A geologist's hammer is one of the most critical tools in a rock hunter's aresenal.
Rock hunting is not an activity for the feint of heart. Harsh conditions, rough terrain and heavy gear can make even the shortest trip seem like a grand expedition. But if you're prepared with the right tools, you can ensure that, if nothing else, your trip goes smoothly and that you, and your specimens, are well protected.
Protective Gear
Goggles are important for protecting your eyes from small rock chips as well as from the sun. Wearing a mask to protect your lungs from dust and powder is also a good idea. Because most rock hunting is done in rough conditions, steel toed boots, gloves and a hat for protection from the sun are useful items to include in your rock hunting kit. You might also check weather reports and take emergency rain gear if necessary.
Labeling Gear
You want to make sure you label what you find and where you found it, so take along a notebook and pens. Felt-tipped pens will write on most rocks and fossils so you can label them right in the field.
Protecting Your Specimens
Since you might find delicate fossils while you're out hunting, including packing material like baggies and bubble wrap in your backpack will help protect your finds. Be sure to pack a pocket magnifier to help correctly identify tricky specimens.
Geologist's Hammer
Geologist's hammers come in a few varieties. Chisel-tipped hammers are used mainly for softer, sedimentary rock. Pick hammers are great for the harder igneous and metamorphic rocks you might encounter. A crack hammer resembles a small sledge hammer and is used with chisels to break open a large stone.
Rock Chisels
Rock chisels come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Bringing a wide range with you ensures you'll always have the right one for the job.
Tags: protect your, rock hunting
