Ben,

Our basic field methodology is to divide historic sites into 10 x 10 
m grid units and then conduct metal detector surveys of each unit. 
And we do each unit twice, typically, in north-south and east-west 
directions.

Small "hits" for objects like nails are simply quantified in the 
field using raw counts per survey units.  Actual object recoveries 
are pin flagged ... I see no reason to use plastic vs. metal pin 
flags ... Your metal detector shouldn't know the difference if its a 
least a few feet away ...

We would use a total station to map in the pin flags, but given 10 x 
10 m collection units, you should be able to guesstimate your pin 
flag locations within those units to a reasonably accurate degree. 
Certainly easier than kite photography, and probably more accurate.

Mark
-- 

Mark C. Branstner, RPA
Historic Archaeologist

Illinois State Archaeological Survey
Institute of Natural Resource Sustainability
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
209 Nuclear Physics Lab, MC-571
23 East Stadium Drive
Champaign, IL 61820

Phone: 217.244.0892
Fax: 217.244.7458
Cell: 517.927.4556
[log in to unmask]


When you think of that perfect retort five minutes after the 
conversation is over -  that's when you're:

  "... bursting with the belated eloquence of the inarticulate ..."

Edith Wharton in the "The Age of Innocence"