The Best All-Around Metal Detectors

Metal finding is more than just a sport; it's an adventure full of thrills and the chance to find something new. No matter how much experience you have as a treasure hunter or how new you are to metal detecting, having the right tool can make all the difference in how well you do. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about all-around metal detectors and help you choose the best one for your treasure finding travels.

 

The Basics of Metal Detecting

Let's start with the basics before we talk about the best metal detectors for all purposes. Metal finding is a fun hobby in which you use a special tool to find metal items that are buried in the ground. Things like old coins and jewelry, historical items, and even hidden wealth can be among these things.

How Metal Detectors Work

Electromagnetic induction is what makes metal detectors work. It sends out a magnetic field when you move the search head (coil) over the ground. When this field hits something made of metal, it creates an electric current in the metal, which then creates its own magnetic field. The metal detector's coil notices this change and sends a sound or light signal to the person to let them know.

Types of Metal Detectors

There are various types of metal detectors designed for specific purposes, including:

• Coin and relic detectors: Ideal for finding coins, jewelry, and historical artifacts.
• Gold detectors: Specially tuned to detect small gold nuggets in mineralized soil.
• Beach detectors: Equipped to handle the unique challenges of saltwater beaches.
• Underwater detectors: Designed for underwater treasure hunting in lakes, rivers, and oceans.

 

Choosing the Right All-Around Metal Detector

Now that you know the basics of metal detecting, it's time to pick the best all-around metal detector for your needs. These devices can be used in a lot of different treasure-hunting situations. Here are some important things to think about:

Discrimination and Target ID

The ability to tell the difference between different kinds of metals is one of the most important things about an all-around metal detector. Target ID technology can help you find what's hidden below the ground, so you can focus on finding valuable things and ignore things like bottle caps and nails that you don't want.

Depth and Sensitivity

An important thing to consider is how deep a metal detector can find things. To improve your chances of finding lower targets, look for a device whose sensitivity levels can be changed. Think about the fact that goals that are deeper are often older and more important.

Ground Balance

A metal detector may not work as well in some kinds of soil or settings. A good all-around monitor should have a ground balance tool that lets you change the settings for different types of ground, like sandy or salty beaches.

Weight and Ergonomics

It can be hard on your body to do metal finding if you swing your detector for hours on end. Think about how heavy the detector is and how comfy it is to use. A detector that is light and easy to use will make your hunts more fun.

Budget

Metal detectors cost a lot of different amounts, so it's important to make a budget that fits your needs and wants. Even though it might be tempting to buy the most expensive model, there are great choices at every price point.

 

The Best All-Around Metal Detectors

Let's look at some of the best metal detectors that can do a lot of different things. These detectors were picked because they work well, have useful features, and are a good deal for treasure hunters of all types.

Garrett ACE 400

The Garrett ACE 400 is a top-notch all-around metal detector known for its reliability and ease of use. It offers excellent discrimination and target ID capabilities, making it suitable for finding coins, jewelry, and relics. With adjustable sensitivity and a digital target ID display, it's a versatile choice for both beginners and experienced detectorists.

1. Digital Target ID: The Ace 400 provides a numeric scale from 0 to 99, indicating the conductivity of the target. This feature helps users identify the type of metal they are likely to find, improving target discrimination.

2. Iron Audio: This feature allows users to hear discriminated iron and adjust the detector's mid-tone signal range. It helps in identifying desirable targets even in areas with a lot of iron trash.

3. Adjustable Frequency: The detector offers a frequency adjustment feature to help eliminate interference from other nearby metal detectors. It allows users to change frequencies, reducing the chance of signal overlap.

4. Depth Indicator: The Ace 400 includes a depth indicator that provides information about how deep the target is buried. This feature helps users determine the effort required for digging.

5. Pulse-Width Modulation Audio: This technology offers sharper, more responsive audio sound whenever the metal detector's coil passes over a target. It helps in identifying targets more accurately.

6. Electronic Pinpointing: The Ace 400 allows for precise locating of targets with its electronic pinpointing feature. It narrows down the exact location of the target within the detection coil's diameter.

7. Five Search Modes: The detector comes with five search modes: Zero Discrimination, Coins, Jewelry, Relics, and Custom. Each mode is optimized for specific types of targets, allowing users to customize their search based on what they are looking for.

8. Adjustable Sensitivity: Users can adjust the sensitivity level of the detector to enhance its ability to detect targets at varying depths. Higher sensitivity settings increase the detection depth but may also detect smaller or less conductive items.

9. Large LCD Screen: The Ace 400 features a large, easy-to-read LCD screen that displays target information, settings, and battery status. It provides a clear visual interface for users to monitor their detector's performance.

10. Waterproof Search Coil: The search coil of the Ace 400 is waterproof, allowing users to use the detector in shallow water or damp conditions. However, it's important to note that the control box is not waterproof and must be kept dry.

