The model's increased frequency (8 kHz) works wonders providing better sensitivity on low and medium-conductivity targets like gold and lead. The detector features twice the iron resolution compared to its predecessor and is able to do a much better job overcoming targets masking in iron-laden hunt sites.
Might take some time to figure out the functions.
Garrett Ace 300 is the overall best metal detector on the list. Its excellent specs and improved features make the model perfect for coin hunting, different competition events, dry beach and freshwater hunting, prospecting, jewelry and relic hunting, the list goes on.
8 kHz
7" x 10" PROformance™ waterproof search coil
Coins: up to 12 inches
Big objects: up to 40 inches
LCD screen, Pulse-width modulation sound indication
5 search modes (plus Pinpoint)
8 sensitivity/depth adjustments
Digital Target ID, Continuous coin depth indicator
Adjustable length (40" to 53"), Padded arm cuff, Headphones included, ACE Environmental Coverup and Searchcoil cover
2.8 lbs
2 years
9" triangulated concentric elliptical waterproof search coil
Coins: up to 12 inches
Big objects: up to 39 inches
Depth indicator, Digital Target ID, Pinpointer
5 years
Coins: up to 8 inches
Big objects: up to 24 inches
5 years
The brightness level of the display can be adjusted in 9 steps, which will allow you to work comfortably, and also at night. There is a 3.5mm headphone jack if you don't want to make excessive noise.
The instructions are not complete.
The RM RICOMAX metal detector is an adjustable length unit that can be used by both adults and children. The operation of the device can be configured in 4 modes so that you can accurately adjust to your goals. The set comes with a storage case and a shovel.
6.5 kHz
10" waterproof search coil
Up to 10 inches detection depth
LCD screen, Visual and sound indication
4 modes (All Metal mode, Disc mode, Notch mode, P/P mode)
Smooth sensitivity adjustment
Digital target ID, Depth indicator
Advanced DSP chip, Adjustable height from 41.3" to 47.6", Adjustable light (0-9 level), 3.5 mm headphone jack, Waterproof IP68, Carrying bag, Shovel included
2.31 lbs
1 year
The sensitivity meter lets you assess the signal strength so that you're able to decide whether to dig it up or not. You can set the shaft to anywhere between 34.5" and 45.5". The motion all-metal mode and trash elimination control work wonders helping you find only the treasure you want and exclude the garbage you couldn't less care about.
The search coil is relatively small.
The Bounty Hunter Gold Digger is excellent for beginners. The model is equally suitable for inexperienced adults and teenagers. It is as lightweight as they come, perfect for the little hands that will be carrying it around. Plus, the 7-inch coil is very much waterproof.
6.6 kHz
7" waterproof search coil
Coins: up to 6 inches
Big objects: up to 24 inches
Needle analog indicator, Sound indication
Motion All-Metal mode, Discrimination mode, 3-Tone audio mode
Smooth sensitivity adjustment
Preset ground balance, Disc/notch control
Adjustable length (34.5" to 45.5"), Headphones included
2.2 lbs
5 years
Best Metal Detector for the Beach
Garrett Ace 300 is everything the company has been able to introduce to the metal detecting game during in the last decade or so. The model's specs are excellent and every little detail here plays its role. We can start practically anywhere here, but we really want to do that with what's been done to the Digital Target ID feature, so let's go with it first. With its 0 to 99 scale, the feature offers comprehensive and precise target information.
Of course, the feature wouldn't be worth much without the right coil. That's where the 7" x 10" PROformance™ submersible search coil comes into play. Incorporating increased coil diameter, this not-so-little component is able to offer more coverage and more depth.
At the same time, you could make an argument that the model's increased frequency (8 kHz) is what really makes the most difference here. It works wonders providing better sensitivity on low and medium-conductivity targets like gold and lead.
Ace 250 was an excellent metal finder in and of itself. But its successor is better on many levels. Among other things, the model features twice the iron resolution compared to its predecessor and is able to do a much better job overcoming targets masking in iron-laden hunt sites.
