Metal detecting is the perfect career for those who love the outdoors and searching for hidden treasures. It’s an exciting and rewarding job that allows you to explore new places and discover valuable artifacts. It’s also a great way to make a living, with metal detectorists earning a good salary while they enjoy the thrill of the hunt.
Metal detecting is a job that requires patience and dedication, but the rewards of uncovering something rare and priceless make it worth the effort. Whether you’re a beginner looking to make some extra cash or a seasoned professional, metal detecting can be a rewarding career for anyone who is passionate about the outdoors and has a keen eye for hidden gems.
What is metal detecting?
Metal detecting uses specialized metal detectors to locate objects buried or hidden within the ground. Metal detectors are typically handheld devices that emit an electric current, which is then used to detect metal objects such as coins, jewelry, and other artifacts. Metal detectors also have features such as adjustable sensitivity, discrimination capabilities, and ground balancing, allowing users to fine-tune their search for specific metals.
Metal detecting is a popular hobby that has been around for decades, but recently it has become an increasingly popular profession. Businesses, government agencies, and private individuals hire professional metal detectorists to help find lost or hidden metals.
Professional metal detectorists typically have a wide range of skills and experience. They can work on archaeological digs, aid in police investigations, or recover valuable items for private collectors.
The benefits of metal detecting as a career
There are many benefits to becoming a professional metal detectorist. For starters, metal detecting is a job that allows you to explore new places and discover hidden treasures. It’s a great way to make a living, with metal detectorists earning a good salary while they enjoy the thrill of the hunt. Metal detecting also offers a flexible schedule, allowing you to work when you want and take time off when you need.
Another benefit of metal detecting as a career is the potential to discover valuable items. While it’s unlikely to find a rare artifact on every hunt, metal detectorists have the potential to uncover items that are worth thousands of dollars. This can be a great way to supplement your income and make a living while doing something you love.
Finally, metal detecting is a job that requires patience and dedication, but the rewards of uncovering something rare and priceless make it worth the effort. A great sense of satisfaction comes with finding something that has been lost for decades, and the feeling of uncovering something of historical significance is priceless.
How to get started in metal detecting
If you’re interested in becoming a professional metal detectorist, the first step is to research the different types of metal detectors and find one that suits your needs. It’s essential to choose a detector that is suitable for the type of terrain you will be searching in, as different detectors are designed for different purposes. Once you’ve chosen a detector, it’s essential to practice with it and become familiar with its features.
The next step is to research the areas you plan to search. It’s essential to familiarise yourself with the terrain and any regulations or permits that may be required. Researching the area can also help you find areas more likely to contain valuable items.
It’s also important to understand the different types of metals and how to identify them. This knowledge will help you determine the value of any items you find, as well as help you narrow down your search for specific items.
Common metal detecting techniques
Metal detectorists use a variety of techniques to help them locate metals. One of the most common techniques is known as ‘gridding’. This involves creating a grid pattern over an area and systematically sweeping the detector over each grid until a signal is detected. This technique is effective as it allows you to cover a large area quickly and also allows you to narrow down your search if a signal is detected in one area.
Another common technique is known as ‘probing.’ This involves using a metal rod or probes to search for metals in hard-to-reach places. This technique is often used when searching in areas that are difficult to search with a metal detector, such as crevices or underground.
Finally, some metal detectorists also use ‘pinpointing,’ which involves using a pinpointer to locate the exact location of a metal object. This technique is often used when searching for smaller items such as coins or jewelry.
The types of metals you can find
Metal detectorists can find various metals, including coins, jewelry, and other artifacts. Some of the most common metal detectorists find are silver, gold, copper, lead, and aluminum.
Silver is one of the most common metals found by detectorists and is often found in coins, jewelry, and other artifacts. Gold is also a popular metal to find, and it is often found in coins, jewelry, and other valuable items. Copper is another common metal, and it is often found in coins, jewelry, and other artifacts. Lead is a less common metal but is often found in bullets or other items. Aluminum is the least common metal found by detectorists, but it is still occasionally found in coins, jewelry, and other artifacts.
Safety tips when metal detecting
Metal detecting can be dangerous, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. It’s essential to wear protective clothing, such as long pants and gloves, to protect yourself from sharp objects or other hazards you may encounter while searching. It’s also important to wear a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
It’s also important to be aware of your surroundings at all times and to be aware of any potential hazards. If you are searching in an area that contains dangerous animals or other hazards, it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
Finally, it’s important to be aware of any laws or regulations in your area that may restrict metal detecting. In some areas, metal detecting is illegal or requires a permit, so it’s essential to research these laws before searching.
Tools and equipment you need to get started
If you’re interested in becoming a professional metal detectorist, you will need a few tools and equipment to get started. The first and most important tool is a metal detector. It’s essential to choose a detector that is suitable for the type of terrain you will be searching in, as different detectors are designed for different purposes.
You will also need a few other pieces of equipment, such as a digging tool, a pinpointer, and a carrying bag. A digging tool is used to help you dig up any items you locate, and a pinpointer is used to locate the exact location of a metal object. A carrying bag is also essential, as it helps you transport your tools and equipment while you search.
Tips for marketing your services as a metal detectorist
Once you have the necessary tools and equipment, the next step is to market your services as a metal detectorist. It’s important to create a website or social media page to advertise your services, as this will help potential clients learn more about you and the services you offer. It would be best if you also created a portfolio of your past work, which will help clients understand your work and the items you have found.
You should also network with other metal detectorists and reach out to potential clients. Building relationships with other metal detectorists is important, as it will help you stay current on the latest techniques and technologies. Networking with potential clients is also essential, as it will help you find new opportunities and build your client base.
The average salary of a metal detectorist
The average salary of a metal detectorist varies depending on experience and the type of work they do. For example, those who specialize in searching for lost or hidden items for private individuals may earn more than those who work on archaeological digs or aid police investigations. In general, experienced metal detectorists can earn anywhere from $25,000-$50,000 per year.
Conclusion
Metal detecting is a rewarding career that allows you to explore new places and uncover hidden treasures. It’s an exciting job that requires patience and dedication, but the rewards of uncovering something rare and priceless make it worth the effort.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to make some extra cash or a seasoned professional, metal detecting can be a rewarding career for anyone passionate about the outdoors and keen on hidden gems.
