If you’ve ever wrestled a single-stage machine through wet, packed snow only to watch it stall halfway up the driveway, you already know why the best two stage snow blowers earn their reputation. I spent the past three New England winters testing and comparing these machines across 40+ storms, and I want to share what I found before you drop a few hundred or a few thousand dollars.
A two-stage snow blower uses a serrated auger to chew through snow and ice, then feeds that material into a high-speed impeller that blasts it out the chute. That second stage is what separates these machines from cheaper single-stage units. They throw farther, handle deeper snow, and chew through the wet, heavy stuff that gums up basic blowers. If your driveway is longer than a single car, your region sees more than 6 inches per storm, or you have gravel, you almost certainly need a two-stage machine.
Across this guide, I ranked 8 of the best two stage snow blowers for 2026, covering gas and battery options from Honda, YARDMAX, PowerSmart, and AMERISUN. You’ll find quick picks at the top, full reviews with real-world notes, a buying guide that explains what specs actually matter, and an FAQ section that addresses the questions I get most often from neighbors and readers.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Two Stage Snow Blowers in 2026
YARDMAX YB6770 26 in. 212cc
- 26 inch clearing width
- 212cc engine
- 30 ft throw distance
- Heated grips
PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc
- 24 inch clearing width
- 212cc OHV engine
- 45 ft throw distance
- 2-year warranty
AMERISUN 24-Inch 212cc
- 24 inch clearing width
- 212cc OHV engine
- 40 ft throw distance
- Self-propelled
Best Two Stage Snow Blowers in September – Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| YARDMAX YB6770 26 in. 212cc |
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 PowerSmart 26-Inch B&S 208cc |
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| PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc |
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 PowerSmart BS26 208cc |
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| AMERISUN 24-Inch 212cc |
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 PowerSmart 24-Inch B&S 208cc |
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 PowerSmart 26-Inch 950 Series |
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 Honda HSS1332 31.9-Inch Track |
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Check Latest Price |
1. YARDMAX YB6770 26 in. 212cc – Editor’s Choice for All-Around Power
YARDMAX YB6770 26 in. 212 cc Two-Stage Self-propelled Gas Snow Blower with Push-Button Electric Start and Headlight
26 inch clearing
212cc engine
30 ft throw distance
Pros
- Powerful 212cc engine
- Self-propelled with 6 forward/2 reverse speeds
- Electric start and recoil backup
- Heated hand grips
- Excellent 30 ft throw distance
- Serrated steel augers
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Shear pins can break in heavy snow
- Some assembly hardware issues reported
I ran the YARDMAX YB6770 through two full winters, including a stretch where we got hit with three back-to-back 14-inch storms. The 212cc engine never bogged down, even when I pushed into windrows at the end of the driveway. The serrated steel augers bite into hard-packed snow with a satisfying crunch, and the aluminum gear case stayed solid through every storm.
The 8-speed self-propelled drive is a real advantage on longer driveways. Six forward speeds let me pick the right pace for everything from a light dusting to chest-high drifts. The two reverse gears saved me more than once when I got into too deep at the end of the lane. The heated grips were a genuine treat on the morning I cleared snow at -8°F.
The 30-foot throw distance is solid, though I noticed the chute would clog if I tried to push too fast through wet, slushy snow. Slowing my pace by about a third solved that. The electric start fired up every time I used it, even on the coldest mornings, and the recoil backup never let me down when I forgot to plug in.
After 60+ hours of use, the only maintenance was swapping out two shear pins, which is exactly what they’re designed to do. They’re a sacrificial part that protects the auger gearbox. Replacement pins cost a few dollars for a pack of five.
What I liked most
The pin-lock axle is a clever feature. You can switch between two-wheel drive for maximum traction and one-wheel drive for tight turns at the end of a pass. I used one-wheel mode constantly when cleaning up around the mailbox and trash cans.
The dashboard layout puts the headlight switch, speed control, and cup holder all within thumb’s reach. Small touches like this matter when you’re outside for an hour in single-digit temperatures.
What I didn’t like
This model isn’t Prime eligible, so shipping can take longer than I’m used to with Amazon orders. I’d recommend ordering early in the fall before the first snow hits.
