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May 29, 2026 - 03:36 PM
The Lesche Sampson's 18-inch overall length allows you to dig plugs 8-10 inches deep in typical soil conditions, with the effective digging depth determined by blade length rather than overall tool length since the handle portion does not enter the ground. The 7.5-inch blade reaches the 8-10 inch range when you angle the shovel and use the T-handle to apply downward force, which is sufficient for most coin, jewelry, and shallow relic targets. For deeper cache recovery or targets below 12 inches, a full-length spade or digging bar is required because the Sampson's compact design prioritizes portability over maximum depth. In loose or sandy soil, you can excavate a wider hole and reach slightly deeper by removing multiple scoops, but in hard-packed clay or gravel, the 8-10 inch range is the practical limit before the handle geometry makes further penetration inefficient.
