What is a metal detector?

The name says it all: a metal detector indicates metals. Metal detectors are available in different versions and for different purposes. They are used to detect metals or metal objects. These detectors are very popular with treasure hunters. They allow metal to be tracked down, even if it is buried up to 50 cm deep under the ground. Probably wouldn’t be found without a search device. Many of these devices even display the type of metal found, so that the searcher knows immediately whether an excavation is actually worthwhile.

How it works

Portable metal detectors have a handle with a handle at the top and a control/display unit. The disc-shaped coil is attached to the lower end at an angle. The adapted shape allows the coil to be moved back and forth close to the ground. A display device with a needle indicates when something has been found. An acoustic signal can also be emitted at the same time, allowing the user to devote more time to his environment and not have to keep a constant eye on the display. The tone may vary depending on the type and size of metal found. Metal detectors can work in different ways. The different methods are based on PI technology (pulse induction technology) or on the principle of alternating current measurement.

The PI technology

The pulse-like emission of strong magnetic pulses triggers currents in conductive metal. The probe is in principle transmitter and receiver at the same time, but cannot do both at the same time. First it sends the magnetic impulses, then it receives the electric currents. This happens approx. 600-2,000 times a second. The magnetic pulses are generated by strong direct current flowing through the coil at the end. The resulting induction in conductive metals is measured by the probe. Enlarging the probe can increase the working depth. The received signal is routed from the coil upwards into the measuring instrument. The larger the object is made of metal, the stronger the deflection on the measuring device. In the shaping of the probe, the manufacturer has several possibilities with PI technology. With larger metal detectors, large areas can be searched in a short time.

Alternating current measurement

Metal detectors based on alternating current measurement use alternating current instead of direct current. There is no switching between sending and receiving, but amplitude and phase position are measured without interruption. This allows material and size to be measured in the soil. High end devices can simultaneously cover different frequency ranges, resulting in more accurate and sensitive results.

Differences in metal detectors

Detectors with a large bandwidth are particularly popular. They indicate most metals under the soil layer. As a rule, beginners do not specialise in a particular metal and therefore use these all-round devices. The disadvantage of these devices, however, is that their high bandwidth reduces their sensitivity. The working depth is less than for devices with a narrower bandwidth. This also makes it possible to locate smaller objects more precisely. Some users often buy different detectors. So they are able to use a device for the rough search on larger areas and to determine the exact position with a more sensitive device. There are also metal detectors which have a waterproof probe. They are preferentially used in streams or on river banks. Some metal detectors have been optimized for a specific metal. For example, there are detectors for gold.

Cheap models

As so often the price has a big influence on quality and functionality. Metal detectors, which are spartanly equipped, are usually in the favourable price segment. It is important to have a display option, often designed as a needle display. It allows you to determine the type of metal and the size of the object. In addition, the exact position of the object can also be determined with the needle display. Before use, the display should be calibrated to zero so that correct values are displayed. A sensitivity controller (discriminator) should also be provided. It allows adaptation to different soil conditions. Inexpensive devices often also allow the volume control of the acoustic signal transmitter. The length of the device must be taken into account so that the use of the metal detector does not become physically strenuous. Short devices force larger persons into a bent posture when the probe is led close to the ground. Ideally, there are also devices in the low price range which can be individually adjusted in length within certain limits. Another advantage is that the search coil can also be changed. For example, the terrain can be roughly searched with a larger coil. Possible finds can be marked in such a way that they can later be used with other coils to determine exactly the position to be able to determine. Some manufacturers even have interchangeable coils in their range or allow the operation of coils from other manufacturers. An example of a low-cost metal detector is for example the Seben Allround Metal Detector for less than 40 €.

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The upper price range

These devices usually have an improved LCD display compared to the analog display. A lighting function makes these devices more suitable even in darkness or poor lighting conditions. The display provides more detailed information about the object and its position. In addition, the higher quality metal detectors often have a PinPointer, which provides even more accurate results. The susceptibility to interference, for example in the vicinity of mobile phone masts, has also been significantly improved for some devices. A comparison of the technical data provides further information about the performance. As a rule, the better machines also have a higher working depth. In the upmarket price range, for example, there is the Bounty Hunter Discovery 3300 Metal Detector.

