"WHAT METAL DETECTOR SHOULD I BUY?"

Getting Into Gear Questions That Are So Frequently Asked

Folks we understand… If you’re new to Metal Detecting or have just been out of the game for several years it can be a little overwhelming with the choices now offered, and not to mention the prices ranges. You also may have been directed here from your favorite social media platform regarding other gear questions as well. We have covered a lot in this area so please read on, and if you have further questions just let us know.

Lets get started with the popular question - What is the best Metal Detector?
It really depends on your effort and a few things like understanding what you are looking to purchase. Look for things like Multi Frequency, and be sure you understand the difference between a detector that has multiple frequencies but will only run in one frequency at any given time. Some of the latest model detectors now have the ability to run multiple frequencies at the same time and that may help improve your overall results on most hunt sites.

If you are looking for a beach metal detector take the time to understand the difference between freshwater and saltwater detectors before you purchase. Just because one is waterproof does not mean it will perform very well on a saltwater beach.

There are many brands and types to choose from and it can be perplexing. While our top recommendation will always be taking the time to learn and research all the available options which would be very beneficial to your overall success as a detectorist, but for those that don’t have the time and might be looking to purchase as a gift, it would be best to contact a trusted dealer like LMS Metal Detecting to discuss your options before purchasing. It is also important to remember that many social media platforms may contain inaccurate information.

The Gear

A day outdoors metal detecting is made even better when you have the right tools at hand. Listed below are some of the most widely used metal detecting accessories for relic and/or beach detecting. You’ll find there are many variations, types, and styles offered. Stay away from cheap knockoffs that look similar to original name brand equipment. They are basically garbage and not the best way to make your hunting easy, fun, and most importantly, productive.

Digging Tools

When it comes to metal detecting digging tools, you’ll want to invest in specialized digging equipment designed specifically for the Metal Detectorist. These tools should be lightweight, sharp, and very durable. They are normally much more durable than your standard hardware store gardening tools. Depending on your needs you will find many will include a right, left, or both edge serration for cutting clean plugs and easily ripping through smaller roots.

Larger digging tools will run about 36” long with various shorter lengths and blade widths. The smaller 11.5” hand diggers are great for parks and yard permissions where a 36” digger might be a little more than a parks and rec service would like to see regardless of how well you can dig a clean plug. Most people will always see a larger digging tool as being more destructive or have the potential of being more destructive. Therefore, many seasoned detectorists will have a few different digging tools for the areas they plan to hunt.

A larger 31” to 36” digging tool will save some time while standing-up and using your leg for leverage like any normal shovel. These are great for field and wooded land permissions. They will also cut a nice clean plug for a neat, finished result. It is common for these tools to often become dull and require sharpening for best results. There are various blade shapes and styles available to choose from in the store. If you’re not sure how to dig a proper plug, we recommend watching a few videos on that topic. Leaving a no trace plug sure makes everyone happy!

Pinpointers

Pinpointers are extremely useful tools for quickly locating a target and they have rapidly become popular with all kinds of hobbyists and trade workers throughout different industries. If you didn’t already know, some basic version pinpointers have now been upgraded at a slightly higher cost with wireless technology to connect to your compatible control unit for a seamless audio experience or even work with your display as well. You’ll be tempted to discard the instructions as these units do seem like a turn on and go tool, but that’s just not the case anymore. Please be sure to fully read the directions to maximize your experience and performance with them. We expect to see all kinds of new advancements with these accessory tools in the very near future.

Nokta | Makro also has a unique IP68 waterproof PulseDive Pointer that has a removable pointer tip and is completely interchangeable with a 5.5” Mono coil. These are great for tight areas and diving up to 60 meters, or 200 feet. It does include a built-in wireless module compatible with the Nokta Makro 2.4 GHz Green Edition Wireless Headphones (non-waterproof)

Handheld GPS Systems

GPS systems are vital tools if you’re going to be in unknown areas and off the beaten path. Used properly they will be able to get you back to the location where you began. They are also used to mark GPS coordinates of targets you may find while mapping your tracks throughout a remote site. They are very useful on large sites where you want to see where you have been, and where you want to go. Many of these units can be a little difficult to setup, so we recommend you test them out in areas that you’re familiar with to make sure you have a good understanding of how they function before you are solely depending on it for navigation and not sure about what its telling you to do.

