Gold Pan Size: Choosing The Right Fit

Gold pans come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 6 inches to 24 inches in diameter, with the most common sizes being 10 to 18 inches. The size of the pan is an important consideration as it will impact the prospector's comfort and ability to process material. A pan that is too large can be heavy and difficult to manoeuvre when filled with gravel, leading to sore muscles. On the other hand, a pan that is too small may not be able to process larger amounts of material efficiently. The ideal size for a gold pan is typically between 10 and 14 inches, which offers a balance between portability and processing capacity.

Gold pans range from 6 to 24 inches

Gold pans come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 6 inches to 24 inches in diameter. The size of the pan is an important consideration when choosing a gold pan, as it will impact the amount of material you can process and the ease of use.

A larger gold pan, ranging from 15 to 24 inches, allows you to process more material with each use. If you plan to use the gold pan as your primary processing tool, a larger size above 16 inches is recommended. However, it's important to note that gold pans are not the most efficient method for processing large quantities of material. For that, you may want to consider other equipment, such as a sluice box, which can process significantly more material in the same amount of time.

On the other hand, smaller gold pans, ranging from 10 to 12 inches, are more compact and can be easily operated with one hand. They are perfect for processing concentrates from a sluice box or similar equipment. However, their smaller size limits the amount of material they can process.

The conventional gold pan size, typically ranging from 14 to 16 inches, strikes a balance between portability and processing capacity. This size is a popular choice among prospectors as it offers a good combination of ease of use and functionality.

When choosing a gold pan size, it's important to consider your intended use and processing needs. If you're looking for a primary processing tool, a larger size may be more suitable. However, if portability and ease of use are more important factors, a smaller or conventional-sized gold pan may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice of gold pan size depends on your specific requirements and preferences.

The ideal size fits between your elbow and wrist crease

The ideal gold pan should fit between your elbow and wrist crease. To test this, hold the pan so that the open side lies against your forearm, with the rim resting against your elbow crease. If the other rim extends past the base of your fingers, it is too large.

Gold pans come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 6 inches to 24 inches in diameter. A larger pan means you can process more material, but it will also be heavier and more difficult to manoeuvre. A 10-inch pan is a good option for beginners as it is easy to operate with one hand and can be taken on fishing or hiking trips. A 14-inch pan is a good all-around size for general panning. A 16-inch pan is considered a conventional size, balancing ease of use with portability and processing ability.

The size of the pan you choose will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you plan to use the pan as your main processing tool, a larger size might be better. However, for most prospectors, a smaller to medium-sized pan is more comfortable and practical.

Plastic pans are durable, lightweight, and easy to use

Plastic pans are a great choice for gold panning. They are durable, lightweight, and easy to use. They are also difficult to bend or break, and they float! This makes them a good option for gold panning, as you don't want to be dealing with a heavy or easily breakable pan when you're out in the field.

Plastic pans are also available in a variety of colours, which can make it easier to spot the gold. For example, black pans show gold better, while blue and green pans show black sand better. You can also get plastic pans with riffles, which are good for beginners as they make it easier to capture gold.

Most prospectors favour a 10-12 inch round plastic pan, but the size you choose will depend on your personal preference and what you intend to use it for. If you're just starting out, a 10-12 inch pan should be sufficient. If you're planning on using your pan as your main processing tool, you might want to go for something larger.

In addition to their functionality, plastic pans are also usually very affordable. So, if you're looking for a durable, lightweight, and easy-to-use option for gold panning, a plastic pan is a great choice.

Metal pans are traditional but require more maintenance

Metal gold pans have been used for years by miners and are steeped in history. They are durable, solid, and excellent for heating up or drying gold. They are also multi-purpose, doubling up as a cooking pot, wash basin, or even a dinner plate when camping.

However, metal pans require more maintenance than plastic pans. Firstly, they need to be seasoned before use, by removing the factory grease which can cause gold to slip out of the pan. This can be done by burning the pan over hot coals, which also helps to achieve a blue colouration that makes gold easier to spot. After each use, metal pans should be dried off to prevent rusting.

Metal pans are also heavier than plastic pans, which can be a strain on your arms, shoulders, and back. They are also more difficult to master, as they don't have the built-in riffles that modern plastic pans have. Riffles are the baffles that help to prevent fine gold from escaping.

Dark colours are best for spotting gold

When choosing a gold pan, it's important to select the correct size. You should choose a pan that fits comfortably between your elbow and wrist crease. Most prospectors favour a 10-12 inch round plastic pan, but it's really a matter of personal preference.

Some other colours you might see include terra cotta (red), hot pink, and purple. These colours are newer to the market and can be good options, but it's important to keep in mind that you'll be staring at your pan for long hours, so you don't want a colour that will strain your eyes.

Frequently asked questions