Metal detecting is a fun and rewarding hobby that combines exploration with the excitement of uncovering hidden treasures. Whether you’re interested in history, coin collecting, or simply love the thrill of discovery, metal detecting is a hobby that offers endless possibilities.
In our Crawfords beginner’s guide, we’ll cover essential beginner metal detecting tips, including how to choose a good starter metal detector, where to start searching, and how to maximise your chances of success.
Why Start Metal Detecting?
Before diving into the practical tips, let’s explore some reasons why metal detecting is a great hobby for beginners.
Adventure and exploration: Metal detecting allows you to explore your local environment in a new and exciting way. Whether it's a park, a beach, or an old field, each location holds the potential for discovering something valuable or historically significant.
Learning and education: As you unearth objects, you’ll learn about different historical periods, cultures, and manufacturing techniques. Every find can tell a story.
Exercise and relaxation: Metal detecting gets you outdoors and moving, making it a fantastic way to enjoy nature, get some light exercise, and unwind from everyday stress.
Choosing a Good Starter Metal Detector
If you’re just getting started, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right metal detector. Not all detectors are created equal, and finding a good starter metal detector can significantly enhance your experience. Here are some factors to consider.
1. Budget
As a beginner, you don’t need to break the bank on a high-end detector. Entry-level models are more affordable and offer enough features to get you started. Aim for a budget of around £100 to £300 for a reliable, beginner-friendly detector.
2. Ease of Use
A good starter metal detector should be user-friendly, with intuitive controls and clear signals. Look for detectors that have preset modes, such as coin, jewellery, or relic, which help simplify the process of identifying objects.
3. Detection Depth and Sensitivity
Different metal detectors have varying detection depths and sensitivity levels. For beginners, it's best to choose a detector with adjustable sensitivity so you can fine-tune it for different types of terrain and objects.
4. Weight and Portability
Since you’ll be carrying the detector for extended periods, its weight and comfort are important considerations. A lightweight and well-balanced metal detector will prevent arm fatigue and make the experience more enjoyable.
5. Recommended Beginner Models
Here are a few beginner-friendly metal detectors that come highly recommended:
1. Minelab Vanquish 340
The Minelab Vanquish 340 is an excellent choice for beginners, offering simplicity and high performance. It uses Minelab’s Multi-IQ technology, which enables multi-frequency detection, allowing it to perform well in various environments, including parks, beaches, and fields. Its waterproof coil and lightweight design make it easy to handle, and with three preset search modes, users can quickly adjust settings to target specific metals. This detector is perfect for those who want a reliable, no-fuss introduction to metal detecting.
2. Minelab Go-Find 66
The Minelab Go-Find 66 is a lightweight, compact, and easy-to-use metal detector, making it a fantastic choice for beginners. Its fold-away design allows for convenient storage and transportation, while the built-in features such as four search modes and Minelab’s "Easy-Trak" technology make detecting in various environments a breeze. The Go-Find 66 is waterproof and includes wireless audio compatibility, allowing users to search comfortably in both wet and dry conditions. With its user-friendly interface and great portability, this model is perfect for beginners who want to get started with treasure hunting right away.
3. Minelab X-Terra Pro
The Minelab X-Terra Pro is a more advanced entry-level detector that offers switchable single-frequency detection, allowing users to adjust between 5, 10, and 15 kHz for better performance based on their surroundings. It’s fully waterproof up to 5 metres, making it ideal for both beach and land detecting. The X-Terra Pro also features six custom profiles and several preset search modes, ensuring flexibility in target identification. With its robust design and ease of use, it’s a great choice for beginners who want to explore a wider range of environments.
These models are all highly recommended for those just beginning their metal detecting journey?.
Essential Beginner Metal Detecting Tips
Now that you have a good starter metal detector, it’s time to hit the field. But before you begin, here are some important beginner metal detecting tips to ensure you have a successful and enjoyable experience.
1. Research the Best Locations
Not every location will yield exciting finds, so research is key. Ideal places for beginners include parks, beaches, old homesteads, and public fields. Historic sites often have a rich history of human activity, which increases the chances of finding interesting relics.
