Not unlike Rinky I too have some experience in the drilling industry. In fact I'm looking out my window at a drilling rig as I type this.

Drilling times stated by Bradley Bros and the like are general times, and not hard formations. Quartz and Chert are very tough formations to drill and the rate of penetration can be as low as a couple of meters an hour. Add onto this that bit damage and lack of weight to apply to the bit (because we're so shallow) and we can see the drilling program taking alot longer than anticipated.

Also the drill times do not incorparate the tripping and core recovery time. The Geo's will want to see the core and analize chips to report to thier office. Then the core has to be split and sent to the respective labs for comparasion, to be compliant with the 43-101 guidelines.

So sit back and enjoy your summer. Soon not to be Grumpy..