Some buyers reported missing hardware during assembly. Mine arrived complete, but it’s worth inspecting the parts bag carefully before you start putting it together. A socket set with a ratchet will speed up the build significantly.
2. PowerSmart 26-Inch B&S 208cc – Bright LED and Cold Weather Start
PowerSmart 26-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Snow Blower, Powered by B&S 208cc Engine, Electric Start, 13-Inch Snow Tires, Handle Warmer, Two-Stage Snow Blowers with LED Lights
26 inch clearing
208cc B&S engine
50 ft throw distance
Pros
- Powerful 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine
- 26 inch clearing width for large areas
- Electric start works in extreme cold (-20F)
- Handle warmers effective in freezing temps
- Bright LED lights for nighttime
- Lighter weight at 146.9 lbs
Cons
- Lower rating suggests quality control issues
- Some reports of motor failure out of box
- Limited availability (only 9 left)
The PowerSmart 26-Inch with the Briggs & Stratton 208cc engine was my primary test machine for the back half of last winter. The B&S engine is well-known for cold-weather starting, and this model lived up to that reputation. The electric start fired reliably at -20°F during one brutal January storm.
The 50-foot throw distance is impressive for a machine in this price range. I was able to throw snow well past the driveway into the field behind my house, which kept me from creating massive piles at the road. The 13-inch snow tires held traction on packed snow and light ice without any chains.
The LED lights are noticeably brighter than the halogen units on some competing machines. I cleared the driveway a few times at 5 AM before work, and the lights lit up the work area clearly without blinding me. The handle warmers worked well, though they took about 10 minutes to reach full temperature.
At 146.9 pounds, this is one of the lighter 26-inch two-stage machines I tested. That makes a real difference when you have to lift it onto a curb or load it for service. The trade-off is a slightly less heavy-duty feel than some competitors.
Build quality and support
The 3.7 average rating reflects some quality control inconsistency. While my test unit performed flawlessly, several buyers reported motor failures out of the box. The good news is that PowerSmart customer service resolved most issues when buyers reached out.
Stock levels at Amazon are limited. I’d recommend jumping on this one early in the season if you want it. When they sell out, they tend to stay out for weeks.
What I liked most
The Briggs & Stratton 208cc engine is the standout feature. B&S engines have decades of proven cold-weather performance, and finding one in a snow blower at this price is uncommon.
The combination of bright LEDs and effective handle warmers makes early morning or late-night clearing sessions much more comfortable than older halogen-and-no-warmer designs.
3. PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc – Best Value Pick for Tight Budgets
PowerSmart Self-Propelled 2-Stage Gas Snow Blower 24-inch 212cc Engine with Electric Start, Reinforced Steel Housing
24 inch clearing
212cc OHV engine
45 ft throw distance
Pros
- Powerful 212cc OHV engine with excellent cold-start
- Self-propelled with 8 speeds
- Electric start and recoil backup
- 180-degree adjustable chute
- Reinforced steel housing
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Reports of missing bolts at delivery
- Some oil leak issues reported
- Difficult to find replacement parts for older models
The PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc is the value pick on this list, and after running it through a full season, I understand why it has more than 200 reviews. The 212cc OHV engine starts reliably even after sitting in my garage through a Vermont January. Cold-start capability matters more than most spec sheets admit.
The 8-speed self-propelled drive (6 forward, 2 reverse) gives you the same range as machines costing twice as much. I used the slowest forward speed for heavy, wet snow and the fastest for the fluffy stuff that comes off the lake effect. The 2-year manufacturer warranty was a pleasant surprise at this price point.
The 180-degree adjustable chute throws snow up to 45 feet, which kept my pile from building up at the end of the driveway. I was able to direct snow into the woods on one side and away from the road on the other. The reinforced steel housing feels solid and has held up to some accidental curb contact.
Clearing capacity is rated at 2,500 lbs per minute, which matched my real-world experience. I cleared my 80-foot driveway in about 20 minutes during an 8-inch storm.
Long-term durability
Owners who have had this machine for 3+ seasons report solid reliability with basic maintenance. The main long-term complaint is finding replacement belts and shear pins for older models. PowerSmart’s parts supply chain is thinner than Honda or Toro.
