Choose the Best Underwater Metal Detector
Customer’s Choice: the Best Rated Underwater Metal Detectors
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Underwater metal detecting is one of the most thrilling and fascinating hobbies a person can take up. It’s also one of the most rewarding, as it allows you to discover treasures from our past that would have otherwise been lost forever!An underwater metal detector is a tool that can help you find these lost treasures, but it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
Reasons to Use an Underwater Metal Detector:
- To find lost objects.Many people use metal detectors to locate lost objects such as jewelry, keys, or even cell phones;
- To search for buried treasure. Others use them in an attempt to find hidden pirate treasure, ancient coins, and other valuable items that may be buried beneath the surface;
- To look for sunken shipwrecks. Some people use metal detectors to explore sunken ships and look for valuable artifacts that may have been on board;
Types of Underwater Metal Detectors:
- Pulse induction (PI). These are the most popular type of underwater metal detectors and are ideal for saltwater environments. They emit short pulses of electricity that penetrate deep into the ground or water, making them ideal for search depths of over 100 feet;
- Very low frequency (VLF). These detectors are less popular than PI models but are still a good option for saltwater environments. They operate at lower frequencies, making them more sensitive to smaller objects. However, they don’t penetrate as deeply as PI detectors;
- Multi-frequency.These detectors are ideal for both saltwater and freshwater environments. They can be switched between different frequencies, allowing you to customize your search depending on the conditions;
If you’re thinking about taking up this hobby, then you’ll need to invest in a good quality underwater metal detector. But with so many different models on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
In this guide, experts will answer some common questions about underwater metal detectors, as well as provide reviews of some of the best models on the market. We’ll also include some useful tips for getting started on this exciting hobby!
Bounty Hunter TK4GWP1 Tracker IV Metal Detector – the Editor’s choice!
The Bounty Hunter TK4GWP1 Tracker IV Metal Detector is a top-quality product that is perfect for those who are looking for a reliable device to help them find iron relics, and small items such as silver and gold coins or jewelry, and shallow water.
The two-tone audio is a great feature, as it allows users to distinguish between different types of metals. The headphone jack is also a great addition, as it allows users to plug in their headphones and enjoy the music while they are searching for metals.
The low battery indicator is a useful feature, as it helps users keep track of the remaining battery life.
The Bounty Hunter metal detector might be a good option for you because it is a top-notch waterproof device according to many experts. The grip on this metal detector is also very comfortable, and it’s waterproof and rust-resistant. However, some users have found it to be too bulky and it doesn’t have any entry-level features.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PRO Series Metal Detector – the best for beginners!
The NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PRO Series Metal Detector can be a good choice for beginner treasure hunters. It is easy to use and assemble and can be adjusted to fit anyone from 22 to 45 inches tall.
The included pinpointer comes in handy when you are looking for something specific, and the budget-friendly price makes this metal detector a great value.
This budget-friendly device is great for beginners and can detect metals up to 12 inches deep. Plus, with four sensitivity settings, you can customize your search to find just the right item. And if you’re looking for something specific, use the included pinpointer to help you zero in on your target.
Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector – the best for experienced users!
The Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector is a top-of-the-line product that offers great customization and four different search modes. It’s also submersible and waterproof, making it ideal for beachcombing or searching in wet conditions. Even better, it comes with a comfy grip and strap, so you can carry it around with ease.
However, there are a few drawbacks. First, the interface is complicated and may take some time to get used to. Second, it’s on the expensive side. And finally, it may show false positives in sandy conditions or have difficulty pinpointing objects.
The Garrett AT Pro is a high-end metal detector that offers great features and performance. However, its complicated interface and the high price tag may be off-putting to some buyers. The AT Pro is best suited for experienced users who are willing to invest in a quality product.
Wedigout Metal Detector Pin Pointer – the best handheld device!
This Wedigout Metal Detector Pin Pointer is a handheld device that is less than 1 pound and is made of durable metals. It is great for most applications and supports the auto on/off feature. It also has great sensitivity and can be applied for any treasure hunting. In addition, it comes with a wrist strap!
