This guide was developed to help you understand the basics of metal detectors, which have been around for a number of years, and how to find the best detector for you.

What are metal detectors?

Metal detectors are portable electronic devices which penetrate the ground magnetically in order to find metal.  This metal could either be discarded junk, something valuable, like coins, jewelry, historic relics, or gold.  Part of the appeal of metal detecting is the unknown----------what you may find.

How do metal detectors work?

In a simplified manner, all metal detectors work on the principle of electromagnetics and the effect on conductive metals.  A metal detector uses battery power to create a penetrating magnetic field that enters the ground.  Anything metallic will then become charged with the magnetism, similar to a paper clip becoming magnetized after touching a standard magnet.  The magnetized metal below ground then sends a signal back to the metal detector alerting the user (usually by sound) to the fact that there is something metallic below ground, what kind of metal it found (high-end units), and how deep the metal is (high-end units).  NOTE:  Most metal detectors can detect up to 12 inches below the surface.  Many will work much deeper..

Components of metal detectors

All metal detectiors, regardless of brand or model, have the same components.

1)  Stabilizer--this is usually an arm brace that keeps the unit steady as it is swept back and forth over the ground.

2)  Control Box---this is the "brains" of the metal detector and contain the circuitry, controls, speaker, batteries, and microprocessor.  It may also contain a jack for headphones,

3)  Shaft---this connects the control box to the search coil.  It is often adjustable so it can be set at a level for your height.

4)  Search Coil---this is the part that actually senses the metal below ground.

Considerations when buying

You should NOT buy a metal detector solely on the advice of one person (usually a friend).  Long time detector users are usually committed to their particular brand and model.  They are typically unfamiliar with anything newer, different, or better.  Lots of new electronics and features have been introduced in recent years.

To make a more educated decision if you a re thinking of buying a metal detector, there are severeal things you should consider:

PRICE---metal detectors are relatively inexpensive, but you must decide how much you intend to spend, not only for the detector, but also for accessories like headphones, digging tool, and carrying bag, if desired.

USE---if you plan to use a metal detector many hours a week, then we suggest one with more electronic features than if you plan to use it only occasionally.  It is a fact that the more features you want, the more you will need to spend.

LOCATION---do you live near the water or inland?  Do you intend to search for coins and jewelry, hunt for relics, search for gold or use the detector under water?   The fact is, all detectors, regardless of brand, have water proof search coils so they can be used in shallow water at the beach.  They cannot be used entirely under water, although there are units on the market for this use.  There are also different detectors on the market for searching for coins and jewelry, relics, or gold.  But the fact again is, that most common detectors purchased today are "general purpose" coin, jewelry, and relic detectors.

Now that you know all about metal detectors, you should know that it's a fun hobby and detecting can provide hours and hours of entertainment.  Plus, you may even find valuable coins and more.  Maybe, it's time to get out there!!!

This is a Bounty Hunter Junior metal detector for kids.  Even this unit has a handle for control, a control box, an adjustable shaft and a search coil.