German Oscillating Stirrup Hoe - 5.5" with 63" wood Handle

A fast and efficient weeding hoe for keeping vegetable beds, paths, and cultivated ground clear of young weeds. The hinged blade oscillates as the tool moves, changing its cutting angle so that it slices on both the push and pull stroke. Rather than chopping into the ground, it is worked continuously back and forth just below the soil surface. In German it is known as a Pendelhacke. This shallow cutting action makes it possible to cover a surprising amount of ground with relatively little effort. Weeds are severed at or below the crown while the soil is disturbed much less than with a conventional chopping hoe. It is particularly useful for regular cultivation in vegetable gardens, where catching weeds while they are small can turn a major chore into a quick pass between the rows. The long 63-inch handle also allows the hoe to be used from a comfortably upright position. The 5.5-inch blade is wide enough to work efficiently across open beds while remaining manageable between rows and established plants. Like other stirrup hoes, this is a cultivation and weeding tool rather than a digging hoe. It performs best in loose to moderately firm cultivated soil and on young weeds. Hard, rocky ground and established deep-rooted weeds are better handled with a heavier chopping or root hoe. 5.5" (14 cm) working width 63" (160 cm) aspen wood handle Movable steel blade cuts on both push and pull strokes Designed for shallow cultivation approximately 3/4" to 1-1/4" below the surface Item Number: 57086 Manufacturer: SHW Forge