The Wedigout Metal Detector Pin Pointer is a top-notch handheld device that is less than 1 pound and made of stainless steel. It is sturdy and can be applied for any treasure hunting. The sensitivity is great and it supports auto on/off feature.
Garrett ATX Pulse Induction Military Grade Metal Detector – the best for detecting gold!
If you want to find gold, then you need the Garrett ATX Pulse Induction Military Grade Metal Detector. This is the most professional detector on the market, and it’s very powerful. It includes a battery charger, a travel case (soft), and land headphones, and it’s suitable for all terrain types.
However, there are also a few drawbacks to consider. It’s quite heavy, so it can be difficult to carry around. It’s also quite expensive, so it’s not ideal for beginners. But if you’re an experienced user who wants the best gold prospecting detector available, then the Garrett ATX is the perfect choice for you.
The Garrett ATX PI detector is the most professional gold prospecting detector on the market. It is very powerful and includes a battery charger, travel case, and land headphones, and is suitable for all terrain types.
The Buyer’s Guide
How Do Underwater Metal Detectors Work?
Metal detectors use an electromagnetic field generated by a search coil to scour the earth’s surface. Metal items absorb this energy and emit their own electromagnetism, which is picked up by the search coil. The type of signals that metal transmits depends on the kind of metals present, offering the user a hint as to what sort of discovery they’re looking at [1].
This technology is also used in underwater metal detectors. However, these devices have an extra piece of equipment: a waterproof coil. This addition helps the device withstand being submerged in water and keeps it from rusting.
The most popular type of underwater metal detector is a pulse induction (PI) machine. These models are known for their ability to discriminate between different types of metals and find targets at extreme depths. They work by generating short pulses of current that create a magnetic field. When this field comes into contact with a conducting object, like metal, it creates its own magnetic field that interferes with the first one.
Before you select the first waterproof device you see, it’s vital to look at the IP rating. The IP rating is a method for determining how much water a product can endure.
The degree of protection offered by an enclosure is determined by its IP rating or IP code class. This standard covers the levels of sealing effectiveness against “ingress” which is defined as an intrusion from foreign objects such as tools, dirt, and liquid water [2].
The higher the IP rating, the more water it can withstand:
IP68. Can be submerged in over one meter of water for up to 60 minutes;
IP67. Can be submerged in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes;
IP66. Water-resistant against powerful jets of water;
IP65. Dustproof and protected against low-pressure jets of water from all directions;
IP64. Splash-proof from all directions;
When you’re looking at an underwater model, aim for something with an IP rating of 65 or higher. This means that it’s both dustproof and can handle high-pressure jets of water. Anything lower than that is only splash-resistant and isn’t going to be as durable.
Metal detectors are only capable of detecting objects a few feet deep. As a result, they’re best suited for shallow snorkeling or water strolls. These detectors are typically given a lower IP rating, such as IPX-4 to IPX-7. If the sensors can be submerged for more than a minute at depths of 1 m or more, they will be recognized by the IPX-8 certification.
Picking the Best Design:
Water-Resistant vs Waterproof
There’s a lot of marketing jargon for describing the performance of a product in wet situations. While they’re easy to mix up, water-resistance and total waterproofing are two different things [3].
When a metal detector is referred to as “water-resistant”, it implies that it is waterproof in some way. There may be a sealed coil housing or moisture-resistant material. However, keep in mind that these gadgets should not be fully immersed.
They’re intended for shallow puddles or near a beach. A few sprinkles of water aren’t going to harm it, but immersing the whole device in the water will cause damage.
The best waterproof metal detector is one with stainless steel housing. It’s totally protected and may be used while scuba diving. The “waterproof” descriptor is correctly deserved through careful engineering and testing.
Waterproof vs Submersible
When a product is advertised as “waterproof”, it means that the casing will keep water out. The control box, battery housing, and speaker should all be protected from moisture damage. You can use these devices in the rain or around puddles without any worry.
