Metal Detector

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The metal detector proves to be a great investment for a lot of people, not only for those who work as archeologists and who need the tool to uncover secrets of the past but for those who want to find treasure and precious items as a hobby as well. If you look hard enough, you might get lucky one day and stumble upon something that’s worth a lot of money. Regardless of how you plan on using the detector, if you’re interested in making this purchase, check out the comparison table below to find out what are the best models on the market at the moment.

Top 5 Metal Detectors Comparison

	1. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV	2. Garrett ACE 400	3. RM RICOMAX GC-1028	4. Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro	5. National Geographic PRO Series
	BEST MODEL	Best Metal Detector for Relic Hunting	EDITOR’S CHOICE	Best Metal Detector for Gold	Best Metal Detector for Kids
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
Design
Adjustable Length	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Weight (lbs)	4.2	2.9	2.31	2.4	2.3
Specifications
Coil
Coil Type	Concentric Coil	Double D Coil	N/A	Double D Coil	N/A
Coil Size (in.)	8	11	10	11	10
Waterproof Coil
Frequency&Sensitivity
Frequency (kHz)	6.7	10	N/A	7.69	7.11
Adjustable Sensitivity
Modes
Number of Search Modes	3	5	3	7	3
Pinpoint Mode
Discrimination Setting
Depth
Maximum Coin Depth (in.)	8	10	8	10	10
Depth Indicator
Display&Audio
Display	x	LCD Screen	LCD Screen	LCD Screen	LCD Screen
Number of Audio Tones	2	3	3	4	3
Headphone Jack	0.25″	0.25″	0.13″	0.25″
Battery
Battery Type	9-Volt Alkaline	AA	9-Volt Alkaline	9-Volt Alkaline	AA
Number of Batteries	1	4	2	1	4
Battery Life (Hours)	25	20	N/A	20-25	Up to 20
Low Battery Indicator
Warranty&Support
Warranty	5-year limited warranty	2-year limited warranty	Lifetime warranty	5-year limited warranty	2-year limited warranty
User Manual
Customer Support

1. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV

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If you want a versatile detector with an intuitive menu, you can opt for the Tracker IV made by Bounty Hunter. This particular model can detect all types of metal, including gold, silver, iron, etc.

Manufactured in the USA, the device weighs 4.2 pounds and its length can be adjusted according to your preferences. It works on two 9V alkaline batteries and its operating frequency is of 6.6 kHz.

The device is equipped with an 8-inch waterproof search coil and it has multiple options to choose from. As a result, it is capable of detecting both small targets, like coins, that are buried up to 8 inches deep, and large targets of 2 feet maximum.

It features 3 modes of operation and a discrimination control. At the same time, the mode switch has 3 positions to choose from. We like the fact that it includes a sensitivity control and that it is equipped with a headphone jack.

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2. Garrett ACE 400

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This powerful detector is definitely worth considering if your hobby is to hunt buried treasures. With many built-in features, the detector is quite accurate and easy to use, being a long-term investment that won’t disappoint you.

The large 11-inch DD coil makes the Garrett ACE 400 highy advanced, being fully submersible at the same time. Additionally, the model features a higher frequency, namely 10 kHz, for better sensitivity and more accuracy.

More than that, you can also adjust the frequency when necessary. Furthermore, you have the possibility to choose one of the 5 searching modes, including the pinpoint mode. Another great plus is the depth indicator that helps you have a better idea of how deep is the coin.

Furthermore, you can easily choose one of the 3 audible tones available and adjust the sensitivityfor better results. As about the warranty, the machine is covered by a 2-year warranty.

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3. RM RICOMAX GC-1028

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This detector is easy to use and very lightweight. It is ideal for both adults and kids as the stem can be adjusted from 33 inches to 40.6 inches.

The GC-1028 is equipped with a 10-inch search coil that can detect a wide range of metals up to 7.1 inches deep. Both the coil and the steam are waterproof, therefore you can use the detector to find metals underwater.

The control box allows you to customize your searching according to your preferences. The LCD display is very large and easy to understand. It shows you the depth of the target as well as the battery life, sensitivity, volume, and so on. With the help of the buttons, you can adjust the sensitivity and volume level. The detector is pretty accurate and you have the possibility to choose from 3 modes – pinpoint, discrimination, and all-metal.

