Mattock Sizes

The mattock is a tool that resembles the pickaxe. What sets it apart from the pickaxe is the head. The head shape makes it ideal for breaking up ground. It can be used for digging and gardening.

Size of a Mattock

The dimensions of a mattock vary. Majority of the heads weigh 1.5 to 3.5 kg (3.3 to 7.7 lb). These are usually set on shafts measuring 90 to 120 cm (3 to 4 ft). Oftentimes the head is lighter than the shaft. There are instances when the shaft has double the density and mass of a baseball bat.

There are other mattocks that have different measurements. For example, the Ames True Temper 1195100 mattock has a handle length of 35 inches. Its head weighs 5 lbs and the head blade eye number is 6.

The material grip is made of forged steel while the head is fiberglass. The Truper Herramientas #TP5FC on the other hand, is a 5 lb pick. The handle is 36”.

Design and Variants

While the sizes of a mattock differ, most mattocks have a blade resembling a chisel. This is perpendicular to the handle. It is this shape that allows it to be utilized as a hoe and adze. Others have a pointed end. These are called pick mattocks.

Another type is the cutter mattock. The end has an axe like end. The Pulaski is a combination of the mattock and axe. There are some areas in the U.S. where the mattock is called a grub axe or grub hoe.

Uses

Aside from gardening, the mattock is also used for making paths. The tool is also used for archeological digs, although the size of a mattock used here varies. The two handed mattocks are also employed to remove pests in an area. They are also used for taking out olive trees. The mattock is also employed for making foxholes.

How the Mattock is Used for Gardening

The mattock is used widely in gardening because it is so versatile. It can be used for digging when the shovel is unable to do it. The pick end of the mattock can be used to go through hard clay and soil. This can also be used to scoop up large amounts of soil. The mattock’s blade can slice through the surface roots.

The mattock can also be utilized for transplanting plants. The tool can be used to slice the drip line and untangle the roots. To get under the roots, the pick side has to be used. The blade can also be employed for slicing roots.

The blade of the mattock can also be used to cut the lawn. The blade can also remove the bed of sod. The mattock can also be employed for slicing small hillsides. Of course you need to be careful when handling the blade.

If you are going to use this tool, the size of a mattock will have to be considered. Also keep in mind that the quality will also vary depending on how it was made.