Underwater metal detecting has gained significant popularity among adventure seekers and hobbyists looking for a thrilling experience. According to a recent survey, the number of people involved in this activity has increased by 25% in the past five years. As a result, the market is flooded with a plethora of underwater metal detectors, making it challenging to choose the right one for your needs.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of today’s top five underwater metal detectors. These detectors include the Garrett AT Pro, Minelab Excalibur II, Minelab CTX 3030, Garrett ATX, and Garrett Sea Hunter Mark 2.
We will also discuss the factors to consider when selecting the best detector for your needs and the necessary accessories to enhance your treasure-hunting experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced underwater metal detecting enthusiast, this article will provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next metal detector.
Key Takeaways
- Underwater metal detecting is a popular activity among adventure seekers and hobbyists, with a 25% increase in people involved in the past five years.
- There are two types of underwater metal detectors: pulse induction detectors and very low frequency (VLF) ones, and the choice depends on the specific environment and purpose of the search.
- The top five underwater metal detectors in the market today are Garrett AT Pro, Minelab Excalibur II, Minelab CTX 3030, Garrett ATX, and Garrett Sea Hunter Mark 2.
- Necessary accessories for effective submerged searching include waterproof headphones, a short dive pole, a sifter, a sand scoop, and a bag, which are crucial for success in underwater metal detecting.
Types of Detectors
Two types of underwater metal detecting devices, pulse induction detectors and very low frequency (VLF) ones, have been identified as effective for different environments and purposes.
Pulse induction detectors send short bursts of current through a search coil, creating a magnetic field that penetrates the ground and reflects back to the detector. These are recommended for use near saltwater and are sensitive to precious metals. Pulse induction detectors can also detect deeper targets than VLF detectors, making them ideal for deep-sea diving.
On the other hand, VLF detectors operate by transmitting a continuous low-frequency signal through the coil, which creates an electromagnetic field that interacts with metal objects. They can be used near saltwater if they have a saltwater mode and are sensitive to coins, jewelry, and relics. VLF detectors are also known for their ability to discriminate between different types of metal, which is useful for avoiding digging up unwanted items. However, they are less effective at detecting targets at depth and may be affected by mineralization in the soil.
Overall, the choice between pulse induction and VLF detectors depends on the specific environment and purpose of the search.
Choosing the Right Detector
To select the suitable scanning tool for submerged searching, it is crucial to consider the specific environment and purpose of the search. Detector depth ratings are an important consideration, as each detector has a specific depth rating that indicates how deep it can search underwater. It is important to choose a detector with a depth rating that matches the depth of the environment you will be searching in.
Additionally, it is important to choose between pulse induction and very low frequency detectors based on their sensitivity to precious metals or coins, jewelry, and relics. Pulse induction detectors are highly recommended for use near saltwater as they are sensitive to precious metals and can detect them at greater depths than VLF detectors.
One of the benefits of pulse induction detectors is that they are not affected by highly mineralized soil or saltwater, which can cause interference with VLF detectors. This makes them ideal for underwater searching in saltwater environments. Additionally, pulse induction detectors are highly sensitive to precious metals and can detect them at greater depths than VLF detectors. This makes them a valuable tool for underwater treasure hunting, as they can detect valuable metals that may be buried deep beneath the ocean floor.
Choosing the right detector is crucial for successful underwater metal detecting, and considering the specific environment and purpose of the search is key to making the right choice.
Necessary Accessories
Accessories such as waterproof headphones, a short dive pole, a sifter, a sand scoop, and a bag are necessary for effective submerged searching. These accessories are designed to help you easily find and retrieve your targets.
Waterproof headphones are essential to hear the signals of your detector while submerged. A short dive pole is used to keep your detector within reach and to help you navigate through the water. A sifter and sand scoop are necessary to sift through sand and gravel to find your targets. A bag is also essential to keep your equipment and finds safe and secure while you are underwater.
When it comes to underwater metal detecting, having the right accessories is crucial for success. Not only do they help you find and retrieve your targets, but they also protect your equipment from water damage. With the right waterproof gear and accessories, underwater metal detecting can be a highly profitable hobby.
So, investing in high-quality equipment and accessories is important to ensure that you are fully prepared for your next submerged treasure hunt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of day to go underwater metal detecting?
Underwater metal detecting is best done during low tide when more ground is exposed. The best places to search are beaches with a history of shipwrecks or areas with high traffic. Quality equipment recommendations include pulse induction detectors for saltwater and VLF detectors with saltwater mode for coins, jewelry, and relics.
Can underwater metal detectors detect non-metallic objects such as fossils or artifacts?
Limitations of underwater metal detectors may include false positives, leading to difficulty in detecting non-metallic objects such as fossils or artifacts. While these detectors excel at detecting metals, they may not be suitable for uncovering non-metallic items.
How deep can underwater metal detectors detect?
Depth limitations and signal strength are key factors in exploring the capabilities of underwater metal detectors. The maximum depth that a detector can reach is determined by its design, technology, and frequency. The signal’s strength depends on the object’s size and composition, as well as the distance from the detector.
Are there any legal restrictions on underwater metal detecting?
Underwater metal detecting may seem like a harmless hobby, but it carries legal implications and environmental impact. Many countries have laws regulating metal detecting, and damaging marine ecosystems is a real concern. Researching regulations and obtaining necessary permits before engaging in this activity is important.
How long do underwater metal detectors typically last before needing maintenance or replacement parts?
Underwater metal detectors typically last for several years before needing maintenance or replacement parts, depending on usage frequency and durability features. Regular maintenance can extend the detector’s lifespan, and choosing a high-quality, durable model is recommended.
