What is the best length for a shaft

Long shafts are used in the West Country as well. Since coming to France 20 odd years ago I have learnt to use the long shafts. I’m not very tall and find them easier on the back but it is a question of balance and a different technique when digging.

Roitelet, when I worked in the steelworks all the shovels used at the furnaces were long shafted, which made for an easier life a short shafted shovel just wouldn't have been practical