31/ Classification and Exchange
So we’ve looked at how, as sand is moved back and forth at a shoreline, objects are distributed according to their weight and density. The process of classification takes place on three axes:
1/ How far uphill objects are carried (or dragged downwards)--or vertical classification.
2/ How objects are placed longshore--or horizontal classification.
3/ How objects are carried in the various layers of sand.
While both vertical and horizontal classification both can be determined during the process of observation and detecting, recognizing how objects are situated in the various layers of sand at a location can be a source of frustration and wasted time. I mention this to emphasize just how critical it is to learn to recognize the sound of a deep, solid target--especially where you have layered, sand of different consistencies. This is an extremely important skill--having a sufficient understanding of the classification and exchange patterns of a site so as to be able to select your targets on that basis.
This is another point in the case for all-metal hunting in that operating this way tells you more about the consistency and depth of a signal. (In discriminate, all you have is a rough idea as to the size and an indication of an object’s conductivity). These kinds of skills are the “bread and butter” of the pulse hunter and without them--in conditions where you have a lot of lose sand being carried around with foils, caps, tabs and other light objects, you are at a big disadvantage.
At the same time, where you have a lot of loose material being carried about, there is less of a chance of heavy objects being present. This can be a situation where time usage becomes more important and a VLF machine may be the accurate choice.
So, in analyzing your sites look at not only where targets of various weights and densities are being found--also ask: “Where are these targets coming from?” Developing this kind of understanding can solve a lot of mysteries as to how a shoreline operates.
Note: It’s important to recognize that these shoreline dynamics are not limited to rough saltwater environments. Even at calm freshwater shorelines, the processes of classification act to move and disperse objects of all sizes. At one local site that I study, although it’s sheltered and rarely sees any significant wave action, objects up to and including bowling ball-sized rocks are grouped together and placed.
Another thing to remember is that there are always anomalies. Many heavier targets do “defy gravity” and wind up atop berms and in with lighter sand. However, part of the skill in assessing water hunting sites is to think in terms of generalities based upon simple physics--which usually hold true.
From "Advanced Shallow Water Metal Detecting: Tips, Tricks & Methods for the Shoreline Treasure Hunter": by Clive James Clynick [http://clivesgoldpage.com/]
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