Metal Detecting Tips from the Masters
While metal detecting may LOOK easy, the minute you pick up your first metal detector and start searching, what once looked like child’s play can seem an awful lot like work – because it IS! Metal detectors can weigh a few pounds and require a proper “stance” for the best results. Add this to the weight of a backpack and it can all seem like a bit of a burden. And these are just the challenges associated with the wielding of a metal detector. False positives, private property permission requests, locating the best locations for your search and other key aspects of the sport can all be a bit mind-boggling – especially for the beginner. Fortunately, metal detecting tips can help take the edge off of the frustration..
That’s why I’ve made it my personal mission to eliminate some of the initial confusion by providing a list of metal detecting tips straight from the pros and masters.
Top 5 Metal Detecting Tips
- NEVER go metal detecting on private property without permission! First, this is known as trespassing, and it’s illegal. Second of all, if you do go metal detecting on private property without permission and make the find of a lifetime, taking possession of your find makes you a thief. Since all you need in order to obtain permission is to ASK for it, it makes sense to take the time to introduce yourself to the property owner and formally request their permission. While you can do this verbally, it’s better to create your request in writing, so that later, if any questions are asked, you’ve legally covered.
- Fill in every hole you dig. While this seems like a common sense thing to do, failure to follow this advice can set a property owner’s teeth on edge and make it harder to obtain permission for return visits.
- Enter in with realistic expectations. While you WILL find your fair share of treasures, please understand that you’ll find a lot more trash. If you expect every single “bleep” to be a diamond engagement ring, it won’t take long for your metal detector to get stashed in a closet or shed, collecting dust. Just persevere and stick it through and you’ll (eventually) unearth a treasure of your own.
- Buy the best metal detector you can afford. While there’s no need to spend thousands of dollars, don’t aim to save money at the expense of results. Instead, make it a point to stretch your dollar as far as you can and invest in the best detector your money can buy.
- Start on the beach. When you’re first attempting to get the hang of metal detecting, the best place to start your search is on the sea shore. The loose sands of the beach are easier for the sensor to “penetrate” and are easier to dig in – giving you the opportunity to gain great experience with a little less effort.
While these metal detecting tips are only the tip of the ice berg, it should be enough to get your started on the path to success.
