Working calculators
Detector Budget Tier SelectorWhat detector tier matches your hunting goals: relic, coin, beach, gold prospecting. Target ID by VDI NumberWhat that VDI number probably means before you dig: pull tab, nickel, silver, copper, junk.Plain note about money: Some product links are affiliate (eBay Partner Network). Small commission on purchases. Doesn't change your price. The math comes from real hands-on time, not marketing.
Gear actually worth buying
Top picks for metal detecting. We earn a small commission on eBay purchases — here's how that works.
Metal detector (mid-range)Garrett AT Pro and Minelab Vanquish are the standard entry-to-mid choices. Waterproof matters for wet sites.
Pinpointer probeGarrett Pro-Pointer AT is the most-copied standard. Cuts recovery time dramatically once you're used to it.
Serrated digging toolLesche or Radius diggers with serrated edge cut through roots and compacted soil cleanly.
Hip/finds pouchA belt pouch with separate sections keeps good finds clean and trash separate. Saves pockets.
HeadphonesWired headphones still beat Bluetooth for latency. Check connector type for your detector before buying.