Ever wonder how much gold was in that last 5 gallon bucket you just ran through your sluice box without pulling the box from the water to find out?  When working a stream with a fast water box I like to check the contents from time to time to make sure I am still digging where the color is.

     To check a box in running water all that is needed is a clear drinking glass or a divers face mask.  Just hold the bottom of the glass or face mask so that it just touches the waters surface.  You may have to tilt the viewing devise a little to clear unwanted air bubbles.  Do not push down to far, for this will cause boil out of material and some gold under the area being viewed.  Also fogging of the top of the glass surface can occur and that is why I use the face mask because it is easy to keep it from fogging up.

     Before viewing let the box cook and clean out some first for better results.  With a little practice some of you may find this tip very helpful also.       Ron