Firstly, apart from your metal detector, you need a decent pair of headphones attached to the detector.
It is crucial if you are not going to waste all your time painstakingly cover every minute area of a large surface like a farmer’s field, that you hear ANY sound the detector might omit.
In addition, different tones mean different things and it is vital you not only understand these, but can also hear them clearly and crisply. Read our Headphones article here.
One of the most important items for me would be clothing and, in particular, footwear.
My first piece of advice is to wear gumboots or wellies no matter what the weather. If and only if, it has been dry hot weather for some time AND you know you are going to terrain that doesn’t possess water or boggy ground would I suggest wearing boots. It goes without saying that thongs, sandals and flimsy shoes are totally out.
It is common sense what attire to wear but do bear in mind that the weather when you set off in the early morning may not be the same weather you are going to be facing late afternoon. Think about preparing for 4 seasons in one day!
Prepare for mozzies by bringing repellant and a head net if you are prone to getting bitten on the face and neck.
Read our Gumboots article here.
My final thought on clothing is about gloves. Now I’m not against getting my hands dirty and if you are like me, you usually have a shower when you get home from a finding mission anyway. However, I find a pair of gloves gives me a firmer grip on my detector and consequently a more even swing.
A shovel and pick is another item you won’t want to be without. I’ve actually got a folding one that is compact to carry, has its own case that fits onto a belt and is jagged on one side. I find a multi purpose knife with a range of different tools on it is also very handy tool to carry with you. I believe you should always be in survival mode. On the other hand, if you are in your local woods only a stones through from home, why not make an adventure out of it. At least with that mindset, you are going to have fun whether you find something or not.
Another essential item is an extra battery or even two. There is nothing more frustrating than getting to your destination, firing up your detector only to find the battery runs out twenty minutes into the search.
Unless I know the area very well, I always take an ordinance survey pack and compass with me. I know how exasperating it can be to get lost and wasting precious hours trying to find your way out of woods or deep terrain. I know you are all intrepid treasure hunters but I’ve been there and its no joke!
Personally, I like to take a finds bag for collecting small finds. Read our review here.
Minelab | Garrett Camo | Unbranded Finds Bag |
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I also take my rucksack not only in case I find something bigger but, more importantly, to put to my flask and food in. Well, have you ever heard of a good army marching on an empty stomach?
First aid kit and toilet paper are obvious..
I would strongly urge to either take a companion with you, along with your mobile phones, and preferably someone who is just as bonkers as you about treasure hunting!
Finally, I normally take my dog. She keeps me company, and seems to have an instinct for finding things!
Beach hunting requires a different set of accessories to dry land. Here are the most important items to bring with you:
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