"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.

Some of the limestones are quite easy to split, but often the fish are in heavier 'thicker' beds which may be harder to split. It is best to take the right splitting tools, and ensure they are sharpened well.

Chisel Picks: These should be used for splitting rocks, the rocks are ideal for splitting. Standard geological hammers are also suitable. You can also use a chisel with the flat end for more delicate or if you plan to use splitting chisels.

Crack Hammers: To split the limestones, you will need good quality crack hammers and Chrome chisels. These are strong, other chisels will simply blunt extremely quickly. It is also recommended that you use a 3lb or 4lb hammer.

Chisels: Some of the limestones 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.

Specimen Boxes: Keep your small finds safe in these clear, cost effective specimen boxes. Perfect to build your fossil collection.

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.

Specimen Bags: These are ideal for Achanarras. Sealable Clear Specimen Bags can hold your finds. These can be purchased from UKGE for low prices and can easily be re-used.

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 heavy finds back home.

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

Spade and Trowels: This is handy to move slate around as the top layer is always over-picked.

Footwear: Safety Steel Toe Cap Boots are required for Achanarras. The rocks are extremely hard and could slip if working on a slab.

Safety Equipment: Please ensure you take safety equipment. Hard Hats for all locations where there is a cliff or in a quarry, and goggles when using striking tools.