OK, give this a chance before you dog me out about this. I write about a lot of expensive tactical and outdoor kit, but I am always on the lookout for simple, inexpensive tools that will do the job.

Whether you’re planting a tree, spreading mulch, or creating a new landscaping bed, a trusty shovel gets the job done. When shopping for one of these vital gardening tools, there’s a lot to consider.

By the time the site is cleaned and the machine is shut down, the result is obvious. Either the job flowed smoothly, or it ...