Picks and....

[Jeff in ME]

A few questions for Steve.

When detecting for gold, what do you recommend using for a pick? Is there one specific pick you'd recommend over another?

Would a chisel edge rock hammer suffice for digging or would a pick be a better choice?

Are there any additional tools or accessories you'd recommend carrying while detecting for gold nuggets?

Jeff

[Steve Herschbach]

Hi Jeff,

I prefer a long handle pick of at least 24", one that has a point on one end and a spade on the other. Point for hard stuff, spade for soft stuff. My favorite so far has been the Walco pick but they are pricey. And too short for me - I replaced the stock handle on mine with a hickory sledge hammer handle and a bolt so I can trade handles. Our best sellers are the Hodan picks. They make one with a 36" handle I really like as it doubles as a walking stick but it is too long to pack in normal baggage. I've got a new pick in stock that is almost the same as the Walco and will try and get it on the website this week.

Pick, plastic scoop, and trash pouch. I travel light when detecting. There is other stuff but I'll post separate on it soon as I'm overloaded right now.

[nvchris]

As for "other" tools
I carry a hoof pick for getting at the nuggets that are trapped in the bedrock.

[LeRoy in Montana]

Here's some pics of a pick I made from an old farm disk. It works very well.
I have no idea who designed the first pick using this type configuration but
for digging fast it is perfect. You can spread out a pile of dirt to pinpoint a
target by laying it on it's side and pulling it to you. And you can push the dirt
back in the hole when you're done. LeRoy
> http://www.screencast.com/t/ZjQ4Yjc5OG
> http://www.screencast.com/t/ODQ2NGQ2M2
> http://www.screencast.com/t/YjBjY2U3