Below are some examples of tools and safety equipment. They are listed from “most-needed” to “nice to have, but not essential.” Links are provided to some examples, please note, we are not sponsored by these companies at all, they are simply tools that Joseph Hubbard has found useful in the past!
Safety Glasses
Probably the most important piece of kit, with regards to your safety. The link below takes you to some mid-range safety glasses, but you can pick up ‘goggles’ for a couple of pounds. I prefer the proper glasses, I find them a lot less-restrictive. You can also use sunglasses as safety, but I recommend buying some shaded-safety glasses, as they are a lot more resistant to shattering than normal shades!
Rock Hammer
The second-most important piece of kit! A good hammer should always be at a geologist’s side, it will serve him well! It is important not to just go with an ordinary claw hammer. They are designed for nails, not for rocks, and can shatter under severe impact. There are two types of geology hammer. A square-head with flat chisel at the back, or a square head with a thick, short chisel at the back. I prefer the flat-chiselled one myself, as I find it more versatile, but by all means, get both if you can afford it! They will come in handy! I have attached a few links of flat-chisel rock hammers. Generally-speaking, the more you can afford, the better the hammer – so decide your budget and go for the one closest to that!
Gloves
A good idea – I have often regretted not wearing some form of protection on my hands, and greatly suffered the consequences! Basic builders gloves are fine, just something to protect you.
Chisels
There are many types, and all are really useful on the field. I recommend cold chisels, and getting a couple of sizes, examples in the links below. Basically essential on the field.
Trowels/Scrapers/Brushes
Small tools – anything will do really. These can include gardening trowels, builders trowels, picks, scoops, etc. I recommend getting 2 brushes – a stiff one, and a paintbrush.
Geology Pick
A useful addition to the collection. Basically is a stand-alone pick, rather than the double-usage geology hammer.
Hydrochloric Acid
Excellent for testing rocks for limestone and/or the presence of calcium carbonate. Be wary – it is obviously dangerous. Use a syringe-bottle to transport and apply it. Easiest way is to buy patio cleaner – it’s basically just hydrochloric acid!
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