Ok well I'm guessing my training was different than yours since I dig the latrine before any pooping is done. So my shovel never actually had any contact with poop. But I agree there is no use for a bottle opener on a shovel.
Here is a breakdown that compares actual specs of the two items, rather than just a first impressions comparison (which, let's admit it, is really what this video is); 1. The Cold Steel shovel head 1055, and thicker than the Condor's. It is a much "tougher" head, and is very unlikely to bend or break , even under heavy use. The Condor shovel head is 1045, which is not as tough, won't hold an edge as long, and can potentially bend under heavy use (still very unlikely to break). The 1045 of the Condor WILL be much easier to sharpen though. 2. The Cold Steel comes with a hickory hardwood handle. The Condor handle is Ash, which is not as strong, and is thus more likely to break under stress. If the handle DOES happen to break, the Cold Steel is attached with screws, which makes it super easy to replace, even in the field. The Condor handle is pinned, which makes it much harder to replace. Yes, it is doable with some tools, and time, but likely not in the field. 3. Due to the materials used, and the overall size, The Cold Steel is heavier, and while this does make it much better at chopping tasks (as long as the edge is sharp), if weight is a consideration, the Condor might be a better choice. 4. Finally, yes, the Condor comes with a sheath, but costs an average of $10 more than the Cold Steel. You can buy a sheath for The Cold Steel for anywhere from $5-$10 dollars, making the Cold Steel with a sheath the same price as the Condor with a sheath, or possibly even cheaper (implying that the Condor is a better value because of the included sheath is... disingenuous at best). TLDR; The Cold Steel shovel is an over-built monster that will dig and chop forever and will most likely never break or need to be replaced, but is heavy. The Condor shovel will accomplish the same tasks as the Cold Steel, and it will do them well, but is not as strong or tough, and is more likely to break under heavy use. However, it is also much lighter. I've been carrying the Cold Steel Spetsnaz shovel for years. I love it, it's a tank. I'm not interested in replacing it. I don't see how its possible for another shovel to be "better". The CS one does everything it's supposed to do as well as possible for the form factor, so other than weight, I don't see how it could be "improved". The best the Condor, or any other camp shovel could hope for, is to be just as good. Lastly, come on... comparing the brand new edge on the Condor, to an old edge that you admitted you haven't been able to sharpen? That's not a fair comparison.
Ash is plenty strong and does weigh alot less, it's commonly used for canoe paddles because of its strength to weight ratio. Oddly though it is prone to rot if left alone in wet conditions for a season. So u keep it oiled or sealed with poly and take care of it. If u don't care about weight find a piece a black locust
GT: I sanded my handle on the Cold Steel and then applied linseed oil and a special home blend oil/wax solution just like you do on your axes. This will make it SO much more comfortable to use. Highly recommend.
Norse Woodsman well the same could be said about axe handles. If you have ever treated your axe handles and used them against a non treated, there is a major difference. These Cold Steel shovels have a lacquer on them that causes blisters. Strip it, treat it, and try it. Bees wax and linseed oil makes it so much more comfortable. Digging a latrine no big deal, dig a fighting position and you will for sure feel the difference
I did the same Michael :) I actually left it to soak from the bottom in a plastic container of linseed oil so it has a hell of a dark coat on the end hehe. I took the coating off with a knife though.
Linseed oil is a must for wood handles, don’t forget to run a torch over the wood and blacken it up, old blacksmith technique to make it even stronger.
Nice vid. I do think the comparison is quite unfair though. A sharp new tool vs a well used and dull one... There's also a third competitor: The shovel from Max Fuchs. German military gear, very similar to the Cold steel one.
I never leave for a trip in the woods weather it be hunting, camping, exploring, or metal detecting/treasure hunting without my Cold Steel Special Forces Shovel. It is litterally my most used tool next to my Mora Garberg.
@@ike8236 yeah but cold steel also has the trench shovel model which is probably my favorite ETool slightly bigger head and has longer handle no sheath available so I just made one out of leather scraps
I like the size of the Condor but prefer the plain design of the Cold Steel. I've had a similar tool with teeth down one side for a few years and quite early on the teeth were rounded off from general digging. Soil is very abrasive! In my opinion the teeth and bottle opener are just gimmicky junk. That pin through the Condor looks like it could rub up a blister too. Thanks for another cool vid :)
My lesche metal detecting shovel has saws down both sides and still saws thru roots after five years of brutal use in New England. I guarantee I dig more holes than any of you (literally hundred + per outing). Those serrations when done right are the difference between digging a hole and not in difficult areas (saws thru roots 3 inches in O.D.). The lesche stuff is like 2-3 x cost but I'd put them against these any day. Haven't tried the cold steel .... It looks good for the money but wouldn't be my first choice in rocky stuff or digging through roots.
@@VortymLichbane "Lesche Sampson Pro-Series 18″ Mini Shovel" That's my exact shovel if interested... It does cost like 50-60 bucks though so it's a bit unfair comparison and maybe overkill for a camp shovel. Comes with 5 year warranty but i'd like to meet the Gorilla that broke a lesche. It's beyond durable... I've used it as a lever on 300+ pound boulders to get to targets etc (I'm 210 lbs and bounce on it with all my weight to leverage stuff). Made of aircraft steel (chromoly maybe?). It absolutely doesn't flex under load and cracks rocks/cuts roots while digging. Everything lesche is great but $$$. The only other tools that are probably better are "predator tools". Those look amazing but lesche was more main stream when I bought my digger. They have some cool designs. Have fun!
When I went camping and fishing I've only used my Army entrenching tool, it's heavier and the sheath sucked, but it could do anything especially when you locked it at 90°.
Over here we call the shovel the small infantry shovel (there is also the big one, naturally). Nothing to do with special forces. It's general issue item. Mine was produced in 1943. A very good tool. The only sight of it works well against aggressive fellow drivers especially when traveling far across Russia :)))) No additional saws, bottle openners or anything needed.
