DIGGING - Tools used --- SAFETY - How and why --- TECHNIQUES - How we find and dig bottles

Directly above are some of the tools needed for digging antique bottles.
The tools will differ between the dig and digger. The numbered items are the tools that I always keep in the truck and are usually used on larger dig sites and privies.
No. 1 : Hard hat (some construction sites allow digging if you have one with you)
No. 2 : Shovel (short one pictured but I usually take many and longer ones)
No. 3 and 4 : Spring steel probes - No. 3 is 5 foot long. The ball tip-end screws off to allow No. 4, which is a 4 foot extension, 9 foot total, used for locating privies.No. 5 : 4 prong or potato rake
Backpack items that are on most hunts with me - A : Backpack B : Flashlight C : All purpose knife-tool combo D : Keyhole saw E : 17.5 inch probe F : 16 inch probe G : 12 inch probe H : 3 prong scratcher-rake J : Overalls-coveralls K : Leather inside (palms), cloth outside (back hand), gloves

DIGGING TOOLS --- My truck always has tools on board, just in case I see a possible site while out and about. A hard hat for a couple of reasons. First of all, a few times, I've had to wear it to dig at some construction sites. Second, deeper holes, such as privies, may require extra protection. A small shovel is better than not having one. They are great because they fit in the trunk or back seat area, and they are easier to carry, if needed. Potato rakes are good for clearing discarded debris and can be used to rake in areas where, digging a bank or slope, reach is important. Cave-ins can be eliminated. Metal detectors can also be used to locate sites to dig.
The backpack (it's a new and bigger one) is always with me, and a comfortable one is always best. I always have a flashlight for darker holes, crawlspaces and safety reasons. A keyhole saw is perfect for cutting small roots, in the way or holding down a find. My very secret weapons are my screwdriver probes. I use the 16 and 12 inch ones more than any other. Most of my finds, in wooded areas, at 16 inches down, have some age to them. They save so much digging. They have also helped find many tresures, which would normally have been walked over or left behind. I use Sears Craftsman drivers because they will not bend and are durable. Coveralls are great for crawlspaces or for when you need extra protection. Included in my backpack, but not pictured, I carry about ten plastic bags (for carring finds), 4 to 8 pairs of gloves (can be used to cover and protect bottles), bug spray, first aid items, food and drinks, and a phone. Some diggers prefer a small trowel in their bag. A camera is great for documenting sites and can be packed also.
Additional items that may be needed for privy digging are: Two or more buckets (5 gal.), a good rope, small ladder (rope, chain or other), flat or square shovel for sod removal, post hole digger for test holes, some diggers also use sifters, tripod and pulley system for hoisting buckets and tarps for protecting the yard area, for easier cleanup and backfill.

The most important tool available while out digging would be your eyes. Look for clues, on the way to and from your dig site, including the surrounding areas. Keep an eye out for surface finds. I've found many treasures on the surface, and in plain site.

SAFETY --- Never dig alone! Always tell someone where you'll be hunting or digging. Carry a phone with you, if possible. A simple and small first aid kit should be packed, and can come in handy. While digging, never tunnel or leave overhanging dirt or debris. Always dig straight down and use caution. Insects can cause injury. Bees, spiders and ants, to name a few, have been a set back in many of my digs. Digging in city areas or bad neighborhoods pose different hazards, such as mugging and robbery. Some diggers have been robbed while digging.

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