detecting spade? There are a huge choice of spades out there but do you really want to be lugging a great lump of a spade out there for hours on end? There is an element of compromise here, because lightweight can suggest a lack of strength in the product or a spade that keeps the weight down by being smaller than other spades. If it is shorter and smaller is it less efficient or could it be uncomfortable to use because you are stooping down to use it.

A typical metal detecting spade weighs in at somewhere between 1.5 and 2kg, to qualify as a lightweight spade all of the spades in this review are no more than 1.25kg in weight.

Now, let’s explore and rank the top 9 lightweight spades for those marathon metal detecting sessions:

Top 9 Lightweight Spades for Long Metal Detecting Sessions – Ranked

1. Wilkinson Sword Ultralight Digging Spade – £39.99 (Best Overall)

Key Features:

• Weight: 1.19kg
• Length: 1000mm
• Rust-resistant stainless steel head
• Ergonomic D-grip handle
• Serrated edge for breaking up heavier soils

Why it’s our top pick: Up to 40% lighter than traditional digging spades, this tool offers an excellent balance of weight, length, and functionality. Its rust-resistant head and serrated edge make it versatile for various soil types encountered in metal detecting.

2. Black Ada Invader – £20.95 (Most Compact)

Key Features:

• Weight: 870 grams
• Length: 670mm
• 14 gauge mild steel blade
• Rubber handle for comfortable grip
• Anti-skid foot rest for harder ground conditions

Why it’s great: The lightest and most compact option on our list, this spade is perfect for detectorists who prioritize portability and maneuverability in tight spaces.

3. Black Ada Big Foot Black – £23.49 (Best Budget Option)

Key Features:

• Weight: 900 grams
• Length: 562mm
• 14 Gauge Mild Steel Blade
• Triangular tube handle for comfortable grip
• Foot assisted brace for harder ground conditions

Why it’s great: This short, lightweight spade offers excellent value for money. Its wide blade and foot-assisted design make it suitable for various digging conditions encountered during detecting sessions.

4. Black Ada Maximus – £30.49 (Best for Tough Soil)

Key Features:

• Weight: 1.16kg
• Length: 690mm
• 2mm Thick Mild Steel Blade and Tube
• Plastic D-handle for warmer grip
• Foot-assisted design for heavier soils

Why it’s great: The robust construction of this spade makes it ideal for detectorists frequently dealing with tough, compacted soil while still maintaining a reasonable weight and length for longer sessions.

5. Kent & Stowe Garden Life Stainless Steel Digging Spade – £30.00 (Best Mid-Length Option)

Key Features:

• Weight: 1.15kg
• Length: 915mm
• High-quality stainless steel head
• Ash wood handle with YD grip
• Tread edge for added digging comfort

Why it’s great: This spade offers a good balance between length and weight, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The stainless steel construction ensures durability for long-term use.

6. Black Ada Invader Extended Black – £30.95 (Best for Rooted Soil)

Key Features:

• Weight: 1.2kg
• Length: 880mm
• 14 gauge mild steel blade
• Elongated handle for elevated digging position
• Sharpened Ripper blade for rooted soil

Why it’s great: The extended handle provides a good reach, while the sharpened Ripper blade makes this spade excellent for areas with dense tree roots or tough rocky soil often encountered in certain detecting locations.

7. Black Ada Maximus Extended Stainless – £56.95 (Best Premium Option)

Key Features:

• Weight: 1.23kg
• Length: 820mm
• 2mm Thick Stainless Steel Blade and Tube
• Plastic D-handle for warmer grip
• Extended length for reduced bending

Why it’s great: This premium stainless steel option offers excellent durability and a good balance of length and weight, making it a worthy investment for serious detectorists who don’t mind spending a bit more for a long-lasting tool.

8. Magnusson Composite Square Digging Spade – £30 (Best for Tall Users)

Key Features:

• Weight: 2.06kg
• Length: 1150mm
• High strength carbon steel head
• Nylite composite handle for reduced fatigue
• Wider D-shaped handle for extra leverage

Why it’s great: With the longest length of 1150mm, this spade is ideal for taller detectorists who want to reduce back strain during long sessions. While heavier, the composite handle helps offset the weight for extended use.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Lightweight Spade for Metal Detecting

When selecting a lightweight spade for long detecting sessions, keep these factors in mind:

1. Weight: The primary consideration for long sessions – lighter is generally better.
2. Length: Choose a length that allows comfortable digging without excessive bending.
3. Material: Stainless steel offers rust resistance, while carbon steel provides strength.
4. Handle Design: Ergonomic grips and anti-slip features can greatly enhance comfort.
5. Blade Type: Consider serrated or “ripper” edges for tough or rooted soil.
6. Price: Balance your budget with the features you need most.

Conclusion – The Best Lightweight Metal Detecting Spade

Investing in a lightweight spade can significantly enhance your endurance and enjoyment during long metal detecting sessions. Our top-rated choice, the Wilkinson Sword Ultralight Digging Spade, offers the best combination of lightness, durability, and features for marathon hunts.

However, each spade on this list has its strengths. If you’re looking for maximum portability, the Black Ada Invader is an excellent choice. For taller detectorists, the Magnusson Composite Square Digging Spade provides the best reach to reduce back strain.

Remember, the right lightweight spade is an investment in your detecting hobby. It can make the difference between calling it a day early due to fatigue and staying out to unearth that one last amazing find.

You might also be interested in The Complete Guide to Choosing The Best Metal Detecting Spade