A few things to consider most handheld GPS units are much more advanced than the built in GPS functions on metal detectors. They work well enough, but if you’re considering a high-end metal detector just for the added GPS option, you might be a little disappointed with the basic function. Garmin does offer RAM mounts for most of their products, so plenty of options are available for mounting these units in just the right spot.

Coil Stiffeners and Damaged Coils

Aftermarket coil stiffeners for the Equinox Series do a fine job of shoring things up. However, to many people are still finding themselves with damaged coils by mistakenly overlooking some required maintenance at this connection. If you’re a regular weekend metal detecting warrior, you should annually inspect these rubber spacer washers for wear. They might not look like they need to be replaced, but more than likely they are worn out and creating unnecessary stress on the coil mounting bracket and should be replaced with a coil wear kit. These kits are available at LMS Metal Detecting for various name brands and types.

If you decide to purchase an aftermarket coil stiffener, you’ll find that the prices are mostly very high for what you are actually receiving.
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Adding a different coil to your arsenal is a great option

Different coil sizes can improve your overall odds and productivity. A larger coil will enable you to cover more ground and detect deeper objects, but there is also a disadvantage with the lacking of sensitivity to smaller targets. Large coils also can be quite problematic with Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI) greatly depending on your location. This might require further notching down that sensitivity setting making them less effective for the area you’re hunting in. So if your metal detecting site is not loaded down with close proximity targets and you’re able to overcome any EMI issues at respectful sensitivity setting, than your most like going to have a good productive day.

On the other hand, medium sized coils have greater sensitivity to smaller targets and are less susceptible to EMI conditions while still covering a decent amount of ground. You’ll also have better target separation.

Small coils also have a greater sensitivity to smaller shallow targets as well, and much less susceptible to EMI. They are generally used on sites where targets are in very close proximity with undesirable iron targets. There is also the added benefit that small coils can fit in very confined areas.

Carbon Fiber and Telescopic Metal Detector Shafts

Carbon fiber shafts have become a common upgrade for detectorists over time. The added strength and light weight qualities are much better than some older OEM stock shafts. Telescopic models are also available making storage and transporting your metal detector much easier. There are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about this type of upgrade. Most OEM shaft systems have different types of locks between the upper and lower shafts holding them together, and over time many of them start to fail causing a wobble issue. This issue was normally the main reason for seeking a better shaft system. Unfortunately, this issue hasn’t been fully resolved by some of these carbon fiber shaft systems, some telescopic models can often be even worse. The best carbon fiber shafts will have a cam lock style that is very similar to the RAM mount locking system, and you can be certain they will hold up very well. Cost has nothing to do with quality here. Some of the more expensive product lines have failed, so be sure to find a good cam locking shaft system for your upgrade. You’ll be much happier that you did.

Custom Made Sand Scoops for Beach Hunters

After 30 years of Beach Hunting you learn things that make a big difference with your success rate, and let me tell you the time you spend digging for each target can have a major impact on your overall success. Did you know a good beach recovery speed is normally less than one or two minutes from first hearing the target to filling the hole back in? A good quality sand scoop plays a large role in this.

Understandably you wouldn’t want to spend a lot of money on a sand scoop if you didn’t visit the beach very often, so LMS Metal Detecting (literally) answered the call for need. We have been contacted so many times about sand scoops that we began selling and leasing them in early 2017. These are high quality stainless steel sand scoops that are designed to be strong with a lightweight fiberglass or carbon fiber handle. They are also made with the proper angel of approach for maximum comfort that your back will appreciate. We will deliver the sand scoop to the resort where you are staying at with a minimum two day lease. Long weekend rates and full weekly rates are also available.

New custom Pro-Fortis sand scoops are also available to purchase!

Don't forget the small gear

You'll want a good pair of gloves to keep your hands safe from buried glass and other sharp objects.

A good finds pouch for your belt or vest type is something you will need.

Hand warmers for those cold days, and cooling towels work pretty well on the hot days too.

Keep some extra batteries in your vehicle all times because your hunting buddies will most likely need them... and always hide some for yourself too!

A special thank you to the friends we have made throughout our travels. We truly appreciate your support, and we’re so grateful for the trust you’ve placed in us with your property. We sincerely hope you are satisfied with your experience and will recommend us in the future.

Office Hours

Sunday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tuesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Thursday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm

LMS Metal Detecting

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