
Yesss I do this, too. Got no time or igb/tbt to be wasting bush starts!Or put down path squares around the area you want to dig, then remove the square in the area you want to dig, then you won't miss at all, because the shovel won't dig where there is a path on the ground. I do this all the time, especially when planting, so I know it'll be accurate.
I think the shovel is a wonderful tool. It's sturdy and beautiful and it works hard. Without my shovel, I am nothing. I'd die inside if someone were to steal my beloved shovel.
It makes sense that you're unhappy with the performance of the ACNL shovel, since as a miner you've probably worked with much better and higher quality varieties.
I personally have nothing negative to say about the in-game shovel. It serves its purpose beautifully when it comes to the arduous task of digging holes.