Monthly Archives: December 2024

Lost Keys? Here’s How I Helped Joe—and Tips for When You Lose Something

Uncategorized

After a referral from my nephew Jasen, I received a message from Joe late one evening about losing his keys. It was 9:30 p.m., but since he had a spare set, we arranged for me to come out the next morning. Despite the rain, I headed over to help him out.

It didn’t take long—just a little work in the mud—and I was able to locate his keys. You can read the full story here.

What to Do When You Lose Something
If you ever find yourself in Joe’s shoes, here are some tips to improve your chances of recovering a lost item:

  1. Pin the Location: Use Google Maps to drop a pin where you think the item was lost. It’ll help mark the exact spot.
  2. Take Photos: Snap pictures of the area to document landmarks and other details.
  3. Mark the Spot: Leave a marker, like a rock or stick, to identify the area easily when you return.
  4. Call for Help: Reach out to a professional or someone with the right tools, like a metal detector, to assist in your search.

Whether it’s keys, jewelry, or something else valuable, a little planning and the right help can make all the difference.

I Love My Hobby!!!

 

Facebooktwitter

So You Received a New Metal Detector for Christmas: What Do You Do Now?

General Metal Detecting, Uncategorized, , , , , ,

Congratulations! Getting a metal detector as a gift opens up a world of exciting treasure-hunting adventures. But where do you start? Don’t worry—this guide will help you take your first steps into the rewarding hobby of metal detecting.

Step 1: Learn About Your Metal Detector

The first thing you should do is head to YouTube and search for videos specific to the make and model of your metal detector. Look for setup tutorials and honest reviews to understand its features and capabilities. Once you’ve covered the basics, watch videos on how to recover items from the ground properly.

It’s essential to learn the right digging techniques so you don’t leave behind large, messy holes. Improper digging can lead to complaints and even bans on detecting in your area. Take the time to practice and perfect this skill.

Step 2: Practice in Your Own Yard

Once you feel confident in the basics, set up your detector and test it out in your yard. Gather a variety of metal objects—such as coins, a piece of silver, a gold item, and some common trash like a bottle cap and pull tab. Lay these items on the ground and run your detector over each one. This will help you understand the different signals and tones your detector produces for various metals.

If your detector has a discrimination mode, experiment with it to filter out unwanted signals from trash items. This will help you avoid unnecessary digging during your hunts.

Step 3: Expand Your Search

After getting comfortable with your detector in your yard, it’s time to branch out. Consider searching in other places like parks, beaches, or your neighbor’s yard (with permission, of course). Be sure to check the local rules and regulations for metal detecting before heading out. Detecting is not allowed in federal and state parks, so always research the area beforehand to avoid any legal issues.

Step 4: Respect the Hobby

Metal detecting is about more than just finding treasure—it’s about respecting the environment and others’ property. Always fill in your holes, take any trash you dig up, and leave the area better than you found it. This not only keeps the hobby enjoyable for you but ensures it remains open to others.

Step 5: Enjoy the Hunt

Remember, you won’t find treasure every time you go out. You’re likely to uncover more trash than valuables, but that’s part of the experience. Each beep is a chance for discovery, and the more you practice, the better you’ll become at identifying worthwhile signals.

Bonus Tip: Join the Community

Check out metal-detecting websites, forums, and social media groups to connect with other enthusiasts. You’ll find a wealth of knowledge, tips, and stories that will inspire you and enhance your skills.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need guidance. The metal detecting community is full of friendly people who love to share their passion.

Happy hunting, and welcome to the adventure!

I Love My Hobby!

Facebooktwitter

Updated the Links Page

General Metal Detecting, Uncategorized, , , , ,

Today, I cleaned out and updated the Metal Detecting Web Links Page, making it more user-friendly and comprehensive than ever before.

With over 100 metal-detecting related websites now listed, the page serves as a treasure trove of resources for enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started or an experienced detectorist seeking advanced tips, you’ll find valuable information in the curated links provided. From forums and community pages to product reviews and instructional blogs, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re eager to dive deeper into the world of metal detecting, the Web Links Page is your one-stop hub. Explore the latest equipment, discover expert advice, and connect with fellow hobbyists from around the globe.

Do you know of a metal detecting website or resource that’s not currently listed? I’d love to hear from you! Simply send me an email with the link, and I’ll be happy to add it to the collection. Together, we can ensure this page continues to be a valuable resource for the community.

Happy detecting!

 

Facebooktwitter

So You Want To Buy A Metal Detector…

General Metal Detecting, Uncategorized, , , , , ,

Expert Tips for Finding the Best Metal Detectors for Coin, Jewelry, and Relic Hunting:

  • Multi-Purpose Detectors:

    • Opt for a versatile detector with modes or presets specific to coins, jewelry, and relics.
    • Ensure the detector can handle varying target sizes, from small jewelry pieces to large relics.

