9 Best Small Metal Detectors (November 2026)
The best small metal detectors include the Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer for simple everyday pinpointing, the Minelab PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector for expert waterproof pinpointing, and the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector for underwater target recovery.
On this page (5 sections)
The best small metal detector for most treasure hunters is the Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer, thanks to its compact handheld design, simple control and precise target locating.
That pick suits beginners and casual hunters who already have a larger detector for scanning open ground. It works as a second tool for the final step of recovery, when you need to find the exact spot inside soil, sand or a dug hole.
Choose the Minelab PRO-FIND 35 or Garrett Pro-Pointer AT when waterproof use matters more than simplicity. Both are built for wetter ground and shallow underwater searching, while the Dmyond only allows its probe tip near water.
Choose the JKUSS wand when your job is screening rather than treasure recovery. Its longer shape, rechargeable battery and adjustable sensitivity fit security checks, woodworking and checkpoints better than coin hunting.
A small metal detector usually means a handheld pinpointer rather than a full-size search-coil detector. These compact tools use a narrow probe to narrow the exact location of a coin, ring or other metal object.
They help after a larger detector has already found the general area. You can sweep the probe slowly around the hole from several directions and dig less soil while you home in on the signal.
A pinpointer is not built to cover a large field or beach on its own. Carry it beside a full-size detector, use it to check a target before widening a hole, and keep expectations tied to short range work.
It is also handy for tight spaces where a coil cannot fit. That includes wall voids, narrow garden beds, under roots and the edges of a plug you have already lifted.
If you want a full-size detector that still comes as a manageable kit, the MINELAB X-Terra Elite Expedition is the standout exception here. It includes coils, headphones, a charging cable and a PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer in one bundle.
That kit suits hunters who want ground coverage and target information from a search coil. It is a different carry from a pinpointer, so compare weight, size and setup time before you decide.
For more ways to compare portable equipment, see our guide to the best light metal detector.
Use this guide by starting with the job first. Decide if you need recovery, screening or open ground searching, then check water limits, alerts and battery type.
That order saves money and avoids a tool that is too simple for wet work or too large for a hole. Keep the final choice focused on daily handling and care, not only on headline depth claims.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for simple everyday pinpointingDmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for expert waterproof pinpointingMinelab PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for underwater target recoveryGarrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itDR.ÖTEK Metal Detector Pinpointer
Best for beginners who want an LCD - 5
Check itSUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults &
Best for family treasure hunts - 6
Check itJKUSS Rechargeable Handheld Metal Detector Wand
Best for security screening - 7
Check itMINELAB X-Terra Elite Expedition
Best for a compact full-size detector kit - 8
Check itJKUSS Metal Detector Pinpointer
Best for compact nighttime searching - 9
Check itSUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults &
Best for clear multi-alert feedback
Which small metal detector is best for most people?
The Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer is the best small metal detector for simple target recovery because it combines one-button operation, LED and sound alerts, and a lightweight handheld form.
It is a practical fit for beginners who want a compact tool to carry beside a larger detector. One button keeps setup short, and the rising sound gives a clear cue as you near metal.
We compared the stated detection features, water protection, controls, portability and intended use. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
That method keeps the ranking tied to real use instead of sales order alone. A model can score well for a first search and still be a poor choice for deep water or security work.
We did not treat every compact wand as a treasure-hunting pinpointer because security screening and full-size detecting are different jobs. Each tool has a different shape, range and handling style.
A pinpointer is made to work close to a target and inside a small opening. A security wand is made to scan people or objects at a distance, and a full-size detector is made to cover ground.
The Dmyond suits soil, sand, grass and indoor recovery around a hole. Its bar probe weighs 175 g, so it is easy to hold during repeated short sweeps.
The LED and Bi-Bi sound rise in intensity as the probe closes on metal. That feedback helps you move from a wide area to a tighter digging point without extra settings.
Water protection is the main trade-off to plan around. The probe tip is partially waterproof, but the switches and horn are not waterproof and should stay dry.
