What is metal detecting?
Metal detecting, for over 50 years, has been a fascinating hobby that combines nature, history, and the thrill of discovery.
With a metal detector, enthusiasts explore:
in search of finds, also known as hidden "targets," such as jewelry, coins, and historical artifacts.
Some models even allow for underwater exploration.
This activity, accessible to all ages, offers not only relaxation and physical well-being but also a way to socialize and share passions. For beginners, all it takes is a metal detector and a digging tool to get started, and once passionate, one can even participate in metal detecting competitions.
How to choose the right Metal detector
When purchasing a metal detector, many fall into the myth that "the more you spend, the more you find". However, this belief is misleading. The true effectiveness in metal detecting comes from the ability to use the device correctly, regardless of its price.
It is crucial to know that even entry-level metal detectors can achieve excellent results. Therefore, it is the operator's skill, not the equipment's cost, that makes the difference.
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Setting an appropriate budget is the first fundamental step. The market offers a wide range of models, allowing you to find a suitable metal detector without exceeding your spending limit. For beginners, it is advisable to start with a simple and inexpensive model, which allows you to learn the basics of metal detecting without stress and with ease.
High-end devices offer advanced features and adapt better to complex terrains, but they require a longer learning curve. It is therefore wise to proceed gradually, starting with a simpler model.
Portability and weight of the metal detector are also aspects to consider, especially if you plan to use it for long periods or in remote locations.
Finally, it is essential to listen to the advice of experts and carefully evaluate the available information, especially for beginners. Experts can offer valuable insights based on experience and knowledge, both before and after the purchase, guiding you towards effective use of your metal detector.
Want to learn the ABCs of metal detecting? Discover the Detectorshop Glossary!
Practical guide for your first outing
What accessories to bring with me?
If you are starting your adventure in the world of metal detecting, it is important to be well-equipped with essential accessories that should not be missing from your kit. Don't forget to purchase a coil cover to protect your metal detector from impacts and dirt. You will also need specific digging tools, such as:
- shovels
- picks
- digging knifes
- sand scoops.
Another indispensable tool is the Pinpointer, which helps you accurately locate targets.
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Among the extra accessories, consider purchasing:
- a backpack or carrying bag
- a display protector
- headphones
- spare batteries
- a powerbank.
As for clothing, choose comfortable but sturdy clothes, suitable for the environment where you will be searching. In the woods, opt for tear-resistant clothing, while at the beach, adapt your clothes to the season.
Entry Level: choose the right metal detector for you
For a novice, beginner metal detectors are the perfect choice. Simple, intuitive, and affordable, these devices allow you to learn the basics of the hobby without excessive complexity. Lightweight and easy to handle, they offer the opportunity to explore various environments and discover hidden targets, ideal for those venturing into the world of exploration and buried object search for the first time.
Nokta's Simplex Lite is a versatile and high-quality metal detector, suitable for both beginners and experts. With its high sensitivity and material discrimination capability, it offers a simplified search experience in various environments and is waterproof up to 5 meters. The ergonomic and lightweight design makes it comfortable for prolonged use and features 4 search modes to adapt to different contexts.
The Simplex Lite, part of the "Simplex New Generation" range, not only provides physical fun but also mental benefits such as connection with nature and improvement of concentration and curiosity, making it ideal for users of all levels.
Minelab's Go-Find series offers 3 metal detector models:
each suitable for various levels of experience in metal detecting. The Go-Find 22 is perfect for beginners due to its ease of use and lightweight design, while the 44 and 66 models offer more advanced features such as:
- target identification with LED
- control via mobile app.
All models are lightweight, compact, and use Minelab's VLF VFLEX technology, making them ideal for searchers who want to start with an easy-to-use yet effective device.
Garrett APEX stands out in the world of metal detecting for its ease of use, reliability, and high performance. Innovative, this device incorporates "Multi-Flex and Multi-Salt" technology, allowing for simultaneous multi-frequency detection, significantly increasing its capabilities.
Equipped with rechargeable batteries for about 15 hours of search and a 6x11-inch DD VIPER coil, the ACE APEX is known for its lightness, being one of the lightest metal detectors in the "Ultra-light" segment. Available with or without wireless headphones, this model is suitable for both beginners and experts, offering an excellent balance between advanced technology and ease of use
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Nokta Simplex Lite
Minelab Go Find 11
Garrett Apex metal detector
Respect the law & the environment
The use of metal detectors in Italy is allowed by respecting specific civil and environmental regulations. Metal detecting can be practiced according to the following rules:
The Code of Cultural Heritage and Landscape
Article 822 of the Civil Code on Public Domain
Article 927 of the Penal Code on Found Items.
Furthermore, it is essential to adhere to Detectorshop's Code of Ethics, which emphasizes environmental sustainability and ethics in metal detecting practice. This includes:
- avoiding protected areas
- restoring the terrain after the search
- respecting private property
- contributing to environmental cleanliness.
