I hate heavy shovels. I search for the lightest ones I can get. The ones I use in construction are heavy duty, with fiberglass handles though. Big box houses is where I get both.

You may have local craftsmen in your area that will make one that you can actually proud of. This guy is great. Probably ships too. http://www.redpigtools.com/

Go to a locally owned hardware or garden store - that is where we have had the most success in finding quality items.

I had to order from England, Jackson & Spears, through an American company, I don't remember whom. You might try Shovel and Hoe, I believe it is called, a garden tool company somewhere in Puget Sound. I got a long handled digging fork--I have back problems enough, thank you, without having to bend over short handled spades, shovels and forks--also English, through them. The spade is wonderful for double digging.

I agree about the big box tools. About the fifth time the head of your tool separates from the handle and goes whizzing through the air, narrowly missing someone's head...

I bought hand tools from The Red Pig, which I like very much. I didn't know they are making spades.

I got a nice old shovel at Habitat for Humanity for $8.00. Love it.

Great sourcing Laurie , along with supporting a great community cause !

tractor supply has long handled lightweight shovels for about 8 bucks.

If you are having trouble with tools holding up it may because you are not using the proper tool for the job. Each tool is designed to do a specific task. When you use a tool for something that it was not designed, it will not hold up as expected.

We live in a wooded area. When you plant a bush or tree the natural reaction is to grab a shovel. If you get a tree root you use the shovel to chop it in two. A shovel is not a chopping tool. I have found that a mattock which is designed for chopping makes quick work of roots. Also when you find rocks you can also use it to dig it out.

Not using the tool properly...FIFY.

I've had the best luck getting quality "stick" tools going to large flea market type places. You can pick up gently or not used tools from the 40's or 50's cheap because they have rust or need a handle. I'm serious. e.g. I wanted a mowing scythe, with a brush blade for trimming around my beehives as they don't like the sound of a weedeater. I heard a guy had one, went over to look at it and asked what he wanted. $250. WHAT?? Yeah, it's an antique...... BS and other comments thereunto pertaining...... My brother periodically goes to a big flea market near here and I rode along with him, had my pick and got a nice one for $30.