What is a Metal Detecting Pinpointer?
The metal detecting pinpointer is often called a metal detecting probe, or just a probe for short. It is an essential piece of metal detecting equipment for finding valuable items and saving time, in conjunction with your regular, full-sized metal detector. This tool is quite handy for those of you seeking smaller items, such as coins, rings or other pieces of jewelry. Metal detecting probes and pinpointers work to speed up object recovery and help you avoid the back-breaking effort of digging huge craters in search of your goods. Pinpointers only detect items that are within the one to two inch range, meaning you can gain a greater edge of specificity. Furthermore, these probes and pinpointing devices can work in muddy terrain or even in areas with poor lighting, to help insure you don’t miss something valuable in your search.
Although the hobby of metal detecting has captured a great deal of interest and enthusiasm, enthusiasm can wane when seekers never find anything worth keeping. Because of this, manufacturers have worked to create a wide range of models that are built to suit the particular needs of the individual enthusiast, based on preferences and budget. The two most common pinpointer devices are the handheld probes and those that are mounted on metal detectors and used in conjunction. Generally, prices are around the $100 mark, however this is just an average. Retail prices can easily vary from $50 to more than $400 (though the more expensive models are geared more for the needs of the expert, versus the novice.) When you’re first getting started out, it’s best to stick to the cheaper models, with the $50 range prices.
Common features of metal detecting probes and pinpointers include an LED light, which makes the device ideal for searching inside of holes and even tight crevices. These devices also have tuners that you can manually adjust to better locate your targeted item(s). This dial or tuner controls the pinpointer’s sensitivity, creating greater accuracy for locating items worth your time to dig. Admittedly, though, the more features a probe can boast, the higher it’s price tag usually will be.
When a metal detecting pinpointer offers more sophisticated construction, this often means that the end piece is water-proof and can be immersed in the water, as long as you keep the switch box dry. Similar to PI metal detectors, this variety is successfully able to ignore ground minerals and any conductive salts, making it ideal for beach and mountain metal detecting. However, it’s critical that you read the fine print and user manual to insure that the model you purchase can be used safely in wet AND salty conditions. Any time that you do use your metal detecting pinpointer, remember to wash it off with fresh water, so that the next time you use it, you can still take advantage of optimal performance.
Check Out the Automax Precision Pinpointer Probe
If you find using multiple items to be a bit overwhelming, you can find all-in-one tool options that allow the modification, adding coils or rods. With the investment in a few customizations, you can increase your probe’s sensitivity, making it as fully functional as the traditional PI metal detector.
For those of you with a DIY mentality, you can make your own metal detecting pinpointer from the parts of older metal detectors. You can also make one from scratch using items available in your local electronics shop or even online. While it helps to have a background in electronics, even if you don’t you can purchase ready-made circuit boards online and combine them with basic tools like solders and small soldering irons. Depending on the exact specifications you’re seeking, you can often finish the entire project in a few hours or less!
