steve in so la
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- Joined
- May 9, 2006
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Here's what we do and use = first after detecting things, find the old dump by looking for discarded rusty cans, concrete pieces, glass fragments. The dump will be away from the house site, probably out back or off to the side. Once in a while it's across the tracks. Downwind and out of sight is desireable.
I use a 4 pronged rake like this to scratch around the dump areas till I find the main stuff. I reinforced the end with wire so it wont pull off.
When you have found the main dump then sift it all using a flat type shovel , running all dirt through the screen. I made this swing away screen so the dirt can be thrown back when done.
Iput some magnets together in an aluminum housing to maker this foot long strong magnet that can be drug through the dirt. It's amazing what collects here. We look for railroad date nails mainly but the old buttons have iron backs and stick also. RR tags, fobs, all kind of things show up.
Lastly, here's a pull type magnet that works great and is fun to use. I bought it online. One can just walk around looking for things and pull it as you go.
So that's the basics of dump digging. We have taken literally thousands of things this way - give it a try in your area. steve in so az
I use a 4 pronged rake like this to scratch around the dump areas till I find the main stuff. I reinforced the end with wire so it wont pull off.
When you have found the main dump then sift it all using a flat type shovel , running all dirt through the screen. I made this swing away screen so the dirt can be thrown back when done.
Iput some magnets together in an aluminum housing to maker this foot long strong magnet that can be drug through the dirt. It's amazing what collects here. We look for railroad date nails mainly but the old buttons have iron backs and stick also. RR tags, fobs, all kind of things show up.
Lastly, here's a pull type magnet that works great and is fun to use. I bought it online. One can just walk around looking for things and pull it as you go.
So that's the basics of dump digging. We have taken literally thousands of things this way - give it a try in your area. steve in so az