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Metal Detecting for Beginners
Today, we bring our readers an easy-to-understand guide on how to start metal detecting for beginners! Detector Master’s beginner’s guide to metal detecting will quickly walk you through how to jumpstart your metal detecting journey.
This tutorial covers everything from preparation to knowing what to do in the field. By the end of this read, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to be successful in your new hobby.
Are you ready now? Let’s dive in!
What Equipment Will I Need?
Before you start having fun with your metal detector, it’s essential that you first have the right tools and equipment. Below is a short list of tools you’ll need to help you find treasure and store your finds properly. Having the right equipment is key to ensuring a successful hunt for items like gold, jewelry, and coins.
I’m happy to help you with any questions about a product, or some personalized recommendations tailored to your budget and needs. Feel free to reach out via email or social media if you have any questions.
Tools Required for Metal Detecting
Here are several other tools you’ll need besides a detector before you start metal detecting:
- Shovel – Make sure to have a shovel for digging. Preferably one with serrated edges.
- Hand Digger – This smaller and more precise tool is perfect for extracting items from the ground.
- Pinpointer – A pinpointer is a handheld device that helps pinpoint the location of an item in a hole when digging (4).
- Headphones (Optional) – Consider using noise canceling or Bluetooth headphones for focusing and hearing faint detection signals. (Optional)
- Finders Pouch – Call it your treasure pouch! Carry your finds and tools in it. Choose one with multiple compartments, for organization.
- Gloves – Protect your hands from objects or contaminants while digging and searching
- Drop Cloth – A simple towel or cloth works well for placing dirt on when sifting through and cleaning items.
3 Different Types of Metal Detectors
Some metal detectors are designed specifically for coins and historical artifacts; while other metal detectors are tailored for uncovering gold or even more extraordinary finds like meteorite fragments! When searching for the “best metal detector”, it’s about determining your purpose when metal detecting first, then select the model that best meets your needs.
While there are many different metal detector models on the market, each designed with specific uses in mind, there are 3 main types of metal detectors that you’ll get to choose from when picking out a device.
Very Low Frequency (VLF) Metal Detectors
First up, we have ‘very low frequency’, also known as VLF metal detectors. These metal detectors are the most common and are great for detecting a wide range of metals. It doesn’t matter what you’re looking for, whether you’re looking for coins, jewelry, or historical relics, VLF detectors will probably be your go-to choice.
Compared to ‘pulse induction’ detectors (read below), VLF detectors are more sensitive to different types of metals and can discriminate better against unwanted targets. The downside of these types is that they might struggle in highly mineralized soil.
Pulse Induction (PI) Metal Detectors
Next, we have the ‘pulse induction’ or PI metal detectors. These metal detectors work by sending powerful short bursts (pulses) of current through the search coil. This makes PI detectors excellent for detecting objects buried deep underground and in highly mineralized soil conditions.
In comparison to VLF detectors, PI metal detectors are less sensitive to ground mineralization and can detect deeper and larger objects. However, it’s worth noting that they’re less effective at discriminating between different types of metals and unwanted targets. This is something to consider when deciding what model is best for you.
Multi-Frequency (MF) Metal Detectors
Last, but definitely not least, we have ‘multi-frequency’ or MF metal detectors. These types of detectors use multi-iq technology to emit multiple frequencies simultaneously which makes them capable of detecting a wide range of metal types.
In comparison to VLF and PI metal detectors, MF detectors offer the best of both worlds. They can discriminate effectively between different types of metals like VLF detectors, while handling highly mineralized soils like PI metal detectors. The downside with these types of detectors is that they can be very expensive! A lot more so than the VLF and PI detectors.
Looking for Something Inexpensive?
Don’t let price be the reason you don’t pick up metal detecting as a hobby! Plenty of affordable and reliable metal detectors exist that will get you up and metal detecting ASAP for less than $300. If you’re in the market, we suggest considering “Dr. Otek’s C300 MTXR Kit” which is priced reasonably under $150 anywhere. It includes all the accessories you’ll need to get started, with the performance strength of some of the higher-end models!
Take a look at our list of the “10 Best Metal Detectors for All Types & Skill Levels”, and choose the one that best suits your budget and purpose. Success in metal detecting isn’t about owning the most advanced and expensive equipment. It’s all about preparation and perseverance!
Time to Start Metal Detecting!
Finally, you’ve got your first metal detector and all the tools you need. Now it’s time to head outdoors and enjoy some time in the field! If you’re new to metal detecting, parks are a great place to start because they tend to have a lot of foot traffic. This increases your likelihood of coming across coins and other lost items. (1)
How to Use a Metal Detector for Beginners
As a beginner, before you start digging holes all over the place, grasping the basics is crucial.