Battery use is stated at about 5 to 7 hours with a 9V battery. Carry a spare if you plan a long day, and wipe soil from the tip after each search.
We did not treat every compact wand as a treasure-hunting pinpointer because security screening and full-size detecting are different jobs. That split helps you pick the right tool for the task in hand.
| Product | Best for | Type | Water protection | Power | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer | simple everyday pinpointing | Handheld pinpointer | Partial waterproofing; IP54 | 9V battery | 9.7 |
| Minelab PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector | expert waterproof pinpointing | Waterproof to 10 ft (3 m) | 9.6 | ||
| Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector | underwater target recovery | Submersible to 20 ft (6 m) | 9.5 | ||
| DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector Pinpointer | beginners who want an LCD | IP68 fully waterproof | 9.5 | ||
| SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults & | family treasure hunts | IP68 | 9.4 | ||
| JKUSS Rechargeable Handheld Metal Detector Wand | security screening | Handheld security wand | 9.2 | ||
| MINELAB X-Terra Elite Expedition | a compact full-size detector kit | All-terrain treasure metal detector | Submersible to 16 ft (5 m) | 9.0 | |
| JKUSS Metal Detector Pinpointer | compact nighttime searching | IP68-rated waterproof probe | 8.3 | ||
| SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults & | clear multi-alert feedback | IP68 | 8.2 |
The best small metal detectors for pinpointing targets
The top five picks are compact pinpointers for narrowing a target before excavation. Choose among them by water protection, feedback style, control layout and how much adjustment you want.
Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer: Best for simple everyday pinpointing
- Professional waterproof pinpointer
- 9V battery
- LED and sound alerts
- Partial waterproofing
- 1/3 the weight of traditional metal detectors
The Dmyond is a compact handheld pinpointer for narrowing the location of coins, jewelry, relics, gold and silver after a larger detector finds a target. Its single-button control and rising alarm make it approachable for beginners.
Pros
- Simple single-button control
- LED and sound alerts
- Includes belt sheath and handbag
Cons
- Switches and horn are not waterproof
- Battery use is about 5–7 hours
The Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer is the easiest starting point when you want a small metal detector with very little setup. Its single button turns the unit on, and the LED and “Bi-Bi” sound respond when metal is detected.
The alarm grows stronger as the probe approaches the target. That gives you a simple way to move from a broad search area to a more exact digging point without managing several controls.
The bar probe weighs 175 g and is described as one-third the weight of traditional metal detectors. A plastic elastic roll belt, belt sheath and handbag give you several ways to carry it.
Water protection is the main limit. The probe is partially waterproof, but the switches and horn are not waterproof, so keep the control end out of water.
Dmyond states battery use of about 5–7 hours, and the unit uses a 9V battery.
Choose it for ordinary soil, sand, grass, indoor searches and recovery work around a hole. If you need a more secure grip for long sessions, compare it with our guide to the best metal detector with arm rest.
Minelab PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector: Best for expert waterproof pinpointing
- Fully waterproof to 10 ft
- Tone ID
- 5 sensitivity levels
- Built-in flashlight
- Holster and lanyard included
The PRO-FIND 35 is a strong choice for beach combing, wet soil and shallow underwater work. Its ferrous tone ID and 5 sensitivity levels give experienced users more control than a basic pinpointer.
Pros
- Fully waterproof to 10 ft
- Ferrous and nonferrous tone responses
- Audio and vibration alerts
Cons
- Designed for more experienced users
- Battery powered
The Minelab PRO-FIND 35 is the best small metal detector here for experienced users who need full waterproofing and more control. It can work underwater to 10 ft and is designed for beach, riverbed and wet-soil searches.
Its 5 sensitivity levels let you adjust the response for different ground conditions. Ferrous tone ID adds two different responses, which can help separate ferrous junk from nonferrous targets when you are sorting a signal.
Detector Interference Free technology is designed to reduce interference with an operating metal detector. Audio tones and vibration intensify as the probe approaches the target, giving you both audible and physical feedback.