The detector works with two 9V batteries and it has a headphone jack that allows you to plug in your headphone. It is backed by a lifetime warranty and the company also offers a free replacement policy.

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4. Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro

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Next on our list is the Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro, a reliable detector that does a pretty good job when it comes to hunting treasures. The machine carries many helpful features that make it very powerful and accurate, letting you concentrate more on your hobby and less on its functionality.

Starting with the waterproof 11-inch DD coils and ending with the large and easy to read LCD display, this device is one of the best you can find.

Due to the fact that it’s easy to use and lightweight, the detector has gained more and more popularity, being preferred by many of those who want an advanced model. With no less than 7 searching modes to choose from and long battery life, you can be sure that detecting targets will be your favorite activity from now on.

Another aspect we appreciate about this model is the long 5-year warranty, so you can rest assured in case you have to deal with any manufacturing defects.

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5. National Geographic PRO Series

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Suitable for both beginners and advanced users, this detector is definitely worth considering if you want to replace your old treasure hunter or buy your first one. When collapsed, it measures 22 x 4 x 7 inches and when fully extended, it measures 45 x 11.5 x 7 inches.

You have the possibility to adjust the height according to your preferences as it extends from 22 to 45 inches. Additionally, it features a lightweight design – weighs 2.3 pounds.

It is equipped with a 10-inch waterproof coil, so you can also take it to the beach to find coins and other treasures. In terms of operation, this device made by National Geographic is very intuitive.

It features an LCD display with only several touch-buttons that allow you to adjust the volume, the sensitivity, etc. It has 3 detection modes and 4 sensitivity modes, as well as a pinpoint function. The device comes with a 2-year warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

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6. Tacklife MMD02

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If you’re looking for a less complicated metal detector than this is the right choice for you. It is suitable for beginners and hobbyists, as well as kids. Weighing less than 2 pounds, the detector is one of the lightest options on the market. Additionally, It features ergonomic arm support which makes it very comfortable to use. However, it may not be the best choice for tall people, even though its height can be adjusted – from 31.5 to 41.3 inches.

The LCD screen with funny display graphics is large and easy to understand. It features LED backlights that make it easy to read at night. It has 3 operating modes available – ferrous, non-ferrous, and non-ferrous high conductor. Also, it features different audio tones for different metals. On the display, you will also be able to see the depth, sensitivity level, and battery status.

The coil has a diameter of 7.8 inches and it is waterproof. It operates on two 9 V batteries which are included and it has a frequency range of 6.6khz. It is warranted for a period of 2 years and it comes with a spacious carry bag.

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7. NHI Classic

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This model is ideal for all people who want an outdoor adventure. It doesn’t matter your age or the skill level, as it is a nice option for both kids and adults, beginners or professionals. It comes equipped with a waterproof search coil and stem, so it’s great for all types of terrains.

It can detect a great variety of metals that are buried up to 6 inches. It features a pinpoint mode that lets you know the exact location of the object and a discrimination mode for a customized search.

The detector is 39.37 inches tall and 9.84 inches wide and the metal shaft can be adjusted according to your needs. It comes with a handle for supporting your arm and for minimizing the fatigue. Also, you can adjust the volume with the help of the dial.

The low battery indicator is another great feature as it notifies you when you have to change the battery. It includes a versatile folding shovel that among others, it can be used as a bottle opener or a compass. Also, it comes with a 72-page beginners’ guide. For peace of mind, it is warranted for a period of 2 years.

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8. Teknetics Delta 4000

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For the price you have to pay, this is a really good metal detector. It is very solid yet lightweight and easy to handle. At 2.6 pounds your arm won’t get tired while using it. On the contrary, you will feel very comfortable as it features a soft hand grip and a padded armrest. You also have the possibility to adjust its height.

It operates at a frequency of 7.8 kHz and it is equipped with an 8-inch waterproof coil. therefore, it can be submerged in the water without any restrictions.

If you’re a beginner, you will love its ease of use. The LCD display is large enough to see the target ID and all the other modes. There’s also a depth and low battery indicator on the screen. The push button controls are pretty large and highly responsive.

