Sub-economic copper is not a bad thing. Where some see sub-economic copper as "barren" and the results as poor, others such as KATX recognize the opportunity presented. I suppose that in part is why in the PR Ken used the term. Remember he felt good about the results.
Googled sub-economic copper and found this:
One company states, "Whilst being sub-economic (referring to their initial copper assays), such grades over extensive intervals suggest the presence of a large mineralizing system which may contain higher-grade, potentially economic zones." Could apply to KATX which found sub-economic copper throughout the drill hole.
The company further stated it "has worked to secure access and mineral rights options over much of the area, including five known mineralized zones identified by previous drilling". This too could apply to KATX. Recall the new claims made in the Rusty Ridge area following the drill results. Note also they talk about revisiting previously drilled mines, the newly economical strategy being used by exploration companies. Pertains to Handcamp.
It now "plans to aggressively explore xxxxxx with the objective of identifying potentially economic deposits of nickel, copper, PGEs and cobalt, by applying relatively recent understandings of the genetic development of similar mineralizing systems, in conjunction with the utilization of recent technological advances in mineral exploration." Just like KATX.
The company intends "applying this new and appropriate conceptual exploration model to transform the potential of the project by identifying higher grade areas within currently known mineralized zones or new zones of previously unknown mineralization."
I believe this is the strategy which KATX is applying. Remember the large capacity of the VALE Long Harbor and the continuing demand for copper. Drill results need to be seen in context of other prevailing conditions and not be isolated.
As you know this also is true of REE's on Rusty Ridge. Results are contextual. No simple cookie cutter analysis works.
KATX/BVIG/KATG