You can also use online resources such as old maps, historical records, or metal detecting forums to identify promising locations. Be mindful of local laws, as some areas may require permits for metal detecting.
2. Practice Patience
Metal detecting requires a fair amount of patience. Not every beep will lead to treasure, and you may dig up your fair share of bottle caps, nails, and other common debris. However, with persistence, you’ll begin to distinguish between valuable signals and rubbish, leading to more rewarding finds.
3. Understand Your Detector’s Signals
Metal detectors emit different tones or signals based on the type and size of the object they detect. For instance, coins may produce a sharp, high-pitched tone, while iron objects may give off a lower, gruffer sound. Spend time practising with your detector in your backyard or a nearby park to learn how to interpret these signals.
4. Dig Carefully and Respectfully
When you’ve identified a target, it’s important to dig carefully to avoid damaging the object. Use a hand trowel or digging tool to create a neat, circular plug in the ground, and place the soil on a cloth to keep the area clean. Once you’ve retrieved the object, replace the soil and grass plug to minimise the impact on the environment.
5. Use Headphones
Wearing headphones while metal detecting helps you better hear faint signals, especially in noisy environments like beaches or parks. It also extends battery life on your detector and prevents disturbing others in public spaces.
Best Places to Start Metal Detecting
Finding the right location can make or break your metal detecting adventure. Here are some of the best spots for beginners to start their treasure hunt.
1. Beaches
Beaches are one of the most popular spots for metal detecting. The shifting sands can reveal lost jewellery, coins, and other items. Plus, the lack of thick soil makes digging easy. Just be sure to check local regulations, as some beaches may require a permit.
2. Parks and Playgrounds
Public parks and playgrounds are prime locations for beginners. People often lose small valuables in these areas, making them ideal for searching. Focus on areas around benches, picnic tables, and playground equipment.
3. Fields and Old Homesteads
Fields and abandoned properties with historical significance are often filled with hidden relics and coins. If you have permission to search on private land, these spots can yield exciting finds that date back centuries.
4. Old Roads and Paths
Old roads and walking paths can be rich in metal objects from the past. Look for areas that were once heavily trafficked but are no longer in use. Coins, tools, and other items may be waiting to be discovered.
The Importance of Research
To increase your chances of success, research is essential. Understanding the history of the area you’re searching can provide valuable clues about what types of objects you might find. Old maps, historical societies, and local libraries can offer insights into long-forgotten trails, buildings, and gathering places. Joining a local metal detecting club or online community can also help you find good locations and gain valuable advice from experienced detectorists.
Common Metal Detecting Finds
As a beginner, you might wonder what kind of treasures you can expect to uncover. While every location is different, some common finds include:
Coins: Old and modern coins are among the most frequently found items, especially in parks, beaches, and around historic landmarks.
Jewellery: Rings, bracelets, and necklaces are often lost in public places, particularly on beaches.
Relics: Depending on where you’re searching, you might find relics like buttons, buckles, and tools from historical periods.
Artefacts: In older areas, you may come across artefacts such as pottery, old keys, or military items from bygone eras.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Like any hobby, metal detecting has a learning curve. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid as a beginner.
Not Researching Your Location: Heading out without researching your location can lead to frustration. Make sure you’ve chosen a spot with a history of human activity.
Ignoring Local Laws: Some areas require permits for metal detecting, while others may be off-limits altogether. Always check local regulations before you start searching.
Not Digging Carefully: Digging recklessly can damage valuable finds. Take your time and use the right tools to ensure you retrieve your object intact.
Skipping Practice: It takes time to understand your metal detector’s signals. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find treasure right away—practice makes perfect!
Discover Your Passion for Metal Detecting with Crawfords
Metal detecting is a hobby that offers excitement, discovery, and a chance to connect with history. By following these beginner metal detecting tips, choosing a good starter metal detector, and researching the best places to search, you can increase your chances of uncovering hidden treasures.
Whether you’re on the hunt for coins, jewellery, or relics, patience and persistence are key to becoming a successful detectorist. So, browse our range of metal detectors for beginners, head outside, and start your treasure-hunting journey today!
Alternatively, you can also get in touch with us to find out more about finding the right beginner metal detector for your needs.