Böker Plus - Shovel M1874

The field or short spade in the old pattern is by far the most versatile outdoor tool after the knife. He splits firewood, fells trees, clears a path through undergrowth, stokes the campfire, serves as a climbing aid on steep slopes, makeshift pry bar, emergency paddle, and knife. The list could be continued indefinitely. Needless to say, it is also excellent for digging. Compared to the folding shovels commonly used today, it exhibits significantly higher robustness required for the applications listed above

For our Böker Plus Shovel M1874874, we have opted for the consistent implementation of the original design of the first German entrenching tool, which was introduced in the year 1874874 by imperial decree under the designation portable entrenching tool for infantry and rifle battalions. The two-piece construction of blade and spring is connected with five strong rivets, additionally secured with a 40 mm wide steel clamp, and encloses the break-resistant ash wood handle up to half of its length. This old design is complex and costly to produce as two punching and bending tools need to be manufactured and significantly more assembly steps are required. However, it rewards with unparalleled stability. In addition to later models, the entrenching tool M1874 was still in use during both World Wars

According to historical precedent, the edges of the spade blade are delivered pre-sharpened and not ground. Digging, splitting wood, and delimbing are already possible in this condition, but for use as a machete or knife, it is recommended to sharpen the edges by hand. To adapt to today's needs and possibilities, we have made minimal adjustments to the original in creating a modern bushcraft tool. For Blade and Quill, we have chosen a tough, stainless steel that is also used in the construction of steam turbine blades and surgical instruments. It has high fracture and shock load resistance and is easy to sharpen even under field conditions. For example, a simple sharpening method involves placing both edges flat against a concrete block with the inside of the blade. The case with two belt loops is made of water-resistant and rot-proof black nylon with a solid plastic insert instead of high-maintenance leather. The Böker Plus Shovel M1874 thus becomes an indispensable piece of equipment for all bushcrafters, off-road drivers, collectors of military gear, and reenactors

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