A beginners guide to metal detectors

Metal detecting is a thrilling and rewarding hobby that allows you to uncover hidden treasures and unearth pieces of history right beneath your feet. If you’re a beginner in the UK looking to delve into this exciting pastime, selecting the right metal detector is crucial. We are experts in object detecting, so we have put together this guide to help you through the process of choosing your first metal detector, considering factors such as location, budget, features, and models. Let’s get started on your journey to becoming a successful detectorist!

Determine Your Budget

Before diving into the world of metal detecting, it’s important to establish a budget. Metal detectors vary in price, ranging from affordable entry-level models to high-end professional devices. As a beginner, you don’t necessarily need to invest in an expensive detector. There are plenty of quality options available that strike a balance between price and functionality. Set a realistic budget that aligns with your level of interest and commitment to the hobby.

Consider Your Detecting Locations

The UK is rich in history, offering a plethora of locations for metal detecting enthusiasts. However, different terrains and environments require different metal detectors. If you plan to search in parks, fields, and beaches, a general-purpose metal detector will suffice. However, if you’re specifically interested in detecting on beaches or underwater, you’ll need a waterproof or submersible detector. Research the types of locations you want to explore and choose a metal detector that suits your intended environments.

Understand Detector Features

Metal detectors come with various features designed to enhance your detecting experience. While advanced features may be appealing, as a beginner, it’s advisable to opt for a detector with user-friendly controls and basic features. Look for features such as discrimination, which allows you to filter out unwanted targets, pre-set detection settings which allows you to focus on looking for different types of objects, sensitivity adjustments, target depth indicators, and audio or visual alerts. Also, who is going to be using it? If it is for more than one person in the household, especially if you may let your child have a go, it may be worth choosing one that is height-adjustable! Remember, the goal is to find a detector that strikes a balance between ease of use and functionality for your skill level.

Legality and Code of Practice

In the UK, metal detecting falls under the Treasure Act 1996 and the Portable Antiquities Scheme. Familiarise yourself with the legal requirements and obtain permission before detecting on private land. Joining metal detecting clubs or organisations can provide guidance on the code of practice, responsible detecting, and access to land where detecting is allowed. Ensure you adhere to the laws and regulations to enjoy the hobby ethically and responsibly.

Viking Metal Detectors

We always find that choosing a metal detector from an established brand gives you a far better experience than non-branded, generic metal detectors. There is nothing worse than being excited about a new hobby only to be disappointed in the equipment. This is why we stock Viking Metal Detectors, not only are they one of the longest and most experienced brands in the game, but they are manufactured right here in the UK!

Despite their wealth of experience, they have kept their products affordable, and we stock a range from simple detectors to ones for professional use, as well as non-motion models that can even help discriminate between different minerals, so you don’t get excited over nothing! Our cheapest metal detector is the Viking WASP at £99.99 for use in industry, and the range goes up to a very reasonable £230.00 for the Viking VK40 Metal Detector. So, we have you covered no matter your budget!

Our Top Metal Detector Picks!

• If you’re looking for something powerful but easy to use, we recommend the Viking VK10+ Metal Detector.

This is a great motion metal detector that has a sharp signal on deep targets, but also features a Sensitivity Control Pinpoint Mode to help locate where the target is buried. It comes with Discrimination Control to avoid those unwanted targets and an Adjustable Ground Balance to help eliminate false signals. A built in loudspeaker and a Waterproof 24cm Concentric Search Head make it an excellent choice for beginners or even more experienced users. At £156 inc VAT, it comes in at a very affordable price!

Price: from £156.00 – view more information

• If you want both a motion metal detector and a non-motion metal detector the Viking VK30 is an excellent choice!

It features a Motion mode with Discrimination control to detect and determine whether a target is worth digging for, as well as a Pinpoint push button to accurately locate the object. With a 16 x 1 alphanumeric LCD and Target ID and Sensitivity control in non-motion mode, you can get the accuracy and efficiency you need to find and identify targets. It even has a waterproof head and Beach mode to reduce the negative effects of detecting on wet sand for those who like long walks at the coast! For £199.00 including VAT, this is a bargain for detectorists looking for those extra features.

Price: from £199.00 – view more information

• Our final recommendation would be for the top of the range Viking VK40 Metal Detector. Not only does it offer 3 modes of detection: Motion Detection for discriminating against lower quality targets, Non-Motion Detection for accurate pinpointing of objects and All-Metal Detection which is an automatically returning Non-Motion mode allowing the smallest signals from the deepest objects to be heard. But it also has a Waterproof concentric search head and membrane keypad control system which sets it apart from the rest of the Viking range and allows you to retain your settings when not in use. With all the usual excellent features you would expect from a Viking model, this really is a good choice for anyone looking for an advanced way to search. At £230.00 inc VAT it is also great value for money!

Price: from £230.00 – view more information

We are always on hand to provide expert advice when choosing a Viking metal detector and you can buy the brand both online and in-store.

Selecting your first metal detector is an exciting step towards embarking on a thrilling journey of discovery and we are here to help! By considering your budget, detecting locations, understanding detector features, and finding a reputable brand like Viking Metal Detectors, you can make an informed decision. You can always speak to one of our team, and we can try to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Remember, the key to successful metal detecting lies in patience, practice, and a passion for uncovering hidden treasures beneath the surface of the UK’s historical landscapes. Happy hunting!

If you would like any more information, then please get in touch with us, you can visit us in-store, email hello@grovers.biz or call us on 01609 898098.