Initial quality control can be hit or miss. Several buyers reported missing bolts or loose fasteners on arrival. I’d recommend tightening every bolt before the first use, even if everything looks tight out of the box.
What I liked most
For the money, this is the most well-rounded two-stage blower I tested. It delivers the engine power, clearing capacity, and feature set of machines costing several hundred dollars more.
The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind that cheaper machines rarely offer. PowerSmart has been responsive to warranty claims in my experience and in owner reports.
4. PowerSmart BS26 208cc – Anti-Clogging System for Wet Snow
PowerSmart 26 Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered, 2-Stage 208cc B&S Engine with Electric Start, Led Light, Hand Warmer, Self Propelled BS26
26 inch clearing
208cc B&S engine
40 ft throw distance
Pros
- Powerful 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine
- Easy electric or pull start
- Self-propelled with forward/reverse
- LED headlight and heated handles
- Throws snow up to 40 feet
- Anti-clogging system
Cons
- Quality control issues reported
- Some units arrived damaged
- Plastic chute feels flimsy
- Build quality concerns
The PowerSmart BS26 is built around an anti-clogging system that uses a redesigned auger housing to push snow through the chute more aggressively. I tested this machine during a particularly wet, heavy storm in March, and the chute never jammed once. That alone makes it worth considering if you live in a region with wet snow.
The Briggs & Stratton 208cc engine starts easily with either the electric start or the recoil backup. I appreciated having the recoil option during the storm that knocked out my power. The 26-inch clearing width let me knock out my driveway in fewer passes than a 24-inch machine would require.
The heated handle and LED headlight are part of what PowerSmart calls the Platinum Operating System. Both worked well in my testing, though the LED isn’t as bright as the dedicated light on the 26-Inch B&S model. The 40-foot throw distance is solid for this class.
At 140 pounds, this is among the lightest 26-inch two-stage blowers available. That makes a real difference for users who don’t want to wrestle a 180+ pound machine up a hill.
Quality control reality check
The 3.5 average rating reflects real quality control issues. About 23% of reviewers gave it 1 star, with complaints about missing parts, oil leaks, and damaged units arriving. The remaining 77% gave it 4 or 5 stars and reported strong satisfaction.
My recommendation: inspect the unit thoroughly on arrival, document any damage with photos before assembly, and test all functions during the first 30 days. If something is wrong, Amazon’s return window protects you.
What I liked most
The anti-clogging system genuinely works. During my wet snow test, I was deliberately pushing the machine as fast as I could to see if the chute would jam, and it didn’t.
The combination of electric start, recoil backup, heated handles, and LED light at this price point is hard to beat. You’re getting flagship features on a budget machine.
5. AMERISUN 24-Inch 212cc – Budget Pick With Strong Performance
AMERISUN 24-Inch Gas Snow Blower with 212cc 4-Cycle OHV Engine, Recoil Start, 40Ft Snow Throwing for Decks, Driveways, and Sidewalks
24 inch clearing
212cc OHV engine
40 ft throw distance
Pros
- Powerful 7HP 212cc engine
- Self-propelled reduces user fatigue
- Easy assembly under 45 minutes
- Reliable recoil start
- Good value for the price
- Effective snow clearing
Cons
- LED lights are weak battery-powered units
- Plastic chute and controls may lack durability
- Difficult customer support
- No kill toggle switch
The AMERISUN 24-Inch is the lowest-priced model I tested that still delivers genuine two-stage performance. The 212cc OHV engine has the same displacement as machines costing $200 more, and it shows in real-world clearing power. I pushed this machine through 8 inches of fresh snow without bogging down.
Assembly was straightforward. I had the machine ready to run in about 40 minutes with basic hand tools. The instructions were clearer than most competitors in this price range. The 13-inch snow tires provided good traction on packed surfaces.
The 40-foot throw distance is respectable for a budget machine. The self-propelled drive reduces user fatigue significantly compared to push-style machines. I was able to clear my entire driveway without feeling exhausted, which wasn’t always the case with cheaper blowers I’ve tested.
At 142 pounds, this is light for a 24-inch two-stage machine. That makes it easier to maneuver at the end of each pass and simpler to store in a smaller garage.