With this model, you can adjust the sensitivity and discrimination. You can also select from 2 search modes. Like most detectors, it features an all metal and pinpoint mode. Additionally, there are 3 tones you can choose from.

The device is made in the USA and it is backed by a 5-year warranty. It works with a 9V battery that can last up to 25 hours of continuous use.

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9. Fisher F4

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The F4 by Fisher is an affordable machine that does a really great job when you are going treasure hunting. This is a nice option for an entry-level user as it is very user-friendly. In comparison to the F2, this one comes with some nice improvements that make it more versatile.

Design

The detector features a simple and easy interface, so you won’t find any difficulties in setting it up. It is fully adjustable so it can be used by both adults and children, thus being a nice addition for the entire family – can be adjusted from 41.5 to 51.5 inches. At 2.6 pounds it is very lightweight and prevents user fatigue.

• Ergonomic armrest and hand-grip: for a comfortable treasure hunt.
• Simple to use cotrol panel: it comes with a large LCD screen, 9 touch buttons, and 1 knob.

Performance

The 11-inch bi-axial search coil offers excellent target separation while providing great performance in the highly mineralized ground. It works with two 9-volt batteries that can provide up to 30 to 40 hours of continuous use. With this machine, you can see the depth of the target and identify it with the numeric target identification.

• Sensitivity: you can adjust it according to your preferences with the help of the up and down arrows located on the left side of the panel.
• Discrimination function: allows you to eliminate objects up to zinc category. Use ALL METAL function to set the machine to target all metals again. When you press the DISC button it will remember the previous discrimination selection.
• Ground balancing: gives you the possibility to set the detector to ignore false signals from ground minerals. Rotate the knob to ground balance the detector.

User Convenience

To better hear the changes in the sound, especially in noisy areas, you can use the machine with headphones. Unfortunately, they are not included. There’s also a battery meter that lets you know when it’s time to replace the batteries – displays 4 lines when the batteries are full and 1 line when you have to replace them.

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10. White’s Coinmaster 800-0325

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White’s Coinmaster 800-0325 is worth considering because it can accurately identify buried treasures every time you use it. In comparison to the other models, this one features a 9-inch concentric coil that it’s not considered as smart as the DD coil, being more susceptible to interference from ground minerals.

Nevertheless, the machine is a reliable option for beginners, featuring many advanced characteristics, including an adjustable sensitivity, a depth indicator, and so on.

Also, the coil is submersible, so you can easily use it for beach exploration. Additionally, you can choose from 3 audible tones and select the desired length for a comfortable metal hunting experience.

Also, the LCD screen displays all the information for you, being very easy to read and understand, so this is a great plus. Besides its ease of use and long-lasting performance, the detector comes with a 2-year warranty.

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11. Teknetics EuroTek Pro

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The Teknetics EuroTek Pro will surely impress you if you’re looking for an accurate and easy to use detector. Just like the other advanced models from out top, the machine comes with many helpful features to help you achieve only the best results every time.

The DD coil with 11-inch diameter does a pretty good job and the fact that is waterproof makes it appropriate for hunting treasures underwater.

Additionally, the depth indicator and the fact that you can adjust the sensibility according to your preferences, help you achieve the best results with minimum effort on your part. Also, you can choose the desired audio tone according to your preferences and you can read the results on the large LCD screen.

For a more comfortable experience, you can easily adjust the detector’s length according to your preferences. Another great plus of this model is the fact that it features a generous 5-year warranty.

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How We Rated the Products

For a better understanding of how we selected the best metal detectors, take a look at the most important aspects we’ve considered. Choosing and ranking the top-rated models is not a simple task, but after a thorough research, we’ve managed to successfully determine what models are worth considering if you’re a metal detectorist.

• Adjustable length: an adjustable length will allow you to select the desired length of the detector, so you can feel comfortable while searching for metals. Also, this means that the device can be used by more persons, each of them having the possibility to easily adjust the length as it suits them best.
• Coil type: the coil is actually the part that detects the metal, so it’s construction is very important. There are three types of coils used in this industry, namely concentric, double-d, and monoloop.

  – the concentric coils are circular or oval and their wire winding features an inner and outer circle. They emit a cone-shaped search pattern and are a little bit noisier.

  – the double-d coils, their wire winding is similar to two Ds that emit a blade-shaped magnetic field. They are considered the most performant ones.

