It's made for emergencies, not everyday use, and as such, it is a good shovel. I like that the handle is long enough you won't brake your back stooping and throwing. You could probably use it for sand, or dirt, but it would be a bit on the light side for that kind of use. I got it for snow, and that's what it's good for. Gave it a 4 star, would've given it 5 if not for the cheap storage bag. May not seem important, but hey, you gotta store it, and I shouldn't have to go out and try to buy somethSee full review