The PRO-FIND 35 weighs 6.4 oz. It includes a built-in flashlight, holster and lanyard, so it suits users who want a dedicated recovery tool that stays ready on a belt or nearby digging pouch.
Pick it for wet ground, beach work and users who will make regular sensitivity changes. If you use a pacemaker, read our safety guide about a metal detector with pacemaker before choosing any detector.
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector: Best for underwater target recovery
- Submersible to 20 ft
- 3 sensitivity levels
- Fast retune
- Built-in inch and centimeter ruler
- Woven belt holster and 9V battery included
Garrett's Pro-Pointer AT suits hunters who need a fully submersible handheld detector and quick adjustments. The bright orange housing and built-in ruler are useful when recovering targets in wet conditions.
Pros
- Deepest stated submersion rating here
- Fast retune function
- Single-button operation
Cons
- Average battery life is 60 minutes
- Heavier than the lightest pinpointers here
The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT is the best small metal detector for underwater target recovery because it is submersible to 20 ft. Its orange housing also makes the probe easier to see in wet surroundings.
Three sensitivity levels help you adjust the response for small targets such as gold nuggets. The fast retune button can narrow the detection field or tune out mineralized ground, which is useful when a target area is crowded with signals.
Garrett keeps the main controls on one button. Power, retune, sensitivity adjustment and stealth mode are handled from that control, so the wand remains straightforward to operate while wearing gloves.
A molded inch and centimeter ruler helps judge target depth during recovery. The box includes the metal detector, woven belt holster and a 9V battery.
Average battery life is 60 minutes, so carry the battery plan that fits your search.
Choose the Garrett when submersion depth matters more than long battery use. Its 8 oz weight and 9 x 2.5 x 2.5 in dimensions are still portable, but it is not the lightest choice here.
DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector Pinpointer: Best for beginners who want an LCD
- IP68 fully waterproof design
- LCD screen
- Audio, vibration and visual alerts
- 360° side scan
- 9V battery, holster and hanging wire included
The DR.ÖTEK MT6 Pro combines a handheld form with an LCD, audio and vibration alerts. It suits beginners who want more visual feedback while locating coins, jewelry and other metal objects.
Pros
- LCD signal display
- Fully waterproof design
- One-touch signal cancellation
Cons
- Battery powered
- The compact dimensions are unusual, so check your preferred grip
The DR.ÖTEK MT6 Pro is the best small metal detector for beginners who want an LCD along with sound and vibration. Its display gives visual feedback while the three alert types help in noisy or low-light areas.
The pinpointer uses 360° side scanning to locate coins, jewelry and other metal objects. One-touch signal cancellation is designed to reduce false signals, and the built-in LED light helps when you are working in darker openings.
Its IP68 rating means the design is fully waterproof, unlike a partially waterproof probe. The maker describes it for lakes, rivers, oceans, wet sand, grass, soil and indoor use.
The package includes the MT6 Pro pinpointer, retractable hanging wire, belt loop, user manual and 9V battery. It has a metal and ABS plastic construction and weighs 5.92 oz.
Choose it when visual feedback matters as much as sound. Its short stated dimensions are unusual compared with the other handheld models, so check whether the grip and form suit the way you plan to search.
SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults &: Best for family treasure hunts
- 360° detection
- 3.5-inch detection depth
- IP68 waterproof function
- Sound and vibration alerts
- 9V battery, spring clip and belt loop included
The SUNPOW OTMD12 is a portable pinpointer for adults and kids. Its single-button operation, 360° detection and included carrying accessories make it easy to share on casual outdoor searches.
Pros
- Simple sound and vibration alerts
- Compact portable design
- IP68 waterproof function
Cons
- Battery powered
- Plastic construction
The SUNPOW OTMD12 is the best small metal detector for shared family treasure hunts. It is designed for adults and kids, uses one-button operation, and gives sound and vibration alerts as you move toward a target.
