i'm getting a new spade at the weekend, and i've narrowed it down to 2 choices.
1)bulldog heavy rabbiting spade, good long slightly curved blade, long handle socket/sleeve, wooden handle, 'D' grip top £30.
2) b&q trenching spade, long blade (too long, but could be cut), steel shaft and 'D' grip top £20.
i'm personally favoring the bulldog, the blade is heavy, well made and could take a bit of an edge. if/when the shaft does break, it could be easily replaced with steel pipe or wood again