(Phonies don't make very good treasure hunting "pards.")
Finding a Good "Pard" Isn't Easy
In my previous post on this subject I discussed how some treasure hunters prefer going it alone rather than partnering up. Additionally, I mentioned three main avenues for finding a treasure hunting "pard."
The long and the short of it is this, however: finding a good "pard" isn't easy. That's a fact you can take to the bank with you my friend. Often, I believe that we as gold miners, treasure hunters, and treasure salvors, seek pretty much the same thing when it comes to a partner or partners. But these much sought after personal characteristics are often in short supply.
What sort of personal characteristics? Well, let's try some of the following character traits for starters:
Honesty (This should be first and foremost in your mind when looking to hook up with a "pard." For obvious reasons, I might add. Scammers and con men can be readily found in the treasure hunting and mining communities, no matter how hard you wish or believe otherwise.)
Trustworthiness (If you can't trust a treasure hunting partner thoroughly and implicitly, then you might as well stay home. That way, no one gets hurt or ripped off. Besides, you'll be able to finish a few of those "honey do" projects around the house.)
Metal Detectors
Treasure Hunting
Integrity (This character trait follows hard on the heels of the two above. These traits combined together form a powerful triad that can't be broken no matter what.)
Dependability (We all want a treasure hunting "pard" who will be there when we need them to be, despite extenuating circumstances and the daily hassles and demands of this life. I can't tell you how many treasure hunting or mining expeditions have gone down in flames because someone didn't show up on time, or at all.)
Good Work Ethic (Have you ever been out there on a treasure hunt, or beach or coin hunting, or placer gold mining and had a so-called partner turn over a 5-gallon bucket, plop their read end on it, and watch you do all the work? Or to add insult to injury, at the end of the day, demand an equal share of the "goodies?" Then you surely understand the importance of this trait....)
(A good "pard" is a team player.)
Shares the Financial Burden (Research and labor are not the only items that must be shared for any partnership to sustain itself. Sharing the financial burden and the overall costs associated with any treasure hunting expedition are just as important. This can be something as mundane as a tankful of gas to kicking in whatever money is needed for supplies, etc. Be very wary however, of any would-be treasure hunter looking to tap your wallet or bank account who doesn't possess all the attributes previously mentioned.)
Carhartt Wear
Wolverine Boots
Compatibility (May the fates smile down on you if you ever end up on an extended treasure hunting or mining foray with someone you thought was OK, but turns out to be a loudmouth, whining, lazy ass, know-it-all after a day or two in the field. When you're out there on a hunt, you want to spend that quality time with someone who's easy to get along with and who won't become your worst nightmare. So choose carefully.)
Obviously, this is a short list and many other items could be added to it. That's exactly what you should do if you are looking to hook up with a treasure hunting "pard" or partners. Leave no stone unturned and, in the end, you'll be much happier and much more successful.
Good hunting.
If you liked this post, you may want to read: "Not All Metal Detectors are the Same"
(c) Jim Rocha (J.R.) 2012
Questions? E-mail me at jr872vt90@yahoo.com
