The Ames 19435 Sod Lifter really gets a bum rap. Ergonomically designed to facilitate the removal of turf and turf like products I find more people use it for an edger than a lifter.

Lifting vs Edging
Lifting - The idea of a sod lifter is to strip unwanted sod or turf from an area that is to be used for something else. The most common use for this is to institute a garden, garden bed, sidewalk, driveway, etc. To properly use the tool you should first cut the area turf into strips, preferably 1-1 ˝ feet wide, generally using a sharp spade or a powered edger. From this point you slide the Ames sod lifter under the offensive turf and work it from side-to-side, gently slicing the roots of the turf, and then lift the sod from the area.

Edging – The idea of edging is to strip unwanted sod or turf from the perimeter, generally the outline of a garden bed, sidewalk, driveway, etc. The most effective way to complete this job is using a power edger. I prefer a gas powered edger but I understand the electric ones are fine for general home use. A power edger makes a clean, unbroken edge along the area. Using any other type of tool is not only back breaking but also leaves an inconsistent edge. Just my professional take on it, you can make up your own mind.

With a 31” fiberglass handle and 18” metal shank, the Ames 19435 relieves your back from the constant bending needed to perform the job. Having the proper bend in the shank allows you to stand upright and still have the blade angled correctly to slide under the sod. The blade itself is 9” x 5” in a half-moon shape. Personally I would prefer a full straight edge but I am sure there is a perfectly logical reason for the rounded shape on this tool.

Now that’s the specs but here is my take
I’ve used this tool off and on for several years. I have just never been satisfied with it but almost everyone I work with just loves the puppy. I personally don’t like hard work, especially when it is 85 degrees with 90% humidity. I say that God invented power tools for our use, why not use them? Of course there are times where a large bulky powered sod lifter cannot be used. There are restricted areas, small areas, you know what I mean. Also, maybe the job just doesn’t warrant hauling that 400# beast off the truck to strip a few feet of sod/turf. In that instance, the Ames sod lifter comes in very handy.

I’m 5’ tall and have no trouble using this tool although it is designed for someone more in the 6’ range. Naturally being shorter my fulcrum point is off center and I probably have to use more strength to do the job than someone taller would have to.

I have never and will never use this for an edger. I don’t even like the looks of an edge made with a nursery spade or shovel of any type. Choppy and unkept edges on any bed just drive me insane. When I complete an edging project if I can’t put my heel on the turf and my toe on the bed and run the handle of a shovel clearly under the instep of my foot then I do the job over. Properly done a bed doesn’t need edged more than once a year, sidewalks and driveways once a month.

Common sense
This is a tool designed to make your job easier. Let the tool do the work, not your back. Lift with your legs and not your spine. Keep ample fluids available even during cooler weather. When overheated do not gulp iced drinks but temperate ones. In fact, do not gulp at all but take smaller sips until you feel refreshed.

If you are a home owner and have a contractor working on your yard [or house], check periodically on them to make sure they seem as coherent as they normally are [ not expecting miracles here ], offer them a cool drink – not iced – and for heavens sake at least nod in their direction when you are in their presence. I cannot believe how rude some homeowners can be when you are working on their property. A little courtesy doesn't cost you a thing.

Cleaning and storing
The absolute best cleaning method for any tool that contacts soil or moisture is a nice bucket of sand with oil in it. First wipe it clean of debris then jam that baby into that bucket a few times. The sand helps keep it sharp, the oil keeps it smooth and offers protection. Once a year put a preservative on wood handles before storing them away, sharpen blades and shovels before winter storage. That way when Spring arrives all the nasty work is already done. When using fiberglass handled tools please wear gloves because the fiberglass does occasionally splinter – ouch!

Other than that have fun and enjoy yourself. When the fun becomes work then it is a job.

Thanks,
Susi



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