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CoilsHandheld metal detector wands, also called security wands, are the fast, reliable way to screen people and bags for weapons, knives, and concealed metal at schools, events, courthouses, checkpoints, and workplaces. These handheld metal detectors give 360° detection and instant audio or silent-vibration alerts in a lightweight, one-hand design. Serious Detecting carries professional wands from Nokta and Garrett.
Quick Links: Nokta Wands | Garrett Wands | Accessories
A handheld security metal detector, commonly called a security wand or metal detector wand, is a portable scanner an operator passes over a person or bag to locate concealed metal. Unlike a treasure detector, it isn't built to identify a target's type; it's built for speed, reliability, and clear alerts so security staff can screen a line of people quickly. The best security wands offer a 360° detection field for full coverage, a choice of audible or silent vibration alerts for discreet screening, long battery life for full shifts, and rugged construction that survives daily drops. They're standard equipment at schools, stadiums, concerts, government buildings, and corporate checkpoints.
A few features separate a good security wand from a frustrating one. Detection coverage: a 360° field with tip detection means no blind spots and faster, more thorough scans. Alert options: audible alarms work for open checkpoints, while silent vibration mode is essential for discreet or covert screening. Battery life: look for long runtime (the Nokta Ultra Scanner Pro reaches up to 100 hours on its rechargeable 9V) so the wand survives full shifts; rechargeable kits cut long-term cost. Durability and environment: rugged, self-calibrating units hold up to daily use. Match the wand to how many people you screen, where, and how discreetly.
The Nokta Ultra Scanner Pro is a complete, ready-to-deploy kit: 50 kHz operating frequency, 360° detection, adjustable sensitivity, audio or silent-vibration alerts, and up to 100 hours on the included rechargeable 9V battery, with a leather belt holster, carrying bag, charger, earphone, and a 2-year warranty. Garrett's Super Wand adds tip pinpointing and a vibrate mode to its 360° detection field, and the Super Scanner V, originally designed for the 1984 Olympic Games, is the most recognized hand-held metal detector in the world. Both Garrett wands run up to 80 hours on a standard 9V battery and carry a 2-year warranty. Whatever your facility needs, there's a wand here built for it, from Nokta and Garrett.
Serious Detecting is an authorized US dealer for Nokta and Garrett, so every security wand ships new with the full manufacturer warranty. Orders of $99 or more ship free within the lower 48, local pickup is available out of Michigan, and our team can help you choose the right wand for your facility and screening volume. Need several units for a school or venue? Get in touch and we'll help you outfit the whole checkpoint.
Get real answers from outdoor explorers and our product experts. Browse questions about performance, features, and setup —or ask your own to make sure this gear fits your next adventure.
A handheld security metal detector detects ferrous, non-ferrous, and stainless steel objects, including weapons, knives, box cutters, and other concealed metal. Security wands are designed to find metal quickly and reliably rather than identify what it is, which is exactly what fast checkpoint screening needs. Some models, like the Garrett Super Wand, also add tip pinpointing to locate an object precisely; compare our Garrett and Nokta security wands to find the right fit.
Answered by Dan P. · June 2026
The difference between audio and vibration alerts on a security wand is who notices the alarm: an audible alarm gives a clear beep that signals a find at the checkpoint, while silent vibration mode alerts only the operator. Audible alarms are best for open checkpoints, and vibration is ideal for discreet screening at schools, covert security posts, or quiet environments. The Nokta Ultra Scanner Pro and the Garrett Super Wand both offer audio and vibration alerts.
Answered by John W. · June 2026
Yes, these security wands are suitable for schools and events: lightweight handheld wands like the Nokta Ultra Scanner Pro are widely used at schools, stadiums, concerts, and corporate entrances. They are fast to learn, comfortable for long shifts, and offer the silent alerts that are useful in sensitive settings. Need several units for a school or venue? Contact us and we will help you outfit the whole checkpoint.
Answered by Richard T. · June 2026
How long security wand batteries last varies by model: the Nokta Ultra Scanner Pro runs up to 100 hours on its 9V battery, and the Garrett Super Scanner V and Super Wand each run up to 80 hours on a standard 9V battery, with an optional rechargeable battery kit available. For high-volume daily screening, a rechargeable setup lowers long-term cost, and the Nokta Ultra Scanner Pro already includes a rechargeable 9V battery and charger. Browse Garrett for the Super Scanner V and Super Wand.
Answered by Dan P. · June 2026
Visit our Ypsilanti, MI store to handle metal detectors before you buy. Authorized US dealer.