By following these rules, metal detecting enthusiasts can explore their hobby in Italy responsibly and consciously, ensuring a legal and environmentally respectful experience.
When the going gets tough.. Ask the expert
Do you have questions about your metal detector?
Leonardo Ciocca and the rich technical department of Detectorshop are here to help you. Send your request, and you will receive detailed answers from industry experts. Whether you have doubts about ground balancing, frequency usage, or threshold sound setting, our team is ready to provide helpful advice.
The Expert is Back!
Detectorshop successfully presented the column "The Expert is Back!", where Leonardo Ciocca, an expert from the team, answered numerous questions from metal detecting enthusiasts. Through a series of videos, Leonardo addressed various technical aspects, providing detailed answers and practical advice.
Topics covered in the column include:
- The effectiveness of multi-frequencies and single frequencies in metal detectors.
- Reasons why gold can sound like iron.
- Use and management of Coil Covers and discrimination modes in the Nokta Legend.
- Instructions on automatic balance systems and VDI interpretation.
- Correct use of pinpointers in mineralized terrains
- Tips to avoid unnecessary excavations and optimal use of integrated pinpointers.
- Management of lithium rechargeable batteries and tips for conductive terrains.
The column proved to be a valuable resource for metal detecting enthusiasts, providing them with tools and knowledge to improve their search abilities. "The Expert is Back" has been an important reference point for the detectorist community, contributing to the growth of skills and passion for this fascinating hobby.
Academy One to One & Academy Detectorshop
The Detectorshop Academy was an in-person event held in Pesaro in March 2023. This initiative allowed participants, novice searchers, to learn the fundamentals and advanced techniques of metal detecting through theoretical lessons and practical tests. The event also included optional visits to historical sites.
On the other hand, the Academy One to One is a current opportunity offered by Detectorshop. It allows you to book 1 hour of individual theoretical lessons with expert Leonardo Ciocca, tailor-made to meet your specific needs. This lesson takes place remotely with a flexible schedule to accommodate your needs.
Garrett Contest: even a beginner can dream
The Garrett Contest is an event dedicated to metal detecting enthusiasts in Italy held on the beach of Cesenatico. Organized by Detectorshop, it offers a fun and non-competitive experience inspired by National Geographic's famous reality show "Diggers." The main goal is to find buried coins under the sand through various competition phases. This event is a must for metal detecting enthusiasts eager to test their skills.
When the new searcher is a child
Giving a metal detector to a child is a smart and educational choice. This discipline offers numerous benefits, starting with involving young people in outdoor activities: metal detecting combines physical exercise with mental stimulation, improving concentration and enhancing skills such as:
- intuition
- observation
- patience
- attention to details.
Before each search, detectorists carefully plan their outings, promoting strategic thinking in children. This activity can be practiced in limited spaces such as the backyard or a neighborhood ditch. Furthermore, it teaches:
- respect for Nature
- sustainability
- environmental care.
Children also learn to clean up the environment by collecting found objects and disposing of them in trash containers. Giving a metal detector is a smart way to educate children about love for nature and exploratory curiosity.
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Nokta Mini Hoard
Nokta Mini Hoard Cool Kit
Nokta Midi Hoard
In search with Giulia
Giulia has been practicing metal detecting for a few years, and until recently, like many of you, she was taking her first steps into the world of searching. This discipline is open to everyone, and Giulia is an example of how anyone can become passionate about metal detecting. Her adventures in the countryside of Asti, accompanied by her faithful Labrador Pakita and the Nokta Simplex, demonstrate that with
- patience
- curiosity
- intuition
- tenacity
you can achieve rewarding results. Detectorshop has chosen Giulia as a spokesperson for her commitment to the world of metal detecting, and she encourages anyone to follow their passions and explore new terrains. Even after moving to Australia, Giulia continues to produce videos for Detectorshop, sharing her experience and inspiring beginners around the world. So, if you are a beginner and are thinking of getting into metal detecting, know that Giulia is an example of how you can start this exciting adventure wherever you are.
While you're here.. have you ever heard of Magnet Fishing?
Magnet Fishing is an exciting activity that combines searching with the aquatic environment. It does not require expensive electronic devices, but only a powerful magnet connected to a sturdy rope. This hobby is practiced in:
- lakes
- rivers
- wells
- streams
where you can immerse yourself in the surprise of what your magnet could pull up. On Detectorshop, you can find the incredible magnets of Magnetar, extremely powerful magnets for this discipline. With a pulling force exceeding 300 kg, you can discover surprising objects, from ancient cannonballs to real submerged items. If you are looking for an inexpensive and exciting outdoor experience, Magnet Fishing is an ideal choice.
Magnet Classic 200 for Magnet fishing
Magnet The Easy for Magnet fishing
Classic Kit - Magnet Fishing