A “submersible” model takes waterproofing a step further by featuring sealed electronics.
Just because a gadget is submersible doesn’t make it the best option for every user. If you don’t plan on getting wet or only need it near the shore, there’s no need to spend the extra money on a model designed for diving.
Underwater vs Beach Use
When you’re looking for a good underwater metal detector, it’s important to know where you’ll be using it most. If you only need it near the shore or in shallow water, any model will suffice.
If you want to use your device while diving, snorkeling, or swimming in deep water, however, you need a special kind of sensor. These are designed with waterproof coils and may be used at depths up to 100 feet without damage.
Keep in mind that beach models usually have more features than those intended for use underwater. If you only need it for one environment or the other, there’s no need to buy a gadget that can do both things.
Saltwater vs Freshwater
If you live near the ocean or plan on using your detector in salt water, it’s important to get a model that is designed for that environment. Saltwater is more conductive than freshwater, so it can cause false readings.
As a result, you need a model with special coils that are resistant to corrosion. These are usually made of stainless steel or another type of metal that won’t rust. You also want a machine that can filter out the salt so that you only get readings for objects made of metals.
If you don’t live near the ocean or don’t plan on using your detector in salt water, however, this won’t be as big of a concern. In freshwater environments, any model will work just fine.
Types of Underwater Metal Detectors:
Very Low Frequency (VFL) Detectors
They also discriminate between different types of metals, so you can avoid picking up unwanted items.
This method works in a variety of frequencies, and it’s sensitive to jewelry, relics, and coins. It has strong discriminating abilities, so it can distinguish between trash items and valuable items. A VLF detector, on the other hand, is damaged by ground mineralization, so it isn’t a good choice for saltwater. If you want to search for valuables in freshwater, the gadget is fantastic.
Pulse Induction (PI) Detectors
PI models, on the other hand, don’t discriminate between different types of metals. This means they’re not as good at finding smaller items, but they excel at finding larger ones that are buried deeper in the ground. If you’re planning on doing a lot of diving, then a PI model is probably your best bet.
Although the quick series of electronic pulses from a PI detector is unaffected by ground minerals or wet salt sand, if you use this sort of underwater metal detector, you will need to dig through a large amount of trash to find a decent number of riches. That’s because the PI circuitry has limited discrimination power [4].
Main Features:
Coil Size
Exploring the ocean floor with a larger search coil increases your chance of finding riches. Because it is larger, the coil can cover a greater distance and reduce searching time. It’s not that smaller coils aren’t sensitive; it’s just that finding a good number of metals under the water will take a lot longer with a small-sized coil.
Additionally, a larger coil is more likely to give you better results in deeper waters. If you’re looking for metals at depths greater than 20 feet, it’s best to use a metal detector with a large coil.
Of course, there are some trade-offs that come with using a large coil. First, the larger the coil, the heavier the metal detector will be. This can make it difficult to carry around and use for long periods of time. Additionally, large coils are more expensive than small coils. But if you’re serious about finding metals underwater, the extra cost is worth it.
Weight and Buoyancy
You should avoid anything in the water that has negative buoyancy, as it will sink too rapidly and also you don’t want it to constantly try to float to the surface because doing so would be difficult. It’s a difficult balance to strike, but one that is crucial when it comes to underwater metal detectors.
You’ll also want to make sure that your metal detector can handle the weight of whatever you’re finding. If you’re constantly picking up rocks and other heavy objects, make sure the device can take it. Otherwise, it will just keep breaking and you’ll have to keep buying new ones.
Lastly, don’t forget about the cord! It’s not as big of a deal if it’s too long because you can always coil it up, but if it’s too short then you might as well not even bother.
The length of the cord is important because you need to be able to move around freely without having to worry about getting tangled up. Most good metal detectors will come with a fairly lengthy cord, but it never hurts to check before you buy.
