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Talk with an expert:
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, not to mention the price ranges. You may also have been directed here from your favorite social media platform with other gear questions. We have covered some basic topics here, but we highly recommend contacting us directly for answers to your specific needs.

Let's push through some basics, and a few new things to know:

The main types of metal detectors are Very Low Frequency (VLF), Pulse Induction (PI), and Beat Frequency Oscillator (BFO). VLF detectors are the most common for general use, while PI detectors are sometimes more powerful for deep targets and heavy mineralized soil. BFO detectors are simpler and often found in low-quality entry-level models, which we very seldom recommend. Other classifications exist based on their application, such as security (walk-through or handheld wands) and industrial conveyor systems for the food industry.

• Very Low Frequency (VLF): The most common type, VLF detectors use a low frequency to locate underground objects and are well-suited for general treasure hunting, coin shooting, and relic hunting.

  Understanding VLF with newer technologies applied: While the above statement still resonates, there is more to understand about VLF detectors today. They now have the ability to run in simultaneous frequencies that operate at the same time. This technology takes VLF to a higher level with the ability to run much higher frequency channels, resulting in very versatile metal detectors that can now handle mineralized soils and be used for gold prospecting quite well. Some of the very latest technologies are now combining VLF and PI tech into something called VLP, mainly used for gold prospecting in 2025, but this opens the door for coin shooters and relic hunters alike to see future detectors with extreme target separation and depth capabilities. We are excited to see where this leads in the future, with performance improving each year.

• Pulse Induction (PI): These detectors send a powerful pulse into the ground and measure the returning signal. They sometimes offer greater depth, and are effective in highly mineralized soils, and are often used for gold prospecting.

• Beat Frequency Oscillator (BFO): A simpler and more basic technology, BFO detectors are often found in very low cost entry-level models and are less sophisticated than VLF or PI systems. This simple technology can leave a new users rather frustrated with much higher expatiations. 

What to purchase:
Let's 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 want to purchase within your budget. At the same time, it’s essential to know that the cost won’t determine what the best metal detector is for you! If you are not sure, please talk to a dealer like LMS Metal Detecting, which will take the time to match you with the right metal detector for your specific needs. If you decide to move forward with a purchase based on recommendations from a friend or someone using any given detector, they will typically tell you that the model they are using is the best, which might be true for them, but not necessarily the right one for you. For general-use detectors, you’ll want to look for features like Multi-Frequency, and be sure you understand the difference between a detector that supports multiple frequencies but runs only one at a time. Some detectors have the ability to run multiple frequencies at the same time, and that may help improve your overall results on most hunt sites. There are many brands and types to choose from, and it can be perplexing. Our top recommendation is always to take the time to learn and research all available options.

Purchasing a gift for someone special:

For those who don’t have the time and might be looking to purchase as a gift, again, it's best to contact a trusted dealer like LMS Metal Detecting to discuss your options before buying. If your loved one is already a hobbyist and you would like to surprise them with a new detector, secretly find out what make and model he/she currently have before contacting us. This will ensure you purchase an upgrade for them. Another easy way to guarantee they will love your gift is to let them choose with an LMS Gift Certificate. It is also important to remember that many social media platforms may contain inaccurate information, which can sometimes steer you in the wrong direction.

Beach Metal Detectors: (Very Important)
If you are looking for a beach metal detector, take the time to understand the difference between a freshwater and a saltwater metal detector before you purchase. Just because a detector is waterproof or has a beach program on it does not mean it will perform very well on a saltwater beach. This common mistake is made way too often, resulting in a lot of disappointment.