Skip to product information
1 of 2

SHW Forge

Heavy Root Hoe 3.3lbs - 7.5"x 5" with 53" Ash Handle

Heavy Root Hoe 3.3lbs - 7.5"x 5" with 53" Ash Handle

Item Number:  53569

Regular price $ 77.00
Regular price Sale price $ 77.00
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.

In stock

Assembled

Heavy Root Hoe by SHW Tools
Item number: 53569

Great heaving chopping hoe with 5" wide head. German made forged steel.

53" handle
3.3 pound head

The Eye-Hoe (also called Grub, Grubbing, Digging or Chopping hoes) is the oldest hoe design in the world, due to the simplicity of the head shape; traditionally, forging the head could be done with crude tools. The 'eye' just had an appropriately sized stick stuck through it for a handle; as long as one end of the stick was bigger than the eye, it wouldn't come out. The eye-hoes produced by SHW of Germany today are a lot more refined: ergonomic designs, light weight and perfectly fitted handles wedged into place.

The differences between these SHW Eye hoes and others you will find on the market are:

  1. The SHAPE of the handle...most have round handles, while these German ones all have Oval handles: like an Axe, sledgehammer, pickAxe or any well-designed striking tool. This is very important, because the way the human hand is shaped, holding an oval handle naturally "aims" the tool head properly, and is much more ergonomic when using the tool for long periods (resulting in less hand fatigue). Also, note that all the handles in the "choppin" series are actually LARGER toward the head for extra strength...you simply't see this design on the lower cost hoes; it's more expensive to produce a handle this strong. Of course, tightening or replacing a handle is easy - just like a hammer or Axe with a wooden handle; just drive a wedge into the top to spread the handle out into the eye. We stock replacement handles.
  2. Head angles and balance. The Germans have spent a tremendously long time perfecting these tools...the foundry location where SHW currently resides in the Black Forest has been forging tools since the year 1267! The head angles and balance of these eye hoes is unparalleled, meaning more work done with less fatigue.
  3. Steel Quality. We probably don't need to say more here...what kind of quality would you expect from an old German company?
View full details

Premium European Steel & Low-Maintenance Blade

SHW tools are made from carefully sourced European steel—renowned for its purity and reliability. The forging process creates a dense, uniform grain structure that boosts overall strength and makes the blade less prone to cracking or warping.

Why European Steel Matters: High-grade alloys ensure consistent heat treatment, resulting in a tough yet flexible blade that retains its edge even under heavy use.


Bevel-Wearing Edge: Each hoe or blade is engineered with a precise bevel shape, allowing the cutting edge to “refresh” itself as it wears. You’ll spend less time sharpening and more time enjoying your garden.

Durable Ash Handles—User-Replaceable for Life

Every SHW tool comes fitted with a premium-grade European ash handle, chosen for its ideal strength-to-weight ratio and natural shock absorption. Handles are kiln-dried, grain-oriented for stability, and fixed with a robust wedge system.

The forged steel head is backed by a lifetime warranty, and the handle is user-replaceable to extend its working life indefinitely.

Shop Replacement Parts

Traditional Shapes, Modern Ergonomics

SHW’s designs preserve historical German and European tool patterns—shapes that have proven themselves for centuries. Modern refinements in balance and handle geometry reduce fatigue while maximizing efficiency. Whether you’re turning soil or chopping through stubborn roots, an SHW tool feels intuitive from the first swing.

See More From SHW

The Best of Both Worlds

Heritage Craft: Over 420 years of forging know-how can be felt in every hammer strike, rivet, and bevel.

Cutting-Edge Engineering: Computer-controlled heat treatments and CAD-modeled blade angles ensure uniform quality, batch after batch.

Ethical & Sustainable: SHW’s steel is sourced under strict EU regulations for both labor and environmental standards, giving you peace of mind about where your tools come from.

Your Garden, Our Commitment

When you choose SHW, you’re investing in a tool that’s meant to last. From prepping spring beds to finishing seasonal chores, you’ll rely on the same sturdy blades year after year. And if you need help deciding which style, or want to expand your collection with complementary hoes, cultivators, or spades, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to Grow Your Collection?
Explore the full range of SHW forged tools—each crafted with the same care and attention to detail. Add a spare handle for peace of mind, or discover the variety of sizes and shapes designed for any gardening style. Your next project deserves the best that centuries of German forging tradition can offer.

See more from our collection