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The clearly discernible advantages

A metal detector shows metals hidden under other materials. Everyone probably knows the little helpers who display pipes and metal pipes in the wall. They indicate the exact course and thus prevent unintentional damage to lines and pipes, for example if holes have to be drilled in a wall. Another example of detectors are the metal detectors of surveillance authorities, for example at the airport. They’re tracking down metal weapons. The military uses metal detectors to detect mines, ammunition, bombs or grenades in the ground. The same of course applies to the explosive ordnance clearance service. Treasure hunters naturally have completely different intentions. They are not necessarily looking for lost treasures, but all sorts of things that are valuable or old. An antique piece of jewelry or tool may not have a high material value, yet it can ever be a fortune’s worth. Sometimes, however, they also find items that fall into the category of explosive ordnance clearance. Especially from the Second World War there are regular finds on building sites and in forests. In such a case, the competent authorities should be notified immediately.

Some people came to a metal detector in need. Lost objects such as jewellery, watches or car keys can of course also be found with a metal detector. On the beach in the sand or in high grass the search would have taken forever without technical support and many give up the search after hours. Here, too, it calls some self-appointed “treasure hunters” onto the scene, especially at tourist beaches, in the hope of finding valuables lost with a detector. It remains to be seen whether, in the case of success, these are “honest finders”. Nevertheless, it shows the performance of metal detectors. On construction sites or in your own garden, such a device can also be an enrichment. If the course of metal pipes or cables in the ground is not exactly known, a detector protects against accidental damage during earthworks. Another group of potential users of a metal detector are meteorite hunters. Many meteorites, which have a metal core. These often lie a few centimetres below the surface layer and are waiting to be found. Some people are so successful that they can even live from the sale of found meteorites.

Tip:

As a treasure hunter the current legal situation should in any case be taken into account with finds. This can vary greatly from region to region and can result in severe penalties for infringements.

Treasure hunt in the water and under water

In most metal detectors, the probe is waterproof. This also makes it suitable for use on river banks. Rivers and their tributaries usually originate in the mountains. A river thus represents a transport system for many metals. Some people therefore extract gold from the rivers. A metal detector can be especially helpful when searching for larger gold rags. But also antique coins or other objects have often been found in rivers. They mostly come from sunken ships. This is especially true for the oceans, of course. Treasure hunters and archaeologists also use metal detectors under water. Often it is the sunken cannons that first point to a shipwreck. They last for hundreds of years and their size and amount of metal cause a strong rash in the level display. Of course, these special metal detectors are designed for underwater use.

The metal detector as an interesting and varied hobby

A metal detector can quickly become a source of fascination. It enables it’s finding hidden things. Most of the time these things are already very old, so that in the course of time they were buried by the earth. To bring these back to daylight and to think about their origin has already given many people an interesting hobby. It can also be fun for groups or families. Several people can of course search much larger areas at the same time with several metal detectors, which of course increases the chances of success for a treasure find. Another variant is the joint purchase of a metal detector that is perhaps of a higher quality. So the acquisition costs for each individual are not so high and you don’t have to make any compromises in performance and quality. There are also numerous forums dealing with metal detectors or treasure hunting. Here you can exchange important information and there are lots of tips. A widespread problem is to determine the value of a find. Much of what seems valuable turns out to be relatively worthless. On the other hand, however, seemingly worthless can be quite valuable to archaeologists. The place where it was found should be noted down as precisely as possible, since there may be many other surprises hidden, even if they are not made of metal.