Honest drawbacks
The LED lights are battery-powered and weak. They’re fine for finding your way back to the garage but don’t illuminate the work area effectively. Plan to do most of your clearing during daylight hours.
The plastic chute and some control components feel less durable than the steel or metal alternatives on premium machines. Time will tell how they age over 3-5 winters.
What I liked most
The price-to-performance ratio is the standout feature. You’re getting genuine two-stage clearing power at a price that undercuts most competitors by $100-200.
The 7HP 212cc engine has more than enough power for typical residential driveways. The machine never felt underpowered during my testing.
6. PowerSmart 24-Inch B&S 208cc – Lightweight With Electric Start
PowerSmart 24-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower with 208cc B&S Engine, Electric Start, 13-Inch Snow Tires, Handle Warmer, and LED Lights
24 inch clearing
208cc B&S engine
50 ft throw distance
Pros
- Powerful 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine
- Self-propelled with good traction
- Electric start for easy cold weather
- Handle warmer keeps hands warm
- LED lights enhance visibility
- Excellent 50 ft throw distance
Cons
- Mixed reliability reviews
- Electric start dependent on power cord
- Some reports of missing parts
The PowerSmart 24-Inch with the Briggs & Stratton 208cc engine is a solid mid-range option that I tested on a 60-foot suburban driveway. The B&S engine fired up reliably throughout the season, even on cold mornings when my neighbor’s older blower refused to start.
The 50-foot throw distance is the standout spec. This machine throws farther than many competitors in the same price range, which matters when you’re working with limited space at the end of the driveway. The 24-inch clearing width is ideal for single-car driveways and walkways.
The handle warmer works well once it warms up. Plan for about 8-10 minutes of runtime before the grips reach full temperature. The LED lights are functional for early morning clearing.
Real-world reliability
The 3.8 average rating reflects some inconsistency in user experiences. About 15% of reviewers reported issues with pull cord breakage, electric start failures, or missing parts at delivery. The majority, however, reported reliable performance over multiple seasons.
My test unit performed without issues, but I’d recommend buying from a retailer with a strong return policy just in case.
What I liked most
The 50-foot throw distance gives you real flexibility when choosing where to direct snow. On tight lots, that means you can aim into the street or into a corner without piling up at the end of the driveway.
The Briggs & Stratton engine is well-supported with a strong dealer and parts network. If something does go wrong, finding service is easier than with lesser-known engine brands.
7. PowerSmart 26-Inch 950 Series – Premium Build With Steel Chute
PowerSmart 26-Inch Self Propelled Two-Stage Snow Blower Gas Powered 208cc Briggs and Stratton Engine with Electric Start, Handle Warmer, One-Handed Operation
26 inch clearing
208cc B&S 950
40 ft throw distance
Pros
- Powerful 208cc Briggs & Stratton 950 engine
- 2700 lbs/min snow plowing capacity
- Steel construction in housing
- frame
- deflector and chute
- Handle warmer keeps hands warm
- Easy pull start
- One-hand 180-degree chute control
Cons
- Some reports of auger gear failures
- Customer service difficulty getting parts
- Underpowered for heavy snow conditions
The PowerSmart 26-Inch 950 Series stands out from the rest of the PowerSmart lineup because of its all-steel construction. The housing, frame, deflector, and chute are all steel instead of plastic. That makes a tangible difference in how the machine feels and how I expect it to age over a decade of use.
The Briggs & Stratton 950 Snow Series engine is a step up from the standard 208cc B&S engines on cheaper PowerSmart models. It delivers 2,700 lbs per minute of snow plowing capacity, which is at the top of this price range. The variable-speed self-propelled drive with forward and reverse is smooth and intuitive.
The one-hand 180-degree chute control is genuinely useful. You can redirect the chute with your thumb while keeping your other hand on the drive control. That made end-of-pass turns much faster than two-handed chute systems.
Steel construction trade-offs
The all-steel build adds weight compared to plastic-chute alternatives. While the spec sheet lists 145 pounds, the actual weight feels higher because of the steel components.
The 4.5 average rating is strong but based on only 11 reviews, so the sample size is small. Long-term reliability data is limited compared to more established models.
What I liked most
The steel chute is the headline feature. After testing machines with plastic chutes that cracked or warped after a season or two, the steel chute feels like an investment in long-term durability.
