Ben Suardal - What Tools and Equipment do you need for Fossil Collecting in Kent?

"Whilst any good ironmonger can supply cold chisels and strong knives or trowels, he is very unlikely to have safe and suitable hammers in stock. The steel of ordinary domestic and many trade hammers is far too soft for use on most rocks. It will splinter and flying fragments of steel can cause nasty wounds, particularly to the eyes, not only of the hammerer but also of his companions."
Fossils in Colour - 1967 - J.F. Kirkaldy, D.Sc. Formally Head of the Department of Geology, Queen Mary College London.

Big hammer, the rocks here are large and very hard. Some smaller rocks can be found but at least a lump hammer is required.

4lb Lump Hammer: A 4lb lump hammer or higher is recommended for this location. Special fibre glass handles will reduce vibration.

Chisels: The rocks are so hard that you will need Special Chrome Vanadium Steel Chisels. These are made from the highest quality steel and are coated for extra protection. They are also much sharper than normal chisels and will last much longer. As for the type of chisel, it is highly recommended that you use Splitting chisels as these are the most effective at clean splits.

Geo Field Ruler: This Geo Ruler is ideal for field use and for photographing specimens. The Rular is colour graduated in CM with 10cm Blocks, made of hard thick plastic and is waterproof.

Waterproof Notepads and Waterproof Pens: These field notepads and field pens work in the rain, they are perfect for taking notes. The pens work in any condition, including underwater! Taking notes about where fossils were found is an essential part of any collection.

Preparation Tools:A range of hand, and automatic tools for cleaning your fossils. We have air tools, grit blasters and etchers.

Geological Bags: Strong, Waterproof and durable geological bags that last years are ideal for any keen fossil hunter. These quality bags from Estwing are ideal for bringing back those larger finds or sample bags.

Footwear: Steel Toe Cap Hiking Boots are recommended. The rocks are extremely hard and could slip if working on a boulder.