# How to Build a Gold Highbanker
A highbanker is a piece of gold prospecting equipment that combines the functions of a sluice box and a water pump, allowing you to process more material efficiently. Building your own highbanker can be a rewarding project, saving money while customizing it to your needs. Below is a step-by-step guide to constructing one.
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## Materials & Tools Needed 
Materials:
– Aluminum or steel sheet (for the sluice box)
– Expanded metal or riffle bars (for trapping gold)
– PVC pipes or hoses (for water delivery)
– Water pump (12V or gas-powered)
– Mesh classifier screen (optional but recommended)
– Nuts, bolts, and washers
– Rubber matting or miner’s moss (for fine gold recovery)
Tools:
– Angle grinder or metal shears
– Drill with metal bits
– Rivet gun or welding machine (if welding the frame)
– Measuring tape & marker
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## Step-by-Step Construction Guide
1. Design Your Highbanker
Decide on the dimensions based on portability and processing capacity. A common size is:
– Length: 36–48 inches
– Width: 10–12 inches
Sketch your design before cutting materials.
2. Build the Sluice Box
1. Cut the aluminum sheet to form the base and sides of the sluice. Bend the sides upward at 90° to create walls (~3–4 inches high). Secure with rivets or welding.
2. Install riffles (angled metal bars or expanded mesh) along the bottom—these help trap gold as material flows through. Space them about 2–3 inches apart.
3. Add Gold Recovery Mats
Place rubber mats, miner’s moss, or ribbed carpeting under the riffles to catch fine gold particles. Secure them tightly so they don’t shift during operation.
4. Install a Classifier Screen (Optional)
A removable screen at the top helps filter out large rocks before material enters the sluice box, improving efficiency.
5. Set Up Water Delivery System
1. Attach a PVC pipe or hose from your water pump to spray water evenly across the top of the sluice box for proper material washing.