Advertisement

In a nutshell

This strong, metal spade is popular with testers who love its light, balanced feel and ability to slice through difficult ground quickly and easily. It's built to last and comes with a two-year warranty.

What we tested

  • Handling
    A star rating of 4.0 out of 5.
  • Blade
    A star rating of 5.0 out of 5.
  • Strength
    A star rating of 5.0 out of 5.
  • Value for money
    A star rating of 4.0 out of 5.
Overall Rating
A star rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Pros

  • Light and easy to handle
  • Strong
  • Cuts through roots and stones well

Cons

  • Needs oiling once the paint wears off
  • Treads are narrow
  • Cold metal handle and shaft
  • Short warranty

Buy Niwaki tools on Amazon

Buy the Golden Spade from Niwaki

All products were chosen independently by our editorial team. This review contains affiliate links and we may receive a commission for purchases made. Please read our affiliates FAQ page to find out more.

What is the Niwaki Golden Spade like?

Crafted from metal this golden spade has a wide, pointed steel blade that's welded to the steel shaft and a metal handle. The treads have been made by rolling over the edge of the blade and although they’re narrow, testers agreed they were better than not having treads at all. The steel pipe shaft is shorter than many of the others in our test. The Golden Spade is also available in a smaller size.

What is the Niwaki Golden Spade like to use?

This is a strong spade that feels light and easy to use and cuts through stones, roots and difficult ground with ease. The shaft is smooth, welded to both the handle and the blade rather than riveted, but the all-metal finish makes the handle and shaft cold to the touch in winter, when gloves are recommended. The short shaft divided testers but many loved it, finding it easy to handle and great at attacking areas that need clearing. The metal shaft has no flex but it is great for short, sharp bursts of clearance work rather than prolonged digging and turning over soil.

Will the Niwaki Golden Spade last?

This feels sturdy and strong and its metal construction means it’s built to last. The golden-coated blade will need oiling once it’s been scratched off from use to protect it from rust.

Is the Niwaki Golden Spade good value for money?

This eye catching, sturdy spade is in the mid-range price bracket but comes with a comparatively short warranty of just two years. We therefore think it’s reasonable value for money.

Who is the Niwaki Golden Spade most useful for?

Loved by our shorter testers, this is a great spade for tree planting, trenching and clearing ground.

Buy Niwaki tools on Amazon

Advertisement

Buy pointed spades on Amazon

Spades - Buyer's Guide video

Border Spades - Buyer's Guide video

Product Specifications

Product
BrandNiwaki
NameNiwaki Golden Spade
ModelGolden Spade
Price£59.99
Spade typePointed
Features
MaterialSteel
ShaftSteel
Foot treadYes
HandleYD
BladePointed
Weight1.8kg
Height97cm
Warranty2YEAR
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement