In a message dated 7/19/2006 11:08:38 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,
rgreen(a)insightbb.com writes:
Obviously, the ball tip is less likely to damage material it comes in
contact with, both because it requires less force to insert and because it is a
smooth spherical surface rather than a sharp pointed one.
Scot and Rich,
I have never damaged a stone, nor have I used a ball tipped probe,but if you
think you may not have the patience,nor the finesse with the point without
causing damage, (And some people are a little crude) then I recommend by all
means the probe with the ball on the end for safety's sake. We all must do
whatever it takes to prevent ANY damage to the stones. I have observed more
damage in digging the stone up with shovel marks, than I have in the probing. If
I make any contact at all, I immediately stop and proceed to dig with a soft
plastic object I have for this purpose. Just being broken is enough damage,
more is not needed
I personally appreciate all suggestions, and do not ignore any.
Jack E. Briles
Floyd Co.
_jackbriles(a)aol.com_ (mailto:jackbriles@aol.com)