Any hobby can bring you wealth. The same is true for metal detecting.
This fine hobby not only gets you engaged in outdoor activity but also is great for history buffs.
And the chance for you to stumble across an ancient stash of golden coins is always high. In order to conduct such discovers, you need the best all-round metal detector to be your companion.
Let me walk you through the list to get you ready for the next search.
Best all-round metal detectors
| Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | My top pick Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV bundle |
| View on Amazon |
 | Budget-friendly ToolGuards Metal Detector |
| View on Amazon |
 | Best entry-level Fisher F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector |
| View on Amazon |
 | Best for serious hobbyists Garrett ACE 400 Metal Detector |
| View on Amazon |
 | Best for beach hunting Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector |
| View on Amazon |
 | Best for kids NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PRO Series Metal Detector |
| View on Amazon |
Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV bundle – My top pick
- Extendable handle
- Adjustable height design
- Lightweight
- Need simple twists to avoid false positives
The item is well-built with 3 modes of operation including motion all-metal mode, discrimination mode, and 2-tone audio mode.
We do appreciate the light weight of the machine that is quite comfortable on the hand. You can hold the stick hunting treasures for a while without tiring your arms.
The 8-inch waterproof search coil is completely submersible enables the unit to work in the water.
Better than that, the user-friendly knob control interface will not confuse users, even newcomers.
**Tips for using the sensitivity
Normally, people run the highest sensitivity. But in built-up areas with an electrical background, you will get chattering noise on the detector.
| Operating Frequency | 6.7 kHz |
| Search Modes | Motion All-Metal mode, Discrimination mode, and 2-Tone audio mode |
| Ground Balance | Automatic |
| Search Coil Size | 8-Inch Waterproof |
| Weight | 3.7 lbs |
| Highlight features | can neutralize response to mineral content, target strength meter, discrimination control, sensitivity control, automatic ground balance |
The machine fits most of the requirements needed for an all-functional metal detector.
ToolGuards Metal Detector – Budget-friendly
- Valuable bundle
- Compact size
- Great for on the go
- Well-built unit
- Vague instruction
- A bit heavy
It will make an outstanding gift for an avid metal treasure hunter.
This can be used on all terrain including both on the land and in the water.
We can actually enjoy the friendly interface that even our kids could easily access and turned it up into a hobby.
The good thing is that this machine is the newest release in 2019 that piles up a whole lot of updated features like the 3 operating modes, adjustable height options, and water-resistant search coil.
It also comes with a headphone connector to deliver the clearest detecting sound.
The machine is great for all ages and metals and ready to become the greatest gift for anyone who looks to search history under the ground.
| Operating Frequency | 5.5khz |
| Search Modes | Motion All-Metal mode, Discrimination mode, and 2-Tone audio mode |
| Ground Balance | Manual |
| Search Coil | Water-resistant |
| Weight | 6.15 lbs |
| Highlight features | Comes with a detachable shovel & pouch, a waterproof carrying bag, headphone connector on the control box |
We love the professional quality of this detector and its price.
Fisher F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector – Best entry-level
- React fast to coins and relics
- Ultra-lightweight
- Responsive pinpointer
- The depth meter occasional goes wrong
The coil is 9-inch triangulated concentric ellipse which is waterproof.
Compartments in the machine are weather resistant.
It comes with three preset modes. For example, in Jewelry mode, it will knock out all the iron and let all the targets in.
You also get the coin and artifact mode to enable you to hunt for relics old pennies.
The pinpoint mode will let you know if you passed a target by shortening the beep. Along with that is the digital target ID, letting you know what’s possible under the dirt to save you time digging trash.
More than that, fast recovering speed can detect objects separately giving you the right identifications of what comes across the search.
| Operating Frequency | 7.69 kHz |
| Search Modes | Jewelry, Coin, Artifact, Custom |
| Ground Balance | Automatic |
| Search Coil | 9-Inch Triangulated Concentric Elliptical Waterproof |
| Weight | 2.3 lbs |
| Highlight features | Powered by two AA batteries, Responsive pin pointer and sensitive detective target ID, Iron audio |
The machine promises a seamless first-time experience that won’t bog down your interest in ground searching at any time.
Garrett ACE 400 Metal Detector – Best for serious hobbyists
- Long warranty
- Work on greater depth
- The target ID is more accurate
- Cut down junk digs
- Nose heavy
- A bit hard to put together
For those who are new in the activity, the digital panel makes it easy to read.
We pretty like the search coil cover that reinforces the weather-resistant feature allowing it to stand long outside. Note that once you put it on, removing it can break the gear.
Talking about the search coil, it is 8.5” x 11” DD PRO incorporates with higher frequency ensures more accuracy helping you to avoid more trash for real treasure.
We had tried the adjustable frequency and realized it did eliminate a significant inference during the search.
