metal detectors

Monofletch

Monofletch

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Jan 14, 2010
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Any of you guys play with a metal detector? I am looking into getting into the hobby. Other than the detector.... what else do I need to get started?
 
The typical support gear is a digging blade (like a very narrow spade), finds pouch, comfortable head phones. A pinpoint detector is handy depending on where you dig. A probe (long thin rod of soft metal) for pinpoint locating finds is a cheaper alternative.

First and foremost should be a current copy of your local city and county laws pertaining to it. It's not so much just go to any park and dig, it is illegal in many places, and some places just don't allow digging.

Comfy walking shoes, a knee pad, hat, a bag for all the trash you dig up too.


-X
 
Early books about MD suggest using a bayonet knife to dig plugs out of sod to get to the coins.
DO NOT DO THIS! The plugs get sucked up by lawnmowers or just die and leave the park looking like a battlefield with MD ops to blame.

I use a pointed brass rod and a screwdriver to locate and then work the coins out. Not the way to preserve a really old valuable coin but that's not what I find anyway.

Headphones preserve battery life and let you hear stuff better. Kneepad, work gloves to keep hands somewhat clean, a plastic pan to put some of the dug material in so you can wave the detector over it to see if you have the item or not (if it's really small like shotgun pellet)
 
A well cut and dug out plug rarely kills off the grass, and if stomped or stepped on after its put back it won't come out by a lawn mower. I also only cut plugs about 3/4 of a full circle. I mostly use a modified screw driver for "popping" shallow coins out too.

Don't forget to keep a look out on your surroundings, it's not hard to just wander around with your head down and head phones on while completely oblivious to what's going on, especially in not so great areas or at your vehicle.


-X
 
It looks like a Compadre' is going to be in my near future. Thanks for all the advise.
 
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