D handle snow shovels are some of the most comfortable, easiest to use snow removal shovels around. D handles are very common; they are D-shaped hand grips at the end of the tall shovel handles that allow your hand to pass through the D-shaped hole.
Since the hole is D-shaped, you can fully grasp the straight end of the handle with one hand but the hole allows enough space for your hand to move freely. The design allows you to get a good grip on your shovel, thus giving you a more effective scoop and a more forceful lift.
With snow shovels, the grip is very important as it determines how much strength you can put into every bend-and-scoop action. This is the most widely available and most commonly used type of hand grip so you won’t run out of options to choose from.
D-handle hand grips come in many different sizes while they all share their distinct D shape. It does not normally matter whether the D handle is big or small, unless you have an especially small or large hand and would need smaller or bigger space to get a better grip and fit. If not, you can avail of any of the available D handle snow shovels on the market as long as the blade size or clearing width is right for the space you need to clear.
One of the most popular snow removal shovels with a D-grip handle is the Suncast SP2725 from bestselling and well-recognized snow tools brand, Suncast. This model doubles as a shovel and a pusher rolled into one, so at $40, it is quite an investment. The D-grip is attached to a ribbed steel core handle for durability and for added strength when you lift up your snow load. This model is a 27-inch one, which means it is great for clearing large areas as the wider clearing swath will help speed up the task. The blade is made of durable poly that keeps the shovel light even when fully loaded.
The Suncast SC2700 is another shovel and snow pusher combo from Suncast. It comes with the same D-grip handle that’s designed to be extra comfortable. The grip and the handle uses a durable and strong steel core. The SC2700 is different, however, since its blade is made of graphite instead of poly.
While both are common blade materials, the Suncast SC2700’s graphite blade is not just lightweight but is also non-stick, a property that helps prolong the shovel’s life. This model also comes with a galvanized steel wear strip to protect the blade better. Keep in mind, however, that this is a far smaller model, with a clearing width of only 20 inches. Consider this if you have only a small area to clear.
Another well-known snow tool brand is Garant, which has its own D handle snow shovels to boast of. One of these is the Garant YSP30D Yukon, a vibrant blue snow pusher with a wide 30-inch blade and an oversized D-grip. Due to its size, this is ideal for those who need to clear larger spaces and those who prefer a more spacious D-shaped hand grip. The hand grip is then attached to a varnished ash handle, which, in turn, is attached to the steel blade. This is one of the most durable and strong snow removal shovels on the market, although it is not one of the lightest.
One of the best and the most unique D handle snow shovels is the Suncast SCP3500. This is one of Suncast’s standout offers. Its uniqueness is due to the unique polycarbonate material of the blade, which is also shatter-resistant. This technology is called the Powerblade, and it even comes with a nylon wear strip for added protection.
And of course, this is one of the D handle snow shovels around whose D-grips actually look so comfortable that you’d want to use it again and again. The D-grip is also designed to prevent slips, giving you a firm hold. The SCP3500, however, is another compact model with its 20-inch blade.
If you find 20 inches to be too limited and 30 inches to be too wide, you can get the 24-inch YSP24D from Garant’s Yukon line. This snow pusher comes with a varnished ash handle, which makes it a good option for those who want a wood handle. The handle is attached to an oversized D handle on one end and a steel blade on the other end. The steel blade helps brace the shovel for heavier loads, so even with its mid-range size, this snow removal shovel can stand up to heavy snow tasks.
What to Look For
Aside from the D-shaped hand grips, you should also look for extra ergonomic features such as a bent handle, an adjustable telescoping handle, and so on – these ergonomic features allow the snow shovels to match your height, so you don’t have to exert too much effort in bending and scooping.
