Your Tracker IV operates on two 9V batteries delivering 20-25 hours of runtime while weighing just 2.6-2.9 lbs with an S-rod design. You’ll use three detection modes—All Metal for maximum depth, Discrimination to reject unwanted targets, and Tone Discrimination for audio feedback. The 6.6 kHz VLF system detects coins at 6-8 inches and larger objects beyond 12 inches through its 8-inch waterproof coil. You’ll adjust sensitivity and discrimination knobs while automatic Ground Trac compensates for soil mineralization, with the complete operational framework detailed throughout this guide.
Key Takeaways
- Runs on two 9V batteries for 20-25 hours, features 8-inch waterproof coil, and detects coins at 6-8 inches depth.
- Two-knob controls adjust sensitivity and discrimination, with three modes: All Metal, Discrimination, and Tone Discrimination for target identification.
- All Metal mode maximizes depth detection; Discrimination mode filters trash; Tone mode provides audio feedback for target types.
- Automatic ground balance reduces interference from mineralized soil, black sand, and saltwater when coil maintains parallel ground motion.
- Five-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects; requires proof of purchase and Return Authorization number for claims.
Key Specifications and Technical Features
The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV operates on two 9V alkaline batteries that deliver 20-25 hours of continuous use under standard conditions.
You’ll extend this to 30+ hours when using headphones. The unit weighs 2.6-2.9 lbs depending on configuration, featuring an S-rod design with padded armrest and adjustable shaft.
Detection technology advancements include VLF operation at 6.6 kHz, reaching coin-sized targets at 6-8 inches and larger objects beyond 12 inches in All Metal mode.
The 8-inch waterproof coil performs effectively in black sand and saltwater environments.
User experience feedback highlights the intuitive control interface: sensitivity and discrimination knobs, three-position mode switch, and automatic Ground Trac for mineral-rich soil.
The analog meter displays target strength while 2-tone audio discrimination identifies potential finds. The detector is manufactured by First Texas Products, LLC and assembled in the USA, ensuring quality construction standards. Regular maintenance ensures the detector maintains optimal performance over time and prevents common operational issues.
Understanding the Three Detection Modes
Mode selection on your Tracker IV fundamentally alters how the detector processes underground signals and what targets you’ll uncover.
All Metal Mode maximizes depth across every metal type but requires motion—you’ll hear a single high tone regardless of target composition. The detector demonstrates consistent sensitivity to rusty nails, pull-tabs, coins, and even 1-gram gold nuggets.
Discrimination Mode incrementally rejects metals from iron to zinc via the disc knob, eliminating audio on unwanted ferrous targets while maintaining single-tone responses on accepted finds.
Tone Discrimination Mode delivers superior detection advantages through dual-audio feedback: low grunts signal nickels and gold, high tones indicate silver and coins, while broken intermediate sounds identify pull-tabs. This mode automatically rejects iron targets, allowing you to focus on valuable finds without manual adjustment.
Mode comparisons reveal All Metal excels for depth, Discrimination handles trashy sites, and Tone Mode provides ideal target differentiation.
Toggle between modes while hunting to verify questionable signals and maximize recovery efficiency.
Detection Depth and Target Capabilities
The Tracker IV’s detection depth varies considerably based on target size and composition.
You’ll achieve 6-8 inches of depth on coin-sized targets in general conditions, while larger objects can be detected over 1 foot deep—with some items reaching up to 2 feet.
Your actual depth performance depends on soil mineralization, sensitivity settings, and whether you’re operating in All Metal mode for maximum capability.
The detector operates at a 6.6 kHz frequency, which provides a balanced performance for detecting various metal targets at different depths.
The unit comes equipped with an 8-inch waterproof search coil that contributes to its depth detection capabilities.
Coin Detection Range
Understanding your Tracker IV’s coin detection capabilities starts with realistic depth expectations. While manufacturers advertise 6-8 inches, you’ll achieve 4-5 inches maximum in actual field conditions. This depth accuracy gap matters for your coin detection success.
Real-World Performance Metrics:
- Maximum Depth: Expect 4 inches consistently with the standard 8-inch coil, occasionally reaching just under 5 inches.
- Detection Mode: All Metal mode delivers deepest penetration; Tone Discrimination reduces range slightly.
- Target Size Variance: Quarters max at 4-5 inches, while larger 50-cent pieces may reach slightly deeper.
