When you go out digging for clams, clam guns are clever doo-dads that are a perfect option for  beginners (expert clammers swear by their handy clam shovel). The tube of the clam gun is about 3' long x 4" in diameter and is made of either metal or plastic. It is open at one end and closed at the other end with a small hole and a handle. You push the gun into the sand and place your thumb over the small hole, then pull the gun out of the sand. If done properly, you should have a tube full of sand and a clam. It really is pretty ingenious for such a simply-made tool.
Clam guns do not work well on beaches that have significant amounts of gravel or rock. A good, solid gun will probably run you about $60 and can be found in stores that deal in bait and tackle, crabbing equipment and clamming supplies. You'll also find places along the coast that will rent you the shovels and guns for all-day use for around $5.00 a piece. It's really not a whole lot of cash-out-of-pocket in the long run. Digging for clams on your own will prove much more fun and cheaper than hopping down to the seafood case at Safeway and picking them up.
How To Use A Clam Gun
Place the tube over the Show (dimple in the sand made by the clam). Check the impression of tube in the sand to center the clam
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Work the tube in carefully with an up-and-down, rocking or twisting motion. Place finger or thumb over air vent, pull up. Remove the core of sand holding the clam. Do this in two or more stages if desired. DON’T HURRY!
| | | | | | How To Use A Clam Shovel What you are looking for is those holes or small dimples in the sand, known as Shows. One you find one, rap the shovel handle on the sand. The clam will feel the vibration and leave a distinguishing dimple in the sand. | 
Insert shovel 3 to 6 inches from the "show." This distance depends upon the length of the blade and the amount of "hook" it has.
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Remove sand with a lifting motion. Try twisting the shovel at the same time. Note that the blade remains nearly vertical.
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Succeeding shovelfuls expose the clam enough to reach down and remove it by grasping the neck or shell. Note that the shovel remains away from the clam.
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DON’T pry back on the handle. This cuts off the neck or smashes the clam. Broken clams and excessive haste can cause cut fingers.
| | | | | | Thanks to Kampers West RV Park for this great information on digging for clams. |
Keep in mind that it is illegal to discard any clam, broken shell or not, for whatever reason. When  digging for clams, whatever you catch counts toward your limit of 15 clams per day. You can reap some hefty fines if you're caught with more than that. I read about a couple who were caught with 240 clams and were fined $4,200. It's definitely not worth taking a chance. Digging for clams is a real challenge, but once you catch your fill of sweet razor clams or such, fry them up in a nice batter or however you enjoy them, you will know the effort that you put into it was all worthwhile. Yum! ;) 
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