Hunt It All
Other than that, it is the little things that seal the deal and make the model one of the best metal detectors for gold hunting and many other activities like that. For example, the detector's adjustable frequency will allow you to eliminate interference. There's a camlock that improves stem stability.
The Pulse-Width Modulation audio is hardly a little thing but we will add the feature to the category anyway. The sharper, more responsive audio that it is able to deliver makes the model much more practical overall.
You can't go wrong with the device's electronic pinpointing function. The way it can precisely locate targets and accelerate recovery will make a huge difference both in the short and long run.
We've seen notch discrimination before but it is seldom as effective as it is here. You'll be able to easily modify discrimination patterns based on what it is that you are seeking.
The model's 5 search modes (not including the usual Pinpoint feature) will let you adapt and adjust to the environment and different targets. Its 8 sensitivity and depth adjustments serve a similar purpose. The coin depth Indicator does an excellent job determining target depth. Last but not least, the expanded target ID legend is able to indicate U.S. coin denominations.
In short, Garrett Ace 300 is probably the overall best metal detector on the list. Its excellent specs and improved features make the model perfect for coin hunting, different competition events, dry beach and freshwater hunting, prospecting, jewelry and relic hunting, the list goes on.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $254.95 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B07BR1L7SR |
What customers say about this product
Size & Weight(4.6)
Features(4.6)
Key Specs(4.6)
Detection(4.6)
Specifications
Operation Modes and Controls
Extras
| Last updated price | $219.00 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B010FB32IU |
What customers say about this product
Key Specs(4.6)
Size & Weight(4.5)
Detection(4.6)
Features(5)
Specifications
The Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV refers to the entry-level segment but offers an outstanding performance. 8" detector coil makes this digital eye peer through an 8" thick ground layer detecting small objects while the maximum detection depth reaches 24" depending on a metal type and object size. The operating frequency of 6.6 kHz of the TK4 metal detector provides a good iron and precious metals detection. And while that isn't the most impressive operating frequency you would be able to find on the market, the range of detectable metals includes gold, silver, brass, aluminum, iron, and steel.
Operation Modes and Controls
The TK4 Tracker IV model comes equipped with a needle indicator, which allows discriminating one metal from another based on its conductivity. The preset ground balance neutralizes response of the device to a noise produced by mineral content in the ground. The stepped sensitivity adjustment of this metal detector also serves for filtering off any interference. Two-tone sound notification of metal detection enables you to differentiate between the detected metal types. In turn, switching from the Motion all-metal mode to the Discrimination mode will allow you to search for non-ferrous metals in a much more effective way. The submersible detector coil makes it possible to search for metal objects in shallow water with this metal detector.
Another thing we would like to point out is the fact that the Bounty Hunter TK4 metal detector comes with an S-shaped handle that provides a firm grip and comfortable device use throughout a whole day. The curved armrest with a foam pad prevents your hand from slipping when handling the device and effectively absorbs moisture. All the members of your family and friends can use this metal detector as it has an adjustable shaft length. The Bounty Hunter TK4 is also easy to store and carry in a bag or transport in a car trunk due to the disassemblable design of the detector. The 2.9-pound weight of the Tracker IV model makes it easy to carry around so both teenagers and adults can search for relics and coins with it.
| Last updated price | $99.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B00005A3L1 |
What customers say about this product
Features(4.3)
Key Specs(4.6)
Detection(4.5)
Size & Weight(4.5)
Fit for Every Age
Whether you’re treasure hunting or want to check out the new land spot, the RM RICOMAX metal detector is ready to assist you. It’s strong, convenient, and waterproof, just the way you’d want it.
Let’s start with the fact that this unit is super lightweight and can be adjusted in height from 41.3 to 47.6 inches. Thanks to that, it can be used not only by adults but by children as well, and without getting their arms too tired in the process. If your kid is fixed on finding treasure (read: gold and silver coins), just take them to a nearby field or a beach – and easily win the Parent of the Year award.
The LCD screen in this model is easily readable and shows you things like the detection mode or sensitivity level. It lights up at the 0-9 level, so you can adjust it for the nighttime use. The yellow color of the detector is also helpful if you’re using the device after dark.
