Metal Detectors

Metal detectors transmit an electromagnetic field into the ground from the search coil (often two parts: a transmitter coil and a receiver coil) and metal objects will become energized and return a signal. The metal detector will read that signal in different ways, often with a different pitch in the beep that it makes from the control box.

There are different types of technologies used in metal detector search coils: Very Low Frequency (VLF, also known as an Induction Balance metal detector), Pulse Induction (PI), and Beat Frequency Oscillation (BFO). Of these three types, VLF is the most common metal detector and is typically the choice for beginners in the metal detecting hobby.

When new to the hobby of metal detecting, it can be very difficult to choose a metal detector. There are so many types of detection technologies available and control boxes that have different tools available to them that the choices feel endless. The Garrett Ace 300 is a great metal detector for beginners. It’s lightweight and easy to use to detect a variety of metal types and a great place to start. Some metal detectors are waterproof or water-resistant, so this may be another feature to look for when shopping for your first metal detector if you plan on looking near rivers and streams, or the ocean. Metal detecting beginners will also want to find out if any permits are needed for the area they plan to search in.

Different metal detectors can search at different depths and through different terrains to hunt for different types of metal. As you become more experienced, you’ll likely want to start discriminating in what you’re searching for with your metal detector. A metal detector like the Garrett AT Pro can search in all terrains and discriminate against iron at 40 different levels. Be sure to read the product descriptions of the metal detectors at Tower Hobbies to find the one that will aid you in your search for treasure, whatever that may be!