For the most part, I'd have to agree with Ghostbreaker's statements (note my signature); however, I would take exception to a couple of points – coming from someone who considers themselves a "hunter" and not an "investigator:"

First off, we do limited research (and yes, some of that is historical). Even though our goal is to attempt to document the claims of those reporting a sighting – which absolutely includes the time of day they were reported to occur – we still find it both helpful and beneficial to try to piece together things. Also, let me be absolutely clear it does NOT mean that we discount other reasons for what might be occurring – it isn't just validity, but finding out other possible reasons we're after. So no, it is NOT just about turning off the lights and hoping for thrill and excitement – there's a lot of homework involved and there are also other factors, such as a person's well-being that must be taken into account.

Second, we ARE trying to come up with a conclusion: are the claims valid? By trying to recreate in the best sense possible the situation(s) when they were reported to take place, we try to figure out if the claims are possibly paranormal or if there is another reason for them (and often, they are).

So again, while I'd agree for the most part with Ghostbreakers, but I think it goes a lot farther than simply combing the beach with a metal detector! /biggrin.png' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':D' />

Well this is what is important, to me anyway: there's no "better" in either form. It is a personal and emotional commitment with either, in my opinion.

To clarify, there's a difference between finding out why a place may be haunted and finding out if a place may be haunted. I think it all comes down to what level a person or group chooses to come at the issue from.

Wow, now I am sorry I said anything and to see people taking it personally. I did not intend to ruffle feathers and I should have known better. I knew it was a touchy subject as I have seen it before.

People can call themselves whatever they like no matter what they really do with my blessing. It has no bearing on me or what I do. To each his own. Besides it wouldn't do anyone any good if everyone was the same and for the record… I didn't start as an investigator, I started out as a ghost hunter.

Guess I will be a little more careful in the future.

I don't think your ruffling. I enjoy reading the conversations with the investigators and find this thread a good read.

Different ideas are always good to share, and the way different investigators investigate.

I think something could be adapted or learned, I'm learning.

Hope the sharing continues.

Yeah, there's no feathers ruffled here, either. As I said, I think you're right on the money for the most part. I take absolutely no offense whatsoever. There is indeed a difference, and its good to know there is a difference.

Although I'm super duper miffed you don't take my beach combing metal detector seriously! Ghosts like to catch a tan every now & then too, you know! /tongue.png' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':P' />

haha! Well I won't buy one until I see it advertised on a ghost hunting website. That's the only way I can tell if its something legit!