Periscope Probe Question

[AK in KY]

Does the periscope have to be in contact with the target to work properly? If not, how close does it have to be?

AK in KY

 

[Rick(ND)]

When I had mine I found to get a signal on the coin it had to be within a inch to a inch and a half, now to ID it you had to touch the target if i remember right, if I am wrong about touching it I am sure some one will say. That is the way I remember mine.

 

[Chris(SoCenWI)]

If you air test with sensitivity set to max you can detect at a couple of inches. But... the explorer interferes with high sensitivity. I talked to the manufacturer about this and he had noted the same thing, suggested turning the explorer off. Also ground mineralization limits distance.

I seldom use max sensitivity and this means I need to be pretty close to detect it, which is the whole point. You need to be even closer to accurately discriminate. I only use mine to check ferrous/non-ferrous. That gives me a chance to check out iffy signals without having to dig.

I find it real hard to detect without my periscope.

 

[Bill_in_MA]

n/t

 

[Bill_in_MA]

Pretty close is right - in air testing I only get about 5/8" but that's not the point - it's not a longer range detector like a Uniprobe - it doesn't have to be.

I pinpoint the target with the Explorer then stick the probe in the ground slightly beyond where i think the target is - if I don't get contact - I pull out the probe drag it an inch or two towards me and stick it in the ground again and repeat until you make contact. I usually get it on the first or second stick. Worst case you stick it in/out a few times - sounds burdonsome but it isn't - as you can stick it in/out as fast as you can move your arm up and down - so even in worst cases - as long as the ground isn't hardpan it'll only take a second or two.

Verification is with contact but again - no big deal to get contact - in fact that's half the fun of using the Periscope you get to quickly and easily touch the target before you even think about reaching for your digger.

Re: interference - I don't turn the Explorer off - just point the coil and shaft away from the target and don't have a problem - as to hear the change in frequency of the pulses of the Periscope as you approach a metal object is very clear and distinctive.

 

[Iceguy4]

I,m worried about getting parts for mine. I don't even like hunting without mine.

 

[AK in KY]

Thanks for your replies. Now if I could just find one.

AK in KY

 

[Kestrel]

Does anyone know what has happened to JiM Ott. He is no longer making Periscopes. This is the best accessory for TH I have ever used. The hole size is usually no larger tht 2 inches in diameter and quick ID as far as ferrous or non-ferrous is easy.

 

[Bill_in_MA]

Jim is still around and he will do repairs.
The real question is what happened - why is the Periscope no longer being manufactured and will it ever be manufactured again by Jim or anyone else?