Possible suggestions for painting metal tools

Planning to proceed with some garden tool sharpening and care, if one wishes to coat a metal garden tool - shovel or hand tool for example, is there a suggested paint product that would be recommended for use with intended soil contact use (abuse) to provide a protective sealed coating? Is paint on less durable than spray? I do have some oil based can painters touch as well.

Thank you experts in advance for your review and potential  recommendation. Its a fabulous asset to be guided to do something the right way - the first time!