10 Essential Field Books We Love

Are You Ready to Conquer the Wild with the Right Note-Taking Companion?

Fieldwork is demanding, and having the right tools can make all the difference. Did you know that nearly 70% of professionals believe that their notes directly impact their productivity? That’s right! A reliable field book can be the difference between a successful day in the field and a frustrating mess of forgotten details.

Whether you’re a surveyor battling the elements or a construction guru jotting down notes at a hectic job site, we’ve got you covered. In this roundup, we explore 10 essential field books that promise to keep your thoughts organized and your notes intact, no matter what nature throws at you!

Our Top Picks

1
Elan Level Book Pack
Top Choice for Professionals
Elan Level Book Pack
Versatile and Reliable
9.5
2
Elan Bright Orange Field Book
Must-Have
Elan Bright Orange Field Book
Best for Extreme Conditions
9.5
3
Sokkia Economy Field Book
Best for Professionals
Sokkia Economy Field Book
Durable and Efficient
9
4
Elan Orange Field Book Pack
Construction Favorite
Elan Orange Field Book Pack
Rugged and Reliable for Field Use
9
5
Elan Heavy Duty Field Book
Elan Heavy Duty Field Book
Sturdy and Water-Resistant
9
6
Elan Yellow Field Book Pack
Best Value Pack
Elan Yellow Field Book Pack
Ideal for Multiple Uses
8.7
7
Sokkia Transit Field Book
Great for Surveyors
Sokkia Transit Field Book
Compact and Functional
8.5
8
SitePro 350-T Field Book
SitePro 350-T Field Book
Ideal for Land Surveyors
8.5
9
Elan Sewn Field Book
Elan Sewn Field Book
Good for Short-Term Projects
8
10
Elan Wire-O Field Book
Elan Wire-O Field Book
Great for Students and Pros
8

Top Choice for Professionals
1

Elan Level Book Pack

Versatile and Reliable
9.5/10
EXPERT SCORE

This level book pack is designed for professionals who need durability and functionality in their notes. Its quality construction ensures it can withstand rigorous use in the field.

Why You'll Love It
Pack of six for extensive use
Durable waterproof cover
High-quality archival paper
Excellent for various field applications
Drawbacks
Can be bulky to carry
Not fully waterproof
Limited individual page count

The Elan Level Book Pack is crafted for professionals who demand quality and reliability in their field notebooks. Each book measures 4.5 x 7.25 inches and features a sturdy waterproof cover to protect your notes from the elements.

Key Features:

Pack of Six: Perfect for teams or long-term projects, ensuring a reliable notebook is always on hand.
Durable and Weather-Resistant: The waterproof cover safeguards the pages from moisture, while the high-quality archival paper ensures your notes last.
Structured Layout: Ruled pages with vertical columns make data entry and sketches easy and organized.

Benefits:

Users have found this level book pack to be invaluable for fieldwork, with many praising its durability and usability in various environments. The waterproof cover is especially appreciated during outdoor work, where conditions can change rapidly.

Limitations:

However, the pack can be bulky when carrying multiple books, and while the cover is waterproof, the pages themselves are not entirely so. Despite this, the overall quality makes it a top choice for professionals.


Must-Have
2

Elan Bright Orange Field Book

Best for Extreme Conditions
9.5/10
EXPERT SCORE

This field book excels in durability, making it perfect for outdoor use in tough weather. Its unique color and sturdy build add to its appeal.

Why You'll Love It
Highly durable and weather-resistant
Bright orange cover for high visibility
Large page count for extensive note-taking
Suitable for various professional uses
Drawbacks
Cover may show wear over time
Can be bulky for pockets
Not as affordable as other options

The Elan Bright Orange Field Book is built for those who demand reliability and durability in challenging field conditions. Its bright orange exterior not only enhances visibility but also signifies its robust construction, making it an ideal choice for surveyors, engineers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Key Features:

Durable Construction: Designed to withstand the elements, featuring waterproof materials that protect your notes from moisture.
User-Friendly Format: The ruled pages provide a structured layout for easy note-taking, while the additional curve tables at the back offer quick reference.
Ample Writing Space: With 160 pages, there's plenty of room for detailed notes, sketches, and calculations.