 

Minelab Equinox 800

The Minelab Equinox 800 is a high-end all-terrain metal detector that excels in a variety of hunting environments. Its multi-frequency technology allows it to detect a wide range of targets, including small gold nuggets. The Equinox 800 also features automatic ground balancing and customizable search modes, making it a powerful tool for serious treasure hunters.

1. Multi-IQ Technology: The Equinox 800 utilizes Multi-IQ technology, which allows it to simultaneously operate on multiple frequencies (5 kHz, 10 kHz, 15 kHz, 20 kHz, and 40 kHz). This technology ensures superior target detection and recovery in different ground conditions.

2. Waterproof Design: The detector is fully submersible and waterproof up to 10 feet (3 meters). This feature makes it ideal for beach and underwater metal detecting, allowing users to explore in and around water bodies with confidence.

3. Wireless Audio: Equipped with built-in Bluetooth technology, the Equinox 800 is compatible with wireless headphones. Users can enjoy a clutter-free detecting experience without the hassle of tangled wires.

4. Custom Search Profiles: The detector allows users to create and save their own custom search profiles. This feature enables users to switch between different settings and configurations quickly, depending on the type of hunting they are doing.

5. Simultaneous Multi-Frequency: The Equinox 800 can transmit and receive multiple frequencies simultaneously, ensuring exceptional target sensitivity across a wide range of target types and sizes.

6. Detect Modes: The detector offers several preset detect modes tailored for specific types of targets, including Park, Beach, Field, Gold, and Custom modes. Each mode is optimized for specific environments and target types, providing users with efficient and effective searching options.

7. Adjustable Discrimination: Users can customize the discrimination patterns and target IDs to ignore unwanted targets. This feature allows detectorists to focus on specific types of finds, enhancing their overall detecting experience.

8. Recovery Speed: The Equinox 800 features adjustable recovery speed settings, enabling users to find multiple targets in close proximity without losing valuable signals. This feature is especially useful in trashy areas where targets are closely packed together.

9. GPS Location and Mapping: The detector can store GPS coordinates of your finds, allowing you to track your discoveries and revisit productive locations. The GPS data can be accessed and mapped using compatible software.

10. Large Backlit LCD Screen: The Equinox 800 features a large, backlit LCD screen that displays essential information such as target ID, depth, battery status, and search mode. The intuitive interface makes it easy for users to navigate settings and monitor the detector's performance.

 

Fisher F75

The Fisher F75 is a lightweight and ergonomic metal detector that offers impressive depth and sensitivity. It's renowned for its ability to detect coins at impressive depths and its exceptional discrimination capabilities. With multiple search modes and a large LCD screen, the Fisher F75 is a favorite among experienced detectorists.

1. Digital Target ID (0-99): The F75 provides a numeric scale indicating the conductivity of the target, helping users identify the type of metal they are likely to find and improving target discrimination.

2. Multiple Search Modes: The detector offers several search modes, including Discrimination, All Metals, and a variety of preset programs like Coin and Jewelry. These modes allow users to customize their searches for different types of targets.

3. Adjustable Operating Frequency: The F75 allows users to manually adjust the operating frequency (5 kHz, 15 kHz, or 30 kHz) to better suit the specific conditions and targets they are searching for.

4. Visual and Audio Target Identification: The detector provides both visual and audio cues to identify targets. In addition to the numeric Target ID, the detector offers a two-digit VDI number, an audio tone, and a visual target indicator, making it easier to identify potential finds.

5. Adjustable Discrimination: Users can customize the discrimination patterns and sensitivity settings, allowing them to focus on specific types of targets while ignoring unwanted items.

6. Enhanced Iron Discrimination: The F75 offers adjustable iron discrimination, making it easier to differentiate between iron targets and valuable finds.

7. Fe-Tone Adjustable Iron Audio: This feature allows users to set the volume and response of the iron audio, providing enhanced target differentiation in iron-laden areas.

8. Double-Filter Discrimination Modes: The F75 includes two discrimination filters to improve the detection of faint and deep targets while reducing interference from trash items.

9. Pinpoint Mode: The detector has a pinpoint mode for precise location of targets, making it easier to locate and recover items in the ground.

10. Large and Backlit LCD Screen: The F75 features a large, backlit LCD screen that displays important information, including target ID, depth, operating mode, and battery status. The display is easy to read in various lighting conditions.

 

Nokta Makro Simplex Ultra

The Nokta Makro Simplex Ultra is an affordable yet highly capable all-around metal detector. It's designed for beginners and offers excellent value for its price. With its waterproof design, automatic ground balancing, and robust discrimination, it's an excellent choice for beachcombing and underwater treasure hunting.

1. Waterproof Design: The Simplex Ultra is fully submersible up to 5 meters (16 feet), making it ideal for beach and underwater metal detecting. Its waterproof construction allows users to explore in and around water bodies without worrying about damaging the device.

2. Multi-Frequency Operation: The detector operates at three different frequencies (5 kHz, 14 kHz, and 20 kHz), allowing users to adjust the frequency according to the specific metal detecting conditions and targets.

