How to Start Metal Detecting: A Beginner's Step-by-Step Guide

Want to start metal detecting but not sure how? You're not alone. Lots of people are using metal detector to search for coins, jewelry, and other cool stuff.

This guide will show you how to start metal detecting, step by step. Let's get started!

Why Try Metal Detecting?

Metal detecting is more than just a hobby. It’s like going on a treasure hunt. Every beep could mean you found something neat.

How to Start Metal Detecting?

Ready to give metal detecting a try? Here’s how you can get started step by step:

Step 1: Pick the Right Metal Detector

First, you need a metal detector. There are different types. Some are for coins, others for gold, and some work better at the beach.

If you’re new, choose one that’s simple to use. You don’t need a fancy machine. Just make sure it has basic settings like sensitivity and discrimination.

At DetectorWarehouse, Explore high-quality beginner metal detectors. We can help you find the right one for your needs and your budget.

Step 2: Learn the Basics

Before you start hunting, learn how your detector works. Most detectors have three main settings:

• Sensitivity: Tells how deep it can search.
• Discrimination: Helps skip over junk items.
• Ground Balance: Helps deal with minerals in the soil.

Not sure what these mean? Check out our guide: How To Setup Metal Detector.

Step 3: Get the Right Gear

You don’t need a lot of stuff, but some tools will help:

• A digging tool (like a small shovel)
• A pouch or bag to carry your finds
• Headphones so you can hear quiet beeps
• Gloves to protect your hands

Extra tools: A pinpointer (to help find things faster) and a logbook to write down what you find.

You can find all of these metal detector accessories at DetectorWarehouse.

Step 4: Choose a Good Location

Where you look is super important. Good places include:

• Parks (ask about the rules)
• Beaches
• Old houses (get permission)
• Schoolyards
• Campsites

Always ask before going on private land. Some places also need special permission.

You can detect in many public spots, but each place has its own rules. Be sure to follow them. You can also explore some exciting destinations in our guide: Top 10 Historic Sites.

Step 5: Learn the Rules

It’s important to follow the rules of metal detecting:

• Fill in the holes you dig
• Don’t leave trash
• Tell someone if you find something really old
• Don’t go in places where detecting is not allowed

Respecting the rules helps keep the hobby fun for everyone.

Step 6: Start Detecting

Now for the fun part! Turn on your detector and begin. Start in your yard or a park. Move slowly. Sweep the coil side to side, close to the ground.

When it beeps, stop. Use your pinpointer or dig gently. You might find something cool!

The more you practice, the better you’ll get at understanding the sounds.

Need more tips? Check out our blog: Beginners Guide to Metal Detecting.

Step 7: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Beginners sometimes make small mistakes. Watch out for these. You can also read our full post on this topic: 10 Common Beginner Metal Detecting Mistakes:

• Going too fast: You’ll miss things. Take it slow.
• Skipping signals: When you're new, dig most beeps to learn.
• Forgetting the rules: Know where it’s okay to search.
• Not using headphones: You might miss quiet sounds.

Step 8: Keep a Finds Log

Write down what you find, where you found it, and when. Over time, this helps you see patterns. You’ll know where to go back and what works best.

It’s also fun to look back and see all your finds.

Step 9: Join a Community

Metal detecting is more fun with others. Join a club or online group. You can get tips, go on group hunts, and ask questions.

Sharing with others helps you learn more and enjoy the hobby even more.

Final Thoughts

Getting started with metal detecting is easy. With the right tools and a little practice, you’ll be ready for your own treasure hunt.

Whether you find something valuable or just enjoy the search, it’s always fun.

At DetectorWarehouse, we’re here to help you start. From finding the right detector to giving helpful tips, we’ve got you covered.

Happy hunting!