Slide hammer digging bars

[CalGoldDredger]

If ever needed, I have used a small air powered jack hammer under water while dredging. Used it on a lava flow over the current stream course to get to the older gravels and the real bedrock underneath.
I have also used it in large rock impacted crevices and cracks, killer on that too. Requires justification and a big heavy compressor.
Heard you can crack large boulders with it, into smaller winchable size pieces. Although never tried that.
Sliding hammers are a geat tool for the old miners tool box but very limiting and hopefully not all you bring as situations change and sometimes call for an array of sorts.

[roofman6]

re: under water slide hammer:

I will gusset a smaller "Slam Bar" near the top of the bit and drill the tube at least 3/4" both sides and test the strength, then test the "hammer" underwater, and will then increase the hole size to find the right trade off between strength and "hammer action". I may add more weight to make up for the slower hammer speeds also. If I get good results, will list the option as an alternative for underwater work. Will let you know and will post pictures also.

Thankyou all,
Roofman6

[Hoser John]

More weight always helps as these things have been used for over 30 years I can attest too. 5 & 10 lbs weight were readily available and work RIGHTEOUSLY underwater-John

[roofman6]

I've taken your suggestions and added an option for under-water work using the slide hammer digging bar. It can be seen at http://cgi.ebay.com/Slam-Bar-Slide-hamm ... 33635d96d7
I've reinforced the pipe at the top of the slide and drilled thru with 2 - 3/4" holes. This did not weaken the bar and gave enough porting to allow the hammer action to work even while under water. It will add $25 to the $75 price. Shipping will remain the same.

The larger and heavier "Bully Bar" does not have a water option.

Thank you all for your great suggestions.
roofman6

[CalGoldDredger]

Looks good!
Not really in need of one since we won't be dredging here anytime soon and I already have a surplus of bedrock bustin' tools.
But hey, wish you luck on your sales.