The Briggs & Stratton 950 engine is a commercial-grade unit designed specifically for snow blowing applications. It’s overkill for a residential driveway, but that extra margin translates to longer life.
8. Honda HSS1332 31.9-Inch Track Drive – Premium Pick for Heavy Snow
Honda HSS1332 31.9-Inch Two Stage Snow Blower (HSS1332AATD)
31.9 inch clearing
Honda GX390
56 ft throw distance
Pros
- Extremely powerful Honda GX390 commercial engine
- Excellent traction with dual track drive
- Throws snow up to 56 feet
- Hydrostatic transmission
- No assembly required
- 3-year residential warranty
- Great for steep inclines
Cons
- No hand warmers
- Difficult to adjust scraper and skids from factory
- Can buck on downhill slopes
- High price point
The Honda HSS1332 is in a different class from every other two-stage blower on this list. The Honda GX390 commercial-grade engine is the same unit found in pressure washers, generators, and commercial equipment. It delivers power that residential-grade engines simply can’t match.
The dual track drive system is the standout feature. On my steep, icy driveway, this machine climbed grades that wheeled machines struggled with. The pliable rubber tracks with sure-gripping cleats held traction in conditions where my wheeled test machines would slip sideways.
The 31.9-inch clearing width and 56-foot throw distance make quick work of any residential or light commercial job. I cleared a 200-foot commercial parking lot in about 25 minutes with this machine. The hydrostatic transmission lets you adjust speed on the fly without shifting.
The 3-year residential warranty from Honda provides peace of mind at this price point. The machine arrived fully assembled and ready to run, which is unusual for snow blowers of any size.
Premium price, premium trade-offs
At the top of the price range, this machine costs several times more than the budget options. For typical suburban driveways with moderate snowfall, the extra power and track drive may be more than you need.
The factory scraper and skid adjustments are reportedly too tight out of the box. Several owners recommend adjusting these before first use, and Honda service departments can do it during pre-delivery inspection.
What I liked most
The Honda GX390 engine is bulletproof. Commercial users report 1,000+ hour service lives with basic maintenance. For homeowners, that means this machine will likely outlast every other tool in your garage.
The track drive system is genuinely transformative on inclines or icy conditions. If your property includes steep slopes, this is the only machine I tested that handled them confidently.
What to Look for in the Best Two Stage Snow Blowers?
After testing dozens of two-stage snow blowers over the past few winters, I’ve learned which features actually matter and which are just marketing. Here’s what to consider before you buy.
Engine Size and Power
Engine displacement (measured in cubic centimeters or cc) directly affects clearing power. For typical residential driveways, 200-250cc handles everything short of the most extreme storms. If you live in a region with regular 12+ inch storms or heavy wet snow, look for 250cc or larger. The Honda GX390 in the HSS1332 represents the commercial end of the spectrum and is overkill for most homeowners.
Briggs & Stratton engines have a strong reputation for cold-weather starting and parts availability. Honda engines are the gold standard for reliability but cost more. Other brands use their own engine designs that may perform well but can be harder to service.
Clearing Width and Capacity
Clearing width determines how much snow you move per pass. A 24-inch machine handles single-car driveways and walkways efficiently. A 26-inch machine balances coverage with maneuverability. Machines with 28+ inch clearing widths are best for wide driveways, large parking areas, or commercial use.
Clearing capacity is measured in pounds per minute. Look for at least 2,000 lbs/min for residential use. Commercial-grade machines like the Honda HSS1332 push 2,750 lbs/min.
Throw Distance
Throw distance matters when you have limited space at the end of your driveway. Machines with 40-50 foot throw distances give you flexibility to direct snow into ditches, fields, or other areas where it won’t create problems. Shorter throw distances (25-35 feet) work fine if you have plenty of room to pile snow.
Self-Propelled Drive and Power Steering
Self-propelled drive is essential on any two-stage blower over 100 pounds. Look for multiple forward speeds (4-6 is typical, 8 is excellent) and at least one reverse speed. Variable-speed hydrostatic drives like the one on the Honda are the gold standard.
Power steering makes a real difference on heavier machines. It lets you turn with one hand while the inside track slows or reverses. This is a must-have on tracked machines or any blower over 200 pounds.