The 360° side-scan design and stated 3.5-inch detection depth support quick target locating. Its IP68 waterproof function adds flexibility for outdoor searches on beaches, grass and other wet areas.
The OTMD12 includes a retractable hanging wire, belt loop, user manual and 9V battery. The orange plastic body and portable format make it easy to hand from one person to another during a casual search.
Choose this model when simple controls and carrying accessories matter more than advanced tone ID or several sensitivity levels. For hiking trips, pair your detector choice with our guide to the best metal detector for hiking.
Which compact detectors fit special jobs?
The JKUSS rechargeable wand is for security screening, while the Minelab X-Terra Elite Expedition is for people who need a full-size detector and accessories. The remaining JKUSS and SUNPOW pinpointers focus on compact feedback, waterproof probes and narrow digging areas.
JKUSS Rechargeable Handheld Metal Detector Wand: Best for security screening
- Built-in 2000mAh rechargeable battery
- Sound, vibration or combined alerts
- Adjustable sensitivity
- USB charging cable included
- Security screening and woodworking uses
The JKUSS rechargeable wand is better suited to scanning people, logs and checkpoints than to pinpointing a buried coin. Adjustable sensitivity lets you reduce responses to small objects when a screening task calls for it.
Pros
- Rechargeable battery
- 3 alert modes
- Adjustable sensitivity
Cons
- Larger than a pinpointer
- IP54 rather than fully waterproof
The JKUSS Rechargeable Handheld Metal Detector Wand is the best small metal detector here for security screening and woodworking checks. It is a 16.14 in wand, so it is larger than the pinpointers designed to locate a target inside a hole.
Its built-in 2000mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery charges by USB. The stated full charge time is 2–3 hours, which may suit repeated indoor screening better than carrying 9V batteries.
Three alert modes let you choose sound, vibration or both. Adjustable sensitivity can reduce responses to small objects such as keys and coins when your screening task focuses on larger concealed metal objects.
The wand is intended for security screening, woodworking, event safety, airports, schools, stadiums, checkpoints and construction sites. Its IP54 rating makes it different from the fully waterproof treasure pinpointers in this roundup.
Choose it for scanning people, logs or checkpoints. Choose a pinpointer instead if your main goal is to locate a buried coin after digging a small opening.
MINELAB X-Terra Elite Expedition: Best for a compact full-size detector kit
- Multi-IQ multi-frequency technology
- 119 target IDs
- Waterproof to 16 ft
- V8X and V12X coils included
- ML85 headphones and PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer included
The X-Terra Elite Expedition is the only full-size treasure detector in this group. It is not the smallest handheld option, but the bundle combines a detector, coils, headphones, charging cable and pinpointer.
Pros
- Multi-IQ multi-frequency technology
- 119 target IDs
- Includes PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer
Cons
- Much larger than handheld pinpointers
- More equipment to carry
The MINELAB X-Terra Elite Expedition is the best small metal detector option for a buyer who wants a complete full-size treasure kit rather than only a handheld probe. It includes the V8X coil, V12X coil, ML85 headphones, charging cable and PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer.
Multi-IQ multi-frequency technology works across multiple frequencies at the same time. The detector also provides 119 target IDs with ferrous and nonferrous IDs, giving you more information before you dig.
The X-Terra Elite Expedition is waterproof and submersible to 16 ft. It is built for fields, beaches and other all-terrain searches where a larger coil can cover more ground than a small handheld wand.
The included PRO-FIND 40 uses Detector Interference Free technology to reduce interference with the detector. That makes the bundle useful as a matched search-and-recovery setup.
At 1.3 kg and 56 x 11.5 x 3.3 in, this is not the smallest metal detector in physical terms. Choose it when ground coverage and a complete kit matter more than carrying a short probe.
JKUSS Metal Detector Pinpointer: Best for compact nighttime searching
- LCD display
- 4 modes
- 360° side scan
- 3.5-inch detection depth
- IP68-rated waterproof probe
This JKUSS pinpointer keeps the bar-shaped form short and easy to carry. Its LCD, compact LED lighting and 4 modes help when you want visual and audio-visual feedback during day or night searches.
