Metal detectors are one of the most exciting outdoor ways to spend your free time. There’s nothing quite like finding something valuable while out walking through nature.
For many people who want to get started in this hobby, some choices make it easier than others to learn how to use a metal detector properly and safely.
When it comes to metal detecting, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a suitable detector. There are several options available for under $200 that offer a range of features and capabilities.
One option to consider is the Garrett Ace 200. This detector is an excellent option for those on a budget and offers several features that make it well-suited for various metal detecting applications. It has a high-resolution discrimination feature allows you to easily identify and ignore junk metal while still seeing valuable targets. It has a built-in pinpoint mode that helps to quickly and easily locate the exact location of a target. The Garrett Ace 200 also allows searching in different modes and has a ground balance feature.
Another option to consider is the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV. This detector is also an excellent option for those on a budget looking for a unit with several features for various detecting goals. It has a high-resolution discrimination feature and a built-in pinpoint mode that helps to locate target locations. It also includes a headphone jack and a discrimination control that will allow you to eliminate unwanted targets.
Ultimately, the best metal detector under $200 will depend on your specific needs and preferences. But both the Garrett Ace 200 and the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV are excellent options that offer a range of features and capabilities, all within a budget-friendly price range. They are both designed to be easy to use and have features that can help you find valuable targets while ignoring junk.
What Should I Look For In A Metal Detector?
There are plenty of metal detectors available right now at various price points. They offer different features and varying performance levels, from entry-level models to more advanced options.
If you’re looking for a new metal detector, here are some things to consider when shopping for one.
Price Point
The first thing to think about when deciding which metal detector to buy will depend primarily on what kind of budget you have. You might opt for a top-of-the-line model if you have lots of money available for spending. But if you have little cash to spare, look into cheaper alternatives.
One option would be to purchase a used metal detector online from a reputable seller. This could save you hundreds of dollars compared to buying a brand-new model.
Another way to keep costs down would be to choose a metal detector rated highly by other users. This will help ensure you get a product that works well and won’t break down quickly during operation.
Features
Some key features to look for include waterproofing, battery life, and ease of use.
Waterproofing
You never know where you’ll end up when you leave the house, especially if you plan on going hiking or camping. That’s why it’s crucial to pick a metal detector that will survive harsh conditions without breaking. Thankfully, most modern metal detectors do just fine being submerged underwater.
Battery Life
Many metal detectors require batteries, so checking the specifications before buying is essential.
Ensure your chosen unit offers enough power to last several hours of searching.
Ease Of Use
While you may not need to worry too much about adjusting settings whenever you change locations, it’s still nice to have quick access to certain functions.
Look for a metal detector that comes with intuitive controls and simple instructions.
The ACE 200 And Its Features
The ACE 200 is a very popular metal detector because it offers excellent value for its price point. Not only does it feature a wide search area, but it also includes many useful accessories.
This makes it a perfect choice for beginners and casual metal detectorists alike.
Here are some of the main features included with the ACE 200.
Search Area
The ACE 200 boasts a large search area that extends over 5 feet (1.5 meters) in length and width. This ensures that you can locate any buried objects regardless of their size.
In addition to offering more comprehensive coverage, this design lets you quickly see what you’re targeting.
Lightweight Design
At less than 10 pounds (4.5 kg), the ACE 200 is extremely lightweight and portable. This means you can carry it anywhere without worrying about straining yourself.
It is also ideal for hunting small pieces of jewelry or precious metals.
Easy To Operate
Even though the ACE 200 is designed to work with minimal instruction manuals, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take advantage of them.
All you need to do is hold the trigger button until the “beep” sounds. Then release the trigger to stop the sound.
Remember that this process may seem complicated, but once you become familiar with it, you can complete searches effortlessly.
Compact Design
Since the ACE 200 is so light and compact, it’s easy to store away and transport whenever needed. Plus, it takes up very little space in your backpack.
Protective Case Included
A protective case is always recommended when using a metal detector. This helps prevent scratches and damage to the device itself.
The ACE 200 has a hard plastic case that keeps everything safe.
How Does It Work?
Now that we’ve looked at the features of the ACE 200, let’s take a closer look at how it detects metallic objects.
The ACE 200 uses magnetic fields to detect the presence of hidden metal objects.
When these magnetic fields interact with nearby metals, they create electromagnetic waves that cause the detector to emit a signal.
These signals are picked up by the internal antennae and sent back to the receiver via radio frequencies.
From there, the data is processed and displayed on the LCD screen.
As you move across the ground, the receiver adjusts to maintain constant contact with the target object.
Each metal detector responds differently depending on the material you’re trying to detect.
What Are Some Great All-Purpose Metal Detectors?
With so many metal detectors available today, deciding which ones to invest in can sometimes be challenging. Fortunately, some general metal detectors perform exceptionally well, no matter what you’re looking for.
Gold Detectors
Gold detectors are special devices designed to hunt for gold nuggets underground. They usually come with a coil that emits a strong magnetic field that attracts gold particles toward the loop.
Once the gold hits the coil, a current flow triggers a loud alarm.
These detectors are designed to look deep into the earth and alert for anything containing gold, including rocks, dirt, and sand.
Because gold is heavy, it tends to sink to the bottom of the soil. Therefore, it needs to be shaken vigorously to loosen it up.
Gold hunters typically use a long rod attached to a tamping bar handle to avoid disturbing the surrounding landscape.
Once you’ve located a promising spot, you scoop up the loose soil and pour it into a gold pan to separate gold and other elements.
Then you wait patiently for the results to appear on the LCD.
Silver Detectors
Similar to gold detectors, silver detectors are designed to find tiny pieces of silver embedded in the ground.
However, unlike gold detectors, silver detectors tend to produce fewer false alarms due to their ability to distinguish between silver and other metals.
Silver detectors measure the soil’s conductivity to determine whether it contains silver. Once again, you must shake the soil to remove any unwanted particles.
Afterward, you place the sample into the detector’s testing chamber and wait for the results to appear on the LCD screen.