Water Depth
The submersible stem underwater metal detectors are the most user-friendly. As a result, it’s essential to get a model that can go deep into the water while still performing all of its basic functions. The farther you put the detector, the higher your chance of finding what you’re looking for. Deep-depth metal detectors offer a greater opportunity to discover valuables than surface-depth detectors.
While all of this is well and good, it’s important to keep in mind that you don’t need the deepest metal detector on the market. If you’re only planning on using it in shallower waters, then there’s no need to spend the extra money on a deep-depth model.
Additionally, keep in mind that not all metals are created equal. Some are more likely to be found at certain depths than others. For example, if you’re looking for gold, you’ll have better luck in shallow waters (less than 20 feet). But if you’re looking for something like iron or lead, you’ll want to go deeper.
Water & Audio Support
If you want to use your underwater metal detector in saltwater, make sure it supports this type of water. You risk getting false information and possibly harming your device if it doesn’t. Those using additional underwater audio assistance are another outstanding choice since they appear to give you the most precise results [6].
While it’s not required, an underwater metal detector with audio support can be a huge help.
Additionally, audio support is great for those who want to use their metal detectors in noisy environments. By using headphones, you can block out all the unwanted noise and focus on the task at hand.
Price/Budget
As with anything, you get what you pay for when it comes to metal detectors. The more expensive models will usually have more features and be of a higher quality than the cheaper ones. However, that doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune to get a good metal detector.
There are plenty of great options available at all price points. It just might take a little bit of extra research to find them. When it comes to budgeting for your metal detector, be sure to factor in the cost of any additional accessories you might need, such as headphones or a carrying case.
You also don’t need to buy the most expensive model right away. If you’re just starting out, it might be a good idea to buy a cheaper model to see if metal detecting is really for you. You can always upgrade later on if you find that you enjoy it and want to invest in a better quality detector.
Frequency Range
Metal detectors have a specific operating frequency. Others may be adjusted manually by you. The latter choice is usually preferable because it allows you to seek certain metals. Metals with low conductivity, such as gold or silver, must be searched for using a higher frequency. This includes precious metals like palladium and platinum.
Metal detectors can operate at frequencies ranging from 3 kHz to 100 kHz. These settings might be adjusted with a knob or chosen from a few pre-determined alternatives, depending on the type of metal detector [7].
The most significant benefit of a higher frequency is improved detection of small items. If you’re looking for coins or other tiny pieces of metal, a high-frequency detector is your best bet. However, keep in mind that high frequencies can also lead to more false positives.
Lower frequencies are better for detecting larger pieces of metal, such as jewelry or relics. They’re also less likely to produce false positives. So if you’re just getting started with metal detecting, it might be a good idea to start with a lower frequency and work your way up.
Mineralization Filter
Mineralization is the process that makes minerals more difficult to detect. This occurs when minerals are deposited on top of metals, making it hard for the metal detector to penetrate through and identify the metal beneath.
A mineralization filter helps to reduce false readings caused by mineralization. It’s a good idea to get a metal detector with this feature if you’re planning on using it in an area with high levels of mineralization, such as near a beach.
Do some research on the type of terrain you’ll be using your metal detector in before making your purchase. If you know there’s a lot of mineralization in the area, look for a model with a mineralization filter.
Control Interface
Do you have a lot of experience searching for valuables with metal detectors, or are you just getting started? If you’re in the former group, a feature-rich control panel is worth looking into. Fine-tuning your experience may be a snap thanks to machines with all the bells and whistles.
Beginners, on the other hand, may find them complicated. In those situations, a less complex machine would be preferable. They have simple controls and give clear instructions on what to do at this time.
The bottom line is that your skill level should dictate the kind of control interface you choose.If you’re a beginner, look for something simple. If you’re more experienced, go for a model with more features [8].
Comfort
Some models are more comfortable to use than others. This is particularly important if you’re going to be using your metal detector for long periods of time.
When it comes to comfort, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- First, look for a model that’s not too heavy. You don’t want something that’s going to tire you out after a short while;
- Second, consider the grip. Is it easy to hold onto? Does it feel comfortable in your hand? You’ll be holding onto it for a while, so make sure it feels good;
- Finally, think about the length of the shaft. Can you adjust it to fit your height? You should be able to use your metal detector without stooping over or hunching your back;
Accuracy
When you’re looking for a metal detector, accuracy is one of the most important factors to consider. After all, what’s the point of using a metal detector if it doesn’t work?
A few things can affect accuracy. First, make sure the model you choose is appropriate for the type of terrain you’ll be using it in. If you’re going to be using it in an area with high mineralization, look for a model with a mineralization filter.
Second, pay attention to the frequency. Higher frequencies are better for detecting small items, but they can also lead to more false positives. Lower frequencies are better for detecting larger items, but they’re less likely to produce false positives.
Finally, consider the size of the coil. A larger coil can cover more ground, but it’s also more likely to produce false positives. If you’re just getting started with metal detecting, it might be a good idea to start with a smaller coil and work your way up.
The bottom line is that accuracy is important, but there are a lot of factors that can affect it. Make sure you choose a model that’s appropriate for the type of terrain you’ll be using it in and pay attention to the frequency and size of the coil.
Potentiometers/Knob Controls
As you may have noticed, some of the models on our list have potentiometers or knob controls. This is a feature that allows you to fine-tune the settings on your metal detector.
If you’re experienced with metal detecting, this is a feature that’s definitely worth looking into. It can be a real time-saver when you’re trying to find those elusive valuables.
If you’re just getting started, however, you might want to stick with a model that has simpler controls. You don’t want to get frustrated with your metal detector because you can’t figure out how to use it.
Visual Indicators
Some metal detectors come with visual indicators that let you know when you’ve found something. This is a great feature, especially if you’re new to the hobby.
It can be easy to miss things when you’re scanning the ground, so having a visual indicator can be a real lifesaver. Just make sure the model you choose has an indicator that’s easy to see. You don’t want to miss anything because you couldn’t see the indicator.
Adjustable User Settings
As you’ve probably noticed, there are a lot of settings on metal detectors. From the frequency to the size of the coil, there’s a lot to choose from.
If you’re new to metal detecting, this is a great feature to have. It allows you to experiment with different settings until you find what works best for you.
Safety Tips for Metal Detecting Underwater:
- Wear ear protection. The noise from the metal detector can be loud, so make sure you wear ear protection;
- Wear gloves. You’ll be handling a lot of sharp objects, so it’s important to wear gloves to protect your hands;
- Be careful with the coil. The coil on the metal detector is sensitive and can be easily damaged. Be careful when you’re using it and avoid dropping it;
- Don’t go alone.It’s always best to go metal detecting with a friend. That way, if something happens, there’s someone there to help you;
FAQ:
Why can’t you use a traditional metal detector underwater?
Water conductivity makes it difficult to get an accurate reading on a metal detector designed for land use. The best underwater metal detectors have special features that allow them to filter out the interference caused by saltwater and other minerals in the water.
Is the weight of the underwater metal detector important?
The weight of the underwater metal detector is not as important as you might think. In fact, most people who use an underwater metal detector find that a lighter model is easier to maneuver. However, if you are planning on using your detector in deep water, you might want to consider a heavier model.
Another factor to consider is the size of the coil. A larger coil will give you more coverage, but it will also be more difficult to maneuver. If you are new to using an underwater metal detector, you might want to start with a smaller coil. You can always upgrade to a larger one later if you find that you need more coverage.
What kind of headphones do I need for an underwater metal detector?
Headphones come in a variety of designs, sizes, and connection types, with various features and so on. Over-ear headphones, on-ear headphones, in-ears, and true wireless earbuds are the most common types of headphones.
Depending on the type of headphones, you’ll want to look for different features. For example, over-ear and on-ear headphones tend to offer better sound quality than in-ears, but they’re not as portable.
True wireless earbuds are the most portable type of headphones, but they generally don’t sound as good as other types.
