Gerber E-Tool folding shovel — 2' black compact spade with serrated blade & glass-filled nylon handle

The Gerber Gear E-Tool Folding Spade is a compact, heavy-duty folding shovel with a serrated half-blade, 2' extended length, and a glass-filled nylon handle for reliable digging and cutting on camping trips and work sites.

This folding entrenching tool blends rugged materials and a compact profile so you can carry real digging power without bulky gear. Built with a powder-coated boron-carbon steel blade, an anodized 7075 aluminum shaft, and an open-design glass-filled nylon handle, the E-Tool balances strength, leverage, and portability. It collapses to under 10 inches for packing, then locks open to a two-foot working length for tasks from campsite trenches to trail maintenance.

How tough is the blade and what can the serrated edge handle?

The blade is crafted from boron-carbon steel with a protective powder coat to resist wear and corrosion during heavy use. One side of the blade is serrated so it doubles as a cutting edge for roots, brush, compacted soil, and even thin ice, giving you more utility than a plain shovel.

• Powder-coated boron-carbon steel resists abrasion and corrosion
• Serrated half-edge for sawing through roots and vegetation
• Blade shape designed to penetrate soil efficiently
• Safe locking keeps blade rigid under pressure

How portable is it for backpacking, hunting, or work?

When folded the E-Tool measures about 9.37 inches and weighs roughly 2.3 pounds, making it small and light enough to slip into packs, vehicle toolkits, or hunting bags. Its compact size is ideal for tight spaces where full-size shovels won’t fit, yet it unfolds quickly to a usable 2-foot length.

• Closed length ~9.37 inches for easy storage
• Opens to approximately 2 feet for full digging leverage
• Weighs about 2.3 pounds—portable but substantial
• Folds and unfolds without tools for fast deployment

What gives the handle and shaft their strength?

The E-Tool uses an anodized 7075 aluminum shaft for a high strength-to-weight ratio, and a glass-filled nylon handle that remains durable while providing an open grip design. That open handle gives room for a secure hold and extra leverage when prying or digging tough ground.

• 7075 anodized aluminum shaft for lightweight strength
• Glass-filled nylon handle offers impact resistance and grip space
• Open-frame handle improves leverage and hand placement options
• Rugged construction for repeated outdoor use

Does it lock open securely and how do I use the mechanism?

A ridged collar-style knob locks the shaft and blade in the open position so the tool stays stable under load. To close it, simply rotate the ridged knob to release the lock and fold the spade back into its compact configuration for transport or storage.

• Ridge-wrapped knob provides positive grip for locking/unlocking
• Locking action holds blade steady during digging or chopping
• Quick release lets you fold the tool down in seconds
• No additional tools required to operate the mechanism

Who this is for: The Gerber Gear E-Tool is designed for campers, hunters, gardeners, first responders, tradespeople, and anyone who needs a reliable, packable digging tool. It suits users who need more than a lightweight trowel but want something far more portable than a full-sized shovel — perfect for camp chores, digging fire pits or latrines, clearing brush, or occasional job-site use.