I got the Condor, because it's smaller, comes with a MOLLE-compatible sheath, and I really like Condor products. In my opinion, it's perfect for a go-bag. If you want to stay light, it'll adequately fill the roles a shelter-building tool, a latrine shovel, a firewood hatchet, and a defensive weapon.
The small one, it is a good option for a backpack. Light, strong, durable, heavy duty stuff, can handle serious work.... The bigger one or other options are better but for having in the car, truck, etc...
The condor camping shovel doesnt stick as well as cold steel especially when it hits the saw edge. Condors Survival Shovel that has a full welded back throw and stick as good as cold steel but needs a little harder throw to stick since its lighter. The condor camping shovel cracked near the spade after a few dozen throws I'd say cold steel is easiest to dial in and throw The condor survival shovel is just as consistant but requires more dialing in and force. I wish it used screws instead of pins but this thing is a tank with the full welded back The condor camping shovel I recommend not throwing especially since the pins are a pain to replace. You could probably paracord where the spade and the handle meet to keep it more sturdy to reduce cracks but eventually any wood handle is going to break if thrown enough. My personal favorite is Condor's Survival Shovel but if Cold Steel did a full welded back, I'd have a new favorite.
Take to the grinder before putting up against a new blade . What I found with using these little guys for choppers is sanding flats on the handle so it does not rotate and you need not wear your self out with the death grip but am not a fan of the small shovel but we do need them . Also on my cold steel I welding a small cover on the handle end to prevent splitting which stated to happen a lot of sharp granit here in the mountains of California. Happy Trails outstanding very complete revue .
Have to agree seems sketchy to use the old CS with the blade you admit you didn't bother to fix the edge against a factory edge that won't last more then a couple days. In a week of camping both will be butter-knife sharp from any real use. I find the CS handle slightly too short to be of use, the Condor looks almost pointlessly short. At that point buy a knife and a $2 garden trowel from Walmart to dig your crapper.
The Condor Wilderness Survival 19.25" Shovel Ash CTK2818 would be a better side by side comparison with the Cold Steel Special Forces Shovel in my opinion. Thanks for the video!
I agree that you use the Coldsteel to store in your car, 4X4... but heavy. It's a very good tool. I have them both. But for trekking purposes, the Conder is much lighter than the Coldsteel and easier to handle. The teeth are not a saw, but for pulling out thin roots. They can also be used for self-defense. The hook behind the teeth is also not intended as a bottle opener. There are many ways to open a bottle without tools. But that hook can be used for many purposes. Such as with Victorinox knives. As also mentioned in this review to remove hot pots from the heat. But also for many other things, mentioned in Victorinox reviews. The 1 pin design will last much longer because it goes through both sides, and the Hickory wood is much harder than Coldsteel. If you forget to tighten the Philips screws on the cold steel a few times, the wood will become looser due to play. And the Philips screws will no longer grip very well. It is also true that the Condor is more difficult to replace the first time. But there are also solutions for this with bolt and nut, and Loctite. With the strongest loctite it will never come loose again. And 1 pin system is no problem either. The best weapons in the past such as Samurai swords are attached with only 1 pin. Even without a nut. Give one blow in the right place and you can take it apart completely. Both are good tools, but if weight and length play a role, the Condor is certainly a factor.
I own both. In my world, the Cold Steel beats the Condor in every way. I think the Condor is too small to be of any use, even for metal detecting. I was hoping the Condor tool was going to be better overall as I love Condor products, but not with this item.
When you were measuring I was reminded that way back when the Cold Steel first came out one of the talking points was that it was 50 centimeters long so that you could easily measure 1 meter for a hole when digging. I haven't seen that talked about in a while now.
I have one of the Chinese kit shovels for the truck. It has ferro road, compass, knife blade, etc. Metal handle segments screw together. Haven't used it yet.
I turned a hickory and slightly smaller handle for the cold steel one. Also coated in boiled linseed oil instead of evil polyurethane. That stuff sucks on the hands calus wise. Great change for the tool
Polyurethane is a great material on dumbbell coatings. On the bells of the dumbbell , that is. But not so much on a wooden handle, linseed ot other oils or wax is the way to go.
The Cold Steel is (in my opinion) a superior design. 1- Fully welded edge on back (not "spot welded"). Super strong. 2- Screws holding it together not a single tiny pin. If you break a handle you could actually construct a makeshift handle out of a limb and use a multi-tool to replace it... IN THE FIELD.. Also as someone else pointed out. If you're reviewing 2 things used for cutting, either wear them both equally or use 2 brand new ones. I'd like to see a year or two after with that little pin and the non welded design that will spread out. What I might actually do: Get the Condor and take off the head to weld it. Drill additional hole and attach it with screws. Boom.. best of both worlds for a BOB. Smaller/lighter and still as strong.
Might have been a more equal test with the Condor CTK2818, which has a similar handle length to the Cold Steel, and without the unneeded saw edge and "bottle opener/pot lifter."
I wouldn’t take either, neither one folds so you can have the shovel blade at 90 degrees. The most useful position in my opinion. That and the handle is shorter than my folding shovels.
I agree. I bought an Ames GI E-tool and that shovel works great. The fact that you can have that 90° angle makes digging very easy and is very multi-functional.
Flat6 Hemi I somewhat concur with you, I have a Coleman folder but it’s not a tight secure mechanism as it wiggles & clangs around a lot. I know when I use the CS version I have a solid tool that can be depended upon to get the job done and I’ve definitely cut/chopped some wood with it. I let my kids beat on the folding Coleman shovel lol.
The 90 degree option can be a plus at times , I'll admit , but my experience w/ the folders hasn't been very favorable . The blades bend rather easily and the locking collars can be awkward and time consuming to engage , especially when caked with mud or snow and using with ice cold hands .This Cold Steel shovel helped Zach Fowler ( Fowler's Makery and Mischief on You Tube ) win the coveted History Channel's hit series " Alone " Season 3 , AND $500K . He still holds the record for surviving longer than any other contestant in all five seasons of the show's history (87 days in Patagonia) , and seldom goes anywhere without it , even today . Some hard core wilderness trippers are even going so far as to leave their small forest axes at home and taking this incredibly useful and well made shovel instead . No disrespect intended against your choice of shovels , but after 20+ years of using and abusing numerous Cold Steel products , I have yet to destroy any . Don't think it would let you down when your life depended on it . ATB
Folding shovels are just noisemakers waiting to break. Everyone I've seen has eventually failed. " Multi-use " items are always a compromise and almost invariably suck and break.