- Comparison Standard: The Garrett Ace 250 consistently detects coins beyond your Tracker IV’s range.
Apply the half-depth rule to manufacturer claims. Your detector performs reliably within these parameters when properly configured with mid-to-high sensitivity settings. Detection depth varies based on soil conditions, with performance differences occurring between topsoil, clay, and sand environments. The Tracker IV features automatic ground balancing that helps optimize detection depth by adjusting to mineralization in your hunting environment.
Large Object Depths
While coin-sized targets push your Tracker IV to its 4-5 inch limits, larger metallic objects reveal considerably greater detection depths that expand your hunting capabilities.
You’ll achieve 16 inches on can-sized targets in field conditions, with some large object detection reaching 2 feet when operating in All Metal mode. This depth variability depends on metal type, size, and soil mineralization.
Maximize your depth by running sensitivity at maximum levels without falsing, and always hunt in All Metal mode—rotating your Disc/Notch control fully counterclockwise.
The preset ground balance handles mineral-rich soils and black sand without manual tuning.
Your 8-inch waterproof coil enables moderate depths on sizable targets in wet sand and saltwater environments, though you’ll need to protect the control box from submersion during deep large object hunts. All Metal mode consistently provides deeper detection than Disc or Tone modes when searching for large buried objects.
Wearing headphones during your hunts will improve target acquisition by allowing you to hear faint signals from deeper large objects that might otherwise be missed.
Ground Balancing and Soil Mineralization
Natural minerals buried in soil generate unwanted signals that can interfere with your metal detector’s ability to identify genuine targets. The Tracker IV’s automatic ground balance feature eliminates this problem by compensating for soil mineralization without requiring manual adjustments.
Automatic ground balance technology neutralizes mineral interference, allowing accurate target detection across varying soil conditions without manual calibration.
This preset system handles everything from saltwater beaches to black sand gold prospecting locations.
Operating in Mineralized Conditions:
- Position your searchcoil 1/2-inch to 1-inch above ground, maintaining parallel alignment throughout each sweep.
- Keep the coil moving—the automatic ground balance requires motion to engage properly.
- Maintain consistent coil height; avoid lifting at sweep ends which disrupts balance.
- Listen for repeatable tones that confirm actual targets versus mineralization interference.
The factory preset works reliably across diverse terrain, giving you freedom to detect without constant recalibration.
Power Requirements and Battery Performance
The Tracker IV operates exclusively on two 9-volt alkaline batteries, which must be purchased separately as they’re not included with the detector. Heavy-duty or zinc-carbon batteries won’t deliver ideal performance and should be avoided.
To install, remove the battery compartment cover and insert both batteries following the diagram in your manual.
Battery longevity depends heavily on your sensitivity settings—higher sensitivity drains power faster while increasing detection range. You’ll know batteries need replacement when the unit won’t power on, speaker volume drops, or continuous beeping occurs at low sensitivity.
The Low Battery indicator flashes momentarily during normal shutdown but stays illuminated when batteries are discharged.
For performance tips, reduce sensitivity if your detector chatters unnecessarily, and always remove batteries during extended storage periods to maximize their lifespan.
Physical Design and Ergonomic Considerations
Measuring 10 inches long, 6.25 inches wide, and 28.25 inches high, the Tracker IV maintains a compact profile that balances reach with maneuverability.
You’ll appreciate the lightweight construction at 3.7 pounds, allowing unrestricted movement across varied terrain without fatigue.
The S-rod design features an adjustable shaft that accommodates different user heights, while the padded armrest enhances user comfort during extended detecting sessions.
Key Ergonomic Features:
- Adjustable shaft length – Customize detector height for ideal swing mechanics
- Padded armrest – Reduces arm strain during prolonged operation
- Streamlined design aesthetics – Minimizes complexity while maintaining functionality
- Aluminum-plastic construction – Balances durability with portability at 4.2 lbs maximum weight
The metal construction withstands rugged conditions while maintaining maneuverability you need for unrestricted exploration.
Control Interface and Operational Settings
The Tracker IV features a streamlined two-knob control layout consisting of sensitivity and discrimination adjustments positioned on the control housing.
You’ll rotate the sensitivity knob clockwise to increase detection depth up to 8 inches for coin-sized targets, adjusting based on ground mineralization and target size.
The discrimination knob operates on a graduated scale, allowing you to calibrate the threshold that eliminates iron and unwanted metals while preserving signals from valuable targets.
