Tools for breaking off chunks of a quartz reef

[tika]

Sorry to ask a very basic question but I found a quartz reef while walking a long way from a road. It appeared to be mineralised and I wanted to break some large pieces off but had no equipment with me. When I go back can anyone suggest the best equipment for the job-I am trying to avoid carrying heavy equipment which might be useless.

 

[axeman]

Firstly we're here to answer all questions, basic or stupid. Get a geologist hammer or lump hammer and chisel. Might be a good idea to wear safety glasses and gloves.
Mick

 

[TenOunce Tone]

If you put an old towel, blanket or canvas over the rock before hitting it. Thus should stop the stones blasting all over the place. Use something expendable as the pounding will cause holes..

Good luck. Hope your efforts are rewarded

Cheers Tone

 

[aushunter]

Ditto on the above as I found out the hard way as a piece of quartz while chipping with a geo pick at great speed lacerated one of my fingers. And certainly use safety goggles.
Stay safe and Happy Hunting.
Brad...

 

[w3bgold]

The towel idea is the cheapest and most expendable option IMO; a warning not to breathe in any of the dust created as enough of that could lead to Silicosis.

 

[Prospector B]

Get a cold chisel and a 4 lb long handled hammer from the big green shed. The chisel I got was fairly long which makes it easier to hit. I also use the towel method over the rock, works a treat.