Shovel:
Very compact, neat design, and lightweight but sturdy.
The shovel which came more closely resembled the Draper design than the photograph, with a collar which you tighten at the blade end of the handle to make the shovel rigid after unfolding. The design also allows you to set the blade at right-angles to the handle so that you can use it as a pick. The blade also has one serrated edge.
It seems sturdy and suitable for use i.e. to clear small areas of ice and snow around the wheels to get your car going. Those wishing to dig large areas of snow should look elsewhere; this is a small implement (approx 48 cm long unfolded, with a 11 cm wide blade) and you'll have to bend down somewhat to use it.
The Kit:
What I actually received (Dec 2010) was an AA Winter Car Kit - not just the shovel. I don't know if this is normal, or whether this was shipped as the result of lack of stock.
The kit contains: Folding shovel, dynamo 3-led torch, High Visibility jacket, Emergency reflective blanket, and carrying case (approx 22cm x 22cm x 6cm).
So, it's pretty good value if this is the normal deal. Just add your own Mars bar.
Kit Minus points:-
The instructions are on the cardboard sleeve which will probably be discarded on first opening the kit. Also, the instructions don't describe how to make the shovel rigid by tightening the collar, which might confuse some people. These are small points, hence 5 stars.
Summary: Very good compact emergency kit - probably small enough to have in the car all year round.