The 4 modes you can utilize with this detector are: All Metal, Disc, Notch, and P/P. The first one lets you find a lot of metal types, such as iron, bronze, or gold; the second and the third ones allow you to exclude unwanted metal; and the last one serves for pinpointing your target.
Ground or Water, Doesn’t Matter
What makes this metal detector even better is that it’s IP68 waterproof and can be used to search for treasure/metal underwater. Take it to the beach or a local river – and be surprised at what hides beneath the surface. Just be sure to adjust the sensitivity so that the device doesn’t give you false alarms.
With the large 10" search coil, the detector covers a bigger area in one pass. It is also more accurate due to the advanced DSP chip and can find things at an up to 10" depth. This is made possible via the automated balance coil technology. Perfect for beginners, the detector will also suit professionals with its upscale features and a more accurate search.
Don’t want the noise to bother those around you? No problem. This unit includes a handy 3.5 mm headphone jack. All you need to do is connect the headset, and you’re ready to treasure hunt without making a fuss.
Even better; you’ll discover a carrying bag and a sturdy shovel to dig out your findings in the package. RM RICOMAX gives you all the support that’s needed in the field.
Summing up, this smart and user-friendly metal detector will be a fun and useful tool for an outdoor trip.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B07VV8JND3 |
Private Searches in Crowded Places
Bounty Hunter Gold Digger is arguably the best metal detector for beginners on the list. It isn't the most effective and/or functional model here. At the same time, it is not very complicated and its metal detecting capabilities are good enough for the inexperienced crowd.
You'll be able to use the model practically anywhere to search for various valuable metals, from gold coins and iron relics to different household items. The people behind the device recommend it for coin, jewelry, and relic hunting first and foremost. At the same time, it is pretty good for gold prospecting and utility applications.
We really like just how adjustable the model is. You can set the shaft to anywhere between 34.5" and 45.5", making the detector more or less equally suitable for teenagers and adults. We can also extend a similar sentiment towards the headphone jack and headphones that come with the package. With these bad boys, you will be able to use the model for private searches in crowded places.
The metal detector is good for beginners but it is not a basic model at all. The motion all-metal mode and trash elimination control work wonders helping you find only the treasure you want and exclude the garbage you couldn't less care about. The device is very well able to detect coin-sized objects up to 6 inches deep underground and senses larger items up to 2 feet deep.
The Right Fit for Children
Bounty Hunter Gold Digger isn't without its flaws. Its relatively limited 6.6 kHz frequency doesn't present particularly excellent sensitivity on low and medium-conductivity targets like gold and lead. The 7-inch search coil is a little small too. You just won't be able to cover the same distance within the same time frame with this model as you'd be able to with a 10-inch coil.
But, as far as we're concerned, these are the only real issues with the detector. On the bright side, it is a breeze to operate. There are only two knobs here that you'll have to tinker with. The first knob is there to let you control the power level and sensitivity, while the second knob controls the trash eliminator, letting you set the discrimination where you want to avoid junk signals.
Other than that, the model comes equipped with 3 very different audio tones that will help you discriminate between the targets and a sensitivity meter that lets you assess the signal strength so that you're able to decide whether to dig it up or not.
Once more, Bounty Hunter Gold Digger is excellent for beginners. The model is equally suitable for inexperienced adults and teenagers. It is as lightweight as they come, perfect for the little hands that will be carrying it around. Plus, the 7-inch coil is very much waterproof.
| Last updated price | $62.71 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B0002J1LNO |
Infographics
What Is a Metal Detector?
A handheld metal detector is a tool that consists of an oscillator, which produces an alternating current that passes through a coil generating an alternating magnetic field. When the coil gets close to a piece of electrically conductive metal, eddy currents (also called vortex of Foucault currents) are induced in the metal, thus producing a magnetic field of their own. The distortion of the magnetic field caused by the presence of a metallic object can be detected if another (identical, D-shape or concentric) coil is used to measure the density of the magnetic field. Nowadays a metal detector is not only an instrument for finding various metal objects under the ground but also a thing that offers you an enjoyable time spending with your family or friends in the field. The search for ancient coins and artifacts is an exciting occupation for your children to get involved in, which makes them learn new things about the history of your area. Using a handheld metal detector is a hobby that can be fun and interesting as well as profitable. The practical use of a metal detector can help you clean a land plot of metal scrap and junk buried under the ground or find an adornment lost in your garden.