  – the monoloop coils have only one winding and feature a cone-shaped pattern.

• Pinpoint mode: the pinpoint mode is truly a great feature because it helps you determine the location of the target much easier. Once you hear the audio tone, you just have to gently move the device until you are sure about the location of the object. In this way, you won’t have to dig big holes for extracting the objects, so you will have more time for searching.
• Depth indicator: it simply detects how dip is the target. The feature is very convenient because you will know how deep you have to dig to find the object. The depth will be shown on the display and most devices are able to identify objects that are buried at maximum 8 or 10 inches.
• Numerical target-ID: this feature enables the detector to tell you the type of the item found in the ground. Some of the most advanced models use a number ranging from 0 to 99 to let you know in what category the object falls, the most common ones being, iron, nickel, quarter, and so on. Therefore, this feature is very helpful because you won’t have to dig after all sorts of objects that you may not be interested in.

A Short Introduction

• If hunting for treasures is your hobby, then you definitely need a detector to help you easily find all sorts of treasures. In general, you can find different types of detectors because they are specially designed to detect coins, jewelry, relics, and so on. Besides the fact that they are easy to use, the top-rated models feature an advanced technology that makes them very performant and accurate. Let’s find out more about these devices.
• The metal detectors are those devices that can be used to detect metals in the ground, but also in the water. Besides the fact that with their help you can find old coins and other treasures, there are many industries that use them for various purposes, some examples being chemicals, food processing, and many others.
• In general, a detector comprises a stabilizer, an electronic box, a shaft, and a search coil. Since it generates a magnetic field, once the coil passes over a metal object, a signal will be sent to the speaker to announce you that a piece of metal is somewhere near.
• There are three technologies that are typically used in the detectors and they are as following: Very low frequency (VLF), Pulse induction (PI), and Beat-frequency oscillation (BFO). The first one is the most used one, so it can be found in many detectors.
• The devices are very easy to use and understand, the most advanced ones featuring an LCD display that shows you the information. Also, they come with many other features that are meant to make them more accurate, while offering you the possibility to customize them according to your preferences.

4 Reasons to Go Treasure Hunting

Hunting for treasures may be a relaxing activity after a stressful day, being at the same time very exciting. You can learn new things about all sorts of coins and other metals, so why not trying this activity if you want to discover something new? Here are some reasons that may convince to become a metal detectorist.

• 1. It is fun: you may not think so, but searching for different objects in the ground is a fun activity that you should definitely try. The more people, the funnier, so take your family and friends and start digging for some treasures. Even if you don’t find precious metals or old coins, at the end of the day you’ll still remember all the fun you had.
• 2. It is exciting: the excitement comes from the fact that you can find all sorts of valuable coins or other treasures. Every time the detector starts beeping, it means there’s something underground and not knowing what is exactly, makes it intriguing. And the great news is that this excitement happens on and on until you may find something truly valuable.
• 3. You learn something new: learning something new every day can help you gain more life experience, so hunting for treasures can definitely be an interesting activity. Why is that? Because you will get familiar with a detector and learn more about the existing metals. The detectors usually show a number for each piece of metal, so learning them can be very helpful.
• 4. It keeps You active: if you’re not an active person, then metal hunting offers you the advantage of forgetting about your sedentary lifestyle and travel more. You can opt for short local trips, or you can take the detector with you in longer trips because in this way you will be able to find more valuable items.

Buying Tips

Buying a detector can be an overwhelming task if you don’t know which are the most important aspects to look for. So, in order to make this process simpler for you, we have gathered here some tips that will guide you in selecting the best device for your needs.

• Opt for a waterproof coil if you’re a beach hunter: in case you like spending your vacations at the beach and you want to take the detector with you, then you have to invest in a device that it’s fully submersible. Not all the models available feature a waterproof coil, so don’t make the mistake of not checking this information first. Read the manufacturer’s specifications to this regard before deciding upon a model.
• Take a look at the main features: another important aspect before buying a detector is to take a closer look at the main features and get the one that best suits your needs. The more features, the better, but you should not forget that these models are usually more expensive. Among the best features to look for are the numerical target ID, depth indicator, pinpoint mode, and so on.
• Consider the brand: there are many brands that manufacture detectors, but not all of them are recognized for their performance. Usually, a respectable brand makes high-quality products that have many positive reviews from the customers. Actually, this rule applies to all products, so keep this in mind before taking the final decision.