I'm a fan of the Cold steel shovel for its simplicity, I don't rate these types of saw teeth very highly. I refinish the handle by stripping off the coating and melting beeswax into the wood, which gives a much superior grip.
I bought a Condor Wilderness Survival Shovel and love it. I do have a Cold Steel and they are both extremely sharp. The Cold Steel moves more dirt because of the size difference. The welded back on the Condor makes it superior to the Cold Steel and the Camping Shovel in terms of strength. The steel butt cap isn't really for hammering, but is good for tamping.
The Condor Wilderness Survival Shovel interested me as well with the full steel relief for the handle, but seems like it may allow moisture to build up in there and shorten the lifespan.
I just bought the Condor model. Already had the Cold Steel. I’m guessing I probably should refrain from TH-cam while drinking. Eh, at least I ah e a bunch a cool gear
i've beaten the snot out of my cold steel for about 5 years now at work building. mostly digging/hacking/chopping into earth without any issues. haven't even sharpened it after hitting rocks. bought a backup i will probably never need to use. my 2nd favorite field hand tool.
Great review. I really liked the cold steel but you sold me on the condor. I went to buy one to take camping with the wife. The cold steel was on sale for less than $20. My wife really liked the look and size of the condor. I think we needed two anyway so I grabbed them both.
I have used a CSU shovel for several years. With the sheath on it is a great non lethal self defense tool where a baton may not be legal. It’s not a heavy chopper but can replace a machete or hatchet strapped to your belt or pack where the other tools would be scary to the general public. I cut 6” off the shovel end of the handle. Being a shorter handle it is more nimble and has improved control when chopping, no difference in light digging, but less foot print on the pack. It can be disassembled and place in a G.I. MOLLE soft shovel carrier. I just put a slit in the flap to allow the metal handle to protrude. When I have to dig a lot I just fashion a handle from a longer branch. I would spend the time grinding if using it as a chopper. I liked the review. The Condor would better more convenient for carry. I’m really liking my two handed grip on CS shovel now. So I will wait on the Condor.
Lean up against a tree to poop? Never heard of that. Sounds like bad medicine. I've used the Cold Steel Shovel to dig my poop holes for the last couple of years. Works good! I'll probably purchase the Condor because it's the color of the desert. No trees in the desert. How do you poop then?
@@prunecuda1 I still use my cold steel Shovel. It's the only one I have. I was surprised to find out that Gideon was a Greenhorn. I still think he knows gear. He just doesn't know how to crap in the woods. I like to sit in the shade of trees. Coyote poop is bad enough, don't want to sit in Human Poop, or see it sprayed all over the side of a tree.
I have the Gerber NATO Folding Spade and the Cold Steel Special Forces Shovel, both are excellent. I bought the CS to use during cycle camping and to disrupt attacks by vicious dogs that try to bite cyclists legs and feet. The cordura sheathed shovel head should provide harmless deterrent.
Another great review. I’ve been wondering about the difference. I’d planned on buying the Cold Steel........and I think I still will. I don’t like the idea of not being able to easily replace a broken handle on the Condor. I do like that it’s more compact. But, honestly, I’ll just get the Cold Steel, cut a bit off the handle, and sand it down. I also like that the Condor is better at chopping, shaving wood, able to perform as an emergency cutting tool. But the handle not being easily removed and replaced.....that’s a deal breaker for me. Keep those reviews coming, bro! Thanks to you, I’ve discovered quite a few items that I’ve since added to my kit. 👍
Hello my friend!! Have you tried Predator tools shovels? They are made for metal detecting, but I think they would work great for survival and prepping and camping. I would love to hear your opinion on them and which model you think you like the best😁
If you're digging cat holes, which you should, after you take a dump just kick the dirt back in with your boot. So your shovel never touches fecal matter thus staying sterile for the most part
Fantastic video mate definitely going to look at getting a condor to replace my old Australian Army e tool just gotta find a condor e tool in Australia
You should have put a factory edge on the cold steel to make it fair. You did say you and the crew used it for awhile. Or should la used the condor for the same amount time. Then compare the videos with a follow up with how they are now
I have to go with condors shovel just seems a little better in strength and looks I have seen a different condor bushcraft shovel that I like better than both of these 2.
I have a Cold Steel shovel and I wouldn't trade it or replace it with nothing but another Clod Steel shovel! It's good for so many things a backup ax, knife I've drove tent steaks with mine. I had a guy at a NAPA store order me a file I told him what I wanted it for and it wasn't cheap and I don't know who it's made by but I can sharpen my shovel with it and my tomahawks and my hatchets with it it works great. I would recommend the Cold Steel shovel but that's just my opinion the only way u can go wrong is by not getting what you want don't let someone talk you into getting what they want instead of what you want! Be safe and may God bless everyone!!!!
Funny that this pop up as recommended. I lost my mykel hawke h.a.s.p and thats what i have been carrying for life. Its crappy looking but works as a chopper for my woodgas stove, hammer for tent stakes and shovel for poop hole. Sad its discontinued.
Why are you sticking your shovel in a hole you already crapped in. In no way should your shovel be contacting your feces AFTER you have already dug a hole/slit trench.
You would not test an old never sharpened knife against a new one, would you? Why would you test a beat up edge against a fresh one? I really am starting to loose the last bit of trust I had in your tests and opinions.
So you admittedly are putting a brand new blade in the Condor against a worn Cold Steel that you haven't returned the edge to original sharpness. It doesn't seem like an unbiased test.
Michael Gross It’s not about the edge, the main point of reference is the weight balance and size. And that the bigger cold steel blade can dig better and move more material, but the condor is a little better at other tasks.
