Gold pans are essential pieces of equipment you will need while prospecting. While, generally, most pans on the market today are high-quality devices, some are more suited to your prospecting needs than others. Investing in a tool that can make your experience more manageable and comfortable can yield better results.
The best pans for gold prospecting are plastic devices, bright-colored, and including cheater’s riffles. The best size for a gold pan depends on your prospecting needs, but bigger pans are not always best. There are also some alternatives to the standard pan worth considering.
If you are not sure how to pick your next gold pan, here is everything your need to know. Read on.
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The Features to Look For in a Gold Pan
Like in many other industries and sectors, the field of prospecting has been evolving over the years, creating new, more efficient ways of retrieving gold[1]. However, the most used and appreciated device for this activity is still the classic gold pan.
In the beginning, the first prospectors were equipped with “bateas,” which are traditional wooden or metal containers, and then crafted more modern metal pans. While these were already yielding better results than the “bateas,” metal pans were heavy, cumbersome, and lacking riffles.
Additionally, such pans needed to be in use for a while before becoming efficient. They could also rust and would sink if inadvertently dropped during the panning process.
Today, modern advancements have gifted the new prospectors with devices that are lightweight, durable, and easy to carry. However, not all pans are ideal for all prospecting needs. Below is a collection of the features that you should be looking for in a pan.
Size
It is usual for many prospectors, especially beginners, to opt for the largest pan available. Of course, the benefits of this choice are clear: you can process more material at the same time, thus cutting down the time needed to see results.
However, it is worth keeping in mind that the larger a pan is, the stronger and better-skilled the prospector will need to be. Indeed, the large quantities of material on the pan will weigh you down during the process, making it almost unmanageable if you are not an expert. Since they are heavier and more challenging to maneuver, filled large pans will make the experience far less pleasant than it would typically be.
Additionally, large pans require you to have refined panning skills. Indeed, since it is more difficult to maneuver and swing, those pans can increase the risk of losing precious streambed material.
When picking the right size for your prospecting needs, it is worth considering your physique and physical strength. Broad, muscular prospectors might be able to handle a large pan, but most prospectors agree that a medium-sized one can make the process much more enjoyable.
A trick used by most prospector to figure out what pan is best of them is this one:
- Pick the model you would like to buy
- Turn it, so the bottom edge faces upwards
- Lay it on your forearm with one of the edges on your elbow crease
- Look at where the opposite edge is
- The ideal pan is the one that fits between the elbow crease and the knuckles line.
If you have opted to purchase your gold pan online, you can still use this trick by measuring the distance between your elbow crease and your knuckles and comparing it with the diameter of the pan.
In any case, gold pans are not suitable for large-scale mining operations, unless the miner prefers to use this method for sampling a terrain. Since you are aware that this tool is best for recreational prospecting, it is recommendable to pick a gold pan that will make the process more enjoyable.
Each manufacturer has designed pans of different lengths and sizes. However, the most common gold pan sizes on the market are:
- Gold pans with a diameter of 6in to 10in (15cm to 25cm)
These models are perfect for sampling a terrain before a prospector files a mining claim. Other gold hunters prefer to use these pans during the finishing stages of the gold panning process, due to the smaller riffles and better maneuverability. However, only smaller amounts of streambed materials can fit into these pans, so you should only include them in your kit if you also have a larger pan to rely on.
- Gold pans with a diameter of 12in to 14in (30cm to 35cm)
These middle-sized pans are perfect for all prospectors, independently on how you wish to use them. Of course, they don’t welcome as much material as the larger models, but they are easy to carry and maneuver. These pans are ideal for anybody who wants to improve their prospecting skills while seeing some results.
- Gold pans with a diameter of 16in to 18in (40cm to 45cm)
These are among the most substantial gold pans on the market. Some expert prospectors will opt for these if they wish to process larger quantities of streambed material at once. However, these require skills, precision, and a certain amount of strength.
Riffles
The presence and quality of riffles on the pan are the second most important characteristic to look for in your next prospecting device. The riffles are the obstructions or baffles you can notice on one of the sides of the pan. Each manufacturer has created different kinds of riffles that would set that specific pan aside from the competition.