Benefits:

Users have praised the Elan Bright Orange Field Book for its ability to hold up against rain and rough handling, which is crucial for outdoor work. The high visibility of the cover also adds a layer of convenience, ensuring it’s easy to locate in a packed bag or workspace.

Limitations:

Some users have noted that although the cover is durable, it may still show signs of wear with prolonged use. Additionally, its size might be cumbersome for those who prefer more compact options.


Best for Professionals
3

Sokkia Economy Field Book

Durable and Efficient
9/10
EXPERT SCORE

This field book is well-regarded for its quality and resilience. It’s ideal for professionals needing a reliable notebook during fieldwork.

Why You'll Love It
Weather-resistant cover
Quality ledger paper for note-taking
Structured layout for data entry
Includes conversion tables
Drawbacks
Can be hard to find in stores
Not fully waterproof
Limited page count

The Sokkia Economy Field Book is a trusted companion for professionals in need of a reliable notebook for fieldwork. With dimensions of 7.5 x 4.75 inches, it features a hardback cover that stands up to the rigors of outdoor use.

Key Features:

Weather-Resistant Cover: Designed to protect against moisture and dirt, ensuring your notes stay clean and intact.
Quality Ledger Paper: The fine quality paper is ideal for writing, providing a smooth surface for even the most precise notes.
Useful Appendix: Contains conversion tables and formulas, making it a handy reference for field calculations.

Benefits:

Users have praised this field book for its ruggedness and practicality, especially in construction and surveying environments. Its structured layout helps keep notes organized and easy to read.

Limitations:

However, the book is not fully waterproof, which means it may not perform well in heavy rain. Additionally, it can be somewhat difficult to find in local stores.


Construction Favorite
4

Elan Orange Field Book Pack

Rugged and Reliable for Field Use
9/10
EXPERT SCORE

This field book pack is perfect for construction professionals who need dependable notebooks. Its sturdy design ensures it can withstand tough conditions.

Why You'll Love It
Pack of six for high-demand use
Waterproof cover for protection
Durable pages for extensive notes
High visibility orange cover
Drawbacks
Limited page count per book
Can be bulky when carrying multiple
Not fully waterproof

The Elan Orange Field Book Pack is designed for those who work in rugged conditions and require a reliable notebook. Each book measures 4.5 x 7.25 inches, featuring a durable orange cover that stands out in any environment.

Key Features:

Pack of Six: Ideal for teams or for those who need multiple notebooks for various projects.
Durable and Weather-Resistant: These books are designed to hold up in harsh conditions, with waterproof covers that safeguard the pages.
Functional Design: Features ruled pages with options for different layouts, conducive for sketches and data entry.

Benefits:

Users in construction and surveying have lauded this field book pack for its practicality and durability. The bright color makes it easy to spot on job sites, and the sturdy pages resist wear, even with heavy use.

Limitations:

However, the pages are not entirely waterproof, which can be a drawback in extremely wet conditions. Additionally, while the pack offers great value, carrying multiple books can be cumbersome.


5

Elan Heavy Duty Field Book

Sturdy and Water-Resistant
9/10
EXPERT SCORE

This field book is tough enough to withstand challenging conditions while providing ample space for notes. Its waterproof cover adds an extra layer of protection for fieldwork.

Why You'll Love It
Waterproof cover protects the contents
Heavy-duty construction for durability
Includes curve tables for reference
Ample page count for extensive notes
Drawbacks
Spine can tear over time
Not fully waterproof
Can be bulky for pockets

The Elan Heavy Duty Field Book is an essential companion for those in the field who require a reliable and robust notebook. Measuring 4.5 x 7.25 inches, it features a bright yellow waterproof cover that keeps your notes safe from the elements.

