Sand Scoops 101 - Differences, Benefits, & Uses

If you have never combed the beach before metal detecting or hunting for sharks teeth, fossils, or shells, you probably understand the importance of having a sand scoop to make the process easier.  If you have never used a sand scoop before, you may think that any sand scoop will do the job just fine.  This is not the case however. There are many types of sand scoops with different purposes.  In this blog we are going to discuss the different types of sand scoops and their relative uses.

The anatomy of a sand scoop is pretty basic.  It consists of a basket and some type of handle...and that is about it.  Although, these two components can vary in terms of type of material used to make the scoop, the style of handle, and the configuration of the two.  It sounds simple but there is a lot more that goes into it.  Here are some things to consider as you are shopping for a sand scoop.

Sands Scoop Handle Type

The handle of a scoop determines where you can effectively use it.  They come in different length and widths and come in a variety of configurations and materials.  

The Garrett Stainless Steel Hand Scoop is a Great Short Handled Option

Short Handle Scoops - Typically short handle scoops are designed for one hand operation.  They make travel a breeze as they can be packed and stowed without taking up much space.  The drawback is you have to bend down or hunch over to retrieve the item.  This makes them more suitable for beach hunting or shallow water hunting.

The Motley Tools sand scoops are a great line of sand scoops.

Long Handle Scoops - Long handle scoops allow the user to go deeper in the water without having to submerge their body to retrieve an object.  Long handles also provide the user leverage often allowing them to dig larger holes with less effort.

The RTG Travel Scoop is a robust travel sand scoop.

Collapsible Handle Scoops - There are several scoops that allow the user to collapse, break down, or remove the handle.  Some are configured to be used as both a long handle scoop or a short scoop.  This allows for the best of both worlds and provides a lot of flexibility.  Especially in a travel situation.

It would seem the discussion on sand scoop handles might end here.  It does not.  For instance, the shape and angle of the handle plays a large role in how it is used. Some handles are configured for the user to "draw" the handle toward them to scoop sand while others are designed for the user to push the scoop away from their body to retrieve a target.  Additionally, there are scoop handles that are hollow allowing them to float slightly above the basket.  There are also carbon fiber handle options available to help lighten the load while still providing strength.

Sand Scoop Basket Style

This is what I consider to be the most important factor in choosing a sand scoop and unfortunately the most overlooked.

Hole Shape and Spacing - The holes in a sand scoop come in all different shapes from round, square, diamond, and even octagonal shaped.  Shape not as important as the size and spacing of the holes.  It is important to keep the holes in your sand scoop small enough to prevent the potential items you are looking for to drain through. The spacing has a huge impact on how quickly the material in the basket "drains" from it which is an important consideration especially when you are hunting in dry, wet, or surf locations. For instance, Wire Style Baskets style scoops are great for dry beach sand as they drain fast.  They may not hold up however in heavy wet sand or rocky locations.

Notice the spacing and hole shape difference of the round scoop (left), square (middle), and wire baskets (right).

Basket Shape & Size - Sand scoops come in a variety of shapes - square, round, rectangle, and diamond shaped. Some have rounded tips, some have sharp tips and some have rounded.   The shape is a personal preference.  Size is determined by both the user and the terrain.  If the user is of smaller physical stature, they will want to choose a smaller scoop to avoid fatigue. 

The tip of the sand scoop is an important consideration. This will determine how well it digs and how long your scoop will last.  Rocky soil and sand will have an abrasive affect that will limit the useable years of a scoop. In fact, some of our aluminum scoops have stainless steel tips that will not degrade over time as quickly as softer aluminum would.

Support at Handle Joint - When detecting in harsher terrain, you will need a ruggedly built scoop.  Especially if you want to use your scoop for years to come.  This is why it is important to make sure the connection from the handle to the scoop basket is well built.  

Kick Plate - Some scoops are made for abuse and some are not.  If you are on dry sand a "pull" style scoop will be sufficient.  If you are in wet sand or surf, you will want to get a more rugged scoop.  Make sure if you are kicking your scoop at all, yo have one that has a kick plate or reinforced back of the basket where your foot would apply pressure.

Sand Scoop Material

Steel - Steel is the most durable type of scoop you can get.  They can stand up to the abrasive sand and stones one may encounter along a shoreline.  There are many options when it comes to steel.  Stainless steel is the hardest and most resistant to corrosion from saltwater.  Anodized steel will provide you a moderate level from corrosion and galvanized will provide you a limited resistance but will be more affordable than other steel options.

Aluminum - Aluminum is a great material to use for a sand scoop as it is extremely resistant to corrosion.  It allows you to have a very robustly built scoop but without the weight you would get using steel.

Plastic - Plastic scoops are great if you do not want to spend a lot of money on a sand scoop. They are a great choice for "one time" beach trips.  They provide a lightweight, compact scoop option that won't break the bank.  Plastic sand scoops are also extremely resistant to corrosion.