Aside from picking the ones that work best for you, some characteristics of those riffles can make a difference in the amount of gold you will be able to recover from the streambed material.
You will notice more substantial, deeper riffles on one side if you examine a gold pan. These should be kept far from your body on the panning process, and they are the ones responsible for trapping larger particles of gold.
However, most pans also boast another set of riffles, gaining the name of “dual-riffle pan.” These are ideal if you wish to only one pan during the whole prospecting process. The second set is likely to boast smaller riffles, which can be helpful in the last stages of the panning process or when attempting to recover fine gold.
Most of the riffles on new pans today are molded into shape, which makes them resistant to impacts and durable. So, there is no risk of breaking or damaging them during panning. These are known as “cheater’s riffles” [2] because even novice prospectors can see some results by using these pans.
Material
On your search of a pan, you would have found two major types: metal or plastic pans. At the very beginning, pans were called “bateas,” and they were made of wood. Since then, prospectors realized that metal could be more durable and versatile than wood.
However, plastic pans[3] are undoubtedly the best choice for beginners and expert prospectors alike. Here are some of the advantages that set them apart from the metal ones.
- Plastic pans are lightweight, which makes them easy to carry with you on your trip
- If dropped inadvertently during the panning process, they float. So, you will be able to salvage the material you were processing before the incident.
- The riffles are molded into the structures, which lowers the risk of breaking or damaging them
- Since the riffles are designed along with the device, they are consistent and equally efficient.
- Prospectors don’t need to break in plastic pans like they would have to do for metal devices.
- The sturdy plastic of these pans makes them resistant to any impact, so you won’t have to worry about breaking them.
- They boast different colors, which makes it easier to spot gold particles – or “color” – in the pan.
Color
The color of your pan is not the most important characteristic of all, especially as most pans on the market boast a suitable hue. However, it is essential to keep in mind that black pans can make it harder to identify the components of black sand, as the two colors are very similar.
Instead, hues like hot, pink, green, blue, or red (terracotta) make it easier to spot “color” on your pan among black sand concentrates.
Of course, if you decide to invest in a metal pan, you might not be able to choose or change its color.
Manufacturer
The majority of the pans on the market today are high-quality and reliable. Any prospector, even if a novice, can make a great choice without having to investigate much. However, some manufacturers can guarantee that you won’t incur accidents such as a broken pan during the panning process.
Among the best ones on the market, you can find:
Of course, depending on your budget, you could opt to invest in a pan from these manufacturers or in less expensive devices.
Alternative Gold Pans to Consider
While the classic gold pan is arguably the favorite type of prospecting device for many gold hunters, some other devices are worth considering. The two below still belong to the family of gold pans, but they boast alternative designs.
TurboPan
Invented and designed by an Australian company, these pans boast the same shape that you would be used to if you had been panning with a standard gold pan. However, the riffles along this device are unique and patented.
The TurboPan gold pan is a hybrid design that combines the accessibility of a pan and the precision of a sluice box. Indeed the riffles along the bottom edge of the device are concentric and follow a spiral-like pattern. Of course, these pans also boast the standard set of riffles that prospectors can find on more classic models.
To make the best of these pans, the prospector will need to move the material anticlockwise over the riffles. All the gold particles – as well as fine gold – will slowly concentrate in the central pocket of the pan.
Additionally, the TurboPan is 6cm (2in) deep, which allows the gold and other heavy materials to reach the bottom much faster than through a standard pan.
Gold Claw Gold Pan
The Gold Claw pan is revolutionary in its design. It boasts two different sets of riffles, which make it perfect for the initial stages of the gold panning process and the finishing steps. The smaller riffles will trap even the finest particles of gold, allowing novices to see incredible results from their prospecting efforts.
Additionally, prospectors can maneuver and handle the Gold Claw with just one hand. This feature is what truly sets this pan apart from the others. Indeed, you won’t need to balance in the water, and the process results much faster than usual panning.
Expert prospectors have also seen the benefits of this pan, especially during the terrain sampling procedures. Instead, the same manufacturer has created a foldable, pocket-size pan that can accompany you on any prospecting trip for occasional prospectors.
