4 Secrets to Finding Treasure with Your Metal Detector

Are you just beginning to dive into the metal detecting world? Are you looking for tips and tricks to give you an edge in finding your treasure? Here are some of our favorite words of wisdom from experienced metal detectorists.

Trash and Treasure is in the Eye of the Beholder

They say one person’s trash is another person's treasure and it’s true. Whether you plan to keep or sell your finds, people find value in just about everything.

Collectors
Coins, horseshoes, thimbles, buttons, keys…. If it exists, someone is bound to collect it. If it’s not you, you may be able to find a market that does want it.

History Buffs
Speaking of horseshoes, other items such as railroad spikes, old building & farming parts, and cooking implements can be not only collectible but also add more depth to the history of the area you are hunting in. Bonus tip - Iron doesn’t always mean undesirable!

Recycling/Scrap Metal

You may have a local recycler that buys scrap metal. If you find yourself accumulating lead, copper, bronze, brass, aluminum, or stainless steel, sort it and take in your haul periodically. You may be surprised at how it adds up.

Don’t be Afraid to Hunt the Same Area Again

You may have heard that once a location has been hunted, there is no reason to return. This is simply not true. Did you know some weather phenomena can bring up new coins and finds?

Winter Freeze
If you live in an area that sees a hard freeze, wait until springtime brings the thaw and go out and check an area again. Over the years older, deeper coins and metals can move higher, allowing your metal detector to find them more easily.

Stormy Weather

Beach hunters know a good storm can come in and wash away sand from the shore, making it easier to detect previously deep-buried items.

Be Prepared for Your Hunt

We’re not just recommending having your favorite metal detector and a good digging tool. Here are some other tools to consider.

A Good Pinpointer

Bringing along a good pinpointer can make all the difference when metal detecting. When you can narrow in on your target, you can dig a smaller hole. This means less time digging and more time discovering treasure.

Spare Batteries/Fully Charge Your Metal Detector

There’s nothing worse than losing your battery power just when you’re about to happen upon that special tone. Be sure to pack some extra batteries for your metal detector and pinpointer. If you have a rechargeable detector, ensure a full charge before you head out. You may want to find out if your favorite metal detector has a car charger available as well.

Headphones

Headphone use is a personal preference, and everyone has their favorite way of metal detecting. But when you’re in a noisy area, headphones can help you to hear your tones more clearly. This is great if you are in a busy park, event, or near wind or water. Using headphones can also make it easier for beginners to learn the difference between their metal detector's different tones. Bonus tip - Headphones can use less battery power than your detector’s speaker.

A Carry Bag and a Pouch

You’ll want an easy way to carry back your treasures. Packing some soft cloth can give you something to wrap those more valuable finds in, to prevent damage when items rub against each other in your pouch. At the end of a day spent metal detecting many find a sturdy, strong handled bag for your detector makes getting back to your starting point much easier, especially if you also have finds to carry.

Enjoy the Process

Even when you have a hunt where you don’t find much, metal detecting as a hobby has a great many benefits. For some, it is a meditative experience out in nature. Others enjoy the exercise they get while hunting the grounds. If you happen to have a local metal detecting club, you can meet a variety of interesting people and make new friends. While most seasoned detectorists will talk about delighting in the thrill of the hunt and discovery, there’s more to be treasured about metal detecting than meets the eye.