DMOS Delta Shovel | Overland Travel Approved

If you’ve been reading The Gear Bunker, you already know about the Delta Shovel from the DMOS Collective. I had the prototype for over a month, then purchased a steel version and I can’t shut up about it.

I survived the Polar Vortex last winter with the help of their Alpha 2 Snow Shovel. And was super stoked when I learned of this new spade shovel they were working on with all the same portability and versatility of the Alpha 2.

At the end of July, my son Kevin and I left Northern Michigan for a 2 plus week Overland trip to the high mountain passes of Colorado and the alien landscape of Moab, Utah. Partly to get away with my youngest who has now turned 16 as of this writing. And will be less available with his newly minted drivers license. As well as to explore, adventure and experience the varying landscapes of these beautiful locations.

DMOS Delta Video Review

Living out of a Toyota Tundra for 2 weeks turned out to be quite easy when set-up properly. Aside from the ICON suspension, winch, lights and bumper upgrades, I found that some of the simpler tools and equipment I brought still needed some adjusting.

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A few items served no purpose and others seemed kinda redundant. So we adjusted. One item however, was a clear winner and will remain onboard our rig. And that’s the new Delta Shovel from DMOS Collective.

Overland Essential Shovel

This compact shovel was originally mounted to the outside of my bed rack via 2 quick fist attachments. And it wasn’t long before I became a little uneasy leaving this expensive tool unsecured on the outside of the truck. DMOS does offer a lockable mount that I may look into in the future. But for the remainder of this trip, the Delta was riding in the back locked up. However, every time we made camp, this bad boy was put into action. Sometimes preparing an epic fire pit located alongside a 400′ canyon. And sometimes digging less glamorous holes for the inevitable post taco dinner activities. Either way, the Delta Shovel performed flawlessly and without judgment.

Although my son and I did run the Tundra through some challenging terrain while on our pilgrimage, we did not get her stuck nor need to dig the truck out. My good friend however punctured a tire on his vehicle and needed to get turned around in a tight canyon so we could service the tire.

While doing so, the Maxtrax and Delta Shovel were called into service to assist reversing uphill in sandy conditions. The ability to quickly employ the Delta to its full length was the key to success in this case. The supplied pin used to secure the spade head is a bit clumsy however. But the team addressed this with a better solution in the production models. Along with some additional improvements.

Prototype

The prototype model I was sent to review is made from aluminum but is now offered in steel as an option. For those of us needing something stronger. Another production adjustment replaced the “D” handle in favor of a more compact nylon “T” shaped handle. And further reinforcing the mechanical connection between spade and bracket by adding a 6th rivet. I really appreciate the constant evolution of an already excellent product. DMOS is clearly listening to the testers and adjusting fire.

Unlike the silly little E-tool we were issued in the Ranger Regiment, this lightweight shovel is much more versatile. Extending to a full sized contractor length shovel, this beast will get to places the ‘ole E-tool could only dream of accessing. I also see the benefit of adjusting the spade to “hoe mode”. Allowing the user to reach under a truck or Jeep to dislodge an obstacle while off roading. And with a bracket rated for over 1000 pounds, you’re sure to reach your own limits long before the shovel does.

DMOS Delta Features

As always, all DMOS shovels are designed and manufactured in the land of the fee and the home of the brave. With all USA sourced materials. Leaving no excuse not to take a look at their products and support this great Collective. I always hear people say they’re willing to pay a little more for products made in the USA. Well? Here’s your chance to stop talking about it and do it.