Hobbies And Interests
Sifting Racks
Sifting tools for metal detecting can come in many shapes, sizes and designs. Some are quite elaborate and can be quite costly. Luckily, there are ways to make inexpensive sifting tools at home with parts that can be easily found around the house. Sifting racks are not expensive to make and consist of a wooden frame, usually square or rectangular, with mesh stretched over the frame like a skin. The dirt is poured into the rack and then is sifted away, leaving larger debris and items that have been targeted by the metal detector. Do not use metal materials to construct the rack, as the detector may give a false reading when the rack and dirt are rescanned.
Sand Sifting Tool
When using a metal detector on the beach or in sandy areas, make a sand sifting tool. First, punch small holes into a metal tin. The size of the tin is a matter of personal preference, but the bigger the can, the more sand that can be sifted at once. Next, cut another square piece of metal out of another can that will wrap around half of the can and will serve as the scoop part of the can. Screw or bolt this piece of metal to the inside of the can to create a large lip on the tool. If you prefer, bolt on a handle to make carrying and sifting easier. Purchase an inexpensive but durable cupboard door handle. Bolt the handle to the outside of the can on the opposite side from the scoop part.
Sifting Drop Cloth
Sometimes, the ground conditions make sifting impossible through targeted areas of dirt. A drop cloth created from denim material and strips of wood can solve this problem. Take an old pair of jeans, cut of the legs and cut them down one seam so what is left is a rectangular piece of denim. Attach strips of wood on either end of the material to serve as handles. Dump the targeted dirt on the drop cloth and rescan it to make sure you have captured the target. Searching on the drop cloth is easier than on the ground.