Winter is almost here and this is my last autumnal post.  The Snake Rake is a strange-looking tool that’s not very user-friendly until you get the hang of it.  But once you do, it feels pretty good and raking is not such a chore.  Well, it still is, but at least you’re more comfortable doing it.

The Snake Rake is made of light-weight aluminum.   Its handle is height-adjustable (58”-64”) and pivots for left or right hand dominance or to switch around for variety sake.  The adjustments are made with the snap of a pin, which is kind of stiff at first and requires two hands to maneuver.

The handle grip is angled, reducing the effort required by your hands, wrists and forearms muscles.  What I found mind-boggling and not so user-friendly is figuring out how to properly grip the handle.  The recommended handling technique is not how I would innately position my hands.  And I’m not alone –everybody I had try the rake had to be instructed on the proper position multiple times.  But when the hands are positioned correctly, the Snake Rake can be considered a good ergonomic rake.

Whether you’re right- or left-handed, the handles should always be facing away from you.  The top hand grabs the handle with the palm up, while as the lower hand grabs the handle with the palm down. This handling technique actually keeps your wrist in a good position, maximizing the grip strength available and reducing strain.

The Snake Rake’s overall design and handling position promote a more upright position while raking, minimizing back, shoulder and neck strain.  Toddy has a bad back so this rake is a keeper.  The only challenge is storage.

Give it a try!