So Condor has a black version with a 10" blade that is more comparable to the Cold Steel in size? You've opened up a can of worms here... I haven't considered anything beyond the old surplus entrenchment tool that I've been using for decades! ;-)
Paul Hurtado the larger condor is about bout $45 where as the cold steel is about $32 with sheath. These are so similar I would go will cold steel than the Condor 10”
Thanks for the H2H Aaron I have been keen to see what the Condor was like as an owner of the CS. Just a super handy tip for you, check on TH-cam for 'Hand Axe Sharpening Technique.....Rooster' and try this for sharpening your shovel. I've been using it for my axes for ages so it was automatically how I went to sharpen the CS shovel, and found it to be super easy. Basically any convex bevel it will have super sharp in no time, and you don't even really need to screw around with the grits all that much. Hope you try it, if you have a lot of convex edged tools and axes I'd consider it a completely invaluable technique.
should have pitted a new cold steel vs the new condor... you said yourself its well used and you are unable to resharpen it properly. so in this instance, its a little unfair... i own the cold steel, and i put a scandivex on one of the side while leaving the tip and the other side at the factory geometry... this 1 mod alone add so many more useage options as its effectively a knife on one edge... i would like to see a re review of the condor after minths of hard use to see how well the 1045 steel held up with what appears to be quite a shallow edge... makes it sharper but weaker... so new vs new, or old vs old...
actually yes a knifes job is to cut. the category is shovels... which are meant to dig so to compare to mil e-tool or even small garden shovels would make perfect sense..
I've demonstrated that I did not ask for your opinion on anything and the fact that your trolling everyones comments about e-tools shows that your a biggot/facist and you should be banned from America, where the U.S. Military E-Tool was proudly made not taiwan or china whatever country cold steel and condor make these at.( DROPS THE MIC.)
constructive criticism is greatly appreciated but thats not what your doing. Your putting people down because you dont like what they like or can afford. Its ok to be a gear snob just go be one at REI.
Norse Woodsman If you wish to troll at least be interesting not petty. You don’t know half of what you two are even discussing. Learn a bit more before you try talking crap. This guy made a great video and it was only suggested of another one that would be interesting. If you can’t handle that than bother someone else not him or the one who made this comment.
I have the Cold Steel and love it. I keep one edge razor sharp for slicing and the other edge for chopping . It's heavy enough you can do pretty much anything.
Good video however got a couple things I don't dig poop with my latrine Duty I did go a train then fill it in my shovel don't touch poop, and then you forgot to try while digging striking the tip of the handle with a club or wood Mallet which makes digging with a entrenching shovel much easier instead of utilizing your foot or chopping at things put the shovel to the dirt whack it a few times with a large stick or Matt would mail it and pride dirt Condor I think has this idea with the metal butt cap
134 / 5.000 Vertaalresultaten Vertaalresultaat I thought so, I'm a bit jealous. We don't have much nature here. Also beautiful, but not as large an area as yours.
Ok well I'm guessing my training was different than yours since I dig the latrine before any pooping is done. So my shovel never actually had any contact with poop. But I agree there is no use for a bottle opener on a shovel.
So you guys don't poo on a shovel and fight?
You poo on the shovel then put it in the hole dont you?
Title edit: Condor vs. Cold Steel - will they scoop or are they poop?
Here is a breakdown that compares actual specs of the two items, rather than just a first impressions comparison (which, let's admit it, is really what this video is);
1. The Cold Steel shovel head 1055, and thicker than the Condor's. It is a much "tougher" head, and is very unlikely to bend or break , even under heavy use. The Condor shovel head is 1045, which is not as tough, won't hold an edge as long, and can potentially bend under heavy use (still very unlikely to break). The 1045 of the Condor WILL be much easier to sharpen though.
2. The Cold Steel comes with a hickory hardwood handle. The Condor handle is Ash, which is not as strong, and is thus more likely to break under stress. If the handle DOES happen to break, the Cold Steel is attached with screws, which makes it super easy to replace, even in the field. The Condor handle is pinned, which makes it much harder to replace. Yes, it is doable with some tools, and time, but likely not in the field.
3. Due to the materials used, and the overall size, The Cold Steel is heavier, and while this does make it much better at chopping tasks (as long as the edge is sharp), if weight is a consideration, the Condor might be a better choice.
4. Finally, yes, the Condor comes with a sheath, but costs an average of $10 more than the Cold Steel. You can buy a sheath for The Cold Steel for anywhere from $5-$10 dollars, making the Cold Steel with a sheath the same price as the Condor with a sheath, or possibly even cheaper (implying that the Condor is a better value because of the included sheath is... disingenuous at best).
TLDR; The Cold Steel shovel is an over-built monster that will dig and chop forever and will most likely never break or need to be replaced, but is heavy. The Condor shovel will accomplish the same tasks as the Cold Steel, and it will do them well, but is not as strong or tough, and is more likely to break under heavy use. However, it is also much lighter.
I've been carrying the Cold Steel Spetsnaz shovel for years. I love it, it's a tank. I'm not interested in replacing it. I don't see how its possible for another shovel to be "better". The CS one does everything it's supposed to do as well as possible for the form factor, so other than weight, I don't see how it could be "improved". The best the Condor, or any other camp shovel could hope for, is to be just as good.
Lastly, come on... comparing the brand new edge on the Condor, to an old edge that you admitted you haven't been able to sharpen? That's not a fair comparison.
Better review than the video
Also it took two minutes to read through instead of a 20min video
I replaced the handle on my condor with a hickory handle and a screw now it's sturdy and easy to replaced in the field
Ash is plenty strong and does weigh alot less, it's commonly used for canoe paddles because of its strength to weight ratio. Oddly though it is prone to rot if left alone in wet conditions for a season. So u keep it oiled or sealed with poly and take care of it.
If u don't care about weight find a piece a black locust
@@sokugi8872 I never said it wasn't strong, I said it wasn't as strong as hickory, which it isn't.
4:45 Why are you digging around in your own poop and contaminating your shovel in the first place??
Just kick the dirt back in on top and move on...
