Which Metal Detector Has The Best Depth?
When it comes to metal detection, there is no one-size-fits-all answer as to which metal detector has the best depth. However, certain features and capabilities can help to identify which detector will be most capable for any given application. These include frequency range, discrimination levels, type and sensitivity of the search coil, as well as built-in ground balancing or manual sensitivity control.
One of the most important aspects of a metal detector’s depth is its ability to detect and discriminate between multiple types of metals and objects at different depths. For this reason, some detectors include adjustable settings that allow users to customize a search depending on their location and what kind of targets they are looking for.
Other factors that can influence a metal detector’s performance when it comes to depths are the search coil size and the material used in its construction. By using higher quality parts like rugged Bakelite coils with multiple layers of shielding, you can achieve maximum discrimination and depth results.
This helps assure that you’re picking up only true signals from deeper targets rather than false signals caused by shallow objects. Here are 8 metal detectors with a high detection depth:
1. Makro Jeohunter
The Makro JeoHunter 3D is one of the best metal detectors you can find on the market. It’s capable of detecting gold and other metals buried up to 12 meters, giving it an unbeatable depth when compared to other detectors.
Additionally, the Makro JeoHunter has two different detection methods for identifying specific types of metals, as well as being able to detect cavities and tunnels in caves. Plus, it features a three-dimensional LCD display so you can actually SEE what you’re finding.
And if that wasn’t enough, this model comes with three attachable coils so you can adjust the depth of your searches. The largest coil allows for the deepest finds, while the smallest coil easily filters out small objects like nails or pop tabs.
This way you can quickly zero in on large metal objects and concentrations of gold and gems without wasting time sifting through surface clutter.
2. Detech SSP 5100
The Detech SSP 5100 is an incredible metal detector when it comes to deep searches. It has a maximum depth range of 8 meters, and its included coil allows you to find gold, platinum, silver, and other precious metals up to 4 meters.
For even deeper explorations, you can attach various square coils whereas smaller round coils will help you focus more on the surface-level metals. Plus, this model uses pulse technologies which mean mineral interference should be a thing of the past!
Its LCD display also allows you to easily monitor the target size and depth as well as the battery power available for use. Another great feature of this metal detector is that two people can use it at once without losing effectiveness. This covers wide areas in a short amount of time and makes it ideal when you’re looking for large treasures in an open field.
3. Fisher Gemini 3
The Fisher Gemini 3 makes deep detecting easy. With its long-distance detection range of 10-15 feet, you’ll have no trouble spotting big items, such as buried treasures or caches. Additionally, the detector comes with four distinct modes so you can explore a wide variety of areas.
Detection is made even easier with the fluid moisture-proof speaker and audio jack that make pinpointing metals a breeze. Not only do you get reliable results with this machine, but it comes with a five-year warranty from the manufacturer too!
If you’re looking for an affordable metal detector that can detect things larger than coins, then look no further than the Fisher Gemini 3!
4. Garrett GTI 2500
The Garrett GTI 2500 is one of the best metal detectors around, thanks to its patented Graphic Target Imaging. This technology allows you to identify not only the depth of metallic objects but also their size and shape—a big plus when it comes to differentiating mineral deposits from small coins and junk metals.
This detector features 24 adjustable sensitivity settings, too, which let you choose exactly how deep you want your search to go. All by itself, it can detect up to 12-14 inches into the ground; add the Eagle Eye attachment though and you can scope out depths of up to 2 meters.
5. Whites TM 808
The Whites TM 808 metal detector has the best depth and is perfect for those looking to find buried hoards of gold and silver, lost treasure chests, or other items. This affordable option can detect large objects up to 20 feet deep, making it an ideal choice for gold, silver, and coin caches.
The TreasureMaster has a dual-antennae detector design which guarantees improved accuracy while avoiding ground minerals so you can be sure to unearth what you’re looking for. It even comes with an ergonomic handle so it’s super easy to transport.
If you know exactly where your intended treasure is buried then this machine is a great option as it ensures maximum depth and accuracy in detecting your haul!
6. DRS 3D Stealth Ground Scanner
The DRS 3D Stealth Ground Scanner stands out from the other metal detectors on the market. Instead of holding your detector in your hand, you can wear it like a vest for added convenience. The device also eliminates iron from being detected so that you can find any valuable materials much more accurately.
The LCD panel displays materials with different colors, allowing you to track and interpret the exact locations of metals, water, earth, or cavities below the surface. It’s able to detect large objects up to several meters deep. You won’t have to worry about missing small coins or pieces as this ground scanner is designed to focus on big items.
7. Teknetics G2+
The Teknetics G2+ is one of the top metal detectors on the market. It’s known for being extremely accurate and reliable, able to locate gold, silver, and other precious metals with ease while eliminating any iron or stray trash that may be in the area. Not only that but what really sets the G2+ apart is its ability to play a distinct tone for each metal, allowing you to identify your finds easily.
Though its depth isn’t as impressive as some other models, it still packs quite a punch when in use. You’ll find yourself finding jewelry and coins left behind by others with surprising accuracy! If you’re after a device that will make treasure hunting easy, then you certainly can’t go wrong with the Teknetics G2+.
8. XP Deus
The XP Deus is a beloved metal detector amongst arctophiles for its reliable deep search prospects. It boasts a depth that few other models can offer at a purse-friendly price.
Whether you’re looking to uncover treasures buried several meters below the surface or are unable to break the bank, this metal detector is an excellent option.
