Abstract: A shovel for manual use, comprising a shovel blade having concave and convex faces and defining a longitudinal center-line and having side edges, an upper edge and a forward cutting edge. The shovel blade defines a handle connector receptable having a shovel handle fixed therein. A root cutting blade is fixed to the shovel blade substantially along the longitudinal center-line and projects from the concave face of the shovel blade. A sharpened root cutting edge is defined on the root cutting blade and is oriented toward the forward cutting edge of the shovel blade. The root cutting edge of the central blade preferably defines an intermediate edge recess and forms a slightly inclined sharp edge section for enhancing root cutting action. A pair of side blades are fixed to side edge portions of the shovel blade and are oriented in diverging relation projecting from the convex face of the shovel blade.

Abstract: A paddle for watercraft is provided which has an elongate shaft on which is provided a handle. A blade is in fixed relation with the paddle handle and defines blade edges and opposed blade sides. A lateral force transmitting steering rib projects from one of the blade side faces and is oriented in substantially normal relation therewith. The lateral force transmitting steering rib extends from the free terminal end of the paddle blade, opposite the connection of the handle with the blade and extends along the longitudinal axis of the blade a distance of from about one-third of the length of the blade to about one-half of the length of the blade. The lateral force transmitting steering rib may extend along the entire length of the paddle blade if desired.