  • Frequency Flexibility:

    • Choose a detector with multiple frequencies or a wide frequency range:
      • Low frequencies (5-10 kHz) for deeper targets like relics.
      • Higher frequencies (15-20+ kHz) for smaller targets like jewelry.
      • Multi-frequency models provide maximum adaptability.

  • Discrimination Features:

    • Ensure the detector has adjustable discrimination and notching to filter out junk metals and focus on desirable targets like coins, gold, and silver.
    • Look for variable tone IDs to differentiate between metals.

  • Ground Balance:

    • Automatic or manual ground balancing is essential to handle mineralized soils, beaches, and varying terrains.
    • Some models offer tracking ground balance for seamless adjustments as conditions change.

  • Depth Detection:

    • Larger coils and advanced depth detection features are ideal for finding deeply buried relics or coins.
    • Consider models with deep-seeking technology for improved depth accuracy.

  • Target Identification (ID):

    • Choose detectors with clear visual displays showing target ID numbers or classifications for coins, jewelry, and relics.
    • Models with multi-tone audio cues make it easier to distinguish target types.

  • Coil Options:

    • Detectors with interchangeable coils offer greater flexibility:
      • Small coils for high-trash areas.
      • Larger coils for depth and wide coverage.
      • Double-D (DD) coils for better target separation in cluttered areas.

  • Portability and Comfort:

    • Look for lightweight and ergonomically designed models to reduce fatigue during extended hunts.
    • Detectors with collapsible shafts are easier to transport.

  • Weatherproofing:

    • Waterproof or weather-resistant detectors are ideal for outdoor environments, including beaches and rivers where jewelry is often found.

  • Audio Features:

    • Models with adjustable volume and tone pitch provide better sound clarity for distinguishing targets.
    • Wireless headphone compatibility adds convenience and eliminates cable clutter.

  • Pinpointing and Recovery:

    • Built-in pinpointing functionality simplifies target recovery, saving time and effort.
    • External handheld pinpointers are a valuable complement for precise digging.

  • User Experience and Customization:

    • Beginners should opt for user-friendly detectors with presets and minimal setups.
    • Advanced users may prefer detectors with customizable settings to fine-tune performance.

  • Reputation and Reviews:

    • Stick to trusted brands like Garrett, Minelab, Fisher, and Nokta, which are known for reliability and performance.
    • Check online reviews and user forums to learn from real-world experiences.

  • Budget and Value:

    • Determine your budget based on the intended use and frequency of hunts.
    • Entry-level models work well for casual users, while seasoned hobbyists should invest in mid-range to high-end detectors for advanced features.

  • Practice Makes Perfect:

    • Spend time learning the detector’s settings and behavior in different environments.
    • Join local detecting clubs or forums for tips, location recommendations, and shared experiences.

Bonus Tip:

Always research and respect local laws and regulations regarding metal detecting and artifact collection. Consider obtaining permissions for private property hunts to access less-explored areas.

Facebooktwitter

The most valuable metal detector finds in history…

General Metal Detecting, , , , , ,

 

Here is a summary of some of the most valuable finds from around the world with a metal detector. You can see the full post here with some pictures.

Unearthing History: The Most Valuable Metal Detector Finds in History
Metal detecting is more than a hobby; it’s a gateway to discovering hidden treasures that tell fascinating stories of the past. Over the years, passionate enthusiasts have uncovered some of the most incredible historical artifacts, many of which are worth staggering sums of money. Here’s a roundup of some of the most remarkable finds:

1. Rare Leopard Coin (1344)
Discovered in Cambridgeshire, England, this rare gold coin is one of only five known examples. Auctioned in 2022, it fetched an astonishing £173,600 ($234,000).

2. Victoria Gold Nuggets
Two gold nuggets weighing 7.7 pounds were found in Victoria, Australia. Experts estimated their combined worth at AU$350,000 ($246,000).

3. Ringlemere Cup
This crushed gold chalice from 1700-1500 BC was unearthed in England and later acquired by the British Museum for £270,000 ($391,000).

4. The Mojave Nugget
The largest gold nugget ever found in California, weighing 156 ounces, sold for $400,000 in 2014.

5. Leekfrith Torcs
Four Iron Age gold torcs from 400-250 BC were discovered in England. This hoard was valued at £325,000 ($400,000).

6. Santa Margarita Gold Chalice
A golden chalice from the Santa Margarita shipwreck (1622) was found off the Florida Keys and later sold for $413,000.

7. Shapwick Hoard
This collection of 9,238 Roman silver coins, found in England in 1998, was valued at £265,000 ($428,000).

These incredible discoveries are a testament to the allure of metal detecting. While their monetary values are impressive, their real treasure lies in the stories they tell—unlocking secrets of ancient civilizations, shipwrecks, and lost empires. If you’re dreaming of unearthing history yourself, grab a metal detector and see what lies beneath your feet—who knows what treasures you might find?

Facebooktwitter