I was asking the same thing, never would I let that physically come in contact with poop, stick? Pine comb? Bark? Leaf?
GT: I sanded my handle on the Cold Steel and then applied linseed oil and a special home blend oil/wax solution just like you do on your axes. This will make it SO much more comfortable to use. Highly recommend.
Norse Woodsman well the same could be said about axe handles. If you have ever treated your axe handles and used them against a non treated, there is a major difference. These Cold Steel shovels have a lacquer on them that causes blisters. Strip it, treat it, and try it. Bees wax and linseed oil makes it so much more comfortable. Digging a latrine no big deal, dig a fighting position and you will for sure feel the difference
I sanded my cold steel handle and stained it red. Mines going in my trunk mostly for snow related emergencies so i wanted it bright
I did the same Michael :) I actually left it to soak from the bottom in a plastic container of linseed oil so it has a hell of a dark coat on the end hehe. I took the coating off with a knife though.
I am going to order one of these this year to try and was thinking the same thing. Its not that much work and will actually strengthen the handle.
Linseed oil is a must for wood handles, don’t forget to run a torch over the wood and blacken it up, old blacksmith technique to make it even stronger.
Nice vid. I do think the comparison is quite unfair though. A sharp new tool vs a well used and dull one...
There's also a third competitor: The shovel from Max Fuchs. German military gear, very similar to the Cold steel one.
Condor is $50 vs $30 for the Cold Steel (with sheath) on Amazon. I have the Cold Steel in every vehicle. It is fun to throw and stick as well.
I never leave for a trip in the woods weather it be hunting, camping, exploring, or metal detecting/treasure hunting without my Cold Steel Special Forces Shovel.
It is litterally my most used tool next to my Mora Garberg.
Would like The Condor more if it had blade edge on all three sides. Don’t like the saw or bottle opener.
exactly, saw is useless.
saw is shit.... & handle too short
There is one, little longer too.
@@ike8236 yeah but cold steel also has the trench shovel model which is probably my favorite ETool slightly bigger head and has longer handle no sheath available so I just made one out of leather scraps
i wonder if the condors metal base can be used to hammer tent stakes... and the hook can be for removing tent stakes, too
I like the size of the Condor but prefer the plain design of the Cold Steel. I've had a similar tool with teeth down one side for a few years and quite early on the teeth were rounded off from general digging. Soil is very abrasive! In my opinion the teeth and bottle opener are just gimmicky junk. That pin through the Condor looks like it could rub up a blister too.
Thanks for another cool vid :)
My lesche metal detecting shovel has saws down both sides and still saws thru roots after five years of brutal use in New England.
I guarantee I dig more holes than any of you (literally hundred + per outing). Those serrations when done right are the difference between digging a hole and not in difficult areas (saws thru roots 3 inches in O.D.).
The lesche stuff is like 2-3 x cost but I'd put them against these any day. Haven't tried the cold steel .... It looks good for the money but wouldn't be my first choice in rocky stuff or digging through roots.
@@johnnygunz2300 that's the kind of review we really need: one made after a couple of years of hard use.
@@VortymLichbane "Lesche Sampson Pro-Series 18″ Mini Shovel"
That's my exact shovel if interested... It does cost like 50-60 bucks though so it's a bit unfair comparison and maybe overkill for a camp shovel. Comes with 5 year warranty but i'd like to meet the Gorilla that broke a lesche.
It's beyond durable... I've used it as a lever on 300+ pound boulders to get to targets etc (I'm 210 lbs and bounce on it with all my weight to leverage stuff). Made of aircraft steel (chromoly maybe?). It absolutely doesn't flex under load and cracks rocks/cuts roots while digging.
Everything lesche is great but $$$.
The only other tools that are probably better are "predator tools". Those look amazing but lesche was more main stream when I bought my digger. They have some cool designs.
Have fun!
Cold steel is my favourite, it’s classic and simple
When I went camping and fishing I've only used my Army entrenching tool, it's heavier and the sheath sucked, but it could do anything especially when you locked it at 90°.
A hoe is also good at digging through your wallet.
Out stand tool
watch out for the NORSETROLL
I meant it's a good shovel and that it also can be used in different ways ie: as a hoe or as a pick.
I had one when i was a child and i thought I could take on the world with it.
I’m now looking for the Condor in Canada. My main use would be in my EDC backpack as a get-home tool in a disaster.
Thanks for the review!
Over here we call the shovel the small infantry shovel (there is also the big one, naturally). Nothing to do with special forces. It's general issue item. Mine was produced in 1943. A very good tool. The only sight of it works well against aggressive fellow drivers especially when traveling far across Russia :)))) No additional saws, bottle openners or anything needed.
I got the Condor, because it's smaller, comes with a MOLLE-compatible sheath, and I really like Condor products. In my opinion, it's perfect for a go-bag. If you want to stay light, it'll adequately fill the roles a shelter-building tool, a latrine shovel, a firewood hatchet, and a defensive weapon.
My cold steel shovel came with a poor edge but after sharped held a edge well and easy to resharpen after proper edge established .
The small one, it is a good option for a backpack. Light, strong, durable, heavy duty stuff, can handle serious work.... The bigger one or other options are better but for having in the car, truck, etc...
I assume that butt plate on the condor is to hit with a baton to get through stubborn roots
Good point
Wish you would of done a throwing test
The condor camping shovel doesnt stick as well as cold steel especially when it hits the saw edge. Condors Survival Shovel that has a full welded back throw and stick as good as cold steel but needs a little harder throw to stick since its lighter. The condor camping shovel cracked near the spade after a few dozen throws
I'd say cold steel is easiest to dial in and throw
The condor survival shovel is just as consistant but requires more dialing in and force. I wish it used screws instead of pins but this thing is a tank with the full welded back
The condor camping shovel I recommend not throwing especially since the pins are a pain to replace. You could probably paracord where the spade and the handle meet to keep it more sturdy to reduce cracks but eventually any wood handle is going to break if thrown enough.
My personal favorite is Condor's Survival Shovel but if Cold Steel did a full welded back, I'd have a new favorite.
