Terrapin would be the best ready-built craft (I'd imagine) to cost effectively scout. The prospector is the better option if you want to do a few test drills to verify your finds. Crew=Cost & Stealth=Safety (I'll bet a mining laser is pretty 'loud')
Im going to claim land the old fashioned way; Embed myself into the bedrock at high speeds. My disassociated atoms will watch over my claim for all eternity.