When it comes to underwater metal detectors, you’ll want to look for headphones that are waterproof and have a good seal. This will help to block out any water that might try to get in and damage the electronics. In-ears are generally the best type of headphones for this, as they create a tight seal around your ear. However, there are also some over-ear and on-ear headphones that offer a good seal.
If you’re looking for the best possible sound quality, then you’ll want to choose headphones with larger drivers. These can range from 20mm up to 50mm or even larger. The larger the driver, the better the sound quality will be. However, keep in mind that larger headphones can be more difficult to seal against water.
What is the best metal detector for depth?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, such as the type of terrain you’ll be using it in and what kinds of objects you’re hoping to find. For example, if you’re interested in searching for shipwrecks, you’ll need a metal detector that can reach greater depths than one designed for use on land.
Can you use the Garrett AT Pro underwater?
The Garrett AT Pro is a versatile metal detector that can be used for both land and underwater searches. It features a waterproof design that allows it to be submerged up to ten feet, making it a great option for shallow water searching.
If you’re interested in using the Garrett AT Pro for more depth, there are a few accessories available that will allow you to extend its reach. For example, the Garrett AT Pro Pointer can be used to help locate buried objects beneath the surface [9].
What metal detector does Dallmyd use?
DALLMYD demonstrates the two metal detectors he uses in one of his treasure hunting videos: the Minelab Excalibur II and Pinpointer [10].
The Excalibur II is a pulse induction metal detector that’s specifically designed for use in saltwater. It features a durable waterproof design and can reach depths of up to 200 feet.
The pinpointer is a handheld device that helps pinpoint the exact location of buried objects. It’s a useful tool to have when searching in areas with a lot of debris or where the terrain is uneven.
Is the Go Find 66 metal detector waterproof?
Yes, it is. The Go Find 66 can be submerged in up to ten feet of water without any damage [11]
Can metal detectors detect gold underwater?
Yes, they can. Metal detectors are able to detect all types of metals, including gold. However, it should be noted that gold is a relatively rare find, so don’t get your hopes up too much!
If you’re serious about finding gold underwater, then you’ll need a specialist metal detector such as the Minelab Gold Monster 1000. This detector is specifically designed for use in saltwater and has been proven to be extremely effective in finding small pieces of gold.
Do underwater metal detectors work on the land?
Mostly, they don’t. Underwater metal detectors are typically designed to be used in saltwater and will not work properly on land. If you try to use an underwater metal detector on land, you will likely damage the device.
If you want a metal detector that can be used both on land and in water, then you need to get a multi-purpose device such as the Garrett AT Pro. This metal detector can be used in both environments and is a great choice for those who want the flexibility to use their device in different ways.
Is the Minelab Safari waterproof?
Yes, the Minelab Safari can be submerged in up to three feet of water without any damage [12].
Useful Video: Garrett ATX Underwater Metal Detecting, Shallow Dive Test
Final thoughts
So, are you ready to take the plunge and start your underwater metal detecting journey? Hopefully, this guide has helped you make a decision about which detector is right for you. Remember to always do your research before investing in any new equipment, and be sure to read up on the best tips and techniques for finding a treasure! Good luck – we can’t wait to hear about all of your amazing finds.
References:
- https://www.divein.com/diving/underwater-metal-detector/
- https://rainfordsolutions.com/products/ingress-protection-ip-rated-enclosures/ip-enclosure-ratings-standards-explained
- https://metalpursuits.com/underwater-detectors/
- https://www.boatsafe.com/best-underwater-metal-detector/
- https://www.globosurfer.com/best-underwater-metal-detectors/
- https://www.divein.com/diving/underwater-metal-detector/
- https://metalpursuits.com/underwater-detectors/
- https://metalpursuits.com/underwater-detectors/
- https://blog.metaldetector.com/2016/06/garrett-at-pro-underwater-metal-detector-to-10-feet/
- https://outdoorahead.com/dallmyd-gear/
- https://go-find.minelab.com/en/products/go-find-66
- https://www.minelab.com/metal-detectors/safari
