Toolbox

In terms of a physical toolbox, here are a few recommendations of tools for stable isotope sample preparation work. The other materials on your sample preparation shopping list are on the consumables page.

Good straight fine tip forceps from Carolina Supply for $14.85. Most straight fine tip forceps designed for dissection are awkward and ill suited to fine scale sample preparation work. A good pair of straight forceps is worth its weight in gold.

Good curved fine tip forceps from Carolina Supply for $12.85. Good curved fine tip forceps are easier to find. Be especially careful with the tips on these. After they are bent, they are never the same again.

An anvil is a clean hard working surface for sample preparation, usually a metal block. To buy one, search for 'steel bench block rubber' on a large online retailer. Here is an example of a good product available for less than $20.