@@DjHatZnBfan could you not simply replace the pin with some screws?
Take to the grinder before putting up against a new blade . What I found with using these little guys for choppers is sanding flats on the handle so it does not rotate and you need not wear your self out with the death grip but am not a fan of the small shovel but we do need them . Also on my cold steel I welding a small cover on the handle end to prevent splitting which stated to happen a lot of sharp granit here in the mountains of California. Happy Trails outstanding very complete revue .
Have to agree seems sketchy to use the old CS with the blade you admit you didn't bother to fix the edge against a factory edge that won't last more then a couple days. In a week of camping both will be butter-knife sharp from any real use. I find the CS handle slightly too short to be of use, the Condor looks almost pointlessly short. At that point buy a knife and a $2 garden trowel from Walmart to dig your crapper.
Mind Toxin Yeah when your having a race it's always good to start even at the starting line. Happy Trails
Personally It's a little heavier but I like my Cold Steel shovel. The bottle opener and the teeth on the Condor seems a little gimmicky.
I have the cold steel shovel. Matt at grizzly outdoors makes kydex sheaths that are a great upgrade for this kit.
DrDeath70 just checked out his site. Wow!
Thanks Aaron this is awesome! I’ve been looking at both of these shovels for months. Always wanted a comparison of these two.
Troy Manning glad to help
The Condor Wilderness Survival 19.25" Shovel Ash CTK2818 would be a better side by side comparison with the Cold Steel Special Forces Shovel in my opinion. Thanks for the video!
Bo Knows is hat condor version worth it
I think the cap on on condor might be for hitting with a baton if you need to cut through a root but can’t get your foot onto the shovel
I just bought an old Hungarian military shovel from the 50's. Can't wait for it to arrive to test it.
I have an old Swiss one from '43 and it's still in very good condition.
Did y test it? Is it 100% HEAVY DUTY?
I agree that you use the Coldsteel to store in your car, 4X4... but heavy. It's a very good tool. I have them both. But for trekking purposes, the Conder is much lighter than the Coldsteel and easier to handle. The teeth are not a saw, but for pulling out thin roots. They can also be used for self-defense. The hook behind the teeth is also not intended as a bottle opener. There are many ways to open a bottle without tools. But that hook can be used for many purposes. Such as with Victorinox knives. As also mentioned in this review to remove hot pots from the heat. But also for many other things, mentioned in Victorinox reviews. The 1 pin design will last much longer because it goes through both sides, and the Hickory wood is much harder than Coldsteel. If you forget to tighten the Philips screws on the cold steel a few times, the wood will become looser due to play. And the Philips screws will no longer grip very well. It is also true that the Condor is more difficult to replace the first time. But there are also solutions for this with bolt and nut, and Loctite. With the strongest loctite it will never come loose again. And 1 pin system is no problem either. The best weapons in the past such as Samurai swords are attached with only 1 pin. Even without a nut. Give one blow in the right place and you can take it apart completely. Both are good tools, but if weight and length play a role, the Condor is certainly a factor.
I own both. In my world, the Cold Steel beats the Condor in every way. I think the Condor is too small to be of any use, even for metal detecting. I was hoping the Condor tool was going to be better overall as I love Condor products, but not with this item.
When you were measuring I was reminded that way back when the Cold Steel first came out one of the talking points was that it was 50 centimeters long so that you could easily measure 1 meter for a hole when digging. I haven't seen that talked about in a while now.
I agree about the cold steel is best for a camping shovel.
How about the Cold Steel shovel vs the Condor wilderness survival shovel?
I have one of the Chinese kit shovels for the truck. It has ferro road, compass, knife blade, etc. Metal handle segments screw together. Haven't used it yet.
I love my 1944 Army Wood shovel... It's been one of my favorite camping tools for over 30 years.
I turned a hickory and slightly smaller handle for the cold steel one. Also coated in boiled linseed oil instead of evil polyurethane. That stuff sucks on the hands calus wise. Great change for the tool
Polyurethane is a great material on dumbbell coatings. On the bells of the dumbbell , that is.
But not so much on a wooden handle, linseed ot other oils or wax is the way to go.
I found a Cold Steel shovel at a yard sale for $2. It only took a couple of hours to get it cleaned, painted, and handle refinished.
The Cold Steel is (in my opinion) a superior design.
1- Fully welded edge on back (not "spot welded"). Super strong.
2- Screws holding it together not a single tiny pin. If you break a handle you could actually construct a makeshift handle out of a limb and use a multi-tool to replace it... IN THE FIELD..
Also as someone else pointed out. If you're reviewing 2 things used for cutting, either wear them both equally or use 2 brand new ones. I'd like to see a year or two after with that little pin and the non welded design that will spread out.
What I might actually do: Get the Condor and take off the head to weld it. Drill additional hole and attach it with screws. Boom.. best of both worlds for a BOB. Smaller/lighter and still as strong.
So your saying to get the Titanium version of the Spetznaz shovel? 🤔
Might have been a more equal test with the Condor CTK2818, which has a similar handle length to the Cold Steel, and without the unneeded saw edge and "bottle opener/pot lifter."
whybother757 is that condor shovel good or bad
Handle on the Cold Steel shovel, according to the Cold Steel Website, is Hickory. I have ordered one, should get it this week, if it dont snow.
I wouldn’t take either, neither one folds so you can have the shovel blade at 90 degrees. The most useful position in my opinion. That and the handle is shorter than my folding shovels.
I agree. I bought an Ames GI E-tool and that shovel works great. The fact that you can have that 90° angle makes digging very easy and is very multi-functional.
Flat6 Hemi I somewhat concur with you, I have a Coleman folder but it’s not a tight secure mechanism as it wiggles & clangs around a lot. I know when I use the CS version I have a solid tool that can be depended upon to get the job done and I’ve definitely cut/chopped some wood with it. I let my kids beat on the folding Coleman shovel lol.
