As a companion for one, you can take your pick (6)
I believe the answer is:
shovel
'pick' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for shovel that I've seen before include "''Don't forget your..., if you want to go to work'' (Christy Moore)" , "digger" , "Digging implement" , "Large spade" , "Old clerical hat" .)