Metal Detecting

Part of what makes metal detecting so much fun is getting involved with a treasure hunting club or a metal detecting club. You'll get a lot of help and it will be a lot quicker than trying to learn on your own. You also make new friends and find people who really understand the excitement.

Don't get discouraged! You will find a lot of trash. Maybe even 60-80% trash and you should put it right back in the trash. However, a lot of what is found depends on where you go and what you know about your metal detector.

So lets get started!

• You might think you need to buy the most expensive metal detector out there; not true. It might give you an edge but, with some research and studying your local history, you can find spots no one else has hit and you'll probably find most of it just a couple inches below the surface.
• Hit the beach! This is a great place to start. Just dig everything you can while you are getting used to the different signals on your detector. Even the less expensive models are usually equipped with some discrimination that can help you pass objects like nails, foil, pull tabs, etc. But be careful, if you choose to discriminate against pull tabs, you won't go as deep and you will miss the nickels or small gold rings. Practice! Even in your own backyard.
• Some spots that might have been cleaned out could be a good option after a big rain when the ground is soaked. This can also be true after a hard winter (the ground will shift) so keep going back.
• Courtesy! Always cover your holes, even on beaches. You don't want anyone jogging or walking by to twist their ankle. Remember to take all the trash you dig up out with you. When you get home, you might find something in your trash pile you missed before.
• Finding new spots. With the internet, you don't even have to go to the library. Just go to your favorite search engine and type “history of” and then the city, town, state, etc. It won't take long to find some new spots.

So give it a try. This could turn into a great family hobby or just yours alone. But it is a rapidly growing hobby and you might find out you love it!

If you are looking for metal detectors or other outdoor equipment and supplies, please visit our store! SDG Outdoor and Fun!