I use a long handle digger myself.
I have used Flat Head Screw drivers and short handle tools in the past but once I tried the long handle digger I never went back. I really do like it.
My long handle digger only weighs 2.6 lbs and it has a 36\" hickory handle.
The long handle makes it serve as a walking stick, snake tester, weed beater, something I can hook up on a tree or root (up higher on the hill) and help to pull myself up. I don't consider the long handle a burden at all, in fact I find it much easier to get around on really steep places when I have my long handle tool.
The trick to getting a longer handle tool that is light is you need the lighter garden hoe type head (with round hole) for smaller diameter handle.
TNhunter