To help you make the right choice we have compiled 5 different metal detectors reviews and singled out the main features, which you should keep in mind when buying such a device. If you are a fan of alfresco pastime, you may find headlamps and sleeping bags objects of your interest, which can make you spend a night outdoors with comfort.
What Features to Compare
Specifications
When choosing an appropriate metal detector you need to consider several aspects, which affect metal detection efficiency. First, you need to learn about the Specifications of a detector model in question. The operating frequency of a metal detector has a direct influence on the types of metals detected. If you are to choose a tool for searching for base metal objects on your land plot then you should look at the models with operating frequency of up to 5 kHz as they are very affordable and capable of effective detection of non-precious metals. The metal detector models with an operating frequency from 6 to 9 kHz range are best fit for finding precious metals and ancient coins. In case you decided to go digging for artifacts or precious metal objects and adornments you need to arm yourself with an operating frequency of 10 kHz and higher as these metal detectors are optimal for detecting different types of metals in big depths. The ability to peer deep under the ground will definitely come in handy for professional diggers.
A detector coil type, its size, and shape are of much importance when analyzing a metal detector features. The most popular coils used by metal detector vendors are mono coils because they are very effective in detecting base and precious metals at different depths. These advantages render them a number one choice for the vast majority of middle- and entry-level metal detectors.
DD-shape (D-shape) coils are grouped back-to-back to form a circle, which enables them to detect a type and burial depth of metal with high precision. Such coils are often used in professional metal detectors. When it comes to the size and shape of detector coil one should remember that the bigger coil covers a larger area and can be swept over the same territory faster but this comes as a tradeoff for a slightly reduced detection precision. The smaller coils, on the contrary, can locate metal objects more precisely due to a smaller area of coverage, but they require more time to perform a search on a specific territory.
Operation Modes and Controls
The next group of aspects for you to consider includes device Operation Modes and Controls. For example, different configuration profiles of a metal detector allow detecting specific types of metal and discarding the other, which enables a discrimination among the artifacts you are after and prevents you from digging for a scrap. Thus, applying your own configuration profile greatly increases the search efficiency. Some metal detectors support a depth meter function, with which you can obtain information on the burial depth of a precious ring or a coin. The feature of detector sensitivity adjustment provides an easier search and makes it possible to filter the interference and noise produced by mineralized soil or nearby transmission lines. Extra features, such as determination of the type of a metal object or even a denomination value of coins are the pros when considering a metal detecting device. A digital pinpointer feature provides detailed info on the location of an object in the ground so you can excavate this object without damaging it. Big and informative screen and various data displaying configurations allow you to choose a mode that suits you best and easily read the detector info. While a multitone sound indication of metal detection empowers you to distinguish different metals by ear.
Extras
Having decided upon the Specifications and Operation modes of a metal detector you are about to purchase you should gain insight into its Extras, which facilitate the detector use very much. If you plan to search for coins and adornments in the water we strongly encourage you to buy metal detector models with waterproof coil assemblies in order to avoid damaging the detector. To be able to search for artifacts and precious metal objects in adverse weather conditions you need to pick a detector model with a rainproof control unit. Some detectors feature a shaft with an adjustable length to help you further customize the device and provide a comfortable long-term usage. The collapsible or foldable design of metal detectors will help you transport such devices in your vehicle’s trunk or put it in a bag. The Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity enables you to save location data and search results as well as share your data with other detectorists. The small weight of a metal detector is also a big advantage for continuous use of the device.
Sources:
1. Chris Woodford Metal detectors, Explain that Stuff. July 31, 2017.
2. Metal detector, Wikipedia.
3. How Do Metal Detectors Work? Wonderopolis.
4. Mary Bellis History of the Metal Detector, ThoughtCo. March 6, 2017.
5. Dillon McLaughlin 6 Real World Treasure Hunts That Could Make You Rich, Cool Material.