The shovel blade and handle are made of carbon steel. The grip on the handle is made of rubber. it has been tested for durability and it has passed our destruction tests Fully assembled it is only 16" long. This is for survival (or gardening if you prefer). And the shovel blade folds and the handle unscrews to such a compact size that is can fit into almost anything...anything that might need to have a shovel in it. It even comes with a pouch to carry it in. Multifunction?Dig, shovel, compass,entrench, saw, pick, open bottles and so on,Suitable for camping,hiking,gardening,backpacking,fishing or other outdoor living. For anyone: This is great for anyone to use. Great for gardeners, boy scouts, girl scouts, hunters, hikers, campers. Throw it in your car and even if you are stuck in a snow drift have a way to get out.so it could be handy in emergency situations. Great for camping trips,hiking,mountain climbing and cycling.How about take it along on the hunting trip.Perfect for the garden or to dig holes and set up camp.How about a winter survival emergency kit for the snow sledders, skiers and those who get stranded on the road and need to make it through the night