A good Private Investigator will have a lot of equipment and Private Investigator tools. This equipment will range from professional camcorders/ covert spy cameras to the Investigator's clothes and surveillance vehicle maintenance items. If you are serious about becoming a Private Investigator, you will have to overcome the obstacle of cost. Proper PI equipment will require an investment. However, that investment will pay you dividends in the work you will be able to accomplish with the proper Investigative equipment.
Types of Private Investigator Items
Surveillance recording equipment
Tactical equipment
Outfit items
Surveillance vehicle maintenance items
Physical comfort items
The Camera
A Professional Investigator camera will have several features:
-Manuel focus
-View finder
-Image stabilization
-HD quality
-Long range zoom capability
The Backup Camera
It will be rare for you to require a backup camera, should your main camera malfunction. I have been performing surveillance operations for over a decade and never had to use my backup camera. The only feature this camera needs is to be durable, so it can last years in your Gearbag.
The Spy Camera Key FOB
Do not get a cheap spy camera, it will malfunction during covert surveillance. You will need a spy camera that is durable and can take high definition video. A key FOB is great for covertly filming in many different directions without drawing unwanted attention.
The Spy Pen Camera
The spy pen camera is great for filming the subject at a very close proximity when you need your hands free. The camera being in a front breast pocket allows you to capture the subject's face when you are in close.
The Spy Beverage Container
The spy beverage container is great for places where you need your hands free, such as filming a subject at the gym.
The Covert Monocular
The covert monocular is great for keeping visual of the subject at a distance while you are on foot. You can hold the monocular in your fist to hide it and avoid unwanted attention.
Long Distance Binoculars
The long distance binoculars are essential for keeping visual of your subject at a long distance during static surveillance.
The Power Bank
A power bank is great for charging your devices while in performing on-foot surveillance. You can have multiple power banks to ensure you do not run out of power.
The Red Flashlight
Humans find it difficult to notice red light in comparison to white light. Having a red light is great for when you need to see in the dark while avoiding attention. It is ideal to have a red flash light that has brightness settings.
Tire Plug Kit
A tire plug is the quickest way to repair a flat tire. This is great for when you get a tire puncture during surveillance.
High Power Air Compressor
You will get a flat tire during surveillance. You will need a powerful air compressor to fill your tire quickly so you can function during mobile surveillance.
The 12v USB Fan
The USB fan is great for keeping cool in summer and for defogging your windows.
Auto Sun Shades
Auto sun shades are typically used on rental vehicles to make the vehicle more suitable for surveillance.
The Evidence Notebook
A cheap notebook will fall apart when performing surveillance. If you choose to use an evidence notebook, it must be durable.
The Gearbag
The Gearbag is where you will keep most of your equipment. A good Gearbag will need to look professional to make it fit in most environments, when you are carrying it on-foot. A camera bag usually makes a good Surveillance Gearbag due to the many compartments and protective walls.
The Flat Cap
A flat cap is a good hat for on-foot surveillance due to its ability to look professional. This makes the flat cap great for urban environments.
Fake Prescription Glasses
Glasses are a great way to change your look during on-foot surveillance.
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About the Author
Peter Sandru is an Instructor & Co-Founder of NDIL with over 16 years as a Professional Private Investigator. Peter has spent more than a decade conducting investigations and security operations throughout the world, primarily for corporations, law firms, and government agencies. Peter has assisted in the creation of numerous investigative & security training programs in various capacities.