Metal detector comparisons, setup, and field-use guidance.

Metal Detector Help

Find metal detector buying guides, product comparisons, setup advice, and answers about signals, target IDs, detecting basics, and what detectors can find.

Latest guides

  • Case Club Case to Fit Minelab MANTICORE
    Metal Detector Guide

    Minelab Manticore Metal Detector Review

    Minelab Manticore metal detector reviews: compare its Multi-IQ+, target ID, waterproof design and alternatives before you buy this detector.

  • SE Tool 1/4" Classifier Sifting Pan Gold Panning
    Gold Panning

    Best Gold Classifier for 5 Gallon Bucket

    Compare the best gold classifier for 5 gallon bucket use, including mesh sizes, stackable screens, complete kits and practical panning tips.

  • SAKOBS Pinpointer Metal Detector
    Metal Detector Guide

    Best Small Underwater Metal Detectors

    Compare the best small underwater metal detector picks for shallow water, diving, beaches and tight spaces, with waterproof ratings and setup tips.

  • Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector
    Metal Detector Guide

    Best Metal Detectors for Silver

    Compare the best metal detector for silver, including depth, coils, modes, waterproofing and pinpointers for coins, jewelry and beach hunts.

  • MINELAB X-Terra Elite All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof
    Metal Detector Guide

    Best Waterproof Minelab Metal Detectors

    Compare the best Minelab waterproof metal detector options by water rating, hunting conditions, controls, weight and shallow-water use.

  • Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Kids Metal Detector
    Metal Detector Guide

    Best Waterproof Metal Detector for Kids

    Find the best waterproof metal detector for kids by coil rating, fit, controls and included tools. Compare 9 child-friendly detectors for beaches and parks.

  • ASR Outdoor Lightweight Backpack Gold Panning Kit
    Gold Panning

    How to Use a Dream Mat Sluice

    Learn how to use a Dream Mat sluice, set water flow, feed material, watch riffles, and clean out concentrates without losing fine gold.

  • SeaSense Hand Bilge Pump
    Gold Panning

    How to Pan for Gold in a Creek

    Learn how to pan for gold in a creek, choose sampling spots, classify stream sediment, wash gravel, and keep fine gold in your pan.