Brands to Go With


In the following lines, we will present you the most trusted brands to go with when you want to buy a metal detector. Besides the fact that they are very popular among customers, they are also worldwide known for producing the best models to find various treasures hidden in the ground.

• Fisher

  Fisher brand is definitely one of the most reliable ones because the detectors sold under this name are an etalon of innovation and performance. The company comes with a long experience behind, designing and producing some of the most advanced devices in this industry. The company is named after its founder, Dr. Gerhard R. Fisher, a famous engineer and inventor that managed to be the first to receive the patent for the metal detector.

• Garret Electronics

  Ever since 1964, Garret brand has been dedicated to offering their customers the best detectors on the market. Using only advanced technology and the best materials, all the products made by the company are designed to last and offer superior results. The main purpose of the brand is to continue producing excellent products that come at an affordable price without affecting their performance.

• Teknetics

  When it comes to advanced detectors, we definitely have to mention Teknetics brand because it’s worldwide recognized in this industry. With many models to choose from, you can surely find a detector that suits your needs, being absolutely sure that you won’t be disappointed by its performance.

Conclusion

Overall, treasure hunting remains one of the most exciting and fun activities in which you can engage your entire family. And, if you pick a reliable tool to help you uncover the treasures hidden beneath the ground, the fun will be even bigger, as every step may reveal a bunch of coins, a rare metal sculpture or even some gold. Therefore, don’t hesitate to take a second glance at the products included in this top, as they are the best you can find on the market at this moment.

Best Metal Detector Overall: Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV

Top of the top, this tool will be your best friend if you decide to start a treasure hunt. The structure is rugged, therefore it will do an excellent job even in extreme ground conditions, with a preset ground balance that prevents it from responding to mineral content found in the ground. It operates at 6.7 kHz and features a generous 8-inch coil, so it will easily signalize even treasures that are hidden deeper into the ground.

The discrimination setting helps you distinguish between different types of metals and dig only after the specific one that interests you. Furthermore, you can use it on the beach or after a rain, as the coil is waterproof.

Editor’s Choice: RM RICOMAX GC-1028

You will be able to unravel a wide variety of coins and relics with this model, as it can detect gold, iron, bronze, silver, and many others with a target range of up to 7.1 inches. It comes with distinctive audio prompts to let you know what type of metal is hidden beneath, and you can set it to emit a sound only when it founds a certain type of metal. Moreover, it is incredibly easy to use, as it is equipped with a user-friendly LCD control box that shows important variables like the battery level, sensitivity, or audio level, being an excellent choice for both advanced users and beginners and even for kids.

Best Metal Detector for Relic Hunting: Garrett ACE 400

Relic hunting requires a highly-performant tool, as these types of treasures tend to be buried deep underground. Garrett ACE 400 features a huge 10-inches coil and works at a frequency of 10 kHz, therefore it is more sensitive to medium and low-connectivity metals such as lead or gold. It offers 5 search modes including a pinpoint mode and discrimination setting and will announce you through 3 different tones the type of metals it detects. Furthermore, it is waterproof, therefore suitable for beach exploration.

Best Metal Detector for Gold: Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro

Gold is known to be a low-connectivity metal that is hard to find without a highly-sensitive tool, but this model has it all covered. Not only that it uses a high 7.69 kHz frequency to search for metals but it features an 11 inches coil, being able to detect gold hidden deep underground. It offers 7 searching modes and 4 distinctive tones to help you distinguish between different types of metals. It is waterproof and comes with rugged construction that will prove very helpful in harsh weather conditions. Plus, if you don’t find gold in your first attempts, there’s no tragedy, as you have it backed by a 5-year warranty so you can keep trying.

Best Metal Detector for Kids: National Geographic PRO Series

Kids will love this compact and lightweight detector and adults will easily find a place for it in the car. It comes with a large 10 inches coil and is waterproof, perfect to keep the kids entertained on the beach. Plus, it includes up to 4 sensitivity levels and 3 detection modes, being very accurate, especially due to the pinpoint mode.