10 Quick Tips for Metal Detectors
1. Consider the kind of treasure hunting you want to do and how often you want to do it. A new metal detector can cost anywhere from $100 to more than $1000 depending on its circuitry, features, and performance capability. You'll want your results to compare with your investment.
2. There are two basic types of metal detectors; 'turn-on-and-go' and 'do-it-yourself'. Turn-on-and-go detectors have either preset ground adjust or automatic ground adjust systems. They do not require any adjustment by the operator, as the electronic circuitry eliminates mineral effects. Do-it-yourself detectors usually have a multi-turn ground adjust knob, which must be set to the correct position by the operator. Such machines are generally capable of greater depth when set correctly, but yield poor results when set improperly.
3. Practice makes perfect. No matter how sophisticated your metal detector is, your success ultimately depends on your ability to operate your detector properly.
4. Enhance the performance and prolong the life of your metal detector by cleaning it thoroughly after each use and storing it in a location free from extreme temperatures.
5. Mind your manners. Many treasure hunting enthusiasts and organizations have adopted a formal Code of Ethics for Metal Detector Operators. Code of Ethics
6. Hunt with caution! Never hunt in areas where electric lines, utility pipes, or explosives may be buried. Be careful when digging toward a target where the underground conditions are unknown. Do not hunt on private property without permission. Note that National and State Parks, monuments, military sites, and similar sites are off limits.
7. Some of the better 'all purpose' detectors do a decent job on most treasure hunting assignments, but there are certain machines specifically designed for such tasks as underwater work and gold nugget hunting.
8. Reap the rewards. Gold, silver, and jewelry are just a few of the potential rewards of treasure hunting. Many hobbyists also find that metal detecting is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, stay in shape, and meet new friends.
9. Detectors also have non-recreational applications including airport security, building security, event security, item recovery, archaeological exploration, and geological research.
10. The weight of your new detector is also important, as there's no sense ordering the perfect detector only to discover you can hardly lift it!
