Metal detecting is an exciting hobby that combines the thrill of treasure hunting with the satisfaction of unearthing hidden objects from the past. For serious treasure hunters, having the right metal detector accessories can make a significant difference in their hunting experience. In this article, we will discuss the best metal detector accessories and accessories that can enhance your treasure-hunting adventures.
1. Search Coils
Search coils, also known as search coils or search heads, are one of the most important metal detector accessories. They are responsible for detecting metal objects underground. Upgrading your metal detector’s stock coil to a high-quality aftermarket coil can significantly improve your treasure-hunting performance.
a. Different Types of Search Coils
1. Concentric Coils: These are the most common type of search coils and consist of two concentric rings. They are good for general-purpose metal detecting and can detect a wide range of targets.
2. DD Coils: DD coils, also known as Double D coils, have a distinctive D-shaped design. They offer better depth penetration and discrimination than concentric coils, making them ideal for hunting in heavily mineralized soil or trashy areas.
3. Mono Coils: Mono coils, or single-coil detectors, are less common but offer some advantages over concentric and DD coils. They are better at locating small, shallow targets and can be more sensitive to certain types of metals.
b. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Search Coil
1. Coil Size: The size of the search coil affects the depth of detection and the size of the targets you can find. Larger coils can detect deeper targets, while smaller coils are better for finding smaller, shallower targets.
2. Coil Shape: As mentioned above, the shape of the coil (concentric, DD, or mono) will affect the type of targets you can find and the conditions in which you can search.
3. Coil Material: Search coils are typically made from materials like copper or aluminum. Copper coils are more sensitive to metals but can be more expensive, while aluminum coils are more durable and affordable.
c. Popular Search Coil Brands
1. Minelab: Minelab is a well-known brand in the metal detecting industry, and their search coils are known for their high quality and performance.
2. Fisher: Fisher is another reputable brand that offers a range of search coils for their metal detectors.
3. Garrett: Garrett is another popular brand that offers a variety of search coils designed to work with their metal detectors.
2. Headphones
A good pair of metal detector headphones is essential for serious treasure hunters. They help you hear faint signals that may be missed with the naked ear, especially in noisy environments.
a. Types of Headphones
1. Wired Headphones: Wired headphones are the most common type used by metal detectorists. They connect directly to the metal detector’s headphone jack and offer good sound quality and reliability.
2. Wireless Headphones: Wireless headphones, also known as Bluetooth headphones, connect to your metal detector via Bluetooth technology. They offer greater freedom of movement and convenience, but may be subject to interference in some environments.
b. Features to Look for in Metal Detector Headphones
1. Noise-Canceling: Noise-canceling headphones are designed to block out external noise, allowing you to focus on the faint signals your metal detector is picking up.
2. Comfort: Comfort is important if you plan on wearing your headphones for extended periods. Look for headphones with soft ear cushions and adjustable headbands.
3. Sound Quality: Good sound quality is essential for accurately interpreting the signals your metal detector is receiving. Look for headphones with good bass and treble response.
c. Popular Headphone Brands
1. Garrett: Garrett offers a range of headphones designed to work with their metal detectors. Their headphones are known for their comfort and sound quality.
2. Fisher: Fisher is another reputable brand that offers headphones specifically designed for metal detecting.
3. Bounty Hunter: Bounty Hunter is another popular brand that offers headphones compatible with their metal detectors.
3. Digging Tools
Once you’ve located a target with your metal detector, you’ll need the right digging tools to excavate it safely and efficiently.
a. Essential Digging Tools
1. Shovel or Spade: A durable shovel or spade is essential for digging up targets in various soil conditions. Look for a lightweight, yet sturdy tool with a comfortable grip.
2. Trowel: A small trowel is useful for precise digging around delicate artifacts or for digging in tight spaces.
3. Pinpointer: A pinpointer is a handheld metal detector that helps you pinpoint the exact location of a target before digging. This can help minimize damage to the surrounding area and save time.
b. Tips for Choosing Digging Tools
1. Durability: Look for digging tools made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or carbon steel. These materials are more resistant to rust and wear, ensuring your tools last longer.
2. Comfort: Choose tools with ergonomic handles and comfortable grips to reduce fatigue and strain during extended digging sessions.
3. Size and Weight: Consider the size and weight of your digging tools, especially if you plan on carrying them long distances. Opt for lightweight, compact tools whenever possible.
c. Popular Digging Tool Brands
1. Garrett: Garrett offers a range of digging tools specifically designed for metal detectorists. Their tools are known for their durability and performance.
2. Lesche: Lesche is another well-known brand in the metal detecting community. Their digging tools are known for their quality and durability.
3. Tekpoint: Tekpoint is another popular brand that offers a variety of digging tools, including shovels, trowels, and pinpointers.
4. Metal Detector Accessories
In addition to search coils, headphones, and digging tools, there are several other metal detector accessories that can enhance your treasure-hunting experience.
a. Carrying Cases and Pouches
1. Carrying Cases: A good-quality carrying case or backpack is essential for protecting your metal detector and accessories during transport and storage. Look for cases with padding and compartments to keep your gear organized.
2. Pouches and Bags: Pouches and bags are useful for carrying small accessories like coins, jewelry, and digging tools. Look for pouches made from durable materials like leather or nylon.
b. Metal Detector Covers and Protective Gear
1. Metal Detector Covers: A protective cover for your metal detector can help guard against scratches, dings, and other damage caused by rocks, branches, or other obstacles you may encounter while hunting.
2. Protective Gear: Depending on the terrain and conditions you hunt in, you may want to consider investing in protective gear like gloves, knee pads, or boots to keep yourself comfortable and safe.
c. Other Useful Accessories
1. Probes and Probe Tips: Probes and probe tips are useful for locating targets in tight spaces or difficult ground conditions.
2. Metal Detector Accessory Kits: Some manufacturers offer accessory kits specifically designed for their metal detectors. These kits often include a variety of useful accessories like search coils, headphones, digging tools, and more.
Wnioski
In conclusion, investing in the right metal detector accessories and accessories can greatly enhance your treasure-hunting experience. From high-quality search coils and headphones to durable digging tools and carrying cases, there are many accessories available to suit the needs of serious treasure hunters. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can make informed decisions about the best metal detector accessories to suit your specific hunting preferences and conditions.
Najczęściej zadawane pytania
1. What is the most important metal detector accessory for serious treasure hunters?
The most important metal detector accessory for serious treasure hunters is a high-quality search coil. Upgrading your stock coil to a high-quality aftermarket coil can significantly improve your treasure-hunting performance.
2. What should I look for in metal detector headphones?
When shopping for metal detector headphones, look for noise-canceling features, comfort, and good sound quality. These features will help you hear faint signals more clearly and comfortably in various environments.
3. What are the essential digging tools for metal detecting?
The essential digging tools for metal detecting include a durable shovel or spade, a small trowel for precise digging, and a pinpointer to help you pinpoint the exact location of a target before digging.
4. What factors should I consider when choosing a search coil?
When choosing a search coil, consider factors like coil size, coil shape, and coil material. Larger coils can detect deeper targets, while smaller coils are better for finding smaller, shallower targets. Concentric, DD, and mono coils each have their own strengths and weaknesses, so choose one that best suits your hunting preferences. Coil material, such as copper or aluminum, will also affect the coil’s performance and durability.
5. What are some other useful metal detector accessories to consider?
Some other useful metal detector accessories to consider include carrying cases or backpacks to protect and transport your metal detector and accessories, pouches and bags for organizing small items, metal detector covers and protective gear to protect your equipment and yourself, and accessories like probes and probe tips to help locate targets in difficult ground conditions.