• Metal detector enthusiasts enjoy many hours of discovering coins and other metal discoveries.detector de metales image by Marco Antonio Fdez. from Fotolia.com
  
  Metal detectors can help you be a treasure hunter. They provide a fun tool to search for coins, antique tools and other pieces of history. Learning tips on working with metal detectors and places to search helps you get your feet wet as a beginner and adds new challenges and adventure for even the seasoned hunter.
  
  

Join a Metal Detector Club

• Join with others who share an interest in metal detecting. For many, treasure hunting with others provides more adventure and fun. Research to see if there is a club in your area (see Resources).
  
  

Study Local History Where You Plan on Digging

• Study the local history of the area you plan on digging. Local libraries work well, but the Internet provides a quick and easy way to get information. Type in a search of the town, city or area you want to dig, and begin researching. Also look for postcards and photographs in area stores that give historical footprints of possible areas.
  
  

Dig Everything

• Dig in a beach, field or even your backyard when starting out with a metal detector. Be sure that local laws permit digging or, if on private land, that you have permission. Dig everything as you go to learn the different types of signals for different objects. Make sure you always clean up after yourself when digging. Fill holes and take all trash with you.
  
  

Use Headphones

• Wear headphones every time you use your metal detector. Headphones helps you distinguish between variations of signal. They also block out background noise.
  
  

Use Quality Digging Tools and Equipment

• Buy a quality metal detector. It does not have to be the most expensive, however. Use a small, sturdy garden pick for digging to targets. Attach a strong magnet to the digging blade for grabbing metal objects. Bring a rake with magnets attached for scraping up nails and screws in construction areas. Bring a map, compass and magnifying glass. Wear a comfortable backpack for carrying the different equipment.
  
  

Wear Proper Clothing

• Wear sturdy boots if you are digging in construction areas, rugged areas or places with an abundance of snakes. Use hard-shell knee pads for kneeling and digging. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing in layers so you can dress down as the day warms up.
  
  

Experiment With the Metal Detector

• Lower the discrimination on the metal detector after working with it for awhile. Lowering the discrimination allows deeper finds and smaller targets. Practice different motions with the metal detector, such as side-to-side and circular patterns.