Key Features:

Waterproof and Durable: The exterior is designed to protect your notes from rain and spills, ensuring they remain intact no matter the conditions.
Extensive Page Count: With 160 pages and additional curve tables, this book provides enough space for lengthy notes and calculations.
User-Friendly Design: The ruled pages with red vertical lines allow for organized note-taking, whether you are tracking measurements or observations.

Benefits:

Users have reported that this field book holds up well in adverse conditions, making it suitable for various applications, from engineering to environmental studies. Its sturdy build ensures that it can handle the wear and tear of daily use in challenging environments.

Limitations:

However, some users have experienced issues with the spine tearing after extensive use, and while the cover is waterproof, the pages themselves are not. Despite this, the overall quality and functionality make it a top choice for anyone needing a dependable field book.


Best Value Pack
6

Elan Yellow Field Book Pack

Ideal for Multiple Uses
8.7/10
EXPERT SCORE

This pack of field books offers great value and is perfect for teams or long-term projects. Its durable design ensures they withstand heavy use.

Why You'll Love It
Pack of six for team use
Durable waterproof cover
Ample pages for extensive notes
Great for various field applications
Drawbacks
Not all pages waterproof
Can get bulky when carrying multiple
Limited page count per book

The Elan Yellow Field Book Pack is a fantastic choice for teams in need of reliable field notebooks. Each book measures 4.5 x 7.25 inches and features a waterproof cover, making them suitable for a variety of professional environments.

Key Features:

Pack of Six: Perfect for teams or ongoing projects, ensuring you always have a notebook on hand.
Durable Design: The hard covers protect the pages from wear and moisture, making them ideal for outdoor use.
Functional Layout: The ruled pages facilitate organized note-taking, with a mix of column layouts to accommodate different data types.

Benefits:

This pack is especially popular among surveyors and construction professionals who appreciate the durability and user-friendly design of the field books. The yellow cover enhances visibility on busy job sites, and the pack provides excellent value for money.

Limitations:

While the books are durable, the pages are not entirely waterproof, which may be a concern in wet conditions. Additionally, carrying multiple books can become cumbersome, especially if used for extensive projects.


Great for Surveyors
7

Sokkia Transit Field Book

Compact and Functional
8.5/10
EXPERT SCORE

This field book is designed specifically for surveyors, making it perfect for tracking measurements and data in the field.

Why You'll Love It
Compact design fits pockets easily
Rugged and durable
Ideal for tracking field measurements
Includes squared ruling for precision
Drawbacks
Not waterproof
Binding may weaken with heavy use
Limited page number

The Sokkia Transit Field Book is tailored for surveyors who require a compact and functional notebook for recording important data in the field. Measuring 4.5 x 7.25 inches, its size allows it to fit easily in pockets or tool bags.

Key Features:

Compact Design: This book is lightweight and easy to carry, ensuring it’s always accessible when needed.
Durable Construction: Its rugged design ensures it can withstand the challenges of outdoor use.
Squared Ruling: The squared ruling on the pages helps with precision when recording measurements or sketches.

Benefits:

Professionals appreciate the Sokkia Transit Field Book for its practical layout and durability, making it a favorite among surveyors who rely on its functionality in the field.

Limitations:

However, it’s important to note that the book is not waterproof, which may limit its use in wet conditions. Additionally, with a limited number of pages, it might not suffice for extensive projects.


8

SitePro 350-T Field Book

Ideal for Land Surveyors
8.5/10
EXPERT SCORE

This field book combines practicality and durability, making it a favorite among professionals. Its grid layouts and sturdy cover ensure it can handle demanding field conditions.

Why You'll Love It
Durable hard cover
Sewn pages for longevity
Compact size fits in pockets
Includes curve tables at the back
Drawbacks
Pages are not waterproof
Limited number of sheets
Cover color may fade over time

The SitePro 350-T Field Book is designed specifically for land surveyors and engineers who need a reliable and organized way to document their work. With a compact size of 4.5 x 7.25 inches, it easily fits into pockets or tool bags, making it convenient for on-the-go use.

