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.

When it's time to dig out your car, SUV, or truck after a snowstorm, do you have the right tools for the job? Or when you find yourself deep in a hole and can't rock or power your way out, how do you ...