Today I started building a homemade sluice box.  I went to Home Depot and bought a 2x4 for the walls and a piece of sheet metal for the base.  I also got some L-Shaped aluminum that I am gonna use to make riffles.  Under the riffles will be metal mesh and a section of carpet just like a store bought sluice box.  Also at the top of the sluice will be a few inches of rubber matting to catch most of the gold.  So far I have only made the box, and have yet to start making riffles which will be the hardest part.  Here is a picture of my progress so far. 

And here is a shot of the back.  I wanted to make sure that the middle of the sheet metal had enough bracing to hold a lot of material at once.  Not the best craftsmanship but not bad for using all hand tools.

I didn't make it too big because I want to be able to carry it on my back easily without weighing too much.  I am thinking about ways to add some straps to be able to carry it like a backpack.  I may also add a detachable hopper and water supply to be able to also use it as a high banker at home.  


Total cost: $30
Miniature sluice cost: $99


Jason