Key Features:

Durable Hard Cover: The bright orange cover not only provides high visibility but also withstands the rigors of outdoor use.
Sewn Pages: With 160 pages (80 sheets), the sewn binding ensures that pages remain intact even under heavy usage.
Practical Layout: Featuring grid layouts on both sides, it allows for easy note-taking whether you need to draw diagrams or write notes.

Benefits:

Many users rave about the usability of this field book in various environments, from oil and gas industries to construction sites. It’s particularly appreciated for its functionality and size, allowing it to be easily carried without being cumbersome.

Limitations:

While it’s an excellent choice for most fieldwork, the pages may not hold up well in wet conditions, limiting its use in rainy weather. Overall, it remains a top choice for professionals seeking a reliable field book.


9

Elan Sewn Field Book

Good for Short-Term Projects
8/10
EXPERT SCORE

This sewn field book is a practical choice for quick note-taking on less demanding jobs. Its compact size makes it easy to carry.

Why You'll Love It
Compact size for easy transport
Sewn binding for durability
Water-resistant cover
Affordable price
Drawbacks
Limited number of pages
May not hold up in extreme conditions
Not suitable for heavy use

The Elan Sewn Field Book is perfect for those in need of a portable, simple solution for note-taking in the field. Measuring 4.5 x 7.25 inches, it’s designed for easy transport while offering a durable construction that ensures your notes remain intact.

Key Features:

Sewn Binding: This feature adds to the durability, keeping pages securely in place even with regular use.
Water-Resistant Cover: The cover protects your notes from minor spills and moisture, making it suitable for outdoor conditions.
User-Friendly Layout: The ruled pages allow for organized note-taking, ideal for quick sketches or data entry.

Benefits:

Users appreciate the budget-friendly nature of this field book, especially for short-term projects or casual note-taking. The compact size makes it a convenient option for those who need to jot down information on the go.

Limitations:

However, due to its limited page count, it may not be suitable for extensive projects. Additionally, while the cover is water-resistant, it may not withstand heavy rain.


10

Elan Wire-O Field Book

Great for Students and Pros
8/10
EXPERT SCORE

The Elan Wire-O Field Book is an affordable option for both students and professionals. Its sturdy cover and water-resistant paper make it a reliable choice for various fieldwork scenarios.

Why You'll Love It
Wire-O binding for easy page turning
Water-resistant ledger paper
Compact and lightweight design
Visible yellow cover for easy spotting
Drawbacks
Limited page count
Not fully waterproof
Cover may wear out quickly

The Elan Wire-O Field Book is a practical and economical choice for those who need a field notebook that can withstand the elements. With a handy size of 4.5 x 7.25 inches and a sturdy yellow cover, this field book is easy to carry and readily available for jotting down notes.

Key Features:

Wire-O Binding: This feature allows the book to lay flat when open, making it easy to write in any position.
Water-Resistant Paper: Made from a quality white ledger paper formulated for maximum archival service, it ensures your notes endure the test of time.
User-Friendly Layout: The ruled pages with vertical columns make organization simple, whether for data collection or sketches.

Benefits:

Users appreciate the ease of use and durability of this field book, especially in environments where data collection is critical, such as geology and construction. The compact size makes it easy to transport without compromising on functionality.

Limitations:

Some users noted that while the cover is sturdy, it can wear down under heavy use. Additionally, the limited number of pages may require frequent replacements, particularly for extensive projects.


Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing the best field book, we highly recommend the Elan Level Book Pack for its unbeatable combination of durability and functionality. Rated 9.5 out of 10, it’s perfect for any professional needing a reliable companion in the field. For those facing extreme conditions, the Elan Bright Orange Field Book is our second pick, also boasting a 9.5 rating and designed to withstand the toughest weather while ensuring your notes remain intact. No matter your specific needs, these options will keep you organized and prepared for anything!

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