Hobbies And Interests
Rock Hammers
Rock hammers are essential for breaking down rock and hardened dirt and splitting bedded sedimentary rocks. These are, however, significantly different from a regular hammer. A rock hammer is more like a mini chisel and pick in one. One side of the hammer is pointed, like that of a pick, while the other side is thicker and has an angled point like a chisel.
Rock Chisel
You can also purchase a rock chisel, which is used in finding fossils. These rock chisels come in varying sizes: from very wide like a spackle spade, to very narrow and pointed like a stake. The main purpose of the chisel is to split bedded rocks surrounding or covering fossils. Choose a wide rock chisel for thickly bedded rocks or a narrow rock chisel for lighter jobs.
Picks and Shovels
Picks, specifically paleo picks, are used to dig small holes, dig up some fossils, and break up rock. These can also be used as a lever to move larger rocks and boulders. A regular shovel is used to move dirt, rocks and debris from the digging site.
Hand Lenses
Hand lenses will come in handy to take a look at the fine detailing of fossils. Most fossil hand lenses are 10x magnification, which will give you a clear image of even the tiniest of details. Although they are useful at looking at fossils, they are not meant to find fossils still in the ground.
Accessories
Other accessories that will come in handy to help you find fossils are rope, field guides, compass and flashlight/headlamp. Many paleontologists use rope to make even grids along the area of digging. These grids help you--and your team--to focus your digging efforts at one spot at a time. Field guides will help you identify rocks and minerals and identify animal tracks so you'll be aware of predatory animals in the area. A compass is always important in unfamiliar areas to help you find your way back to camp should you get lost. And if you're digging during the evening hours, it's always smart to wear a headlamp or take a flashlight.