You are venturing into the field of metal detection, so you need to buy the detector that suits your needs. Do not rush in choosing your metal detector, as you risk buying a device that does not even meet your expectations.
To choose the right model, whether it is to spend time on the beach or to unearth a buried treasure, you need to determine the geographical area and the type of metals you will be looking for.
The Basics of Metal Detection
Metal detection is an outdoor activity that can be considered a hobby. Finding objects of all kinds is a pastime that can uncover treasures if you stumble upon a nice find.
Before choosing the type of detector you will enjoy, do a little research on the kinds of objects found in your region. If you are on the coast, an underwater metal detector is more appropriate; however, in central France, the best detectors are those for silver, jewelry, or gold prospecting.
If you want to practice it legally, underground treasure hunting is regulated by French law. So, do your own research on the Internet before going treasure hunting.
After that, you will better understand the different models of metal detectors and their capabilities.
On this page, you can find the best information.
The Categories of Metal Detectors
When choosing your metal detector, consider the climate and soil composition. For coin and relic hunting on land, there are three main categories of metal detectors:
- Terrestrial metal detectors are more common for excavations.
- Beach and/or underwater metal detectors, ideal for searches at the shore or in the water due to their waterproofing.
- Multi-purpose metal detectors are perfect for all types of excavations on any terrain. At the beach, they are equipped with waterproof search coils that minimize risks.
The Different Models of Metal Detectors
The most well-known detector is the VLF (Very Low Frequency) model. Now, the latest models incorporate pulse induction units. Among these models, we find:
- the water-resistant metal detector;
- the wireless metal detector.
Important Features of Metal Detectors
Before purchasing your metal detector, consider certain features that will bring the desired functionalities to your device. For that, you need to define:
- Discrimination, which is the device’s ability to distinguish each object by its natural element. The signal corresponds to a defined object, such as silver, gold, or other materials, saving time with each search.
- Ground balance allows for bypassing minerals in the soil that could impair the device’s ability.
- Target identification: the sound signal allows distinguishing each detected object through a sound or sound identification. With modern devices, visual identification is displayed on the LCD screen, and each material has an IDV number.
- Operating frequency is the signal emitted and received by the detector every second. Most detectors are low-frequency with deeper scanning. To find, high-frequency devices are better suited, but with less depth.
- Sensitivity allows the device to detect metal objects at a distance. With the right setting, it ensures a finding with the right distortion.
- Search depth is the deep sweep the device can perform. Low-frequency detectors are the best, at the expense of the search coil.
