USGI Tri-Fold Entrenching tool

In the world of off-roading, or dare I say "overlanding", the choice of tools and gear is absolutely endless and often over-hyped. While there are many good brands and offerings available that are sure to withstand the test of time, I have chosen to stick with a shovel that has been well used by me personally and is a proven platform.

The USGI tri-fold entrenching tool, commonly referred to as an "e-tool", is a small and compact shovel that offers a variety of uses. With its dual serrated edges it can be used to chop small timber, cut through stubborn roots and its sharp edges will dig through most terrain with little to no effort. In addition to this, the blade or head end of the shovel can be set to a 90 degree angle offering more advantage in leverage or scooping than a traditional straight shovel.

These service tools were specifically designed for field use and applied to several branches of the US Military over several decades, mainly for troops to dig a foxhole or sleeping hole while in the field, but their uses did expand beyond that. My personal e-tool was issued to me in 1999 and has been with me ever since that time and I refuse to let it go. Before I began off-roading and mapping for OnX Offroad, I would occasionally bring this out for work around the house and it helped on several in-ground plumbing repair operations. Aside from that, it has spent its days being stored in its original case waiting to find a specific purpose, which it now has and remains stored in the 4Runner.

Due to its small size and having the original case with the original Alice clips still in place, I am able to store the shovel inside the 4Runner with it attached to the molle panels I discussed in a previous post. When open the shovel is just under 6" in width and is roughly 24" in overall length when extended. While closed, the dimensions of the shovel in the case is an easy to store 9.5"x6" and all packaged up it weighs in at just under 3lbs. Hard to beat its size and weight when comparing it to the over-inflated "overlanding" shovel options available these days and that isn't even taking into consideration the cost difference or the fact that most modern options require an additional mounting setup.

This will always be my go-to tool for digging, loosening or moving earth while out on trails or even if needed at a camping spot. With a little attention to care, applying a good lubricant to the pivot points and twist lock, I see this as one of those rare items that I can pass on to my kids when the time comes. The steel blade is robust and easy to sharpen when needed and the ability to set the blade at a 90 degree angle means that even if the terrain is difficult to shovel into in a traditional manner, I can set it to a position where it can cut more like an axe or pick while giving me more leverage. Also, once you are familiar with these, they make a decent makeshift stool when folded properly giving an "ok" resting position if needed.

For less than $50 at most surplus stores, or even a few onlines sources, if by chance mine ever happens to fail, I will simply purchase another one, preferably a NOS (new-old-stock) one from a reputable surplus. However, do be aware that there are many copies of these and I personally don't care if its made by SOG, Benchmade or some other company, I will never accept or spend money a replica or remake. I am sure there are several veterans out there that will agree with me, these were one of the best pieces of gear/kit ever issued and I am honored to have my original still with me today.