Metal detecting, while it is a pleasurable hobby, might be a daunting task for most beginners. New enthusiasts sometimes get overwhelmed by failure and choose to give up the hobby, and end up storing the metal detector in a seedy storage room or selling it at a cheap price. However, learning basic methodologies and a few uncanny tricks can prevent you from going down this route.
GET TO KNOW YOUR METAL DETECTOR
Reading manuals has become a lost art these days, but if you want to make the most out of your metal detector device, you have to take the time to dip in and get to know your metal detector device. Your device might have particular functions that work best when applied to specific environmental conditions and terrains. So read the manual, from cover to cover, and know everything there by heart.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Continuous practice can improve performance in any endeavor. Go outside with your metal detector device; bring some coins, metallic junk, and rings and bury them in segregated spots in varying depths then set out on a hunt to unearth them. Continue doing this in order to get more intimate and intuitive with the device and its mechanisms.
DO SOME RESEARCH
Always take the time to study the history of locations to find out the probability of finding historical artifacts. You can also ask the elders in your community if there are particular locations that had been frequented before, but are now decrepit and abandoned. I can assure you that they're going to be nostalgic about it and won't have any qualms giving you helpful information. Places that still get frequent visits can also be added to your list. Beaches, parks, schools, and popular gathering places have a high profusion of buried metals.
ASK FOR APPROVAL
Once you’re ready for the actual experience, certain rules and precautions must be duly noted to avoid any untoward incidents in the act of metal detecting. There are particular locations where metal detecting is prohibited. Most common are Federal lands, National Parks, historical sites, cemeteries, and all private properties. Don't even entertain the thought of getting lucky. The fines involved from getting caught are staggering. What you can do is to ask for permission, in a form of letter, to the owners of these establishments. Don't fret if you get rejected the first time. Just keep handing out those letters! You can get some referrals after you're able to land one. Permits will come in droves after getting your first approval.
BE PERSISTENT
Beginner's luck does not come to everybody, but that doesn't mean that you should give up if you've often met with failure in your first few hunting expeditions. The most experienced hunters have their off-nights too. Such is the life of a treasure hunter, but it is the same thing that makes metal detecting a very rewarding experience. That seminal feeling of discovery, and the pure pleasure finding the big one are utterly priceless. If you fail the first time, take it all in, and know in your heart that what matters most is the hunt itself.
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