The first thing all rockhounds should carry is a geology pick or rock hammer. Why you say, do I need this well it will be the single most used piece of equipment you have. You can buy rock hammers in a wide range of prices from $6 all the way to $50. I will say that you will get what you pay for and the last thing you want is to be 5 miles back in the desert and have a cheap hammer break. So bite the bullet and spend the cash and get quality equipment, you will not regret it. Did I also mention that these hammers should last many years if you don’t loose it.

The next piece of equipment that you may want to consider is a 3 or 4 LB. sledge hammer. If you are ever in hard rock you will find this tool very useful. Also it works great for breaking up loose rocks to see if there are any prizes in side.

why chisels you say because you may find yourself in a tight spot and need one thats why. I would recommend that you carry the 3 types that are pictured. Chisels can be used to chip rock away from a specimen or to remove a crystal from a vug.

Last but not least the Estwing Paleo Pick, I do not own one of these yet but I will very soon.

Introduced to this wonderful tool on the Reynold Creek wood dig.
I was told that this is the best piece of equipment you will own. So I intend to give it a try and come back and give a review of this tool.

A good piece of advice is if you are going to spend the cash and get the good tools is to buy some florescent spray paint. Just paint your tools so you can find them easier in the dirt and distinguish them from your fellow rock hounds equipment.

The last thing you should always carry with you is a First Aid Kit. You never know when you may smash your finger with a hammer or any other accident may happen. It is just good insurance to know that you are covered if something was to happen.