P.I. Equipment

private Investigator tips

UPDATE

The information below is a bit outdated.  Just below this sentence are a few locations with this site to help you know more about private investigation equipment.  You can of course always go the P.I. Store by clicking the highlighted link.

This section covers the equipment that I recommend for new investigators, investigators starting their own agency and existing agency owners.  The first thing I will tell you is that you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on equipment.  You can produce the same product as any investigative company with the equipment that I use and recommend.  I will only be recommending products that I use  or that are similar as to what I am using at this time.

If you are new to the investigative field or you want to get hired as an investigator my sincerest suggestion would be to purchase your own equipment.  You will be more desirable as an employee if you have your own equipment.  At the very least you will need a video camera, lap top computer, and covert camera.  I will provide links to affordable equipment below.  I am an affiliate for Amazon so if you make a purchase after clicking through one of my links I will receive a commission.

The video camera I currently use and have been using for the past year is this Sony Handycam DCR-SX44. Sony DCR-SX44 Flash memory Handycam Camcorder (Blue)private Investigator tips

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This little camera fits in the palm of my hand and is easy to conceal.  I use this camera for surveillance, as a backup camera to take photos and I use it for the family as well.  I don’t get in to the fancy details of the camera.  Refer to the Amazon link for product details.

If you don’t purchase a Sony, I would consider a Cannon.  Cannon in my experience has been a dependable brand to use and can take a bit of abuse.  I have worked with other investigators that use Cannon and they have been happy with their purchase so far.

No matter what type of investigation you end up specializing in, you will need an audio recorder.  I used an analog recorder for many years and just recently switched to a digital recorder.  I do however use my analog recorder as a back up just in case something goes wrong.  The digital recorder I use is a is a Sony ICD-PX820.  I think my wife purchased it at a Wal Mart or a Best Buy store. This recorder has folders, a USB port so you can upload your audio to your computer, and also audio and microphone plugs. Sony ICD-PX820 Digital Voice Recorder (Black)private Investigator tips

If your not using a digital recorder you may want to switch to one.  During my last recorded statement I found it refreshing to be able to stay focused on the interview rather then worrying about how much audio tape was remaining.