probe/screwdriver recovery method

[Trogdor]

We got into this a little in the previous "Digging Tools" thread, but I think it deserves a separate thread...

Does anybody successfully use the probe/screwdriver method? I don't find it practical at all. In my admittedly limited experience, I have discovered a number of problems with this method:

1) It only works well with shallow coins laying flat. These ideal targets represent only a small percentage of the targets I dig.

2) Most of the time, I can't find the target at all. This is probably due to coins on edge or targets that are hard to hit or feel with a probe, like small rings or foil. Other times I pry up rocks by mistake.

3) I end up wasting 15 minutes with the probe and resort to plugging, only to find that the plug has been shredded.

4) In the rare times this method does work, I find it very damaging to the target.

How do you guys get around these problems? In contrast, plugging is a little slower, but it works almost every time. If you do it right, it shouldn't hurt the grass much either.

HH, Jeff

[kidwriter43]

Hi, Rodgor T. (Jeff), When I read about using a probe, I figured I could make up my own using a long, thin screwdriver and dipping it in the stuff that is used for coating tool handles. I got the probe ready, then found it so difficult and time consuming to locate anything, that it stays in my backpack. But it makes a nice weapon if I ever get attacked by a mountain lion or bear. While they chew off the plastic, I can run away

Lynne Mc/kidwriter43

[craig]

I am new to this forum, but have beeen detecting for awhile ! I had the same problem when I first started out !Tried all probe methods and not with much luck ! What solved my problem was to buy a pinpointer ! I had tried a couple and setteled on a Treasuremate pinpointer. This helped me find my target right away (1 to 2 ") pop out the target and on to the next ! Any target below 3" will have to have a plug cut ! Just takes a lot of practice and in time you'll amaze yourself !
Craig

[DecayDeposit]

what is the plug method? is there a special tool you use for that or just a spade?if i am understanding correctly this method is reserved for grassy areas only?

[ALtheRat]

I had some1 demonstrate this probe recovery method briefly to me and it does seem to be for those shallow flat targets.
They did very well with this method and made it look easy.
I was very impressed and definately benefitted from the short time instruction I got that afternoon.
If I ever get this technique down I will be sure to pass on my small bit of knowledge.

[goldhart]

decaydeposit said:

what is the plug method? is there a special tool you use for that or just a spade?if i am understanding correctly this method is reserved for grassy areas only?

Use a sharp knife or Lesche digging tool and cut a three sided (or horseshoe shaped) flap in the grass. Flip it over onto a towel or piece of truck tire inner tube. Check the flap/plug and the hole for your target and then put it back into the hole and step on it. Do not do this if the ground is very dry as it could kill the grass. If it is done correctly you cannot tell that you dug at all! Dan3

[cyberdan]

decaydeposit said:

what is the plug method? is there a special tool you use for that or just a spade?if i am understanding correctly this method is reserved for grassy areas only?

Decay here is a link to a story I put up on my club's website, complete with drawings. It covers both methods.

www.westcoasters.org/tricks/methods.htm

[DecayDeposit]

Cyberdan, that link is awesome! Thanks.