Question 1

I am new to metal detecting. What equipment do I need to start out?

Accepted Answer

First, welcome to the amazing world of metal detecting! This hobby is a great way to get outside, get some exercise, and potentially find treasure! The first thing you will need a good metal detector. Metal detectors range in price from under $100 to thousands of dollars. You do not need a top-of-the-line model when you are starting out. Expensive models often have settings that are confusing for newbies.

A few great starter model include Garrett’s Ace and Minelab’s Vanquish lineup, Fisher’s F11 and F22, and Nokta Makro’s Simplex+. I personally use the Simplex + and it is a great machine. You will also want a finds pouch to keep your finds safe, some bags to carry trash out (you will inevitably find trash), and a good quality digging tool. You will want a hand trowel and a full-sized shovel, unless your area bans the use of full-sized shovels. You will also want to familiarize yourself with metal detecting etiquette, and the laws and regulations for metal detecting in your area.

Question 2

What are some tips for metal detecting on New York’s beaches?

Accepted Answer

Metal detecting on beaches can be hugely rewarding. Not only do you have amazing scenery, but you can find a myriad of lost items on the beach. If you will be detecting near the ocean, you may want a metal detector that is either pulse induction or has a specific beach mode. Saltwater is inherently conductive and can cause many metal detectors to overload and give false signals. You will also want a sand scoop for digging on the beach.

It is hard to dig in sand as the sides of your hole constantly collapse inward. A sand scoop helps this by scooping up large quantities of sand and filtering it out the holes on the bottom and sides. This leaves the treasure inside the scoop! You will want to search the so-called towel line.

This is where recreators lie their towels when enjoying the beach. These areas are known for housing lost jewelry, coins, phones, and the like. Try detecting near the water’s edge for items washed ashore from storms and tides. Make sure your search coil is waterproof before getting too close to the water!

Question 3

What do I do if I find an old relic?

Accepted Answer

If the relic is over 100 years old, you will likely have to turn it in. Some areas will require you to notify park staff or the authorities if you find something you suspect may be culturally or historically important. Some other areas require you to turn in items that have identifying information on them so they can attempt to locate the rightful owner.

You can take the item to a university or historical society in attempt to determine what it is and how old it might be. Remember, any area on state or federal property where an artifact over 100 years old is found, requires you to turn in the item. If you are searching on private property, so long as you have written permission from the landowner and have worked out a deal with them pertaining to items you find, you do not have to follow the laws governing relics over 100 years old.

Question 4

Where can I find more tips to become a better metal detectorist?

Accepted Answer

With today’s technology, you have access to a wealth of information. You can search online for videos and articles that can give you advice for becoming a better metal detectorist. You can also visit a local metal detecting club or find one online to interact with. These detectorists can give you tips and tricks to help you become the best you can be. You can find thousands of videos on sites like YouTube.

These videos are a great resource because you can learn about different kinds of metal detectors, different treasure types, and different locations. You can also look on metal detector manufacturers websites. Many have tips, tricks, reviews, and more information for you to learn from. When I am considering a new piece of metal detecting equipment, I will search the internet for reviews on the item, pros and cons, and it helps me better decide in the end.

Question 5

Do I need headphones for metal detecting?

Accepted Answer

Many models of metal detector have options to use headphones, both wired and wireless, depending on the model. The use of headphones has several benefits. You can hear faint signals more easily with headphones. You can block outside noise better with headphones.

You can hear multiple targets better with headphones. However, if you are in an area where you could encounter danger, headphones are not recommended. For example, I metal detect in the forests a lot. I would not recommend wearing headphones in the forest because of the many hazards present.

There are always people on ATVs and vehicles roaming around, not to mention the wildlife. I would not want to be surprised by a black bear or mountain lion while finding treasures!

So long as you remain aware of your surroundings and do not get so focused on your detecting that you are not paying attention to the outside world, headphones are just fine.

Areas like city parks are perfect for wearing headphones. These will help block out the outside noises of the city and allow you to hear your signals more clearly.

Metal Detecting By State

Metal Detecting in New York – Permits, Laws, Where to Detect

Metal Detecting in Maryland – Where to Detect and Key Laws

How to Go Metal Detecting in Florida Successfully

Metal Detecting in Indiana: Secrets and Tips to Know

Metal Detecting in Vermont: 50 Awesome Tips You’ll Love

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