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From: "Debbie Kennett" <>
Subject: [DNA] Recommendations for DNA testing
Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2011 01:05:12 -0000
References: <mailman.5769.1293916547.2081.genealogy-dna@rootsweb.com>
In-Reply-To: <mailman.5769.1293916547.2081.genealogy-dna@rootsweb.com>


I've found that the 37-marker test is more than adequate in a surname
project, especially when accompanied by a reliable paper trail. When
ordering a test from the UK the 37-marker test falls just under the
psychological three-figure price barrier and is therefore a much more
attractive proposition. I'd rather have people tested at 37 markers than
discourage them from testing by recommending a higher-priced test which is
not necessarily going to be of any benefit, especially if they don't get any
matches.

I would however always recommend the 67-marker test for someone who is
looking to match with a different surname and for anyone interested in their
deep ancestry. If people do test and discover that they have lots of matches
with different surnames at 37 markers, which often seems to happen with the
Western Atlantic Modal Haplotype and Niall of the Nine Hostages signature,
then an upgrade can easily be ordered.

I've found the 67-marker test to be more useful for the American lines where
the paper records tend to be less informative and the families are much
larger.

Debbie Kennett


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