Metal detecting is a fast expanding hobby across the country. Precious metal prices have been at record highs in the recent past despite market fluctuations. Metals such as gold and silver have retained their value for years and will continue to do so. These high prices have helped push metal detecting as an exciting and potentially profitable hobby.
For a novice metal detector operator the urge is almost overwhelming to assemble the new machine and immediately head outdoors. More likely than not, this would result in hours of frustration and false hopes with a bounty of only rusted nails and a few pennies to show. By following a few simple steps a much better understanding of the machine can be had, and as a result a much better prospecting experience.
Read the Entire Instruction Booklet
The instructions for a metal detector are extremely important. Each is a highly sensitive machine with its own set of complex controls and operations. Once the machine is assembled read through the booklet. For a novice this will provide a wealth of information on use and operation.
Learn How it Reacts to Different Metals
A metal detector works by employing a set of two coils at the bottom. One coil produces a magnetic field and the other measures changes to the field. This allows the detector to register different metals and give different alert sounds. Learning these sounds in an important step in successful use of the machine. Find a non-conductive surface like a large piece of particle board and lay out a number of different metal objects. Use items from every category that are likely to be encountered. Copper and nickel coins, a gold ring, a piece of silver, an iron nail, an aluminum soda can, a bottle cap, and a foreign coin if you have one. Run the metal detector over each and pay attention to the different alert sounds for each type of metal.
Learn to Use the Filters
The huge number of alert sounds a metal detector produces can be a bit overwhelming. Every pass can bring a chorus of alerts for various metals. This can result in time spent digging up trash objects like paperclips and safety pins. Most metal detectors have as series of filters that can be applied to turn off alerts for certain types of metals. This allows the user to only hear alerts for specifically targeted metals.
The best way to experiment with and fine tune this is by using the same board of metal objects. Try different settings and pass the machine over the objects again, noting when alert sounds disappear. This type of targeted metal detecting can save you valuable time and make outings more profitable.
Practice Proper Technique
Each detector requires its own technique for optimal usage. Generally, slow deliberate passes a few inches above the ground will provide the most accurate results. Some detectors can be thrown off by minerals in the soil and require passes to be made at a different height. It’s all dependent on the model purchased, and the instruction booklet will usually offer the best options for technique and usage. Practice this until muscle memory takes over.
By following a few simple instructions, metal detecting can be an exciting and profitable hobby. Take the time to learn about the individual nuances of the machine purchased and how best to leverage them. There’s a potential fortune waiting underneath every pass.
Lonnie Martinson is a freelance writer who focuses on precious metals, metal detecting, metallurgy, diamonds, steel, welding, construction and other like topics. Houstonians in need of steel should contact Texas Iron and Metal for steel in Houston.
Image credit goes to ingridtaylar.