In metal detecting like golfing, correct swing technique can make or break your treasure hunting game. In this article we will discuss some of the common mistakes made by new and experienced metal detectorist alike.
Penduluming
Penduluming is when a metal detectorist allows the coil to lift off the ground at the end of their sweeps. Resembling the arc that a pendulum follows through its swing. This pendulum motion is a more natural motion for the body, making it by far the most common swing mistake seen among those who metal detect.
To correct this pay attention to your swing and make a physical and mental effort to keep the coil low to the ground at the ends of your sweeps. Some tiems a slight roll of the wrist and shoulder will help you keep the coil low and parallel to the ground at the ends of your sweeps.
Coil Too High Off Ground
Presenting the coil too high off the ground drastically reduces the depth of buried metal objects. This has to do with proximity and metal detection capability. For example if a metal detector can detect a coin sized object 10 inches deep and your coil is 4 inches off the ground, you'll only be able to detect a buried object at 6 inches. However if your coil right on the surface of the ground you'll be able to take full advantage of the metal detectors capability and be able to detect buried metal objects at the full 10 inches of depth.
For best results keep your metal detectors coil as low to the ground as possible. An inch or less above the ground, but not scraping the ground.
Coil Not Parallel to the Ground
If your metal detectors coil is not parallel to the ground or at an angle you lose a lot of detection depth as the coil is pointed moreahead of youinstead of straight down into the ground.
Always make sure your coil is flat and parallel to the ground. Pay particular attention when you are transitioning from flat ground to a hill or vice versa. If the hill is upwards you will need to rotate the coil back a tad to match the slant of the ground. If the hills is a downward slope you will need to rotate the coil forward a tad, again matching the slant of the slope. Don't forget to rotate the coil angle back to a flat position once you are back on flat ground.
Moving Too Quickly and Swing Speed
Only move as fast as you can overlap your sweeps. This will vary from detectorist to detectorist and also vary on the metal detectors coil size. Smaller coils require slower speeds while larger coils allow a bit of a faster pace.
Your sweep speed again will vary from person to person depending on physical characteristics such asheight, arm length, strength, etc. Generally speaking your swing should take around 2 seconds to go from left to right back to left again.
Wrap Up
We discussed the importance of proper swing technique when metal detecting and the most common mistakes made by most metal detecting enthusiast.
We talked about the importance of keeping your coil parallel to the ground at the end of your sweeps to avoid penduluming. We also talked about keeping your coil as low to the ground as possible to provide better metal detection depth. We also discussed the importance of correct coil angle in regards to the terrain you are detecting. We talked about not moving too quickly,only moving at a speed thatallows you to overlap your sweeps. And finally we talked about swing speed, which is typically about 2 seconds from side to side.
Checkout this video from our sister company Bounty Hunter Metal Detectors for more on correct swing technique.
FAQs
“Swing” your metal detector. Move the search coil from left to right in a steady and methodical manner and in a straight line that is parallel to yourself while making sure that the coil is always a consistent distance from the surface (one to three cm).
How to properly swing a metal detector? ›
“Swing” your metal detector. Move the search coil from left to right in a steady and methodical manner and in a straight line that is parallel to yourself while making sure that the coil is always a consistent distance from the surface (one to three cm).
How fast should you swing a metal detector? ›
We talked about not moving too quickly, only moving at a speed that allows you to overlap your sweeps. And finally we talked about swing speed, which is typically about 2 seconds from side to side.
How do you use a metal detector effectively? ›
The first step is to find an ideal location for detecting metals and listen closely to the beeping tones. While searching, move slowly and wave the detector over the land without rushing. Never touch or bump the detector's coil to the ground. If you get a good signal from a spot, dig it slowly to uncover the treasure.
How can I make my metal detector more accurate? ›
Metal detectors use two different types of frequencies: Very Low Frequency (VLF) and Pulse Induction (PI).
- Very Low Frequency (VLF) ...
- Pulse Induction (PI) ...
- Turn Up the Sensitivity Setting. ...
- Swing Closer to the Ground. ...
- Reduce Discrimination Setting. ...
- Know Your Detector's Settings. ...
- Try Different Swing Speeds. ...
- Use Headphones.
To make your metal detector more powerful:
- Use headphones with your metal detector.
- Use the right search coil.
- Increase the frequency of your metal detector's search cycle.
- Adjust the ground balance when using on mineralized soil.
- Check your detector's battery.
- Use the right settings.
- Read your detector's manual.
Metal detectors have a tough time detecting metals like stainless steel, which have very poor electrical conductivity. Stainless steel has low magnetic permeability, which means it does not produce a signal strong enough to be detected.
What is the weakest point of a metal detector? ›
To conduct thoroughly, your test pieces should be placed on or in your product so they go through the centre of the aperture. It is required that test sticks travel through the centre of the aperture as this is the weakest point of the metal detector.
What is the easiest metal to detect with a metal detector? ›
However, the sensitivity of the metal detector can vary depending on the type of metal contaminant present. Typically ferrous is the easiest to detect, and stainless steel is the hardest to detect. However, as with many “rules” there are exceptions to this.
What are the three golden rules of metal detecting? ›
Follow all local, state, and federal laws related to metal detecting. Respect private property and never metal detect an area without permission. Pack out what you pack in, and properly dispose of any trash you find.
Start at low tide.
The best time to metal detect on the beach is at low tide. This is because the water will have washed away some of the sand, exposing objects that may be buried deeper at high tide.
How deep should a metal detector detect? ›
Most metal detectors can detect coins at an average maximum depth of 10 to 16 inches. Metal detectors transmit radio frequency signals from the search coil to locate the targets from the ground's surface to a depth of over 20 feet for large deep treasures.
What is the greatest weakness of metal detectors? ›
At the same time it presents significant limitations: metal detectors are capable of detecting only metallic contaminants; they are not usable with packagings containing metal (aluminum, aluminized film, tinplate, etc.); in addition, the characteristics of the product itself must be taken into account (thickness, ...
How much should I pay for a decent metal detector? ›
While you can probably find a metal detector for less than $100, the dedicated hobbyist should be looking to spend between $200 and $500 for a quality product. Prices can exceed that range quickly; some of the most accurate and sensitive units on the market cost over $1,000.
How to tune a metal detector for beginners? ›
Many detectors can chatter from EMI when set to the maximum sensitivity or gain levels. Especially if you live in the city around large power lines and multiple WiFi and cellular signals bouncing around the area. Less is more for the first time user. Set it to 7 of 10 or (70 of 100) as a good starting point.
Is there any way to beat a metal detector? ›
First, try wrapping the item in aluminum foil. The foil will help block the signal from the metal detector and make it harder for them to find your hidden item. Another option is to bury the item underground. This will take time and effort, but if done correctly, it should hide your item from a metal detector.
What interferes with a metal detector? ›
Wireless devices: Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices and wireless cameras can emit radio frequency signals that interfere with your metal detector. Move away from these devices and/or switch to a different frequency on the detector. This may allow a little more depth, and may help with the chatter of interference.
