Lately I’ve been disappointed that all the garden tools I see in garden centers and big box stores are foreign made, most of them coming from China. Not only that, but the quality of many of them seems to be lacking. I’m all about saving money, but I learned a long time ago it doesn’t really pay to skimp when it comes to tools. And since I spend a lot of time with my garden tools, it really makes sense to buy sturdy ones that will last.
So, last year I went on a search to find some American made garden hoes. I’ve had my favorite ones for many years, and some of them are starting to get a little worn. It was time to find replacements before they all broke on me. The local stores were no help, so I started searching online. And I quickly came upon a company that not only made hoes in the U.S., but they were located not that far away from here in the Missouri Ozarks.
old swan hoe
I’m not sure how long Rogue Hoe has been in business, but they might well have one of the most interesting selection of hoes I have ever seen. The business end of each hoe (the head) is made from recycled farm disc blades – you know, the implements that are mounted behind a tractor and break up the soil and crop stubble before planting. Oh my, recycled and made in the U.S.? That was good enough for me to want to give them a try.
closeup of Rogue 65G hoe
Their online catalog has a lot of different kinds and styles of hoes. I was torn between the models 75G, 65G and the 55G. The prudent part of me said to order only one, at least until I saw how well they were made. But the garden fanatic side of me said to order all three. Finally, I just split the difference and ordered the 65G and the 55G.
Rogue 55g hoe
I was impressed with the hoes when they arrived. They were very well made, with sturdy ash handles and a nice balanced feel to them. And the cutting edges were razor sharp. One year later, I am still impressed. They’ve seen a lot of use in that time, and they’re still in great shape. They have quickly become some of my favorite tools.
the label says it all
And for the record, I am not being compensated in any way to review these tools favorably, or otherwise. I paid full retail price for them. I just thought they were worthy of sharing with other gardeners who are searching for quality garden tools.
Rogue 55G hoe in action weeding the garlic bed
So, do any of you have favorite sources for garden tools? If so, I’d love to hear about them!