Here’s what you need to know before you start tilling the Earth:
Step #1. Gather Equipment: Ensure you have all the essential equipment, including your metal detector, headphones, and digging tools. (2)
Step #2. Read the User Manual: Different metal detectors have different features and settings. Get to know your metal detector first by reading its user manual. (2)
Step #3. Set up Your Detector: Power up your metal detector and adjust the settings. If you’re unsure about the best settings, check the user manual or just stick with the default settings.
Step #4. Positioning: Don’t drag your metal detector. Hold the metal detector’s search coil a few inches, above the ground without touching it. Also, keep the search coil parallel to the ground’s surface.
Step #5. Keep a Steady Pace: Don’t go swinging it around like a maniac either! Walk steadily while moving the coil from side to side in an arcing motion. Slightly overlap with each sweep, for maximum coverage. (See “Sweeping Method” below)
Step #6. Listen Closely: Pay attention to the signals coming from your metal detector. It will make a noise when it detects a metal target. Different metals can produce varying tones or signals so pay attention.
Step #7. Stop and Investigate: When you hear a signal, pause and examine it closely. Use your pinpointer or the edge of your metal detector’s coil to pinpoint exactly where the target is located in the soil. (2)
Step #8. Digging: Once the target is located, cut out a plug around the target and proceed with care. This will help prevent any harm to the item when digging.
Pro Tip to Detect More Targets
To find targets with your metal detector, swing it in different directions, while trying not to overlap or miss any spots. The recommended approach is to employ the sweeping method detailed below.
The "Sweeping Method"
When using your metal detector it’s advisable to utilize what’s known as the “sweeping method.” To execute this technique slowly move your metal detector in an overlapping arc motion while keeping the search coil close to the ground. This ensures maximum coverage and minimizes the risk of missing any potential targets.
Digging up the Treasure
When digging, dig around the signal with your shovel. Once you have a sense of its location be careful not to damage the treasure or the environment while excavating around it.
- First, you’re going to mark the spot. Once you get an alert, move your metal detector around and try to determine the exact spot you need to dig.
- Next, you’re going to cut out a circle around the target. Use your shovel to cut out a circular section so you can dig out a plug like in the picture above. This will help minimize mindless digging.
- After, that you’re going to want to pull out your pinpointer. Use your pinpointer to pinpoint the exact location of the target within the hole or plug you just dug out.
- Lastly, retrieve and examine what you’ve found. Make sure you’re careful not to damage the target using your hand digger. If it turns out to be trash dispose of it properly, don’t just put it back. If it’s a treasure, use your cloth to clean it off and store it securely in your treasure pouch.
You're Not Done Yet!
Once you’ve retrieved your treasure, make sure to refill the hole. Leave things the way you found them.
- Place back the plug.
- Replace the dirt and press it down with your foot or hand.
- Smooth out the grass to make it look undisturbed.
- Always leave the area as you found it. Maintaining a reputation can help secure permissions for all metal-detecting enthusiasts.
Metal Detecting Tips for Beginners
- Unless you live in a house on the beach, don’t start off with a Pulse–Induction machine (Single-Purpose metal detectors). Stick with a general-purpose VLF detector (General-Purpose Metal Detectors). (3)
- You might end up in some prolonged hunts with your metal detector. Check the weight of the machines you are considering. (3)
- Stay Informed about Regulations – Always be mindful of laws. Seek permission before conducting metal detecting activities, on private property.
- Remember to Follow Ethical Practices – Make sure to fill in any holes you dig and clean up after yourself by taking your trash. Leave the sites you excavate just as you found them.
- Stay Determined – Not every discovery will be a treasure. Perseverance pays off in the end!
Conclusion
This guide was designed to assist newcomers in learning how to start metal detecting for beginners. If you require equipment or additional guidance feel free to reach out to us via email or on social media! We will try to get back to you as soon as possible. Best of luck. Do keep us informed about your discoveries!
Happy Day! May you uncover some treasures, along the way!
References
“Metal Detecting Tips and Tricks.” Tech Metals Research, www.techmetalsresearch.com/guide/metal-detecting-tips-and-tricks/. Accessed 25 May 2024.
- “How to Use a Metal Detector for Beginners.” Handheld Metal Detectors, handheldmetaldetectors.net/how-to-use-a-metal-detector-for-beginners/. Accessed 25 May 2024.
- “Metal Detecting Beginner Guide.” Metal Detecting Tips, metaldetectingtips.com/metal-detecting-beginner-guide/. Accessed 25 May 2024.
“A Guide to Pinpointer Metal Detectors: What They Are and How to Use Them.” Treasure Valley Metal Detecting Club, treasurevalleymetaldetectingclub.com/a-guide-to-pinpointer-metal-detectors-what-they-are-and-how-to-use-them/#google_vignette. Accessed 25 May 2024.
