How to Use a Deuce of Spades Trowel for Backpacking

By Six Moon Designs | Published: 2026-10-23

Category: How-to Guides

Learn the correct way to use a Deuce of Spades trowel for digging cat holes while backpacking, including tips for cutting roots and leaving no trace.

Quick Answer

Use the Deuce of Spades trowel to dig a 6-8 inch deep cat hole, cutting through roots with its recessed teeth, then cover and disguise the site to leave no trace.

Why Use a Dedicated Backpacking Trowel

A lightweight trowel like the Deuce of Spades makes digging cat holes efficient and minimizes impact on the trail. At only 0.6 oz (17 g), it adds negligible weight to your pack while ensuring you can properly bury waste per Leave No Trace principles.

The recessed teeth on the leading edge are a key feature for root-heavy soil. They let you cut through small roots without needing extra tools or excessive force.

Steps to Use the Deuce of Spades Trowel

Choose the Right Spot: Select a location at least 200 feet (70 steps) from water sources, trails, and campsites. Look for dark, moist soil that is easier to dig. Avoid rocky or heavily compacted ground to make digging easier.
Mark the Hole Area: Use the trowel to scratch a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter on the ground. This marks where you will dig.
Dig the Cat Hole: Insert the trowel blade into the soil at a 45-degree angle. Use a scooping motion to remove soil. If you hit roots, use the recessed teeth on the leading edge to saw through them. Dig to a depth of 6-8 inches. Shallow holes may be dug up by animals.
Bury Waste and Cover: After use, place waste in the hole. Use the trowel to mix in a handful of soil to speed decomposition. Then fill the hole with the original soil.
Disguise the Site: Cover the filled hole with leaves, pine needles, or other natural debris so it blends in with the surrounding ground. Pack down lightly. A properly disguised cat hole should be nearly invisible to the next hiker.

Product Facts

DirtSaw Deuce of Spades: The DirtSaw Deuce of Spades weighs 0.6 oz (17 g) and features two recessed teeth on the leading edge to cut through small roots. This makes digging in root-filled soil easier and faster, so you can complete your cat hole without straining or damaging the tool.
DirtSaw Deuce of Spades