The 90 degree option can be a plus at times , I'll admit , but my experience w/ the folders hasn't been very favorable . The blades bend rather easily and the locking collars can be awkward and time consuming to engage , especially when caked with mud or snow and using with ice cold hands .This Cold Steel shovel helped Zach Fowler ( Fowler's Makery and Mischief on You Tube ) win the coveted History Channel's hit series " Alone " Season 3 , AND $500K . He still holds the record for surviving longer than any other contestant in all five seasons of the show's history (87 days in Patagonia) , and seldom goes anywhere without it , even today . Some hard core wilderness trippers are even going so far as to leave their small forest axes at home and taking this incredibly useful and well made shovel instead . No disrespect intended against your choice of shovels , but after 20+ years of using and abusing numerous Cold Steel products , I have yet to destroy any . Don't think it would let you down when your life depended on it . ATB
the NORSETROLL strikes again
Folding shovels are just noisemakers waiting to break. Everyone I've seen has eventually failed. " Multi-use " items are always a compromise and almost invariably suck and break.
A very good review of both multi-tools. Where do you live? Also a beautiful environment where you can record the review.
Colorado Rockies!
I mean, for 30 bucks how can you go wrong.
I'm a fan of the Cold steel shovel for its simplicity, I don't rate these types of saw teeth very highly.
I refinish the handle by stripping off the coating and melting beeswax into the wood, which gives a much superior grip.
I bought a Condor Wilderness Survival Shovel and love it. I do have a Cold Steel and they are both extremely sharp. The Cold Steel moves more dirt because of the size difference. The welded back on the Condor makes it superior to the Cold Steel and the Camping Shovel in terms of strength. The steel butt cap isn't really for hammering, but is good for tamping.
The Condor Wilderness Survival Shovel interested me as well with the full steel relief for the handle, but seems like it may allow moisture to build up in there and shorten the lifespan.
I just bought the Condor model. Already had the Cold Steel. I’m guessing I probably should refrain from TH-cam while drinking. Eh, at least I ah e a bunch a cool gear
I feel ya, man
i've beaten the snot out of my cold steel for about 5 years now at work building. mostly digging/hacking/chopping into earth without any issues. haven't even sharpened it after hitting rocks. bought a backup i will probably never need to use. my 2nd favorite field hand tool.
maybe the condor for backpacking?
Who puts their shovel into the latrine after they use the latrine?
Great review. I really liked the cold steel but you sold me on the condor. I went to buy one to take camping with the wife. The cold steel was on sale for less than $20. My wife really liked the look and size of the condor. I think we needed two anyway so I grabbed them both.
have you had a chance to compare the two with real use yet?
I have used a CSU shovel for several years. With the sheath on it is a great non lethal self defense tool where a baton may not be legal. It’s not a heavy chopper but can replace a machete or hatchet strapped to your belt or pack where the other tools would be scary to the general public. I cut 6” off the shovel end of the handle. Being a shorter handle it is more nimble and has improved control when chopping, no difference in light digging, but less foot print on the pack. It can be disassembled and place in a G.I. MOLLE soft shovel carrier. I just put a slit in the flap to allow the metal handle to protrude. When I have to dig a lot I just fashion a handle from a longer branch. I would spend the time grinding if using it as a chopper. I liked the review. The Condor would better more convenient for carry. I’m really liking my two handed grip on CS shovel now. So I will wait on the Condor.
Great it came with an edge for you, mine was a preliminary edge but was sharpenable.
I dont get the latrine comment. Youre digging a hole of dirt not poop. Where does your shovel ever come in contact with excrement??
Lean up against a tree to poop? Never heard of that. Sounds like bad medicine. I've used the Cold Steel Shovel to dig my poop holes for the last couple of years. Works good! I'll probably purchase the Condor because it's the color of the desert. No trees in the desert. How do you poop then?
Blades for the Adpocalypse haha
it would be a lot cheaper to paint the cold steel any color you want, perhap?
@@prunecuda1 I still use my cold steel Shovel. It's the only one I have. I was surprised to find out that Gideon was a Greenhorn. I still think he knows gear. He just doesn't know how to crap in the woods. I like to sit in the shade of trees. Coyote poop is bad enough, don't want to sit in Human Poop, or see it sprayed all over the side of a tree.
I believe the steel cap on the condor is for packing dirt
Anthony Kisner i was thinking hitting it with a baton to cut through thick roots
what about to hammer tent stakes?
Good idea!
I have the Gerber NATO Folding Spade and the Cold Steel Special Forces Shovel, both are excellent.
I bought the CS to use during cycle camping and to disrupt attacks by vicious dogs that try to bite cyclists legs and feet.
The cordura sheathed shovel head should provide harmless deterrent.
LOVE my CS shovel. but i've replaced handle with 7 inches longer one, now its PERFECT :D .
Another great review. I’ve been wondering about the difference. I’d planned on buying the Cold Steel........and I think I still will. I don’t like the idea of not being able to easily replace a broken handle on the Condor. I do like that it’s more compact. But, honestly, I’ll just get the Cold Steel, cut a bit off the handle, and sand it down.
I also like that the Condor is better at chopping, shaving wood, able to perform as an emergency cutting tool. But the handle not being easily removed and replaced.....that’s a deal breaker for me.
Keep those reviews coming, bro! Thanks to you, I’ve discovered quite a few items that I’ve since added to my kit. 👍
Hello my friend!! Have you tried Predator tools shovels?
They are made for metal detecting, but I think they would work great for survival and prepping and camping. I would love to hear your opinion on them and which model you think you like the best😁
How do these two compare to the Glock shovel?
bottle cap opener? did you tryed pull out nails
Amazing !!!! Greetings FROM ARGENTINA !!!!
If you're digging cat holes, which you should, after you take a dump just kick the dirt back in with your boot. So your shovel never touches fecal matter thus staying sterile for the most part
Fantastic video mate definitely going to look at getting a condor to replace my old Australian Army e tool just gotta find a condor e tool in Australia
But will it KEEL?
These are both cool, but I still like the US E-tool, entrenching shovel. Used it tons, never let me down, excellent digger.
Cold steel shovel is my do it all camp tool.
I use one side for chopping and keep the other side razor sharp.
