The Rogue Hoe is a classic trail building workhorse, and we’ve been a fan of this tool since our IMBA days, when we were initially introduced to it. But if you want a tool that’s even more versatile, the Rogue Hoe 70HR 7″ Rake and Hoe Combo Tool ups the ante with the addition of a rake head. Similar to a McCleod, you can get your chop on and pull away the result without having to carry an additional tool. Unlike McCleods, the Rogue Hoe is available in two different width heads and different length handles.
I’m a big fan of the Rogue line up, as the narrower head is also more stout. It can do much of the cutting work of a pulaski while moving more material, and in much of the loamy soil found locally gets the work done quickly.
Our favorite model features the shorter 40″ Curved Hickory handle, due to its portability. Though it could be tiring to use over a long day for taller users, it can still be strapped to a hydration pack to ride into the worksite. (I still need to rig up a better sheath for mine. Rogue Hoe offers one for $49 as an optional accessory) Though portable modular tools are extremely appealing, the high cost is not, and we can get away with getting to the site with the tool we need, we’re all good.
The curved handle feels significantly more stout and ax-like that the longer pole style handles. It seems like we’re always seeing people break handles of shovels, rakes and other tools, so for a personal tool, I always prefer the stronger option. You never know when you’ll turn around and see someone has picked up your tool to hack away at something.
A popular trail tool brands known for useful trail work tools, one of our favorite features of the product line is the fact that all the tool heads are upcycled from agricultural disc blades.
Buying a Rogue Hoe
It’s challenging to find tools of the Rogue Hoe caliber locally and being oversized, shipping costs can add quite a bit to the purchase price. They’re even pricy on Amazon. I found mine at Baseline Equipment Company in Eugene, Oregon. Not only was it on sale for $60.00, but the cost of shipping was minimal.
