This is the final chapter for me guys and I ain't lettin anybody screw it for me
This is an easy thing to believe. Unfortunately, the "bad guys" get a lot more practice scamming folks than we do on an individual basis of learning how NOT to be scammed.
Whether you choose to buy a claim from someone else or find your own, there's ONLY one thing you can do to prevent it from being a crap shoot. And that is, sample, sample, sample. If the claim holder won't let you sample, then just walk away.....or run! If someone shows you a vial and says they got that much in 1 weekend of digging, don't believe them - even if it's a small amount. There's always the chance that there is no gold on the property...or at least no discovered gold.
Trust yourself. Lots of times folks have gone to a used car lot and then test driven a car, thought it was great, then found out later about the problems. Even if you find a nice property that has gold, go further and find out if there are any restrictions that might prevent you from getting that gold. Like, maybe the land is allowed for hand panning only, or some such thing. Maybe the land is on a Reservation, and therefore has additional laws/rules that need to be considered.
And finally (ok, ok...stop cheering!
), you're looking for a place that is RV accessible, yet has gold. If you're looking for enough to fill a small vial every month or two, no prob. But easy access means that there is a greater chance that others would have found such easy-access claims. I know it doesn't sound ideal, but don't limit yourself to "pretty and natural" areas - areas with a great view. Some folks are mining in Arizona or Nevada or Southern California. Desert areas in many cases, and no water to boot. Lots of experienced miners in such less-than-perfect locations because that was the best spot they found. Is ok to look, but don't let your time run short to where you get anxious and stop thinking clearly and rationally.
There's lots of folks out there who are honest and have their place, so would actually help a newbie get a foothold. I've never met Clay Diggins, but I
HAVE to believe he is one of these honest folks. His website has done more to help folks than most any site out there. Just always use caution - and common sense!
