Well... She only said no new sluices. So Im gonna get a dredge. Rofl

[Prospector70]

Well... She only said no new sluices. So I'm gonna get a dredge. Rofl

Well I've obviosly got it bad.

What is my best bet for a backpacker ^dredge^? Brand new? Keene / Proline etc? Make my own? What path would you suggest? I want to hear the material going up the hose from underwater for myself. And of course find all the gold. lol
I figure with winter coming on I'll see a used one or two coming about, and am shooting for next spring.
Any imput greatly appreciated as always.

Thanks Gang!

 

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[DeepseekerADS]

I bought a Keene 152. Pretty pleased with it, all I'm panning is essentially black sand. No gold yet, but pleased with how it gets the trash out.

 

[enamel7]

I bought a Keene 152. Pretty pleased with it, all I'm panning is essentially black sand. No gold yet, but pleased with how it gets the trash out.

I think he means a back pack dredge.

 

[Sick4gold]

I am partial to Proline as they are better built but if your looking for a light weight dredge go Keene as you can't beat the 2 inch backpack dredge. Don't expect it to last a lifetime however like a Proline.
As long as you maintain It well and treat it nice it will give you many years of operation but if your rough on equipment then Proline is the way to go.
Keene wins over Proline for weight as the backpack dredge is super convenient and light enough for 1 person.
The Proline 2 inch is light enough for 1 person as well but is over 20lbs heavier.
Cost Keene wins as Prolines are definately more expensive.
I've heard Keenes are slightly better on recovery but I don't believe it or maybe I don't care. I have never found a speck in my tailings and it impresses me constantly with its fine gold capturing capability.
If money is no object get a Dahlke. Best pumps out there, super light and tiny and great recovery but OMG the prices.
Look for used dredges on craigslist is your best bet but any name brand dredge is an excellent choice.
As far as one over the other is like comparing ford vs Chevy.
I wouldn't build my first dredge as inexperience is an expensive teacher.
Honestly keeping wifey happy is a major factor too so that should play into your decision

 

[Hoser John]

Great info above but with Bob Dahlke gone ,even worse now unfortunately ,company for sale. Heard a texas purchase rumor but still just a rumor. Proline will outlast us all and for a backpacker just what I'd buy if my money-John

 

[Prospector70]

Super, thanks y'all!