I posted this in the Bounty Hunter section earlier tonight. Forgive me for double posting......
Looking for a little help with shallow finds? I built this "Prod Rod" using a brass rod, super glue and a wood knob. I use this for shallow finds only.....about 3" to 4" maximum depth.
You will need:
1 piece 3/16" Dia. X 10" to 12" long brass rod (remember, the longer you make it, the more flimsy it will be)
1 each Wood knob - or a knob / handle of your choice
Super Glue
If you use a wood knob like I did, you will need paint or clear coat material to seal the wood. I used a clear spray sealer.
Steps to build:
1) Make a rounded cone-tip on one end of the rod. DO NOT MAKE IT A SHARP-POINTED END!!
2) The knob I bought had a pre-drilled hole in it. I drilled the hole to 3/16" dia. to the depth that was already drilled.
3) Partially fill the drilled hole with Super Glue and insert the rod all the way into the drilled hole.
4) Wipe away any excess glue that may seep out after inserting the rod.
5) Allow glue to dry......I waited about 2 hours before I started using my Prod Rod.
6) I sprayed the wood knob on mine with a clear acrylic spray.
Periodically you will need to resharpen the pointed end. Remember, DO NOT MAKE IT SHARP-POINTED!! A sharp point could scratch or damage the find.
When I find a shallow target, I use this to probe around and find exactly where it is. The better you can pin point the location the quicker you can retrieve the find. After I have determined the depth and location with the probe, I use a round-bodied screw driver to get under the target and pop it up to the surface. The target pops out, the hole is a LOT smaller and easier to repair.....and harder to find after I have repaired and walked away.
It won't take you long to learn the different feelings of a coin vs. an aluminum can!! You can almost puncture the can while the coin feels solid. I still dig up pull tabs like everyone else, but my "can" totals are down!
The old "machinist" in me doesn't allow me to buy something when I can make it myself. Making it yourself is half the fun!
Hope this tool helps y'all like it does me.
HH y'all.
Frank