(Bloomberg Businessweek) -- Dutch company Sneeboer & Zn. has been making garden tools since 1913, but only recently has it added an element of luxury to an otherwise dirty job. The company’s walnut-handled titanium tools—this $760 set includes a transplanting trowel, hand fork, and hand hoe—are as much as 30 percent lighter than typical cast-aluminum versions and much stronger. But you’re not spending that much for practicality: These tools look so good, they’ll compete with your flowers for attention.
The Competition
For a more rustic look, try the hand-forged $174 Heirloom garden tool set from Fisher Blacksmithing, based in Bozeman, Mont. It combines reclaimed materials with hand-turned black walnut handles. Of course, something like the $12 G&F garden tool set from Home Depot is perfectly adequate. The rubber-handled trowel, rake, and hoe are all made of powder-coated steel.
The Bottom Line
You can certainly move dirt for less money; cleaning planter beds with these Sneeboer tools can feel a bit like using a Ferrari for a milk run. But they’re built to be used. That they work beautifully is a bonus. $760
To contact the author of this story: Matthew Kronsberg in New York at matt.kronsberg@gmail.com.
To contact the editor responsible for this story: James Gaddy at jgaddy@bloomberg.net, Chris Rovzar
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