Types of Underwater Metal Detectors

So, you are ready to take the plunge and plunk down your hard-earned dollars for an underwater metal detector. In this article we will review the options to help you select the best water proof metal detector for your needs.

There are two main types of water proof metal detector technologies for use underwater.

These can be broken down as follows:

Selecting the design best suited to your style of treasure hunting is the first step in choosing the best under water treasure hunting equipment.

Types of Underwater Metal Detectors:

Pulse Induction Metal Detectors transmit a series of quick electronic pulses in to the ground. These electronic currents are not affected by wet salt sand and ground minerals, but they are highly sensitive to precious metals. A Pulse detector is best for salt water beaches and diving. The Pulse circuit is very deep seeking, and is great for tough ground mineral conditions. The PI circuit features limited discrimination capabilities, so you will need to dig more trash items if you want to locate the maximum number of precious objects.

Very Low Frequency (VLF) Metal Detectors typically operate in the 3 to 30 kHz frequency range and are quite sensitive to coins, relics, and jewelry. The VLF detectors have the capability of discriminating out junk targets while still accepting good items. Unlike the PI circuitry, the VLF circuit is affected by ground mineralization. Most VLF detectors have a sensitivity adjustment and sometimes a ground balance control. By adjusting the sensitivity or ground balance adjustment control, you can minimize signals caused by ground minerals. Here is a list of links to the Best VLF underwater metal detectors.

Where will you use your metal detector?

Now that we have a basic understanding of the types of underwater metal detectors that are available, let’s take a look at where to use your new machine. You might say to yourself, how do I know where I will want to use my new detector? Start by taking a look at some of your other hobbies and pastimes. The most popular places for using a waterproof detector are: walking along the beach, diving or wading in the water up to your waist. If you are a diver, you might find that you enjoy looking for ship wrecks or other sites of interest.

What is the best type of under water metal detector for you?

Taking the time to select the best type of under water metal detector is important. Now, that we know where you will be using your unit, let’s take a look at the other items that you need to consider. Will you be hunting in fresh or salt water? Will this be a primary detector or in addition to a separate unit for metal detecting on land? If you will be hunting in salt water, a Pulse Induction will be your best choice. However, if you do decide on a VLF underwater metal detector, be sure that it has a salt water mode.

If you will be diving, consider how deep your dives will be. Check the depth rating of the detector you are considering to be sure it is appropriate. The depth rating is not how deep it will penetrate the ground but how deep under the water you can use it. If you are diving or snorkeling, you will want to be sure that your model comes with a short dive pole. This will make it more comfortable while in use.

What accessories will I need to be successful?

Below are our suggestions for the basic equipment that every well outfitted underwater treasure hunter should have. You can always spend more money on additional items later, but these are the basics of what you should have. Headphones will let you hear the oldest, deepest targets & block external noises.

All underwater detector come standard with a set of waterproof headphones. A Carry Bag is an excellent way to protect your new detector and makes transporting easy. While hunting along the beach you will want a Trowel. You will also want one or more Metal Detector Sand Scoops. A beach sand sifter scoop will greatly speed up your recovery.

Let’s find some treasure!

When using your metal detector underwater, there is nothing more exciting than pulling a shiny piece of gold out of the water. In fact, it is a little known fact that there are more lost coins and jewelry in the ground than there are in circulation. No matter what your goal, treasure hunting with a metal detector is sure to provide you with countless hours of fun, good exercise, and relaxation. You are now ready to take the plunge, so above all, enjoy the hobby, and remember your suntan lotion!

Successfully using an underwater metal detector is almost always dependent on Mother Nature, so it’s important that you understand it. When you are beginning to search beaches, make sure that it is a little before low tide. This will give you the best results for finding targets in the deeper areas of the ocean.

Use the currents to lead you to high potential sand. Search areas where you see water movements because a lot of sand will be carried there by the current. Keep in mind that the ocean movements often carry items that are about the weight and deposits them together in sand pockets. That means that if you come across a few coins, you should keep searching in the same area.

Like any other metal detecting, underwater hunting takes some practice. But when you follow the tips above, you will have a great start to finding underwater treasures.