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Firing Shovels

Discussion in 'Steam Traction' started by jurassic, Jan 20, 2011.

  1. jurassic

    jurassic New Member

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    Just thought i would check out ebay and low and behold another shovel is up there with 9 days to go and £230 already!
    Anyone picked up any bargin shovels on there? cause im going to give up! :(
     
    jurassic, Jan 20, 2011
    #1
  2. RalphW

    RalphW Nat Pres stalwart Staff Member Administrator Friend

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    That is just silly money.
     
    RalphW, Jan 20, 2011
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  3. 6880rules

    6880rules Member

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    I picked one up about 4 years ago for about £13.00 from Swindon

    It has GWR stamped on the blade twice, it had hardly been used ,full blade ( not chopped ) paint still on the handle etc

    But GWR shovels are an aquired taste

    I wouldnt part with it as i have never seen another this good
     
    6880rules, Jan 20, 2011
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  4. DJH

    DJH Member

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    The only drawback with ebay for things like shovels is if it is for use on a locomotive you need to get one the right size and weight. May sound daft but I remember firing turns on Planet when we had two firing shovels on there for a bit. From memory I cant remember which of the two was better but there was a clear difference. Found the same thing when choosing a conducting baton when I conducted a band -it could of easily been a scene from a Harry Potter film trying different batons for their conducting ability!

    Back to topic £230 is a silly price for one.

    Regards
    Duncan
     
    DJH, Jan 20, 2011
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  5. Neil_Scott

    Neil_Scott Part of the furniture

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    You're quite right, it's all down to personal taste. I always prefer firing with a shovel that has a long neck and short blade; it suits my swing better than one with a long blade. I find it more accurate and easier to fire quicker but others wouldn't agree.
     
    Neil_Scott, Jan 20, 2011
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