How to Use a Metal Detector to Find Precious Metals: The Basics

Recycle Precious MetalsRecycle Refine PlatinumRecycle and Refine Gold
Written By Barry Lenson

We have written many articles about metal detectors on this blog, and with good reason. 

Metal detectors, even basic models that cost little more than $100.00, are some of the most powerful tools ever devised for finding buried precious metals on beaches, in open fields, on the sites of old buildings and factories, and other prime prospecting sites. 

People are making money – sometimes a lot of it – by using metal detectors. And chances are pretty good that you can too. 

No doubt, a metal detector can help you find lost jewelry, coins, and other valuable items that people have lost or buried. But how can you use one? How complicated is it to use one to find gold, silver, platinum, and other lost items?

In today’s post, we will share some basic advice on using a metal detector successfully.

Tips for Successful Metal Detector Prospecting

Select the Right Metal Detector for the Kind of Searching You Will Do

The depth at which a metal detector can detect metal objects depends on several factors, including the type of metal detector, the size and composition of the metal object, and the ground conditions. In general, most metal detectors can detect objects that are buried up to several inches deep, but some specialized metal detectors can detect objects buried several feet deep.

A standard hobbyist metal detector like a Bounty Hunter TR4, which sells for about $125.00, can typically detect objects buried 3-4 inches deep, while more advanced metal detectors like a Garrett Ace 400, which sells for about $450.00, can detect objects buried up to 12 inches deep or more. However, the detection depth can vary depending on the type of metal, with larger and denser metals being detectable at greater depths than smaller or lighter metals.

Ground conditions can also affect the detection depth of a metal detector. Dry, sandy soils are generally easier for metal detectors to penetrate than wet or clay soils, which can impede the signal and reduce the detection depth. In addition, highly mineralized soils or areas around old mining sites, which have high levels of electromagnetic interference because of the presence of metallic ore, can also affect the performance of metal detectors and reduce their detection depth.

Also consider the presence of vegetation and thatch in the area, which can limit the ability of detectors to find metallic objects buried beneath their surface.

One good way to learn more about metal detecting is to visit an online metal detecting forum like the TreasureNet Metal Detecting Forum, where metal detector hobbyists share their experiences and advice. 

Get to Know Your Metal Detector Before Use It

Read the manual and understand the different components of the metal detector, such as the search coil, control box, and shaft. Metal detectors are typically easy to use, but educating yourself will make your first experiences with it easier and more successful. Don’t forget to look for and watch instructional videos on YouTube. 

Also get to know the batteries and be sure you have enough of them charged and ready to go before you go outdoors. It is frustrating to have batteries die shortly after you start prospecting, but a little preparation can prevent that from happening. 

Choose a Good Location for Your First Search

A beach is a great place for your first experimentation with your metal detector. Beaches are composed of sand, which detectors can penetrate easily. After you learn to use your detector on a beach, you can move on to other locales like parks or historical sites. 

Adjust the Settings

Depending on the type of metal detector, you may need to adjust the settings, such as the sensitivity, discrimination, and ground balance, to optimize the performance of the detector for the location.

Sweep the Search Coil Over the Ground

Hold the metal detector's search coil just above the ground and slowly sweep it back and forth in a side-to-side motion. Be sure to overlap your sweeps to ensure you cover the entire area. And while you are sweeping, listen carefully for signals like beeps or clicks on the detector’s headphones. These signals indicate the presence of metal objects.

Dig When You Get a Signal

When you get a signal, use a digging tool to carefully excavate the area where a metal object could be located. Be sure to check the hole for the metal object before filling it in. If you find a metallic object, store it in a zip-closure bag or other sealable storage container. You can investigate it more carefully when you return home. 

And after recovering a metal object, fill in the hole you made and restore the area to its original condition. This is the etiquette of metal detecting. And now that you are a member of the detecting community, it is time to be a good citizen!

And When You Find Something

Take a picture of what you have found and call our precious metal refiners at 800-426-2344. You can send your precious metal scrap to us for testing and evaluation. We’re as excited about metal detecting as you are, and we will provide a quick analysis and valuation of the objects you have found.

Barry Lenson
Previous

Four Kinds of Platinum Scrap You Should Not Overlook
Next

How to Recycle Tie Tacks, ID Bracelets and Other Small Items They Just Don’t Make Any More