The Falcon MD20 Gold Tracker operates at 300kHz — that's significantly higher than most metal detectors, which typically run between 5-20kHz. This ultra-high frequency gives it an edge for detecting tiny gold flakes that would be invisible to standard detectors.
We've been carrying the MD20 at Serious Detecting, and it's become popular with prospectors who work old mining claims and tailing piles. The detector can find gold particles barely visible to the naked eye, which is exactly what you need when checking material that's already been processed.
Why 300kHz Matters for Gold Detection
Most metal detectors struggle with fine gold because lower frequencies can't generate enough response from tiny targets. The MD20's 300kHz frequency excels at detecting small, shallow targets that other detectors miss entirely.
This makes it particularly effective on old mining claims where previous miners relied on visual inspection alone. Millions of dollars in gold got discarded in tailing piles because miners couldn't see the metal — but the Falcon can find it electronically.
Technical Specifications
The MD20 packs impressive capabilities into a compact 14-ounce package:
- Operating frequency: 300 kHz
- Dimensions: 1.6" x 3.25" x 6"
- Weight: 14oz
- Probe: Waterproof 6" probe on 5' cable
- Batteries: Two 9V alkaline
- Battery life: 40-50 hours
- Audio: Built-in speaker and headphone jack
- Controls: Ground balance, sensitivity, plus adjustable copper ring on probe
The adjustable copper ring on the probe lets you fine-tune sensitivity in the field without returning to the control box — a practical feature when you're working through material.
Performance on Different Metals
While it's marketed as a gold detector, the MD20 responds well to other valuable metals. Silver, copper, and platinum all generate strong signals. The high frequency also makes it sensitive to aluminum, which can be useful for certain applications but may require discrimination in trashy areas.
The detector works best on targets within the first few inches of material. It's not designed for deep seeking — think of it as an electronic sieve for checking concentrates and processed material rather than a primary prospecting detector.
Beyond Gold Prospecting: Other Applications
The MD20's precision makes it valuable outside of prospecting:
- Construction: Locating buried nail heads before drilling
- Woodworking: Finding hidden metal before cutting with expensive blades
- Food service: Scanning products for metal contamination
- Medical applications: Locating metal fragments
The compact size and probe design work well for these precision applications where you need to check specific areas thoroughly.
Operating Characteristics
The MD20 includes adjustable ground balance, which is essential when working in mineralized soil common around old mines. The sensitivity control lets you dial back response when working in areas with heavy iron mineralization.
Battery life of 40-50 hours is excellent for a high-frequency detector. The unit runs on standard 9V batteries, so you're not dependent on proprietary battery packs.
The 6-inch waterproof probe handles wet conditions, though the main unit isn't submersible. The 5-foot cable gives you enough reach for most applications without excess cord to manage.
What Makes This Different from Standard Pinpointers
Most handheld metal detectors and pinpointers operate at much lower frequencies. The MD20's 300kHz frequency and adjustable controls put it in a different category — it's more of a precision detector than a simple locating tool.
The ground balance capability is particularly important. Standard pinpointers often struggle in mineralized ground where this detector excels with proper adjustment.
Bundle Options and Accessories
We offer several package configurations with the MD20, including headphones and instruction materials. The Falcon Gold Tracker MD20 ships with basic accessories, but adding quality headphones improves your ability to hear subtle signal changes that indicate target size and depth.
The detector works well as a standalone unit, but many prospectors use it alongside traditional metal detectors — using larger detectors to locate general areas of interest, then switching to the MD20 for detailed checking of concentrates.
Limitations to Consider
The MD20 isn't a replacement for full-size detectors. Its strength is precision work on material that's already been concentrated or in situations where you need to check specific areas thoroughly.
The high frequency that makes it sensitive to fine gold also makes it chatty in electromagnetic interference. You'll get best results away from power lines and electronic devices.
Target identification is limited compared to discrimination-capable detectors. You're working primarily with audio response and manual checking of targets.
