In fact, except for the magnifying glass, which is not even an essential anymore, the rest are just for show and would not really help you solve any mystery that you may be pursuing.

Investigative work, surprising as it may be, is not so filled drama and action like some people think. In fact, some private investigators get boring assignments that involve researching in dusty old library areas or staying in some coffee shop doing surveillance work.

Most private investigators would just be asked to do some background checks for would-be employees, especially those that will handle a great deal of money or a position of trust in a company. Others are asked to track down persons who have been missing for a number of years or parents who have abandoned their children.

There are some who will even be given an assignment to just be the discreet shadow of some gentleman and in some cases a lady and record their daily activities, especially the extra-marital ones. These are all pretty boring compared to the crime scene investigators that we get to see in televisions.

Still, despite having different assignments, the equipment that one use in the field are basically the same. Below are just some of the essential must-haves for any private investigator.

1. Camera

This is perhaps the most essential as this will serve as your proof or record should you discover something. Cameras are remarkably flexible especially the digital ones that are already out in the market. Not only can you take photographs of people, you can also take photographs of documents that you do not have the time to copy.

2. Tape recorder

This is another essential because one must be able to record conversations especially interviews with potential witnesses and even suspects.

3. Video

Another must have is the video camera, which can be really handy if you do not want to be forever clicking. This is also handy when you want to do some surveillance work in a room where you cannot stay in. Some digital photographic cameras also have video options that you can use in emergency situations. Just make sure that you buy a memory stick that is heavy with the gigabytes. This is to make sure that you do not run out of memory at crucial moments in the investigation.