The disadvantages of this device will not compromise its efficiency, but they are worth considering. The main one is that, due to the small size of the device, you will only be able to pan small quantities of materials at once.
Panning Kits vs. Gold Pans
When deciding to buy a gold pan, prospectors need to consider whether they would prefer to buy every tool in a prospecting kit separately or together. There are considerable advantages of just ordering a complete gold panning kit.
- You can start prospecting as soon as you receive your kit
- They include smaller tools such as vials, magnifying tweezers, and suction bottles, which are essentials to retrieve and store the gold found.
- Kits streamline the process of acquiring all the necessary tools.
- It can be more affordable than buying each piece individually
- All the tools are created by the same manufacturer and thus compatible
- They often include classifiers, a device that can be extremely helpful in shortening the processing times, and increasing accuracy.
- Kits often include panning instructions, manuals, and books
- You might also be able to obtain a warranty in case any of the parts breaks
However, if you already have everything you need to get started with your prospecting activities, pans are also available at a reduced cost.
Pros and Cons of Gold Pans
As we have seen, prospecting through the use of a gold pan is one of the most appreciated methods across the world. However, many expert prospectors, as well as those who want to make this hobby a profitable activity, opt for other methods. That is why many miners choose for dredges and other, more invasive prospecting methods.
Below you can find the benefits of using a gold pan to understand whether this method is suitable for your prospecting needs.
Advantages
- Gold pans are lightweight. This feature makes them ideal for occasional or recreational prospectors who undertake explorations only once in a while. They can also accompany any gold hunter on any trip, barely adding any weight to the camping gear or other prospecting equipment.
- Gold pans allow you to refine your prospecting skills. Independently on what prospecting method you have opted for, your skills and knowledge of the field can make a difference in the outcome. Through the use of a pan, you can refine your skills and understand more about the geology and history of a location.
- They are inexpensive. While many individuals would love to learn how to prospect, this activity is not suitable for everybody. Therefore, investing large sums in pieces of equipment when you are not sure about your feelings for this activity might not be the best choice. Instead, any prospector can afford a gold pan and start their journey.
- They are allowed in several locations. If you take several prospecting trips in different areas, you might have learned that some regulations define what prospectors can use on any given site. Gold pans – and sometimes sluice boxes – are permitted in most locations, making this activity accessible for everybody.
Disadvantages
- Limited material to process. Independently on the pan’s size, this is the slowest method to prospect for gold. Indeed, only a few kilograms of materials can fit into the pan at once. This factor can limit your efforts and decrease your chances of finding gold.
- Time- and energy-consuming. It can take several minutes to process the material down to the heavier black sand concentrates. In the case of novice prospectors and beginners, this can extend to up to an hour.
- Your skill and knowledge can influence the outcomes. Correctly panning for gold does require refined skills and knowledge. Of course, you are bound to see improvements as you practice, but, in the beginning, there are risk factors to consider. You could be losing some gold during the panning process if you are not careful or miss seeing the gold particles altogether.
Best Gold Pans: Our Top Picks
If you have decided that using a pan is the best prospecting method for you, check out our five top picks.
Garrett Deluxe Gold Panning Kit
While this product includes several pans and tools, it is one of the best ones for beginner prospectors. Manufactured by the best-renowned Garrett Metal Detectors, this kit contains three different pans – 15in (38cm), 14in (35cm), and 10in (25cm) – a classifier, a suction bottle, and tweezers.
Additionally, if you are a beginner, you can find included a copy of The New Gold Panning is Easy by Roy Lagal, and the guide Find an Ounce of Gold a Day by Roy Lagal and Charles Garrett. This thoughtful addition makes this panning kit ideal for beginners that just want to get started in prospecting.
Supersluice Gold Pan, 15″
This inexpensive pan is perfect for anybody who is just looking for an accessible addition to their kit. Produced by Garrett, prospectors can be sure that this pan is made with the highest-quality materials available and designed to increase your chances of success.
