Metal Detecting Tips

So you just bought a new or used metal detector? Or maybe your thinking about buying one and want to do some research. Whether you’re in it for historical fascination or trying to find discarded treasures, you can’t just buy a cheap metal detector, head down to the beach and expect to find what you’re looking for. It takes time to get to know what you’re doing with a metal detector in general, as well as getting to know your own specific model and what its different signals mean.

These 5 beginner tips on using metal detectors will guide you, and your detector, in the right direction.

1)    Rule one is that the best metal detectors aren’t always the most expensive. That’s because used metal detectors are readily available, and having a newer or upgraded model that can detect deeper into the ground isn’t the only advantage you should plan on having. The biggest thing that can give you a leg up over other people is to spend some time researching into historical events in your area and visiting those specific spots.

2)    The second thing to keep in mind is that you’re not guaranteed anything, and even the best metal detectors will leave you coming home with a lot of trash. Bottom line is that there is just a ton of trash out there, and you should expect to haul in between 50-75% trash even on the best of days.

3)    Another important thing to remember is that people really won’t bother you, as long as you respect them and their surroundings as well. That means not charging right up to somebody and searching under where they are standing or where their stuff is. It also means picking up the trash you dig up and filling in the holes you dig on a beach or other crowded area. This keeps the masses, and any kind of authority figure on your side as well.

4)    Practice makes perfect, and the same thing applies to using a metal detector. It will take time to be able to accurately determine all of the various signals the metal detector gives you. Just because it beeps, doesn’t mean you just found the ancient gold coin that will propel you to the easy life.

The best places to practice are open spaces where there shouldn’t be too much trash. Step into an open field, a beach when it isn’t too crowded or your own backyard if you have some room and don’t mind digging holes into your property. The more synched up you are with your metal detector, the more efficient and productive you’ll be using it.

5)    We already talked about always picking up the trash you dig, so you respect other people and don’t bother anybody. But it’s also a great idea because something that at first glance, or detection, that might appear to be trash can later actually be something truly valuable. Take everything home with you and sort it out there after double checking everything, you’ll be glad you did!

You should be off and running if you followed these 5 tips, whether you’re using cheap metal detectors or the best ones on the market.

Happy hunting