Throws super easy too.
I love that you did this video!!! Been on the fence for both these shovels for the last few weeks!! appreciate it!!!
Knifeaholix glad to help out!!
Where did you get your condor
When are you going to review the terava jakaaripuukko? #Mailbag
in germany the Cold steel one is 35 euros the condor 85 euros. Wow.
Yeah but the important question how do they throw 😊
Not entirely certain but it does look like those handles could be interchangeable but I could be wrong lol
you should have done a throwing comparison
You should have put a factory edge on the cold steel to make it fair. You did say you and the crew used it for awhile. Or should la used the condor for the same amount time. Then compare the videos with a follow up with how they are now
I have to go with condors shovel just seems a little better in strength and looks I have seen a different condor bushcraft shovel that I like better than both of these 2.
I have a Cold Steel shovel and I wouldn't trade it or replace it with nothing but another Clod Steel shovel! It's good for so many things a backup ax, knife I've drove tent steaks with mine. I had a guy at a NAPA store order me a file I told him what I wanted it for and it wasn't cheap and I don't know who it's made by but I can sharpen my shovel with it and my tomahawks and my hatchets with it it works great. I would recommend the Cold Steel shovel but that's just my opinion the only way u can go wrong is by not getting what you want don't let someone talk you into getting what they want instead of what you want! Be safe and may God bless everyone!!!!
AliExpress are selling a copy of the Condor for $10.59+free shipping in two sizes.
Funny that this pop up as recommended. I lost my mykel hawke h.a.s.p and thats what i have been carrying for life. Its crappy looking but works as a chopper for my woodgas stove, hammer for tent stakes and shovel for poop hole. Sad its discontinued.
Why are you sticking your shovel in a hole you already crapped in. In no way should your shovel be contacting your feces AFTER you have already dug a hole/slit trench.
How about a shovel comparison...Glock, these, others?
Dude it looks like the blade on the cold steel is blunt. Am I wrong?
You would not test an old never sharpened knife against a new one, would you? Why would you test a beat up edge against a fresh one? I really am starting to loose the last bit of trust I had in your tests and opinions.
So you admittedly are putting a brand new blade in the Condor against a worn Cold Steel that you haven't returned the edge to original sharpness. It doesn't seem like an unbiased test.
Michael Gross It’s not about the edge, the main point of reference is the weight balance and size. And that the bigger cold steel blade can dig better and move more material, but the condor is a little better at other tasks.
At the 1:45 mark, I already know the Condor isn't better than the Cold Steel.
Great comparison video brother
Condor has my vote!
So Condor has a black version with a 10" blade that is more comparable to the Cold Steel in size? You've opened up a can of worms here... I haven't considered anything beyond the old surplus entrenchment tool that I've been using for decades! ;-)
Paul Hurtado the larger condor is about bout $45 where as the cold steel is about $32 with sheath. These are so similar I would go will cold steel than the Condor 10”
There's that same bottle opener that's put on everything when they want another tool to raise the price
Great review.....i have the cold steel and love it....the condor looks very nice and i hope to have one in the near future
Thanks for the H2H Aaron I have been keen to see what the Condor was like as an owner of the CS. Just a super handy tip for you, check on TH-cam for 'Hand Axe Sharpening Technique.....Rooster' and try this for sharpening your shovel. I've been using it for my axes for ages so it was automatically how I went to sharpen the CS shovel, and found it to be super easy. Basically any convex bevel it will have super sharp in no time, and you don't even really need to screw around with the grits all that much. Hope you try it, if you have a lot of convex edged tools and axes I'd consider it a completely invaluable technique.
THIS IS A NO CONTEST REVIEW, DID YOU SHARPE THE COLD STEEL???
Please review some "tactical" toilet paper
Wish there is camo version so that they cannot find my poop👉💩!
They’re called leaves.
should have pitted a new cold steel vs the new condor... you said yourself its well used and you are unable to resharpen it properly. so in this instance, its a little unfair... i own the cold steel, and i put a scandivex on one of the side while leaving the tip and the other side at the factory geometry... this 1 mod alone add so many more useage options as its effectively a knife on one edge... i would like to see a re review of the condor after minths of hard use to see how well the 1045 steel held up with what appears to be quite a shallow edge... makes it sharper but weaker... so new vs new, or old vs old...
Thanks Aaron!
Condor also makes one for survival with a 10" head...
should compare them to us mil folding e-tool
actually yes a knifes job is to cut. the category is shovels... which are meant to dig so to compare to mil e-tool or even small garden shovels would make perfect sense..
the cold steel is a military design that used to "entrench" themselves....
I've demonstrated that I did not ask for your opinion on anything and the fact that your trolling everyones comments about e-tools shows that your a biggot/facist and you should be banned from America, where the U.S. Military E-Tool was proudly made not taiwan or china whatever country cold steel and condor make these at.( DROPS THE MIC.)
constructive criticism is greatly appreciated but thats not what your doing. Your putting people down because you dont like what they like or can afford. Its ok to be a gear snob just go be one at REI.
Norse Woodsman If you wish to troll at least be interesting not petty. You don’t know half of what you two are even discussing. Learn a bit more before you try talking crap. This guy made a great video and it was only suggested of another one that would be interesting. If you can’t handle that than bother someone else not him or the one who made this comment.
I have the Cold Steel and love it.
I keep one edge razor sharp for slicing and the other edge for chopping .
It's heavy enough you can do pretty much anything.
Good video however got a couple things I don't dig poop with my latrine Duty I did go a train then fill it in my shovel don't touch poop, and then you forgot to try while digging striking the tip of the handle with a club or wood Mallet which makes digging with a entrenching shovel much easier instead of utilizing your foot or chopping at things put the shovel to the dirt whack it a few times with a large stick or Matt would mail it and pride dirt Condor I think has this idea with the metal butt cap
Condor should Drop price and saw/bottle opener and it would be perfect
134 / 5.000
Vertaalresultaten
Vertaalresultaat
I thought so, I'm a bit jealous. We don't have much nature here. Also beautiful, but not as large an area as yours.