Through the 1/2in (1.27cm) twin riffles and a deep funnel, this simple pan can trap up to 1oz (30mm) of gold in the form of nuggets or flakes. Large enough to fit a satisfying quantity of material yet compact and lightweight, this pan makes for the perfect addition for beginners and experts alike.
SE 14″ Blue Plastic Gold Pan with Two Types of Riffles
This basic gold pan has everything a prospector might need on their trip. Indeed, the two sets of riffles make it ideal to use throughout each stage of the gold panning process, from the beginning to the finishing stage.
The deeper round base also acts as a gold trap for the gold that you were able to retrieve through the riffles. This safety strategy allows beginner prospectors to train their skills without losing precious gold or fine gold particles.
Sluice Fox 11 Piece Gold Panning Supplies Kit
This extensive 11-piece panning kit created by the famous Sluice Fox is ideal for any level prospector. It includes all the essentials you might need on your trips, without compromising on the quality of the items included.
In the box, you will find two gold pans and two small, portable classifiers (also known as sifting pans). Additionally, the kit includes a black sand separation tool (magnet), a suction bottle, and a prospector scoop. Then, to safely store the gold retrieved, you can find magnifying tweezers and three glass vials.
While extensive, this kit is so compact that it can fit in most backpacks and weighs less than two pounds (0.9kg). It also comes in different colors so you can choose the one that suits your needs best.
Stansport Mining Kit
The Stansport Mining Kit only includes the necessary tools you need to get started. However, you can find a 10½ (26cm) and a 14in (35cm) gold pan to cover all of your needs throughout the process.
Additionally, included you can find two gold vials to store the gold retrieved and a magnifier. The included rock pick makes this kit the best choice for those prospectors who plan on visiting areas with crevices and rocky streambed materials.
Alternatives to Gold Pans
As we have seen, standard gold pans are still widely appreciated by all prospectors. However, some new devices on the market can substitute a gold pan effectively. Depending on what your prospecting needs are, you could opt to invest in one of the following ones rather than in a pan.
Sluice boxes
Prospectors who have become comfortable with gold pans often upgrade their kits with a sluice box. These devices still leverage the characteristic that gold is much heavier than the surrounding streambed materials. However, they can increase the amount of content that a prospector can process and the speed of the process by 10 to 200 times.
Several sluice boxes on the market can fit any prospector’s requirements and budgets, such as the Stansport Aluminum Sluice Box and the Sluice Fox Modular Sluice Box System.
Unlike gold pan, these simple devices have mesh nets and mats along the bottom edge, which increases the chances of a prospector to capture fine gold. Since fine gold represents the majority of the gold in rivers and creeks, investing in such a device can be an excellent choice for any prospector.
Gold Cube
A gold cube works similarly to a sluice box, but it adds vibrations and leverages gravity to capture any gold particles in a given amount of material. Among the most attractive features of this device is that it can process up to a yard of material in just two hours.
Additionally, since the internal mechanism of the Cube will also separate the gold from the surrounding materials, you can obtain classified concentrated down to 1/8in (3mm).
Due to the investment required to include this device in your kit, the Gold Cube is more suitable for expert prospectors trying to increase the profits perceived from their prospecting activity.
Gold Rush Nugget Bucket
The Gold Rush Nugget Bucket has rapidly become one of the favorites for beginner prospectors who undertake this activity as a recreational hobby. The Gold Rush Nugget Bucket includes several funnels and classifiers.
Once set into place, these components create a device that leverages the force of gravity to collect all the gold present in a given material at the bottom of the Bucket. Once retrieved, these concentrates will need to be processed through a finishing pan.
While this device can yield positive results and is easy to set up and carry, it is particularly appreciated among those who prospect to spend hours outdoors with their families. Learn more about how to use a Gold Rush Nugget Bucket through the video below.
Conclusion
Deciding to use a gold pan on your prospecting trip can yield incredible benefits and results. However, when deciding to buy a pan, you should ensure that its material, size, color, and manufacturer fit your prospecting needs.
You might need to decide whether you prefer to invest in a complete prospecting kit or a single device. Other alternatives, such as sluice boxes and the Gold Rush Nugget Bucket, are excellent options, yet a simple gold pan can be the best device for all beginner prospectors.