Developed by the French company, XP Deus operates wirelessly with their WS4 and WS5 headphones, allowing users total control while enjoying an all-in-one user-friendly experience. It’s no surprise why this model has become one of the most sought-after metal detectors on the market.
Frequencies
Frequencies are a key factor to consider when choosing a metal detector. Metal detectors transmit ground-penetrating electromagnetic (EM) waves at different frequencies, measured in kilohertz (kHz). For instance, a 7 kHz frequency can send 7,000 waves per second, whereas at 40 kHz it can send up to 40,000 waves per second.
Most metal detectors operate between 7 kHz and 25 kHz frequency. Single-frequency technology focuses on transmitting one type of EM wave at the chosen frequency, while multi-frequency technology transmits several frequencies simultaneously to increase detection range and accuracy.
In this way, the most advanced detectors are able to accurately detect more metals than those using single-frequency technology.
Single-Frequency
Single-frequency technology or VLF (Very Low Frequency) is the most common type of metal detector used by entry-level enthusiasts. It works by transmitting a single EM wave into the ground and picking up the reflections, allowing treasure hunters to detect metallic objects.
The lower frequencies (under 8 kHz) are best for detecting deep, large, or highly conductive materials like silver and copper. Meanwhile, higher frequencies (around 40 kHz) are suited for locating small gold nuggets and less conductive types of metal.
It should be noted that VLF detectors can pick up on electromagnetic interference from electronics and power lines, making it more difficult to get accurate readings in some areas. Overall, VLF technology is one of the most reliable ways to detect precious metals like gold and silver.
Multi-Frequency
Multi-frequency metal detectors offer superior depth and sensitivity to search targets of varying sizes. Garrett’s Multi-Flex transmission and signal processing system, used in its ACE Apex Detector, transmits multiple frequencies across a range of 5 kHz to 20 kHz.
Minelab’s Multi-IQ is widely regarded as the best multi-frequency system available due to its range of 5 kHz to 40 kHz, allowing for more accurate detection.
Both detectors use software that processes the signals it receives for maximum efficiency and accuracy, resulting in an exceptionally reliable detector that can penetrate deeply and accurately detect hidden metals.
Software Features
Software features play a big role in determining which metal detector has the best depth. Ground Balance is a great example of this – it works to minimize interference from minerals present in the ground so that your metal detector can detect deeper and more accurately.
Discrimination is another software feature that makes it easier for your metal detector to distinguish between metallic objects with different electrical conductivity or magnetic properties.
These features can make all the difference when it comes to finding valuable buried items and getting the best depth out of your metal detector!
Does Ground Balancing Affect Depth?
Ground mineralization can make it difficult to detect larger targets below the surface, masking them from even the most sensitive metal detector.
Calibrating the metal detector to your location through ground balancing is essential for optimizing its effectiveness in highly mineralized areas and reaching greater depths.
Does Discrimination Affect Depth?
Absolutely. Discrimination helps to isolate those metals that you actually want to detect, like coins or gold, and ignore the metals you don’t need to find, such as nails and screws. This has a positive effect on the depths at which common targets can be detected – deeper than when not using discrimination.
Can the Depth of a Metal Detector Impact its Effectiveness?
Yes, the depth of a metal detector is one of the key qualities of a good metal detector, as it directly impacts its effectiveness. A metal detector with greater depth capability will be able to detect objects buried deeper underground, making it more efficient in finding hidden treasures or valuable items.
Search Coils
Search coils are the essential part of a metal detector that can determine its depth and actual target accuracy. Depending on the size, shape, and configuration of the search coil, it is designed for different deep targets, search areas, and levels of mineralization.
Search Coil Configurations
There are several different configurations of search coils that are used by metal detectors to provide greater depth and accuracy.
- First, there’s the concentric coil design, which consists of an inner and outer coil that both transmit and receive signals. This provides a very precise search field that penetrates the ground in a cone-shaped formation. These coils can be affected by EMI (electromagnetic interference), as well as minerals in the ground.
- Then there is the double-D coil configuration, which has two “D” shaped overlapping coils – a receive coil and a transmit coil. This type of search coil generates two search fields to offset ground mineralization, resulting in signal stability, deeper searches, and less interference from EMI or soil mineralization.
- And then there are mono loop coils that look similar to concentric search coils but contain only single coilings encompassing both transmitting and receiving signals. While this configuration allows for deeper penetration degrees than most concentric coils.
Search Coil Shapes
Search coils come in multiple shapes, the most popular of which are elliptical and circular. Both provide a balance of stability, coverage area, and precision in various soil types and conditions.
- Circular search coils are the go-to for metal detectors because they can detect to greater depths than elliptical coils. They also have a wider coverage area than their narrower counterpart, providing better coverage when detecting items buried deep underground.
- On the other hand, elliptical search coils offer more maneuverability in tight spaces due to their longer shape. Although they may not be able to detect quite as deep as circular coils, they still provide a great coverage area perfect for detecting objects beneath the surface.
Search Coil Sizes
When it comes to metal detector depth, the size of the metal detector search coil plays a big role. Generally, the larger the search coil is, the more ground it can cover and thus, the better its depth performance.
For instance, with a medium-sized search coil, you can cover around 2’ to 3’ (0.61 to 0.91 m) in just 3 to 4 seconds when sweeping the coil across the ground with your metal detector.
The bigger the search coil means that more area can be scanned in less time which improves its overall searching ability and accuracy of finding metals deep down in various terrain types.