Metal detecting isn’t just about the detector itself—there’s a range of accessories that can improve your search, extend your reach, and make detecting more comfortable and efficient. From pinpointers to digging tools, knowing which accessories to use can help you make the most of every trip. Here’s a look at the top metal detector accessories, plus a quick guide on when they’re most useful.
1. Pinpointers
A pinpointer is a small, handheld metal detector that helps you zero in on the exact location of a target once your detector has given you a signal. Using a pinpointer saves time by reducing the amount of digging required to find an object, which also helps protect the ground you’re detecting.
Best for:
- Quickly narrowing down target locations
- Small targets that are hard to locate
- Reducing digging time and minimizing ground disturbance
2. Digging Tools
Metal detecting often requires specialized digging tools, such as trowels, shovels, or hand diggers, designed to cut through various types of soil with ease. Many detectorists prefer sturdy, serrated-edge diggers for compacted ground, while others opt for lightweight, compact hand trowels for softer ground.
Best for:
- Efficient digging in tough or compacted soil
- Precision digging to avoid damaging finds
- Minimizing impact on the landscape
3. Coils and Coil Covers
The coil is one of the most critical parts of your metal detector, and swapping it out can greatly affect your detecting experience. There are different types of coils, such as concentric, double-D, and elliptical, each suited to different ground types and targets. Coil covers protect your coil from scratches and damage, especially when searching in rocky or rough terrain.
Best for:
- Adjusting to different terrains (e.g., high mineralization, saltwater beaches)
- Increasing depth or sensitivity for specific target types
- Extending coil lifespan with protective covers
4. Headphones
High-quality headphones help you hear faint signals better and block out ambient noise, which can be essential for identifying small or deep targets. Wireless headphones are especially popular for their convenience, but wired versions are often favored for their reliability and lack of signal delay.
Best for:
- Detecting in noisy environments or crowded areas
- Enhancing signal clarity for deep or faint targets
- Extended hunts where concentration is key
5. Finds Pouches and Storage Bags
Finds pouches are small bags or pouches designed to carry any items you discover while detecting, keeping them organized and secure. Storage bags are typically larger and meant to carry all your detecting equipment to and from your site, keeping everything protected and easy to transport.
Best for:
- Organizing and securing finds while detecting
- Protecting equipment during transport
- Avoiding clutter and keeping hands free
6. Protective Covers
Protective covers, sometimes called environmental covers, protect your detector’s control box and display screen from dust, rain, and dirt. They’re especially useful in wet or dusty environments, helping to prolong the life of your detector and prevent damage to sensitive electronics.
Best for:
- Detecting in damp, dusty, or rough conditions
- Shielding control boxes and screens from wear
- Extending detector life with added protection
7. Sand Scoops and Sifters
If you’re searching on the beach, sand scoops and sifters are essential for locating and recovering targets quickly in sandy soil. Scoops come in various sizes, from handheld to long-handled, and are usually made of materials that don’t interfere with your detector.
Best for:
- Beach and sand-dune detecting
- Quickly sifting sand to uncover targets
- Minimizing time spent digging in loose soil
8. Battery Packs and Chargers
Metal detectors are only as good as their battery life, so carrying an extra battery pack or portable charger is a great way to avoid cut-short detecting sessions. Some brands offer rechargeable battery packs specific to their models, while others are compatible with standard batteries.
Best for:
- Extending detecting time during long hunts
- Remote locations where charging is unavailable
- Ensuring uninterrupted power for essential accessories
Quick Guide: When to Use Different Metal Detector Accessories
| Accessory | Best Time to Use | Ideal for… |
|---|---|---|
| Pinpointer | After locating a target | Fast, precise recovery of small objects |
| Digging Tools | Anytime, especially in tough soil | Quick and careful retrieval |
| Coils & Coil Covers | When adjusting to different terrain or depth needs | Enhanced depth, protection on rocky terrain |
| Headphones | Noisy areas, quiet target signals | Better focus, improved signal detection |
| Finds Pouches & Bags | Throughout the hunt | Organizing finds, transporting equipment |
| Protective Covers | Wet or dusty conditions | Preventing dust and moisture damage |
| Sand Scoops & Sifters | Beach and sandy soil detecting | Easy recovery of items in sand |
| Battery Packs & Chargers | Long or remote hunts | Continuous detecting without power issues |
Each of these accessories adds convenience, efficiency, or protection to your metal detecting adventures, making them essential for different conditions and preferences. Whether you're at the beach, in a park, or exploring rugged terrain, having the right gear makes detecting not only more productive but also more enjoyable. So gear up with the right accessories, and happy hunting!
