For avoid detectorists or those who are just starting in metal detecting, it is important to have all the tools needed along with a detector for you to have an interesting and fruitful hunting experience Even with a treasure map, hunting can be difficult and frustrating if you don’t have the right equipment. We understand this and that is why we have provided you with useful information as regards the useful gadgets and tools for metal detecting.

Shovel or spade

Among all the useful gadgets and tools for metal detecting, one of the most important tools aside from the detector is the shovel. A lot of detecting enthusiasts buy regular gardening shovel which is not really strong  but they realize later on that a regular gardening shovel is quite different from a metal detecting spade. The spade is smaller than the regular gardening shovel. It is also quite tough for digging up heavy materials to locate metal detecting finds.

Trowel

The regular trowel is quite bigger than the trowel. Just like the metal detecting spade, the trowel is also made of reinforced steel which makes ineffective resistant ineffective rusting and effective for digging even in tough terrains. Unlike the regular trowel which is quite cheap and may break if used for digging, metal detecting trowels work best in terrains with relatively hard soil as opposed to shovels that work best in terrains with soft soil. Trowels can also be used for digging tree roots.

Hunting Knife

Another great tool for digging up metal detecting finds is the hunting knife. A metal detector alone will certainly not get you the treasures buried deep in the ground. You also need a sharp tool for cutting through obstructions.  As you may know, these are not regular knives. Treasure hunting knives are made with reinforced steel for digging small holes and recovering targets close to the soil surface. It is also very useful for recovering treasures underneath tree roots or rocks where a spade cannot reach. While the regular kitchen knives might work for some time, they are not so effective for cutting roots and digging hard rocks.

However, you need to note that when buying knives, spades, shovels or trowels, it is best to opt for the ones with reinforce stainless steel as they are really strong and more resistant to rusting. It is equally important for you to go for tools with serrated edges as they make cutting through sod quite easier compared to tools without a serrated edge.

A Map

This would particularly be useful for you when searching in remote areas as there may not be cell phone service. A map can help prevent you from getting lost and in some cases prevent trespassing especially when searching on farmlands. Additionally, metal detecting clubs can help direct to farmers who allow metal detecting on their farmlands so it’s important to join one.

Harnesses & Rain Covers 

Most detectors weigh over 5 pounds. Strap-on harnesses help lighten the weight of a detector, particularly on the arm by transferring the weight to your body frame. Harnesses may be strapped in the shoulder or hip. However, some detectors are designed for the chest mount, which is mostly used for diving. It is necessary when hunting for long hours but might not be needed when hunting for only a short period or handheld metal detectors.

Rain covers are often available for detectors. This is necessary especially if your detector is not a waterproof metal detector. Even the best metal detectors as reported by the Chicago tribune can be damaged when used in the rain so it’s a smart move to always have rain covers in hand when hunting. But if you have an underwater metal detector, then there is nothing to fear.

Apron, Tool Belt and Other Extras

While there are several gadgets and tools for metal prospecting, there are also useful accessories. Depending on the terrain and weather elements, some additional metal detecting accessories may be useful. A Rain Poncho comes in handy, particularly when digging in Rocky or rough ground.  

Rechargeable batteries

Rechargeable batteries are very necessary especially if you use your detectors often and for long hours. Depending on your detector, rechargeable batteries help to extend search hours as not all detectors come with rechargeable batteries. However, rechargeable batteries can be quite expensive and some of them run up to 8 AA batteries or even 3 9-volt batteries. Nevertheless, it is important to always have them so you can go on hunting for as long as you wish.

Finds Pouch

Having a pouch to place all your metal detecting finds is quite effective to keep them safe. While pockets or backpack can serve as alternatives, the finds pouch is more accessible as they are usually fixed on the belt. You should note that an underwater search, a mesh pouch is usually recommended.

Detector Bag

A Good metal detector bag is very essential because it helps keep the detector safe, especially during transportation. It also helps to keep all your accessories together for easy accessibility. Although, not all bags can contain the fully assembled detector, so for smaller bags, the detector must be disassembled. It’s important to get a quality metal detector bag that is strong enough so as to avoid it tearing during transportation.

Headphones

Since not all detectors come with display screens, audio detection might be relied upon. This means that, for audio detection to be effective, headphones are very essential as they can help you hear faint signals that may not be so loud with external speakers. They are also very effective in noisy environments and for drone metal detecting. It also helps in reducing the sound to avoid causing a nuisance in public environments as some detectors can be very noisy.

 Pinpointer

A pinpointer is an equipment every detectorist like you should own. Most detectors are equipped with pinpoint function so a detectorist can push a button and lock in precisely on the target or treasure. Notwithstanding, the inbuilt pinpoint feature is not as precise or fast as the external handheld pinpointer. Thus, it is very important to have one for more speed and accuracy.

Sand Scoop

A sand scoop is particularly useful when hunting and searching on sandy areas like a beach. It helps in digging down sand thereby pulling out the treasure buried in the sand. A sand scoop has small holes by its sides which help to filter out sand while the treasure remains inside the scoop.

 Backpack

While you may have the finds pouch, it is certainly not big enough for large treasures. So it is important to also have a backpack along with the finds pouch because it can be helpful to keep your tools, your map, bottle of water and even food.

Conclusion 

If you are a beginner, then you don’t need to get all the accessories, tools and gadgets right away. However, you must get the important ones first like extra batteries, trowel among others and purchase the rest afterward as some of the accessories can be expensive. There are so many other accessories and gadgets but we believe the above-listed ones are the most important. Are there any other gadgets or accessories which you find useful? We’ll like to hear your thoughts.

Author’s Bio 

Thomas Quarry is a data scientist by profession and a professional metal detectorist for more than 10 years. He has two sons and a daughter. He is also very passionate about human rights advocacy.