Want To Be A Detectorist? Here’s How

What is a detectorist? We hear you ask. Well, a detectorist is someone who uses a metal detector to go treasure hunting around areas of the world and try to dig up precious metals like gold and silver. The idea of metal detecting and treasure hunting has always been once shrouded in mystery and fun. The idea of spending hours traipsing the countryside with detector in hand is one which holds a huge appeal for many. You not not get some fresh air, but you can stay fit while looking for treasure too. So, what’s it all about?

What Detectors Are There?

When it comes to the star of the show, the metal detector, many people first of all wonder how metal detectors work. There are two main types of metal detectors you can buy and they each have their own merits:

Motion detectors – the most modern type of detector which can be simply switched on and ready to go straight away. This is different from the other type of detector and can sometimes be a choice which seasoned detectorist avoid due to the loss of originality.

Non-Motion detectors – these classic metal detectors have to be manually tuned by the user, and this will happen sometimes when a signal drifts away from the detector. This is the detector which most will be familiar with as it gives that hum as you walk around with it.

How Deep Do They Reach?

The depth of which you can detect an object underground will largely depend on different factors of the object and how it is lay in the ground. The size of the object is the first factor to affect detecting, for example a large penny will be detected at a lower depth than small one. The way the object is lay in the ground can also affect the depth of detection. For example if an object is lay on flat rather than on its side, it will be detected at a lower level due the to higher surface area for the detector to work with. The type of object can also be a factor to affect the depth, for example ring shaped items will be detected depp down due to the detector seeing the object as a full disc. Whereas non rounded objects may not be as easily detected.

Is It Difficult To Learn?

Metal detecting might seem quite complicated, but it is actually pretty simple to grasp. You will likely be able to find a detectorist group in your local area who can teach you and show you the ropes when it comes to metal detecting. Most beginners start off with a motion detector because you can simply switch it on, but you can always try a traditional one too if you are a quick learner.

Can You Do It On The Beach?

As well as detecting in the countryside, many people also search for treasure in the beach. If you want to detect on wet sand you need to be aware that wet sand is a conductor and mess that you may need a specific detector for this.

On the whole, detecting metal and hunting for treasure can be a great hobby to get started with and will be a fun place to meet new people and learn about history.

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