Best Archaeology Tools for Beginners

Trowel

A necessary tool for careful excavation, allowing archaeologists to delicately uncover artifacts without causing damage[2][8].


Brush

Used for cleaning artifacts and revealing fine details during excavation, with soft bristles being ideal for the task[5][8].


Shovel

Essential for digging down to the cultural layer and moving soil around the excavation site[5][9].


Finds Bags

Important for safely storing and transporting artifacts, typically labeled for future reference[2][5][8].


Measuring Tape
Measuring Tape

Critical for accurately measuring and recording the location and dimensions of artifacts and excavation units[2][5][8].


Notebook

Used for recording important observations, measurements, and excavation data[8][9].


A well organised pencil case is essential
Pencil

Recommended for making initial notes and sketches, particularly because errors can be erased easily[5][9].


Sharpie

Useful for marking finds bags and other materials due to its permanent ink[5][6].


Plastic Spoon

A surprisingly useful tool for delicate excavation work, less likely to damage fragile artifacts than metal tools[5].


Small Sieve

Helps ensure that no small artifacts or materials are missed, useful for processing excavated soil[5].


Camera

Essential for documenting the site and artifacts, providing visual records for analysis[5][9].


Waterproof Clipboard

Protects notes in wet conditions, allowing for field documentation even in rain[6].


A red line lev.
Line Level

Helps ensure that excavation is level and straight, particularly when setting up grids[8][9].


A red line lev.
String

Used for marking grids and excavation boundaries, facilitating the organization of the dig site[2][8][9].


Dumpy Level

An important tool for surveying, allowing archaeologists to record heights of features and create accurate site plans[2].


Heavy Digging Tools

Includes items like mattocks and spades, essential for physical excavation work, especially in large or deep sites[2].


Image of a yellow and grey machine set up on the grass.  The machine is a total station and a concrete sculpture can be seen in the background.
Total Station

A precision instrument for measuring and documenting archaeological features with high accuracy[5][6].


pXRF Analyzer

A modern tool for analyzing soil and material composition on-site, useful in determining the presence of artifacts without excavation[3].


Ground Penetrating Radar
Ground Penetrating Radar

A non-invasive method for exploring subsurface features without disturbing the ground[3][4].


Digital Camera with Photo Scale

Vital for capturing artifact context and ensuring accurate size representation in documentation[5][9].


Image of a mechanical compass with the arrow point just slightly east of north.
Compass

A simple yet effective tool for navigation and mapping when conducting surveys[5][9].


GPS Unit

Essential for recording precise locations of finds and excavation units[5][9].


A red first aid kit. The kit is unzipped and you can see that it contains a variety of medical items and is well organized.
First Aid Kit

Important for ensuring safety on-site, addressing minor injuries that may occur during fieldwork[6].


Rubber-Palmed Work Gloves

Protect hands during excavation and handling of artifacts in various environmental conditions[6][8].


3D Scanner
3D Scanner

Useful for documenting artifacts and site layouts in detail, allowing for advanced analysis and study[4].


Drones

Increasingly used for aerial surveys and capturing images of large excavation sites from above[3].


Environmental Containers

Necessary for collecting and storing soil samples for later analysis[2].


Safety Gear

Hard hats and high-visibility clothing for ensuring safety on construction sites and in the field[2][5].


Water and Food Supplies

Essential for staying hydrated and energized during long excavation sessions in the field[5][6].


Follow Up Recommendations