Pickaxes

About Pickaxes

Pickaxes and mattocks are essential hand tools designed for breaking up hard materials including compacted soil, rocks, concrete and paving. Whether you're a groundworker preparing trenches, a landscaper tackling tough terrain, or a DIY enthusiast working on garden projects, MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of pickaxes, mattocks and related accessories from trusted brands including Draper, Roughneck, Faithfull and Spear and Jackson.

Our pickaxe category includes complete tools as well as replacement heads and handles in various materials. Standard pickaxes feature a pointed pick for breaking hard ground and a flat chisel end for prying. Mattocks combine a vertical axe blade with a horizontal adze for cutting through roots and turf. Pick mattocks blend the pointed pick with an adze, offering versatility for different ground conditions. You'll also find specialist tools like floor scrapers and root diggers, plus quality replacement handles in fibreglass, hickory and hardwood.

Applications

Pickaxes and mattocks are used across numerous trades and applications:

• Groundworkers and excavation contractors - breaking up compacted ground, preparing trenches and removing obstacles
• Landscapers and gardeners - soil cultivation, removing tree roots, creating planting beds and breaking up clay soil
• Demolition workers - breaking concrete, removing old paving and dismantling structures
• Agricultural workers - land clearance, ditch maintenance and preparing hard ground for cultivation
• Builders and general tradespeople - site clearance, foundation preparation and removing old surfaces
• DIY enthusiasts - garden renovation projects, patio removal and general groundwork
• Mining and quarrying operations - extracting materials and breaking up rock faces

Choosing The Right Pickaxes

When selecting a pickaxe or mattock from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these important factors:

Tool type: Choose a standard pickaxe for heavy demolition and rock breaking, a cutter mattock for cutting through roots and turf, or a pick mattock for versatile groundwork combining both functions.

Handle material: Fibreglass handles offer excellent shock absorption and durability with minimal maintenance. Traditional hickory and hardwood handles provide authentic feel and are easily replaceable. Fibreglass is generally preferred for heavy-duty professional use.

Head weight and quality: Heavier heads (2-2.5kg) deliver more breaking force but require greater effort. Ensure heads are properly hardened and tempered steel for longevity. Check the head is securely fitted to the handle.

Handle length: Standard handles (around 900mm) suit most applications. Shorter mini mattocks offer better control in confined spaces and for lighter work.

Replacement parts: Consider purchasing spare handles, as these are the component most likely to need replacement through wear or breakage.

Safety Information

Always wear safety goggles or a face shield when using pickaxes, as striking hard materials can cause fragments to fly. Steel-toe cap boots and heavy-duty work gloves are essential. Ensure adequate clearance around your working area to avoid striking others on the backswing. Inspect the tool before use, checking the head is secure and the handle has no cracks or splits. Maintain a firm grip and stable stance, and take regular breaks to prevent fatigue which can lead to accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a pickaxe and a mattock?

A pickaxe has a pointed pick and flat chisel end, ideal for breaking hard materials like rock and concrete. A mattock features an axe blade and horizontal adze, designed for cutting through soil, roots and turf. Pick mattocks combine a pick with an adze for versatile groundwork.

Can I replace just the handle on my pickaxe?

Yes, replacement handles are widely available at MyToolShed.co.uk in fibreglass, hickory and hardwood. This is more economical than replacing the entire tool when only the handle is damaged.

Which handle material is best for professional use?

Fibreglass handles are generally preferred by professionals for their superior shock absorption, weather resistance and durability. They require less maintenance than wooden handles and are less prone to splitting, though traditional hickory remains popular for its natural feel and replaceability.