Are you interested in starting a treasure hunting hobby? If your answer is yes, you will need to start looking for a reliable metal detector. Now, the kind you need is not the one you see by the entrances of airports and commercial establishments utilized for crime prevention. Instead, you should check this list of the precise effective devices by Garrett, Minelab, Nokta, and Fisher. .
Metal detectors come in many varieties, in fact. They differ depending on what types of metal they detect, and what physical climate and terrain they can be used in, among others. Metal detectors employ different technologies like very low frequency (VLF), pulse induction (PI), and ground balance in order to perform their specific functions. If you are planning to buy one, make sure to continue reading.
1. Garrett ACE 400 (Best All-around) $339.96
Features Include:
- Digital target ID to identify metal conductivity
- Electric pinpointing
- Adjustable arm strap and cuff
- ACE 400 Iron Audio
The Garrett Ace 400 is the flagship model of the ACE lineup. This inexpensive metal detector has an adjustable frequency to minimize interference from other sources. It enables you to dig more treasure and less trash as it can differentiate valuable items from the likes of washers and bottle caps. The detector coil is also submersible for treasure hunting on the beach, shallow rivers, and streams.
It has eight sensitivity levels that help you find treasure in mineralized terrains or soil.
2. Minelab Vanquish 440 Metal Detector (2nd Best) $279
Features Include:
- Double-D coil for extreme versatility
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
- Pinpoint mode for locating targets
The Garett ACE 400 might be the best all-around metal detector, but the Minelab Vanquish 440 can compete with its affordable price and comparable functionality.
This affordable, high-quality metal detector is perfect for those looking to elevate their hunting experience. It has a simultaneous multi-frequency technology to help you detect different kinds of metals and elements. This metal detector can be used in different terrains as well.
3. Nokta Makro Simplex (Most Versatile) $299
Features Include:
- Night light for underwater and night use
- Vibrates upon detection of target
- Frequency shift
If you are looking for a beginner-friendly metal detector, then the Nokta Makro Simplex is the one for you. It is fully submersible and offers four preset search modes, including beach mode. It has a built-in battery that can be charged through USB. Its straight shaft paired with rigid tubing is sturdier compared to its competitors that feature an s-shaft design.
This metal detector also has firmware that can be updated effortlessly. With the large LCD screen, you can easily change the settings and modes of your device for better performance on certain terrains. It has a built-in wireless module compatible with wireless headphones. It is also lightweight, making it convenient to use, especially for the first-time hunter.
4. Nokta Makro Pulsedive Scuba Detector (Best for Underwater) $160.65
Features Include:
- Waterproof up to 60m
- LED Flashlight
- Available in black or yellow
- Detection alerts and indicators for different kinds of terrain
For those more adventurous, the Nokta Makro Pulsedive Scuba Detector is among the best underwater metal detectors available out there. It is lightweight and rugged, suitable for those treasure hunting sessions underwater.
Moreover, it is user-friendly and packed full of features. With its built-in flashlight, you don’t have to worry about looking for treasure in dark areas underwater. The device can also be used on land with surprisingly good performance, considering this thing is built for underwater treasure hunting. This metal detector should be your main rig if you spend a lot of time hunting underwater.
5. Fisher Gold Bug Pro (Best for Gold) $549
Features Include:
- Ultra-lightweight (2.5 lbs)
- Simple user interface
- Dual headphone jacks
- Ground grab, computerized ground balancing
The Fisher Gold Bug Pro gold detector is packed with features that make gold hunting a breeze. It has a wide frequency range so that you can detect small gold nuggets in highly mineralized soil. The detector also works well as an all-purpose metal detector but expect better performance when it comes to gold detection as this is where it shines.
Though the performance is great, this gold detector isn’t waterproof or submersible. This means you can’t go to wet areas to find gold. The best thing about this product is its five-year warranty, which you’ll appreciate.