Two-Knob Control Layout
Understanding your Tracker IV’s control layout begins with its streamlined two-knob design, which consolidates all primary functions into an intuitive interface. This simplified knob functionality gives you direct command over detection parameters without complicated menus or excessive buttons restricting your field operation.
Essential Control Layout Components:
- Left Knob – Combines power activation and sensitivity adjustment in one control, turning clockwise to increase detection depth.
- Right Knob – Manages discrimination settings, rotating clockwise to reject unwanted iron targets.
- Three-Position Toggle – Switches between discriminate, all metal, and tone discriminate modes instantly.
- Center Meter – Displays target signal strength and monitors battery status for uninterrupted hunting.
The control box houses two 9V alkaline batteries and features a 1/4-inch headphone jack.
Sensitivity Adjustment Procedure
Proper sensitivity configuration directly impacts your Tracker IV’s detection capabilities, making it the first adjustment you’ll perform after powering up.
Turn the sensitivity knob to 3:00 position and listen for the activation click. Max out sensitivity clockwise, then reduce counterclockwise until chatter stops—needle fluctuations and erratic beeps indicate instability.
Environmental factors demand real-time sensitivity adjustments: lower settings near power lines, in urban zones, or on wet salty sand; higher sensitivity in quiet rural locations.
Full Discriminate and Tone modes handle maximum sensitivity best, while All Metal mode requires conservative startup levels.
After ground balancing, increase gradually to maximize depth without sacrificing signal stability. This balance between sensitivity adjustments and environmental conditions determines whether you’ll detect coin-sized targets at maximum 9-11 inch depths.
Discrimination Knob Calibration
Located on the right side of your control panel, a single linear knob governs all discrimination functions through clockwise rotation that progressively filters unwanted metals from detection.
Understanding calibration importance guarantees you’ll maximize target recovery while minimizing time wasted on trash.
Essential discrimination techniques for ideal performance:
- Fully counterclockwise – Detects all metals including iron for complete ground assessment
- 12:00 to 2:00 position – Ideal range for coin and jewelry hunting applications
- 3:00 position (recommended calibration) – Accepts only silver, copper, and brass while rejecting other materials
- Fully clockwise (HIGH) – Maximum filtering intensity with aggressive metal rejection
Sweep test objects beneath your coil while slowly rotating the knob.
Broken tones indicate threshold change points where discrimination begins filtering between target types, establishing your operational parameters.
Discrimination and Sensitivity Calibration
Before you can effectively hunt targets, you’ll need to balance the Tracker IV’s sensitivity and discrimination controls to match your hunting environment.
Start by maximizing sensitivity, then reduce it until background chatter disappears. You’ll find higher sensitivity settings work better in Discriminate or Tone modes compared to All Metal. Near power lines, drop sensitivity to 3:00 or lower for stable operation.
Next, apply discrimination techniques by selecting Disc or Tone mode. Sweep test targets at various knob positions—12:00 rejects iron while preserving coin signals; 2:00-3:00 eliminates everything through pull tabs.
Run sensitivity as high as possible without chatter in your chosen discriminated mode. Field-test these sensitivity settings against actual site conditions, adjusting discrimination until you’re rejecting trash while maintaining detection depth on valuable targets.
Hunting Applications and Environments
The Tracker IV performs across distinct environments through specific operating configurations.
Beach detection requires sensitivity adjustments to 11-12 o’clock with the coil held 2 inches above wet sand, while the Auto Ground Control maintains stability in salt water conditions without manual intervention.
You’ll optimize results in varying terrains by selecting All Metal mode for maximum depth in mineralized soil or switching to Full Discriminate mode when hunting trashy areas near structures and recreational sites.
Beach and Water Detection
Coastal environments present unique opportunities for the Tracker IV, as beaches continuously yield fresh targets through natural replenishment cycles and beachgoer traffic.
Beach hunting requires understanding the detector’s capabilities and limitations in varied conditions.
Critical Water Detection Parameters:
- Searchcoil submersion: The 8-inch coil handles shallow water, but you’ll keep the control box dry—submersion causes irreparable damage.
- Saltwater sensitivity reduction: Drop sensitivity to 12 o’clock or lower; single-frequency technology struggles with saltwater mineralization.
- Productive zones: Target the towel line, sand cuts, and wet sand shift areas where water treasure concentrates.
- All Metal mode advantage: Maximum depth in dry sand; discrimination becomes irrelevant for thorough coverage.
