What is a pitchfork, what is the tool for

Any gardener or land owner has a set of tools that allows them to take good care of the territory. There is enough work - the site needs to be dug up, weeds, debris and so on must be removed. One type of garden tool is a pitchfork. Let's figure out what they are and how to use them correctly.

What kind of tool is a pitchfork, what do they look like, what do they consist of, their characteristics

A pitchfork is a garden tool, the design of which makes it easier to dig up tubers. The soil passes between the teeth, and the root crops are captured. Unlike a shovel, a pitchfork harms plants less. This is due to the presence of teeth, which are more gentle on the soil. The shovel cuts through everything that is in the ground.

Forks are fairly sharp tools, so safety precautions must be observed when working with them.

There are various types of this tool depending on the design. There are models specifically for gardening, options for moving manure, or specialized types suitable for harvesting hay.

The simplest model consists of cutting, on which the working part of the inventory is fixed. It includes straight or curved teeth. Between themselves they are connected by a fixed cross-beam.

The principle of operation involves easy penetration into the plant mass, including soil, hay, and moving it to the right place.

Forks are classified by type and may differ in design from each other. Models, the purpose of which involves the presence of slightly concave teeth, and the handle, on the contrary, is curved in the opposite direction. This design allows the tool not to roll over in the hands during operation.

The types of forks are divided according to the following characteristics:

1. The shape and number of teeth. This indicator depends on the purpose of the inventory. The classic type has 4 teeth, slightly curved and with a round section, pointed towards the end. Their number can be from 3 to 7 pieces. There are types that have only 2 teeth. Sharp models prick objects well, and the balls at the end are used to dig up root crops so as not to damage them. Carrying models are equipped with flat prongs.
2. Material. The working area can be forged or welded. The raw material is high-carbon steel with a special coating that can resist corrosion or stainless steel. But on the market you can find options made of plastic. The handle is made of wood. As a rule, oak, ash or birch is used. You can get a lighter design thanks to the aluminum alloy.

Forks also vary in size. The average weight of inventory varies from 1.5 to 2 kg.

What are pitchforks for: tips for using

This type of inventory is intended for earthworks, as well as loading and unloading. It allows you to dig up the soil, remove hay and debris, carry manure, dig up root crops, and more. Earth does not stick to the teeth, which greatly simplifies the work.

Many use a tool instead of a shovel. It was noted that forks are more suitable for certain types of work due to their more gentle effect on the soil and fruits.

The tool is used for almost all processes on the land. For smaller areas, standard hand forks can be used. Large areas are processed using special models installed on equipment.

Some manufacturers produce forks in parts. Prongs and shank are sold separately. This is done so that buyers themselves can choose inventory items for individual preferences.