Question 1

Where is metal detecting forbidden in the United States?

Accepted Answer

As a rule of thumb, metal detecting is forbidden in almost all state parks and national parks in the country. I live near a national monument, which also forbids metal detecting. Other areas where you may not metal detect include Native American reservations, archaeologically important sites, and historically important sites. Sometimes you can get special permissions to metal detect in some of these locations.

But be aware, sometimes when areas, like state parks, allow metal detecting, they will not allow digging. So, you can find a metal target, but you may not dig the target (which takes out a whole lot of the fun). All metal detectorists must follow the Archaeological Resources Protection Act and the Antiquities Act. Some areas require you to turn over any artifact over 100 years old to the proper authorities. If you ever have questions about where you may and may not metal detect, contact the proper authorities, and double check.

Question 2

Why is it important to have a waterproof metal detector?

Accepted Answer

While it is not necessary to have a waterproof metal detector, if you will be metal detecting in areas with water, it gives you some peace of mind. Some detectorists like to shallow dive with their metal detectors in areas like rivers and streams. There can be a treasure trove of items in the bottom of rivers and streams, especially in areas where the water sources are used recreationally.

Even if you will not be diving, but want to detect in a very shallow stream, a waterproof detector helps you not have to worry so much about dropping the detector. If you fully submerge a non-waterproof metal detector, it can, and likely will, ruin the control box. Without the control box, your detector will not function. Regardless of the warranty, if the control box is water damaged, the company will not honor the warranty.

Question 3

Will the AT Pro be a good coin shooting metal detector?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Most coins are found around 10 kHz or lower. The AT Pro operates at 15 kHz, so it will find traditional coins, but will be more sensitive to coins made of silver. The AT Pro features a coin depth indicator on the right side of the display screen. This portion of the display ranges from 2” to 10,” in increments of 2.” This is helpful when determining which digging tool to use and whether you want to dig that deeply or not.

Question 4

What type of digging tools do I need to take metal detecting?

Accepted Answer

I always recommend taking a decent quality hand digger and a decent quality full-sized digger. I say decent quality because quality really does matter. If you purchase a sub-par digging implement, you may find yourself digging a target only to have the handle break on your trowel or shovel. This is infuriating when you are on a target! Ensuring your digging tools are decent quality will save you from this type of headache. They do cost a little big more, but they are absolutely worth the extra cost.

For more, check out our article on metal detecting accessories!

Question 5

I have heard some people join metal detecting clubs. Why is this?

Accepted Answer

Metal detecting clubs are a great resource for detectorists. There are metal detecting clubs in every state in the US, and can be found in other countries, too. There are many benefits to joining a metal detecting club. It gives you a chance to discuss metal detecting with a group of like-minded individuals.

It gives you a chance to have help identifying and discussing your finds. It gives you a chance to discuss different metal detectors, their features and options, and the best way to set them up for your area. Many of those involved in metal detecting clubs have decades of experience in metal detecting and can give a new detectorists some useful tips to help them succeed. Do not expect them to divulge all their secrets, but they will absolutely help you get started!

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