Pros
- 7.8-inch length
- LCD and compact LED lighting
- 4 modes
Cons
- Battery powered
- The waterproof rating applies to the probe
The JKUSS Metal Detector Pinpointer is the best small metal detector for compact nighttime searching. Its 7.8 in length, backlit LCD and compact LED lighting make it the shortest stated pinpointer in this roundup with a visual display.
The bar-shaped probe has an anti-slip silicone rubber grip. One-button operation controls the audio-visual vibration alarm, while 4 modes give you more ways to adjust how the detector reports a target.
Its 360° side-scan function and stated 3.5-inch detection depth help you scan around a target from several directions. The IP68-rated waterproofing applies to the probe, so keep the control area within its stated limits.
The JKUSS is designed for coins, gold, silver, artifacts, jewelry and other metal objects. It can be used indoors or outdoors, including on sand, grass, soil and around walls.
Choose it when a short body, LCD and light are more useful than advanced tone ID. It is also a sensible option for anyone who wants a compact detector for evening recovery work.
SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults &: Best for clear multi-alert feedback
- LCD signal strength
- Sound, vibration and LED alerts
- 360° detection
- 4.5-inch quarter-coin detection claim
- 11-inch length and IP68 waterproofing
The SUNPOW OTMD08 gives you several ways to notice a target, including sound, vibration, LED and LCD signal strength. Its 11-inch length remains useful in narrow digging areas.
Pros
- Four types of target feedback
- 360° detection
- 3 detection modes
Cons
- Longer than the shortest pinpointers here
- Battery powered
The SUNPOW OTMD08 is the best small metal detector for users who want several clear target alerts. It can flash its LED, beep, vibrate and show signal strength on the LCD when metal is detected.
Its 360° needle-tip side scan is designed for small targets, and SUNPOW states that it can locate a quarter coin up to 4.5 in underground. Treat that depth as a target-specific claim because metal size, position and soil can change results.
The OTMD08 has 3 detection modes: sound and vibration, sound, or vibration. Its 11 in extended length remains compact enough for narrow places while giving you more reach than the shortest pinpointers.
IP68 waterproofing supports underwater exploration in lakes, rivers, ponds and oceans. The unit also has a 7.69 KHz operating frequency and runs on battery power.
Choose it when you prefer sound, vibration, LED and LCD feedback together. If you want to understand the kinds of finds these tools can help recover, read What Can You Find With a Metal Detector?.
How should you choose a small metal detector?
Choose a small metal detector by matching the tool to the job: a pinpointer for target recovery, a security wand for screening, or a full-size detector for covering open ground. Water protection, feedback, battery type and carrying length are the next key checks.
Do you need a pinpointer or a full-size detector?
A pinpointer is best after a larger detector has already located a target area. Its narrow handheld form helps you scan the soil or hole from several directions, reducing the amount of digging needed to find the object.
A full-size detector uses a search coil to cover more ground. The X-Terra Elite Expedition is the only full-size treasure detector in this roundup, and it includes two coils, headphones, a charging cable and a PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer.
Read What Is a Metal Detector Used For? The Basics if you're still deciding which detector type matches your search.
How much waterproofing do you need?
Partial waterproofing is enough only when you can keep the controls and speaker away from water. The Dmyond probe can check for metal in water, but its switches and horn are not waterproof.
For underwater use, choose a model with a stated submersion depth or full waterproof rating. Garrett states 20 ft, Minelab states 10 ft for the PRO-FIND 35, and the DR.ÖTEK, SUNPOW and JKUSS pinpointers use IP68 claims with different probe or device descriptions.
Do not assume that every IP rating means the whole detector can be used at any depth. Follow the exact model limits and keep charging ports, switches and control sections within those limits.
Which alert style is easiest to use?
Sound works well in quiet outdoor areas, while vibration helps when you need a less noticeable alert. LCD and LED feedback can add useful visual information, especially in low light or noisy places.