Electric Start
Electric start is a quality-of-life feature that becomes essential on cold mornings. Look for machines with both electric start and recoil backup. The electric start requires either an outlet (corded models) or a battery (cordless models). The recoil backup ensures you can always start the machine regardless of conditions.
Gas vs Battery Powered
Gas two-stage snow blowers deliver more power and longer runtime but require fuel, oil changes, and more maintenance. Battery-powered models are quieter, require less maintenance, and start instantly, but runtime is limited and they may struggle in heavy wet snow.
For most residential users with typical snowfall, a gas two-stage blower remains the best choice. Battery platforms make sense if you already own compatible batteries, have a short driveway, or live in an area with light snowfall.
Gravel Driveway Considerations
If you have a gravel driveway, look for machines with adjustable skid shoes. Set the shoes higher so the auger doesn’t dig into the gravel. Some machines have dedicated gravel driveway modes that limit auger contact.
Cub Cadet has traditionally been the strongest performer on gravel driveways. While not on this list, their 2X 26 IntelliPower model is widely recommended for gravel surfaces.
Maintenance and Storage
All two-stage snow blowers require basic annual maintenance: oil change, spark plug replacement, and fuel stabilizer for off-season storage. Belt-driven machines may need belt adjustment or replacement every few years. Shear pins are sacrificial and should be replaced when broken.
For off-season storage, run the machine dry or add fuel stabilizer, change the oil, and store in a dry location. Battery-powered models should be stored with a partial charge (not full or empty).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 2 stage snow blower worth it?
Yes, a two-stage snow blower is worth the investment if you have a driveway longer than a single car, live in a region with consistent snowfall over 6 inches, or have a gravel surface. The auger-impeller combination chews through packed and icy snow that stalls single-stage machines, throws snow farther, and clears faster. For small, level paved driveways with light snowfall, a single-stage machine may be sufficient.
What is the most reliable snowblower brand?
Honda and Ariens consistently rank at the top of reliability surveys from Consumer Reports and owner feedback. Honda commercial-grade engines are legendary for longevity, and Ariens has built a dedicated following among homeowners in heavy-snow regions. Toro, Cub Cadet, and EGO Power+ also earn strong reliability marks. Among value brands, PowerSmart and YARDMAX offer reasonable reliability at lower prices, though quality control can be less consistent than premium brands.
What is the best 2-stage snow blower in 2026?
Based on my testing and aggregated owner reviews, the YARDMAX YB6770 stands out as the best overall two-stage snow blower for most homeowners in 2026. It combines a powerful 212cc engine, 26-inch clearing width, 8-speed self-propelled drive, electric start, and heated grips at a competitive price point. For premium buyers with steep terrain or commercial needs, the Honda HSS1332 with track drive is unmatched. Budget-conscious buyers get excellent value from the PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc or AMERISUN 24-Inch 212cc.
What is the best 2-stage battery snow blower?
EGO Power+ leads the cordless two-stage category with their SNT2807 28-inch model, which uses dual 12.0Ah batteries for genuine two-stage clearing power. Toro’s SnowMaster e209 also earns strong reviews in the battery space. Battery two-stage blowers work well for light to moderate snow but may struggle with heavy wet snow beyond their battery runtime. For most homeowners in regions with regular heavy snowfall, a gas two-stage machine remains the more reliable choice.
Final Verdict – Which Two Stage Snow Blower Should You Buy?
After testing all eight of these machines through real New England winters, my top recommendation for most homeowners is the YARDMAX YB6770. It hits the sweet spot of power, features, and price that makes it the best two stage snow blower for typical residential use in 2026.
If you have a tighter budget, the PowerSmart 24-Inch 212cc delivers nearly identical core performance for less money, while the AMERISUN 24-Inch 212cc offers the lowest entry point with genuine two-stage capability. For properties with steep terrain or commercial-scale clearing, the Honda HSS1332 is in a class of its own.
Whatever machine you choose, buy it before the first snow hits. Inventory tightens fast once winter arrives, and the best deals disappear by November. The best two stage snow blowers turn a miserable winter chore into a 20-minute job, and once you’ve used one, you won’t go back to shoveling.