Update (1/29/16): I've updated the stage 4 reference point to take you straight to the final eliminating stage 4 entirely. It's been nothing but trouble.
Epi-what? Ahh, look it up. Consider it step one in readying yourself for this cache. I think you’ll find it’s a word that describes this series (and the FTF series that preceded it) very well.
So, how well stocked is your geocaching bag? This cache aims to find out by testing your preparedness. As you’ll discover, the middle stages of this five stage cache may each require special tools to complete the find.
What kind of tools you ask? Well, it wouldn’t be a very good test if I gave you the answers, but suffice it to say, these aren’t the type of tools used to build a house. No saws, hammers, or screwdrivers allowed (geocaching rules). Also there’s not one answer to any particular stage. I fully expect cachers will solve stages differently. The key here is to have a variety of tools and to use your brain if you don’t think you have the right tool. Sometimes the simplest tool can get the job done. Those unprepared may have to make additional trips to complete this multi. The title of FTF should go to the most prepared.
At stages 1, 2, and 3, you are searching for a small 1 inch stainless steel tag. These tags will have a 3 decimal number stamped into them which must be subtracted from both the north and west coordinates of the next stage. When subtracting, borrow 1 from the minutes if necessary.
If you do happen to be the First to Find of this cache, then it will then be your responsibility to place a subsequent cache in this series (i.e.: #4 FTFHA, etc.), being careful to maintain a similar difficulty rating so as to thwart the usual FTF'rs in effort that they too may find the cure.
A few ground rules for subsequent caches:
1. Any cache size and type are allowed.
2. The terrain level may vary but please try and keep this as a minimum difficulty 3 (the higher the better).
3. Please keep your hides within the 9 County GONIL area.
4. Please place the new cache within 30 days of your find in order to maintain you First to Find Bragging Rights to this cache (Obviously we have no way of making this a requirement, we would just like to see the series continue to be expanded).
5. Most importantly have fun!
Please be sure to visit the other caches in this series.
#1 FTFHA - First To Find Hound Anonymous
#2 FTFHA – It’s All About Us And We Suck