>Pocket knives are good tools for digging in shell beds. I can also
>recommend linoleum or carpet knives for close work, and a hoepick for
>collecting bulk samples. Geologic hammers and picks do not work well in
>soft sediment.
>
>Andrew K. Rindsberg
>Geological Survey of Alabama

I find an old thin-bladed table (eating) knife, preferably with fat handle
eg the old fake-ivory ones, are great. Pocket knives can fold up and bite.

Andrew Grebneff