The distance from the arm strap to the hand grip is relatively short. One of our testers of 6 feet grabbed it; it sat about mid forearm on him. So, you may adjust that to your comfortable point before the elbow.
We are fans of the buttons on display. They are quite responsive. And you will like the tack out of them.
Other things that will make pro seeker love would be the higher frequency, five search modes, 8 sensitivity/depth adjustments.
| Operating Frequency | 10 kHz |
| Search Modes | 5 (Zero discrimination, Coins, Jewelry, Relics, Custom) |
| Ground Balance | Manual |
| Search Coil | 8.5″ x 11″ PROformance™ DD Waterproof Submersible |
| Weight | 6. 2 lbs |
| Highlight features | Iron Discrimination Segment, Eight sensitivity settings, Adjustable Frequency |
Simply put, you don’t get to waste the money with this machine because it will stick around with your improved skill for long.
Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector – Best for beach hunting
- Ideal for beginners
- Lightweight
- Weatherproof housing allows hose washing
- Fast recovery speed
- High operating frequency
- Single frequency
- Pricey
Bringing this detector into metal search in an island off the coast of Florida, we found it capable of performing well on the beach.
We were hunting in pro coins with discrimination at 35 and sensitivity at 6; we hit less junk than an outing with our previous detector.
You can expect this stick to scan up to 10-foot depth when used in the water.
After we came home with the stick covered in sand, we could find no discomfort hosing it all off. That said, we rushed water into it and let it stand to rinse outside.
So, if you are an all-treasure hunter by the beach in need of proactive features in the water and fast recovery speed, you will love this “amphibian” detector.
| Operating Frequency | 15 kHz |
| Search Modes | Zero, Custom, Coins, Pro |
| Ground Balance | Manual and Automatic |
| Search Coil | 8.5” x 11” PROformance™ DD submersible |
| Weight | 3.03 lbs |
| Highlight features | 6 detection mode (3 standard and 3 Pro mode), Iron discrimination controls, Iron audio, High res iron discrimination levels |
Don’t let the price holds you back. What worth is far behind the money you pay while bringing exceptional beach hunting trips promising good findings.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PRO Series Metal Detector – Best for kids
- Easy to use
- Made in USA by Minelab
- Very portable
- Not fully waterproof
National Geographic will educate your kids with an informative booklet showing how the machine works and how to become a responsible detector.
The detector can find things as deep as 10 inches underground with simple operation indicated in the guidebook.
You can collapse the unit to 22 inches and expand to 42 inches long to match variable heights of kids.
There is no assembly or detach required on this compact detector. The adjustability relies on the levers which make the machine lightweight and portable.
It packs 3 detection modes and other pro features to filter out false diggings.
| Operating Frequency | N/A |
| Search Modes | Aluminum, Rings, Coins |
| Ground Balance | Manual |
| Search Coil | 10-inch Waterproof |
| Weight | 2.3 lbs |
| Highlight features | Precision is added with the pin point function and easy-to-read LCD for kids. |
The little detector will be a surprise for your kids whose curiosity, creativity and dynamic energy are beyond your knowledge.
How to choose the best all round metal detector (buying guide)
Knowing the right detectors is one story; how to select the best one for yourself is different.
It not only relies on your purpose, preference but also the matter of budget, features; you name it.
Anyway! We’ve got some criteria for you to throw into consideration when shopping for an all-round metal detector.
Price
Typically, we don’t put this factor on the top, but it’s really a reluctant element that holds people down.
You can easily find things under $60 out there, but we wouldn’t recommend anything lower than $80 strictly because you would get nothing but a dump machine.
There is no point buying a nut unless you look for something to get your children to give up the tablet.
But as soon as the interest evolves, the $60 detector can’t qualify a real hunting machine. You kids will ask for an upgrade, and you will feel pity again for your wallet.
Metal tracking is an excellent activity yet appealing to all kids.
Since it triggers curiosity and trains patience, spending right to educate your little folks is worth every dime.
Purpose
You don’t need to be a treasure hunter to buy a detector.
It can be a security option, or you may want to use the machine for the workshop.
We know many people use the detector to track down hidden electric lines when they moved to a new house.
Others take advantage of its metal detecting capability to pry out sharp pieces in the garden so that their kids and pet can run barefoot on the grass.
Likewise, you can decide to become a detectorist to own an elite tracking machine.
Whatever the purpose is, our list above will undoubtedly come in handy.
Technology
Functions on most models are easy to adapt even to non-tech users.
But the fact is you will need time to learn all the buttons and how to read the numbers.
We have never seen anyone has trouble figuring out setting the modes and features to get the machine work.
Types of detectors
An all-terrain detector is versatile, but if you live near the beach, there is no point you need mountain features.
All metal detectors are not the same. The technical and operational functions offer different performance characteristics.
