Weaponry

A very successful investigator friend tells us money is the world’s greatest weapon and on more than one occasion it has bought him safety and freedom, as well as being a very effective commodity for loosening the tongue of otherwise silent witnesses!

Writing and Recording Implements

Notepad and pen, preferably a pocket recorder, too, are essential to the successful investigator who may well have to disclose to a court of law exactly what was said on such-and-such an occasion, or recall the number plate of a speeding car. 

Very few people possess photographic or tape recorder memories, so make sure those essential details are quickly committed to paper or recorder.   A pocket tape recorder is a wonderful tool, allowing you to maintain eye contact with your subject while also observing his body language. 

Keep the recorder switched on whenever you can but without making it obvious in potentially difficult situations.  Remember that recordings are not always admissible in court, but at the very least they will jog your memory later at the report writing stage.

Camera and Camcorder

Despite being a fairly recent invention, the camcorder may never fully replace the humble pocket camera.  In fact, both offer far different benefits to the investigator who can snap at various angles with the pocket camera and even do so relatively unobtrusively, unlike camcorders which, being bigger and more cumbersome, are hard to conceal. 

Depending on size both can be concealed by everyday items such as bags, holdalls, pockets (with spyhole), and tiny gaps in walls and windows. 

If finances permit carry two of everything: camera and camcorder, film and spare flash lights. 

Learn more about professional photography techniques and ensure you use the best film, camera, flash and technique for the pertaining environment and circumstances.  For instant snaps and no need to use outside processors treat yourself to one of the new digital cameras or at least one of the old Polaroid types.

Binoculars

These are invaluable when surveilling from a distance and help you see without being seen and thereby blowing your cover.  So choose carefully, buy the best you can, and opt for one offering clarity over long distances.  Preferably choose the smallest possible to avoid attracting unwelcome attention.

Sunglasses

Not merely a means of disguise, in fact quite the contrary as sunglass wearers often stand out from the crowd, but a good pair can help prevent eyestrain when working in bright sunlight.

Flashlight

A flashlight is absolutely essential to investigators working late at night or in darkened rooms!  The smaller the flashlight the better, as long as it has power and you have back-up batteries at hand! 

There’s a hidden benefit, too, as some flashlights can emit shrill sounds and sprays to immobilise or deter a potential attacker. Ensure whatever deterrents you use are within the law, or risk falling outside the law yourself!

Electronics

Television investigators use all manner of amazing devices, from talking cars to cameras in briefcases, walking sticks containing lethal weapons, pens filled with poisonous ink, and ….!   Consider, for example, bugs and listening devices (not always legal), counterfeit note detectors, fake beards and moustaches, and more. 

Look in Exchange and Mart and magazines and newsletters targeted at private investigators for a rundown of recommended products and suppliers.

Miscellaneous     

Other things, though not specifically vital to this business will repay their cost many times over, such as something to read when nothing is happening, cassette tapes to lighten long journeys, a wide necked bottle for when nature calls in the wrong place at the wrong time, street maps and town directories, telephone books and Yellow Pages, and lots of money, just in case!

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