Underwater Metal Detectors - Reviewing the Best Options.

by Michael Bernzweig

So, you are ready to take the plunge and plunk down your hard-earned dollars for an underwater metal detector. In this article we will review the options to help you select the best water proof metal detector for your needs.

There are three main types of water proof metal detector technologies for use underwater. These can be broken down as follows:

• Pulse Induction (PI) metal detectors,
• Very Low Frequency (VLF) metal detectors and
• Broad Band Spectrum (BBS) metal detectors

Selecting the design best suited to your style of treasure hunting is the first step in choosing the best under water treasure hunting equipment.

Types of Underwater Metal Detectors:

Pulse Induction Metal Detectors transmit a series of quick electronic pulses in to the ground. These electronic currents are not affected by wet salt sand and ground minerals, but they are highly sensitive to precious metals. A Pulse detector is best for salt water beaches and diving. The Pulse circuit is very deep seeking, and is great for tough ground mineral conditions. The PI circuit features limited discrimination capabilities, so you will need to dig more trash items if you want to locate the maximum number of precious objects. Here is a list of links to the best Pulse Induction under water metal detectors. You will also find reviews on each model at the links below:

Very Low Frequency (VLF) Metal Detectors typically operate in the 3 to 30 kHz frequency range and are quite sensitive to coins, relics, and jewelry. The VLF detectors have the capability of discriminating out junk targets while still accepting good items. Unlike the PI circuitry, the VLF circuit is affected by ground mineralization. Most VLF detectors have a sensitivity adjustment and sometimes a ground balance control. By adjusting the sensitivity or ground balance adjustment control, you can minimize signals caused by ground minerals. Here is a list of links to the Best VLF underwater metal detectors. You will also find an under watermetal detector review on each model at the links below:

Tesoro Tiger Shark
Fisher 1280-X Aquanaut Metal Detector With 10" Coil
Fisher CZ-21 Metal Detector With 10" Coil
DetectorPro Headhunter Wader

BBS and FBS Metal Detectors transmit signals in multiple frequencies simultaneously, instead of just one, as with most VLF machines. BBS technology transmits in 17 frequencies from 1.5 - 25kHz simultaneously and FBS transmits in 28 frequencies from 1.5kHz to 100kHz. Here are a list of links to the Best BBS under water metal detectors. You will also find reviews on each model at the links below:

Minelab Excalibur II 1000

Minelab Excalibur II 800

Where will you use your metal detector?
 
Now that we have a basic understanding of the types of underwater metal detectors that are available, let's take a look at where to use your new machine. You might say to yourself, how do I know where I will want to use my new detector? Start by taking a look at some of your other hobbies and pastimes. The most popular places for using a waterproof detector are: walking along the beach, diving or wading in the water up to your waist. If you are a diver, you might find that you enjoy looking for ship wrecks or other sites of interest.

What is the best type of under water metal detector for you?

Taking the time to select the best type of under water metal detector is important. Now, that we know where you will be using your unit, let's take a look at the other items that you need to consider. Will you be hunting in fresh or salt water? Will this be a primary detector or in addition to a separate unit for metal detecting on land? If you will be hunting in salt water, a Pulse Induction or BBS detector will be your best choice. However, if you do decide on a VLF underwater metal detector, be sure that it has a salt water mode. If you will be diving, consider how deep your dives will be. Check the depth rating of the detector you are considering to be sure it is appropriate. The depth rating is not how deep it will penetrate the ground but how deep under the water you can use it. If you are diving or snorkeling, you will want to be sure that your model comes with a short dive pole. This will make it more comfortable while in use.

What accessories will I need to be successful?

Below are our suggestions for the basic equipment that every well outfitted underwater treasure hunter should have. You can always spend more money on additional items later, but these are the basics of what you should have. Headphones will let you hear the oldest, deepest targets & block external noises. All underwater detector come standard with a set of waterproof headphones. A Carry Bag is an excellent way to protect your new detector and makes transporting easy. While hunting along the beach you will want a Trowel. You will also want one or more Metal Detector Sand Scoops. A beach sand sifter scoop will greatly speed up your recovery.

Let's find some treasure!

Copyright 2008 Detector Electronics Corp.