Chuck: I would like to verify that the Tube mount is easier to handle in strong currents (less drag) than the U Bolt mount. This is more important (crucial) for me, as I often hunt where there are surprisingly fast wave surges and strong currents when the tide changes.
I have an earlier Stealth with the longer 15" length basket with the more sharply pointed narrow euro tip which cuts through firm bottom like butter allowing me to dig deep fast and drains super fast with its one half inch hole pattern. It is ideal, for sanded in conditions in the first trough, where I only have one chance to two changes to retrieve a deep target, in the water.
I really like this scoop, but am not able to safely control it. Any cut in the tropics is a show stopper, which keeps you out of the water for a few weeks, as wounds have to be treated immediately and properly, to prevent staph infection. Further, I am having difficulties with my lifting hand (swelling/bruising of fingers) when retrieving targets in the wet sand as the weight of a full basket is too heavy for me. I received notice that this scoop needs to be returned for reinforcement of the triangular portion of the tower mount (no charge) but have held up returning it as I do not want anything done that would further increase its drag in the water. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great scoop and I really like it. Truly wish, I was able to use it more, most likely it needs a new home (sigh).
I currently use the heavier Sunspot Classic S8 with a 54” ninety degree angle wood handle as my go to beach stand up scoop. It took a little getting used to having to lean forward to dig, but it was well worth the effort. I love the way that it rapidly sifts from the bottom when pulled up in small steps. As the wooden pole goes all the way to the bottom, it is very stable, which is especially important to me as I use it as a walking staff as well as to push myself back to shore if it get to deep. Further, with the fulcrum plate in the back of the basket, I am able to pivot the scoop with my foot like a steam shovel using my foot to break suction. Since using it my wrist problems have gone away. It is definitely a keeper. In this case the older design is better, at least for me.
I only have one problem - it’s weight, and still need a lighter scoop to hunt all three zones: shallow water, wet sand, and lastly (when sanded in) dry sand. I suspect, your lighter tube mounted, hybrid stealth is exactly what I need. Unfortunately, it had not yet been designed (sigh): 790i – 90 degree vertical handle, Tube – Quick release for 1 3/8 “ OD handle, Bottom ½” holes, Rear ¼” holes (some ½” holes), 48” long Carbon Fiber handle with lifetime guarantee (don’t know if you can tell pointing direction with this handle)?
Out of curiosity, why did you discontinue the more rounded shield tip basket design.
It looks ideal for sand/shell bottoms (other than rocks). IIRC, the design is more than fifteen years old and is still being used by NJcigarman and several other seasoned detectorists.
Thanks for asking.
Tube: Slightly lighter, quick release handle for 1 3/8" diameter handle, this model will take a Carbon Fiber handle directly (no modification) if you decide you want one at a later date (who wouldn't?), very strong since the handle is 1 3/8" which is larger than most other scoops which use 1 1/4"
U-Bolt: Handle is considered stronger simply due to the fact that it is 1 1/2" diameter at the basket end, proven design (25 years), accepts existing handles you might have from an older Stealth, kind of a problem fitting a Carbon Fiber handle to this model. Easier to find a handle at a hardware store if you are on vacation and need one.
I use and recommend the Tube type.
Chuck
