To start off, here are the links to the two blog pages that talk about each shovel specifically. I encourage you to check out each individual blog posting, as well as this comparison posting. Here are the links:
https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2011/03/us-m-67-e-tool-tri-fold-shovel-model.html
https://sharky-fourbees.blogspot.com/2019/10/bundeswehr-tri-fold-shovel-folding.html
I'll start things off with by saying that the two versions of these tri-fold shovels are very much alike. In fact, they are close enough to be mixed up if only casually inspected.
The first obvious difference is the color. Unless the shovel has been repainted, the US shovel is black, and the German shovel is green.
The second most visible difference is the way the handle is attached to the blade.
The US shovel uses the old, three rivet mount that was used on all of the previous folding shovels (M-43 and M-51 bi-fold shovels). The German shovel uses a more squared mount, with four rivets.
The weights of the two shovels are a bit different as well.
I weighed both shovels on my scale and came up with the following weights:
US Shovel: 2 pounds, 4 ounces (1kg, 20g)
German Shovel: 2 pounds, 8.2 ounces ((1kg, 140g)
My guess is that the German shovel has a slightly heavier, and thicker blade, and possibly a heavier gauge metal in the handle.
The tightening nuts are also different. The US nut is smaller than the German nut. The German nut also has an o-ring installed around the shovel shaft, under the nut. I believe this is to keep dirt out of the threads. I can't see an o-ring under the US nut, but there may be one in there as well.
The pivot points are also different. Both pivot the same, but use different bolts.
Side-by-side, both shovels appear to be the same size, both open and folded.
The angles of the blades in the "hoe position" is slightly different between the two. You can see the slight angle difference on the top of the blade mounts. The difference is very slight, but there.
The dates and Maker / BUND stampings are even in the same place on the handle.
The Field reputation" of the German shovel is better. It is a commonly held belief that the German version is the more durable and heavier built of the two, and after this side-by-side comparison, it would seem that there is some truth to that!
No matter which of the two shovels you should happen to choose, you won't be disappointed with either. However, if you are looking for something a little heavier duty, then the German shovel would be your best choice.
Here is a quick look at two of the shovel carrier styles, side-by-side. The German version is cloth Flektarn camo, and the US version is molded plastic.
Let's take a look at a few more photos of these shovels, side-by-side. I hope this comparison has helped!
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