It's hard to find a tool that's good in all places... the best tool to use is one that matches the soil or sand where you're hunting.
And you'll never save money buying or using a cheap tool! Nothing is more aggravating than trying to enjoy a day hunting and having a digging tool break!
I metal detect(all soil types), hunt gold, dig ginseng and hunt gemstones in the mountains. Even a quality digging tool may fail you, and believe me.. I've had many break! I've broke more wooden handles than most people!
I maybe a little different than most(shut-up, Craig
), but it got to the point I made all my digging tools. I know everyone is not industrial metal fabricators.. but this will show how serious the digging game can get. All my digging tools are made strong, durable, and light weight.. with cost and fabrication time secondary. All my digging tools are titanium.
Sand scoops, two sizes..
Hand digger.. good for general metal detecting in soil and digging ginseng, etc.
Hand pick.. good for hard/rocky soil..
Shovel/rake/walking stick..
Machete..
I have other tools I've made that apply to gold and gem prospecting...
Yeah.. I'm a little crazy.. but I ain't stupid.. well, maybe a little?
Best at ya!
Wayne