The Ultimate Geology Field Kit | What Every Earth Scientist Needs Before Heading Out
Introduction
Whether you’re a geology student preparing for your first field school or an experienced field geologist refreshing your kit, having the right equipment makes the difference between a productive day of mapping and a frustrating one. This guide covers the essential tools every earth scientist should have in their field bag, all of which are available at Deakin.
Navigation and Measurement
• Brunton Transit Compass or Geo Lite: Your primary tool for measuring strike, dip, trend, and plunge. Non-negotiable for structural work.
• Silva Expedition Compass: A reliable backup baseplate compass for general navigation and bearing work.
• Garmin GPS Unit: The eTrex 22X is an affordable, reliable handheld GPS with preloaded topographic maps. Essential for accurately recording sample and observation locations.
• Clinometer: For slope angle measurements independent of your compass.
Recording and Documentation
• Rite in the Rain Geological Field Book (540F): Waterproof pages with numbered sheets, geological reference charts, grain size scales, and map symbols. The standard field notebook for working geologists.
• Rite in the Rain Stapled Notebooks: Lighter options for quick notes, sketches, and daily logs.
• All-Weather Pens and Mechanical Pencils: Standard ballpoint pens fail in wet conditions. Pressurized ink cartridges write through rain, mud, and cold.
Rock Examination and Sampling
• Estwing Rock Hammer (22oz): The iconic orange-grip hammer with a forged steel head. A pointed tip for breaking rock and a flat face for trimming samples.
• Estwing Nylon Black Sheath: Heavy duty nylon cordura sheath to help carry and protect your Estwing rock pick hammer.
• Deakin 10X Hand Lens with LED and UV: Identify mineral textures, crystal habits, and fluorescent minerals in the field. The LED light is surprisingly useful on overcast days and inside drill core shacks.
• Sample Bags and Tags: Proper sample management starts with properly labelled bags. We carry a full range of sizes and tag options.
Safety and Communication
• Garmin InReach Satellite Communicator: Two-way messaging and emergency SOS from anywhere on Earth. Not optional for remote fieldwork.
• Bear Spray: Required equipment in grizzly and black bear territory across western and northern Canada.
• First Aid Kit: Stocked and checked before every field day. We carry kits sized from personal to crew-level.
• Hi-Visibility Clothing: The Deakin Cruiser Vest handles both visibility and equipment carry in one garment.
Carrying It All
• Deakin Cruiser Vest: The field workstation that keeps everything organized and accessible while meeting safety visibility requirements.
• Geo Packs and Duffel Bags: Purpose-built packs for carrying geological equipment, sample collections, and field supplies.
• Pelican Cases: For protecting sensitive instruments like GPS units, cameras, and spectrometers during transport.
Lastly, remember to stay hydrated while out in the field. Pick up your limited edition Deakin Hydro Flask water bottle. All sales proceeds help fund our new Scholarship program.
Build your field kit at deakin.com. Not sure what you need?
Contact us and we’ll help you put together a custom equipment list for your project.