The Dmyond keeps the feedback simple with LED and sound. The DR.ÖTEK adds an LCD, audio and vibration, while the SUNPOW OTMD08 adds four types of feedback.
The JKUSS rechargeable wand offers sound, vibration or combined modes for screening work.
What should you do before the first search?
Turn the detector on away from metal objects, check the battery or charge level, and test the alerts before you start digging. Keep the probe moving slowly and approach the target from more than one direction.
Measure a hole before widening it, then use the strongest alert to guide your next scrape. Wipe soil and moisture from the tool after use, and keep partially waterproof models out of standing water.
What is the best small metal detector overall?
The Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer is the best small metal detector overall for simple target recovery, while the Minelab PRO-FIND 35 is the better expert choice for adjustable waterproof pinpointing.
Choose Garrett for the deepest stated submersion, DR.ÖTEK for LCD feedback, or SUNPOW OTMD12 for family use. Each option fits a clear job, so match the tool to where and how you search.
The Dmyond suits beginners who want one-button use and a light handful tool. It is best for soil, sand, grass and checking a hole after a larger detector finds the area.
Keep its control end dry, since the switches and horn are not waterproof. Carry a spare 9V battery for a long day, and wipe the probe tip clean after each search.
The Minelab PRO-FIND 35 suits experienced users who change settings for ground conditions. Its 5 sensitivity levels and ferrous tone ID give more control during wet beach or riverbed work.
It is fully waterproof to 10 ft and weighs 6.4 oz, with a built-in flashlight, holster and lanyard. That makes it a dedicated recovery tool rather than a simple backup probe.
The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT suits underwater recovery first. It is submersible to 20 ft and uses three sensitivity levels and fast retune for small or crowded targets.
Its orange housing helps you spot it in wet surroundings, and a molded ruler helps judge depth. Average battery life is stated at 60 minutes, so plan for fresh power.
DR.ÖTEK suits beginners who want visual feedback. Its LCD, audio and vibration alerts help in noisy or low light places, and its IP68 design supports full waterproof use.
SUNPOW OTMD12 suits shared family searches. One-button sound and vibration alerts, plus a belt loop and hanging wire, make it easy to pass between adults and kids.
Pick the JKUSS rechargeable wand for screening people, logs or checkpoints. Its 2000mAh battery, USB charging and adjustable sensitivity fit security work, not buried coin recovery.
Pick the MINELAB X-Terra Elite Expedition when you need a full-size detector kit that includes coils, headphones, charging equipment and a pinpointer. It covers ground with a search coil and adds 119 target IDs for sorting before you dig.
For safe planning around medical devices, read the guidance on using a metal detector with pacemaker before your search.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for simple everyday pinpointing
Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for expert waterproof pinpointing
Minelab PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for underwater target recovery
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best small metal detector?
The Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer is the best small metal detector for simple everyday pinpointing because it has one-button control, LED and sound alerts, and a handheld form. Choose a fully waterproof model such as the Garrett or Minelab PRO-FIND 35 for underwater recovery.
Are small metal detectors good for finding coins?
Small pinpointers are useful for locating a coin after a full-size detector identifies a target area. They help narrow the spot before you dig, but most handheld pinpointers are not a replacement for a search coil when covering a large field or beach.
What is the smallest metal detector in this roundup?
The JKUSS Metal Detector Pinpointer measures 7.8 inches long, making it the shortest model here with a stated length. The Dmyond is also designed as a lightweight handheld probe, while the SUNPOW OTMD08 measures 11 inches.
Can a small metal detector be used underwater?
Yes, but check the exact water rating first. The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT is submersible to 20 ft, the Minelab PRO-FIND 35 to 10 ft, and several models have IP68 ratings.
Partial waterproofing does not mean the entire device can be submerged.
How do you use a small metal detector pinpointer?
Turn it on away from nearby metal, then scan the soil, sand or opening around the target. Move the probe slowly from several directions and listen for a stronger alert as you approach the metal.
Follow the model's water limits and keep non-waterproof controls dry.