3. Built-in Wireless Module: The Simplex+ Ultra comes with a built-in wireless module, enabling users to connect wirelessly to Nokta Makro's wireless headphones (not included) for a cable-free metal detecting experience.

4. Iron Volume Control: Users can adjust the volume of iron signals separately from other targets. This feature helps in identifying ferrous targets and allows detectorists to focus on non-ferrous finds.

5. Notch Discrimination: The detector offers notch discrimination, allowing users to selectively ignore certain target IDs. This feature is useful for avoiding unwanted targets while searching in trashy areas.

6. Vibration and LED Flashlight: In addition to audio signals, the Simplex+ Ultra features vibration and an integrated LED flashlight. These features are especially handy in noisy environments or for metal detecting in low-light conditions.

7. Ground Balance: The detector offers automatic and manual ground balancing options, allowing users to adjust for mineralization and maintain stable performance in various soil conditions.

8. Backlit LCD Display: The large, backlit LCD display provides clear and easy-to-read information, including target ID, depth, discrimination patterns, and battery status. The backlight ensures visibility in low-light situations.

9. Search Modes: The Simplex Ultra features various search modes, including All Metal, Field, Park, and Beach modes. Each mode is optimized for specific types of targets and ground conditions, providing users with versatility during metal detecting sessions.

10. Rechargeable Built-in Battery: The detector is equipped with a built-in rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for external battery packs. The USB charging port allows for convenient charging on the go.

 

XP Deus

For those who crave ultimate performance and customization, the XP Deus is a top-tier all-around metal detector. It's incredibly lightweight and features wireless technology for maximum freedom of movement. The XP Deus offers unmatched depth and sensitivity, making it suitable for finding both small targets and larger relics.

1. Wireless Technology: The XP Deus is completely wireless, including the coil, headphones, and remote control. This wireless design allows for freedom of movement and eliminates tangled cables, providing a more convenient metal detecting experience.

2. Multiple Frequency Options: The XP Deus operates on multiple frequencies, ranging from 4 kHz to 80 kHz. Users can choose from a wide range of frequencies to suit different types of metal detecting tasks, including relic hunting, coin shooting, and gold prospecting.

3. Customizable Programs: The detector offers a variety of pre-programmed modes for different types of targets and terrains. Additionally, users can create and save their own custom programs, tailoring the settings to their specific preferences and hunting conditions.

4. Full-Color LCD Remote Control: The XP Deus features a full-color LCD screen on the remote control unit, providing clear visual feedback on target information, discrimination patterns, depth readings, and battery status. The intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate and adjust settings.

5. Adjustable Discrimination: Users can customize discrimination patterns to filter out unwanted targets, allowing for more efficient and targeted metal detecting. The discrimination settings can be fine-tuned to focus on specific metals or ignore common trash items.

6. Real-Time Ground Balance: The XP Deus offers automatic and manual ground balance options, allowing users to adjust the detector to different soil conditions. Real-time ground tracking ensures stable performance even in mineralized or changing ground environments.

7. Fast Recovery Speed: The detector's fast recovery speed enables it to quickly respond to multiple targets in close proximity. This feature is especially useful in trashy areas where targets are clustered together.

8. Lightweight and Ergonomic Design: The XP Deus is designed with portability and comfort in mind. The detector is lightweight, and its ergonomic build reduces fatigue during long metal detecting sessions, making it suitable for extended use.

9. Telescopic Shaft: The detector features a telescopic shaft that is adjustable to different lengths, accommodating users of various heights. The shaft is also collapsible, making it easy to transport and store.

10. Software Updates: The XP Deus is firmware-upgradable, allowing users to receive software updates and improvements from the manufacturer. Upgrades can enhance the detector's performance and add new features.

 

Tips for Successful Metal Detecting

No matter which all-around metal detector you pick, having the right tools isn't enough to be successful at metal finding. Here are some ways to make your prize finding better:

Research Your Hunting Locations

There is a lot to learn about metal finding. Find out about the past of the places you want to hunt to improve your chances of finding valuable things. Old maps, history records, and stories from the area can all teach us a lot.

Practice, Practice, Practice

To get good at using your metal detector, you need to put in time and practice. Use your garden or a nearby park to get to know your device better and improve your skills.

Be Respectful and Follow Laws

If you want to metal detect on private land, you should always get permission first and follow the rules and laws in your area. Be careful not to leave any marks on historical and cultural places.

Stay Patient and Persistent

Metal finding is a sport that takes time to get good at. It's not always possible to find gold, but when you do, it's worth it. If you keep at it, you'll finally find something useful.

 

Conclusion

Metal detecting is a fun and satisfying sport that can lead to amazing finds and adventures you'll never forget. Getting the right all-around metal detector is important for your success, and the ones in this guide are great options to think about.

Keep in mind that the best metal detector for you may rely on your goals, your income, and the type of terrain you want to browse. You can confidently find secret treasures if you have the right device and a love of finding new things. Have fun hunting!