Pinpointer Metal Detectors | Garrett, Minelab, Nokta, XP & More

Yes, a pinpointer is worth it for metal detecting: you don't strictly need one, but it is the accessory most experienced hunters say has the highest impact on finds per hour. Without a pinpointer, you probe and dig until you find the target by feel, and a good signal can take 3-5 minutes to recover. With one, you open the hole, probe with the pinpointer, and have the target in hand in 20-30 seconds, while digging smaller, cleaner plugs and losing fewer small targets in the dirt. Over a full session that time savings translates directly to more targets checked and more finds recovered, which is why most detectorists consider it essential after their first few hunts without one. If you are detecting without a pinpointer, make it your first upgrade before considering a new metal detector, and pair it with a good digger.

A pinpointer works as a short-range handheld metal detector: as you move its tip toward a metal target, the audio and vibration get stronger and faster, guiding you to the exact location inside the hole or plug. It detects only a couple of inches out, which is precisely what makes it so accurate for the final stage of recovery after your main metal detector has flagged the target. Many models add adjustable sensitivity to tune out mineralized ground, a tip light for low light, and a lost alarm. For model-by-model recommendations, see our guide to the best pinpointers for metal detecting.

The best pinpointer for metal detecting for most hunters is the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT, the most popular all-round choice and our default recommendation: waterproof to 20 feet, accurate, durable, and field-tested by more detectorists than any other option. The Nokta Pointer is a capable lower-cost alternative, and the Minelab Pro-Find 35 and 40 add ferrous tone ID that tells iron from non-iron at the tip. For wireless audio, the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Z-Lynk pairs with Garrett Z-Lynk receivers and the XP MI-6 links to XP Deus, ORX and ICON detectors. For dive detecting, the Quest XPointer Scuba is one of the few purpose-built underwater options. The best one for you comes down to whether you need waterproofing, the features you want, and your budget: compare Garrett, Minelab, Nokta, Quest and XP pinpointers, or read our guide to the best pinpointers for metal detecting.

Some pinpointers are fully waterproof and some are land (water-resistant) models that shouldn't be submerged. Fully waterproof models like the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT (submersible to 20 feet) and waterproof pointers from Nokta and Minelab can go underwater for beach, river, and shallow-water hunting, while land models such as the Quest XPointer Land handle dirt and light moisture but shouldn't be submerged. Waterproof depth ratings vary by model, so check the rating before you take one in the water; if you hunt anywhere wet, choose a waterproof pinpointer.

Yes, you need a waterproof pinpointer for beach detecting anywhere near the water, because a standard land pinpointer in the surf zone is a quick way to destroy an expensive accessory. For beach and water detecting, use a pinpointer rated for submersion: the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT, waterproof to 20 feet, is the most common choice. The Nokta Pointer at IP67 handles most beach conditions, and the Minelab Pro-Find 35 and 40 are waterproof to 10 feet. If you dive detect, the Quest XPointer Scuba is purpose-built for underwater use. Standard non-waterproof pinpointers can be used on dry sand well above the waterline, but anywhere near surf or water a waterproof model is essential; pair it with a sand scoop and one of our waterproof metal detectors.

Any pinpointer is compatible with the Minelab Equinox 900, because pinpointers are independent accessories used as a separate tool after the detector locates the target. The Minelab Pro-Find 35 is the pinpointer we pair with the Equinox, and its DIF technology reduces interference with your detector; the Pro-Find 40 adds up to 10% more depth. The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT and Nokta Pointer are excellent independent options used by Equinox owners regularly. Brand compatibility is not a limiting factor: choose the pinpointer on its own merits and it will work with any detector.

To pinpoint a target accurately, narrow it down with your detector first, then finish with a handheld pinpointer. Sweep over the signal in an X pattern, left to right and then front to back, and mark where the two strongest points cross. That spot is usually right under the center of the coil.

Many detectors also have a pinpoint button that gives a rising tone as you get closer, which is great for shrinking the dig area. Once you've cut a plug or opened the hole, use a pinpointer to find the target in the loose soil and in the sides of the hole. This speeds recovery and avoids scratching coins.

Practice on a known target buried at different depths until your X pattern becomes second nature. For model picks, read our Best Metal Detecting Pinpointers guide.