When searching for the ideal highbanker, portability, ease of use, and durability were my top priorities. I needed something lightweight and compact for hiking, but also robust enough to withstand regular use. My research led me to the Crux Highbanker, and after extensive field testing, I'm ready to share my thoughts in this Crux Highbanker Review.

Crux Prospecting Highbanker Review: First Impressions

My initial impression of the Crux Highbanker was its focus on portability. The unit collapses into a manageable mesh bag, a game-changer for anyone who has struggled with hauling heavy equipment. This feature alone significantly reduces the strain of hiking to remote prospecting locations. No more back-breaking treks with unwieldy gear!

As someone who gold prospects with kids, I needed a highbanker that could be carried in one hand, to include the bilge pump and battery. Which this highbanker does! Even my 5 year old can carry this into remote locations easily.

Crux Highbanker Review: Performance in the Field

Beyond portability, the Crux Highbanker's performance is impressive. I've used it extensively for both sampling and production in areas where larger highbankers are impractical. I've consistently been impressed by the amount of material it can process. It handles about a yard per hour of unclassified gravels, even with full shovel loads or buckets.

One of the standout features of the Crux Prospecting Highbanker is its innovative hopper design. The built-in spray bars, a unique feature thanks to their specialized manufacturing process, provide excellent washing action. The hopper's V-channel grooves and the strategically designed grizzly bar screen work together to prevent gold loss, directing it efficiently towards the sluice.

The sluice box itself is thoughtfully designed. The diverter ensures even material distribution, while the slick plate facilitates stratification. The Crux Prospecting matting system, with its "Gold Treads" rubber drop riffle matting and V-matting texture, excels at capturing even fine gold. The hold-down strip's compatibility with other mats offers flexibility for those who have a preferred type. The damper flap is a crucial addition, breaking surface tension and preventing fine gold from floating away.

Crux Highbanker Review: Pros and Cons

Pros:

Exceptional Portability: Collapses into a compact mesh bag for easy transport.

Robust Build Quality: Designed to withstand the rigors of prospecting.

Efficient Gold Recovery: Proven performance with both coarse and fine gold.

Innovative Hopper Design: Built-in spray bars and optimized material flow.

Versatile Sluice Box: Effective matting system and compatibility with other mats.

High Processing Capacity: Handles up to 1 yard per hour of unclassified gravels.

Cons: ZERO!

Price: Competitive with other brands, offering excellent value, and is built to be a backpack highbanker which stands out from other mini highbankers.

Crux Prospecting Highbanker Review: Final Verdict

The Crux Highbanker has become an indispensable part of my prospecting gear. Its combination of portability, performance, and robust construction makes it an excellent choice for prospectors of all levels. As a father who takes his kids hiking and prospecting, the benefits it offers, especially in terms of reduced fatigue and efficient gold recovery, make it a worthwhile investment. I highly recommend the Crux Highbanker to anyone seeking a lightweight yet highly capable highbanking machine.

My Rating: 4.8/5