There are THREE main kinds of metal detectors:
- Beat-Frequency Oscillation: Low cost, good for entry level
- VFL (Very Low Frequency: More powerful and accurate
- Pulse Induction: Effective at detecting gold buried deep in the ground
These use different types of frequency to modulate audio transmission you heard in the speaker.
No matter what type you chose, all treasure trackers are suitable for metal hunting of all purpose.
Users
Metal detectors vary in size and weight.
If you’re buying for your child, make sure he can hold the unit.
Adjustable height would be an optimal choice for a growing youngster.
Pro hunters will care more about advanced features such as discrimination, target ID, depth of search and ground balance.
Newcomers to the hobby don’t have to stick with the kid detector but can desire a few high-end features to spice up the first outing search.
Warranty and Refund
It is great to have a metal detector covered by a full long-term warranty.
The least a manufacture should offer is one year, and you should never accept any lower time than that.
Also, make sure you know what they say in the return policy to make yourself eligible for a return if needed. Typically, providers offer 30-day no-questions-asked refund if you don’t like the product.
Besides, you will as well get a free replacement if you don’t wish to have the money back.
Who produce good metal detectors?
80% of all detectors come from the primary rivals of the industry that pioneer in quality.
Fisher
The company produces a wide range of detectors by which ground search detectors, body scanners, and underwater metal detectors are dominant.
Such trademarks as Bounty Hunter, Teknetics and Fisher Labs belong to this American brand that own designs are resembling each other.
Whites
This USA company qualifies itself in producing entry-level and commercial machines. Besides, White’s has marked the brand as a reliable destination for accessories for metal detection too.
Minelab
Minelab is a reputable brand from Australia. The coastal life gifts the company with the ability to craft high-end detectors that cost $$$. There exist some models adjusted to search for many particular kinds of non-metallic materials.
Garrett
User-friendliness is how they define their brand. Garrett provides the market with devices for amateurs as well as professional ground searchers. Their machines own different degrees of complexity that are meant to match users of all levels.
FAQs
Do you need a License for a metal detector?
Depends. In the UK, you don’t need a license to be a detectorist, but there are laws applied to the hobby.
In Australia on the other hand, most states require a Fossicking License or Miner’s Right to conduct any search.
Here is a list of countries where metal detecting is allowed/banned
https://md-hunter.com/list-of-countries-where-metal-detecting-is-allowedbanned/
What kind of metal sets off metal detectors?
Both ferrous and non-ferrous metals can be detected. Different metals give different VDI and sound to your perception. That is why discrimination and target ID will tell what is possible under the alert so that you can skip most of the junk.
How far can a metal detector detect gold?
A: A traditional coin search detector is unlikely to penetrate its non-specified signal through the earth. Many field tests support our claim that a 2-box metal detector can recognize gold laid deeper than one meter. That said if you look to get rich by searching gold, invest in a ground two-box detector.
What is the best frequency for my type of hunting?
A: Frequency is the number of electric waves sent to the ground to locate metals. There are TWO types of frequency:
- Single frequency: Found in Beat Frequency Oscillators in most entry-level machines
- Dual or Multiple frequency: Used in advanced devices providing the best approach of depth and accuracy. Mostly found on Pulse induction machines.
But only serious seekers who work for institutes or history departments demand the highest frequency to ready through layers of dirt. Your hobby detector with multiple search modes can adjust to the best frequency needed for your search.
How do I overcome interference from other detectors when I am at a rally?
A: To put it simply, we would remove ourselves from the source of interference and come back when it’s less crowded.
Where is the best place to metal detect?
A: We usually proceed our way to the garden, the beach, parks, farmers’ fields, or deserted towns. Any place labeled private we either ask for permission before entering. Such places like churches or temples are ideal for relics searching but be sure you’re welcomed to do so.
Can you make money with a metal detector?
A: Of course, you can make some money selling what you found if it has any value. But taking the hobby with enthusiasm and patience, you can really find items that cost a fortune.
Many seekers found gold in their searches making the hobby potentially profitable. But mind your skill and don’t expect you can collect anything that makes you rich.
Got your treasure detector?
We hope our hard work has done you a favor saving your time diving the saturated market.
If you’d like to know which detector we think is the best out of the list, we would pick the Garrett ACE 400.
It is not because it is the most expensive, because there are machines that are way more expensive, but the bundle comes with it include extreme helpful accessories that only support to have the best digs.
Either you are a starter or a pro hunter, the machine can cover all the need.
So, DO let us know the model you chose and what we have missed in the review.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Happy hunting!
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I’m James J. Decker, a hobbyist and DIYs and also a big of home improvement and gardening tools. I immensely enjoy how these amazing products improve productivity and efficiency, and allow me to do jobs for which I would’ve otherwise needed professional help.
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