One of my favorite ever tools is a Soil Scoop. We also have clay soil and this works pretty well. It also has serrated edges and a point on the end of the scoop, so it’s pretty versatile in uses.
http://www.amazon.com/Burpee-Garden-Tool-Soil-Scoop/dp/B008WYK6VE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1370898840&sr=8-3&keywords=soil+scoop
Yes, I’ve seen those before. Thanks.
Won’t order from Amazon, though. Off my list permanently.