5 Beginner Metal Detecting Mistakes

ByHoward Rockse

Metal detecting is a thrilling hobby, but beginners often make mistakes that can affect their success and enjoyment. 

In this blog, we’ll look at five common beginner metal detecting mistakes in metal detecting and provide simple solutions to help you avoid them.

Here are 5 Common Beginner Metal Detecting Mistakes

  1. Not researching the location
  2. Using the wrong equipment
  3. Setting discrimination too high
  4. Not having the right swinging techniques
  5. Impatience

1. Not Researching the Location

  • Look at Maps: Find maps that show where people used to live or gather in the past. These are great places to detect.
  • Ask Locals: Talk to people in the area. They might know good spots.
  • Get Permission: If you’re on private land, ask for permission. It’s important to respect others’ property.

2. Using the Wrong Equipment

  • Avoid Cheap Detectors: Low-cost detectors might seem like a good idea, but they can be frustrating. Better Metal detector accessories will make your experience more enjoyable.

  • Get a Pinpointer: This small tool helps you find items quickly.

3. Setting Discrimination Too High

  • What’s Discrimination?: It’s like a filter for junk signals. If it’s too high, you might miss good stuff.

  • Balanced Discrimination: Find the right balance. Adjust your metal detector discrimination to match the area you’re searching.

4. Not Having the Right Swing Technique

  • Swing Low: Keep the detector close to the ground. Don’t swing it too high in the air.

  • Straight Lines: Swing in straight lines, overlapping each pass slightly. This way, you won’t miss anything.


5. Impatience

  • Slow Down: Beginners often need to move more quickly. Slowing down your search can lead to better finds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while starting in metal detecting can be tricky, it’s essential to learn from common beginner mistakes. 

By researching the location, investing in suitable equipment, setting your discrimination right, improving your swinging technique, and being patient, you can enhance your chances of finding hidden treasures. 

Metal detecting is not just about discovering valuable items; it’s also about enjoying the process and the adventure. So, go out there, have fun, and happy hunting!

Howard rockse

Hey there, I am Howard a deeply committed individual who likes to share my knowledge and insights in this field, having spent over ten years as a metal detectorist.

My experience with GoldXtra has allowed me to provide trustworthy and informative advice to both new and experienced metal-detecting enthusiasts. I’m committed to assisting others in exploring and enjoying the world of metal detecting with the same enthusiasm and dedication that I have.

Howard Rockse
Senior Content Writer at GoldXtra

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