Building a Hand Gold Dredge - A Comprehensive Guide

If you're interested in extracting gold from rivers and streams, building a hand gold dredge can be a great way to do so. A hand gold dredge is a type of sluice box that uses water flow to separate gold from soil and gravel. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to build a hand gold dredge.

Materials Needed

Before you start building your hand gold dredge, you'll need the following materials:

* A wooden or plastic frame (depending on your preference)

* A piece of carpet or rubber mat

* Some sturdy metal mesh

* Two small pumps or water hoses

* A collection container for the gold

* A shovel and other excavation tools

Step 1: Create the Frame

The first step in building a hand gold dredge is to create the frame. You can use a wooden or plastic frame, depending on your preference. Make sure it's sturdy enough to support the weight of the water and soil.

Step 2: Add the Carpet or Rubber Mat

Next, add the carpet or rubber mat to the frame. This will help to separate the gold from the soil and gravel as the water flows through. You can use a piece of carpet or a rubber mat, whichever you prefer.

Step 3: Add the Metal Mesh

Add the metal mesh to the bottom of the frame. This will help to catch any small pieces of gold that might fall through the carpet or rubber mat.

Step 4: Create the Water Flow

Next, create the water flow by attaching the pumps or water hoses to the top of the frame. You'll need two small pumps or water hoses, one for each side of the frame. Make sure they're securely attached and won't leak.

Step 5: Add the Collection Container

Add a collection container to the bottom of the frame to catch any gold that's been extracted from the soil and gravel. This can be a bucket or any other type of container you prefer.

Step 6: Test Your Hand Gold Dredge

Finally, test your hand gold dredge by adding some soil and gravel to the top of the frame and letting the water flow through. You should see the gold collecting in the collection container at the bottom of the frame.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when building and using your hand gold dredge:

* Make sure the water flow is strong enough to move the soil and gravel through the carpet or rubber mat.

* Use a shovel and other excavation tools to remove any debris from the collection container.

* Be patient and persistent - it may take some time to extract gold with your hand gold dredge.

Building a hand gold dredge can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these steps and tips, you should be able to create a functional and effective hand gold dredge that will help you extract gold from rivers and streams. Happy prospecting!

How to build a hand gold dredge