Winter storms expose deeper artifacts, while weekend evenings capture fresh drops from beachgoer activity.
Terrain-Specific Hunting Strategies
Beyond beaches, your Tracker IV performs across diverse terrain types, each demanding specific operational approaches to maximize recovery rates.
Relic Sites: Deploy All Metal mode for maximum depth on caches and property markers. Automatic Ground Track handles mineralized soil without manual intervention.
Parks: Use Full Discriminate with settings at 12:00 to reject trash while retaining coins and jewelry. Max sensitivity, then reduce to stability threshold. Target high-traffic zones near structures and courts.
Gold Prospecting: All Metal mode penetrates black sand deposits effectively. Tone Discriminate assigns low grunts to gold targets through extreme ground conditions.
Terrain Adaptability: Your detector’s Auto Ground Control operates across all mineral content levels without tuning requirements.
Hunting Tactics: Smaller coils improve target separation in trashy areas. Motion searchcoil activation guarantees consistent detection across varied environments.
Warranty Coverage and Manufacturing Details
Bounty Hunter backs the Tracker IV with a 5-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use conditions.
The Tracker IV includes comprehensive 5-year limited warranty protection against manufacturing defects when used under normal operating conditions.
You’ll need proof of purchase as the original owner. Understanding warranty limitations protects your investment—damage from neglect, misuse, or unauthorized modifications voids coverage entirely.
Filing Your Warranty Claim:
- Contact First Texas Products at 915-633-8354 to obtain your Return Authorization (RA) number before shipping anything.
- Reference the RA number on your package and return within 15 days of authorization.
- Ship prepaid to 1465-H Henry Brennan Dr., El Paso, TX 79936—you’re responsible for inbound shipping costs.
- Manufacturer responsibilities include repair or replacement decisions at their sole discretion.
First Texas Products maintains full control over abuse determinations and warranty fulfillment.
Extended retail protection plans may cover scenarios beyond standard manufacturer coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Rechargeable 9V Batteries Instead of Alkaline Batteries?
You can use rechargeable 9V batteries, but they’ll compromise battery performance due to lower voltage output. The manual recommends alkaline for ideal results, though rechargeable options like NiMH work despite reduced sensitivity and faster voltage drop affecting detection capability.
What Headphones Are Compatible With the 1/4-Inch Headphone Jack?
You’ll find various headphone types compatible with the 1/4-inch jack, including Sennheiser HD 800 S, Philips SHP9500/9600, and Beyerdynamic DT 1770 PRO. They deliver excellent audio quality, or you can use standard headphones with adapters.
How Do I Clean and Maintain the Waterproof Searchcoil?
For proper coil care, you’ll rinse your waterproof searchcoil with fresh water after saltwater exposure, then wipe it using a damp cloth. These cleaning techniques prevent corrosion while avoiding harsh chemicals that’d damage your detector’s components.
Is the Tracker IV Suitable for Children or Beginners?
Yes, you’ll find the Tracker IV perfect for children and beginners. Its child-friendly features include lightweight design and simple two-knob controls. Follow these beginner tips: start in All Metal mode, practice target identification, and gradually explore discrimination settings.
Where Can I Purchase Replacement Parts or Accessories?
You’ll find replacement part vendors like First Texas Products, DetectorWarehouse, and MetalDetector.com offering genuine components. Check accessory compatibility before purchasing—coils, battery doors, and headphones vary by model. Walmart and specialized retailers provide fast shipping options for your needs.
References
- https://www.thedetectorist.co.uk/bounty-hunter-tracker-iv-reviews/
- https://firsttexasproducts.com/products/tk4-metal-detector
- https://www.metaldetectingshop.com/products/bounty-hunter-tracker-iv-metal-detector
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2ojpIZ0MI4
- https://detectorwarehouse.com/products/bounty-hunter-tk4-tracker-iv-metal-detector-with-waterproof-8-inch-coil
- https://whatmetaldetector.com/beginner-metal-detectors/bounty-hunter-tk4-tracker-iv/
- https://www.petra.com/bounty-hunter-tk4gwp1-tracker-iv-metal-detector-kit-with-pinpointer.html
- https://www.northerntool.com/products/bounty-hunter-tracker-iv-metal-detector-with-pouch-and-digger-model-tk4gwp-59163
- https://bounty-hunter-detector.com
- https://www.joanallen.co.uk/bounty-hunter-tracker-iv-metal-detector-review-uk