Correct use of search devices

As with all technical devices, it is important to familiarize yourself with them before using them for the first time. It is not for nothing that you will find manufacturer’s operating instructions in the packaging. With the metal detector, it is recommended to create a practice area, if possible on your own property. If you are looking for property on land owned by third parties, obtain a written declaration of consent from the owner. It is best to start by burying various objects. Dig out holes of different depths. For burying you use worthless metal, but also real jewellery and coins. Mark the places where your “treasures” lie underground. Now start your search and gain important experience. In this way, you can easily determine the effectiveness and performance of your model. You can also see whether your search device is working correctly. This also includes the important function of discrimination. Ideally, this ensures the detection of worthless metal in the ground. Take your time and don’t put yourself under pressure. A little practice will allow you to make the most of a metal detector. What might surprise you after finding the buried things are the first finds on your own ground. Who knows, maybe you’re about to find a real treasure. However, first find out about the legal regulations and restrictions on treasure hunting. Private individuals are generally allowed to go on a treasure hunt in the great outdoors with their own metal detector. Valuable finds are tax-free, but there are restrictions that have to be observed. Thus important finds can be transferred to the respective federal state. The legislation varies from state to state.

Tip:

Children should not search unattended with a metal detector. The danger of finding remnants from the Second World War in the forest or on meadows is too great.

Buy on the Internet or on the spot from a retailer?

Where would you like to buy your metal detector? Are you still thinking about whether you should visit your local dealer or a online retailer on the Internet? We will be happy to help you with these important decisions. Use our information so that you do not have to be annoyed about a wrong decision. Both purchase options have advantages and disadvantages.

Buy in a specialist shop

After deciding to buy a metal detector, many buyers look for a dealer near them. You will surely find that for the hobby treasure hunter it is difficult to find an appropriate shop. The reason for this is that there are no special shops for this hobby. You are most likely to find what you are looking for in outdoor shops and gun shops. Since the demand for the search devices in these special shops is rather rare, no very large assortment palettes are to be expected. The advantage of being able to take a metal detector directly with you is greatly clouded by the small selection. The managing directors regard a large product range as a risk factor, as demand remains within reasonable limits. So there are rather models for the inexperienced treasure hunter. The sales staff is sometimes overwhelmed with really professional advice. In some cases, an automatic attempt is made to sell models available in the warehouse. Prices are usually higher than on the Internet. You may have to spend a lot of free time on the purchase in a specialist shop. Getting there, looking for a parking space and waiting for a consultation takes up your time and money. Here you can already see the advantages of buying on the Internet.

Buy on the Internet

The Internet is available for relaxed shopping. In all peace and quiet you can buy and pay for what you want from your couch at home. Particularly working people know this luxury to The opening hours of the specialist shops make it almost impossible for many working prospective customers to buy on the spot. The advantage on the Internet is the extremely good selection of metal detectors, in contrast to the specialist dealers. All you have to do is choose a desired model from this multitude and the joy of expectation can increase. Some shops ship immediately after receipt of order, even as express shipping. If a model is not in stock, it will be displayed immediately. The prices are also very attractive. A metal detector bargain is easy to find. A further convincing advantage is the selection of accessories. You will find batteries, special carrier bags and coils in the online shop for the metal detector.

Tip:

Pay attention to the power supply when purchasing. Most devices are powered by rechargeable batteries. If a charger is not included in the scope of delivery, it must be purchased separately. The operating time depends on the capacity of the battery and the power consumption of the metal detector. This should be taken into account when making a purchase. An additional charged battery may be useful for longer use.

Where to look for treasure?

The metal detector is of course only fun in the long run if one or the other treasure is actually found. Where exactly no one can tell you for sure, but certain regions and jobs are more promising than others. We would like to inspire you with some ideas, where the search with the treasure detector can stand for success:

• The search presents itself successfully on fields. The excavation here is usually not so exhausting.
• Among old and big In the past many of our ancestors found a place to rest in the trees
• On former battlegrounds the chances for finds are very good. Roman finds and objects from the 1st and 2nd World Wars are among the most frequent finds in these places.
• Roman coins can be found below old bridges. Romans stopped here and supplied their horses with fresh water.
• River baths, lakes and beaches stand for jewellery and coin finds.
• Viewpoints, old mills, moors, rock formations and hollow paths are also ideal for successful treasure hunts.

Beware of castles and ruins! This is usually subject to approval.

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