7 Steps for Using Underwater Metal Detectors in Florida

To use underwater metal detectors in Florida, choose the right metal detector, prepare your treasure-hunting essentials, determine the depth rating, set the volume of your underwater detector to a comfortable level, match your target’s frequency, search slowly and steadily, and clean your metal detector after use.

Florida’s collection of beaches, rivers and lakes make it a wonderful spot to go for a vacation. It also appeals to many adventurers and treasure-hunters. If you arm yourself with the right equipment, such as waterproof headphones and underwater metal detectors, Florida can become an exciting place to hunt for rare coins, antique jewelry and buried treasure. Here are some steps you can follow when using underwater metal detectors for your treasure-seeking excursion:

Choose the right metal detector

There are different types of metal detectors, and it is important that you choose to use one that is appropriate for the environment you are going to. Pulse detectors are notable for being resistant to the effects of wet, salty sand and other ground minerals and are ideal for the saltwater beaches of Florida. On the other hand, low-frequency motion detectors are better at sifting through debris and locating metal objects and other valuable items. However, low-frequency motion detectors are susceptible to ground mineralization, which is common in many Florida beaches.

Prepare your treasure-hunting essentials

You should include the following items for your treasure-hunting excursion--waterproof headphones, which are helpful in locating deep targets and will help eradicate any external noise; a sand sifter for searching though sandy locations; and a trowel for digging underwater. You will also need clean water and a roomy carry-on bag that can accommodate and protect your metal detector.

Determine the depth rating

If you are planning to snorkel or dive, it is necessary that you determine the depth rating so you can identify how deep from the surface your metal detector can function accurately.

Set the volume of your underwater detector to a comfortable level

Be sure that the volume of your underwater detector is appropriate for the environment setting in Florida. Generally, volume levels for underwater detectors have a default setting to prevent any discomfort and ear damage, but the loud surf setting in the Sunshine State might require you to reset the volume and match it according to Florida’s distinct surf atmosphere.

Match your target’s frequency

Before you set the frequency level on your metal detector, test it first on the same type of target that you want to locate. You could miss the signal of thin objects like coins and rings if you choose the wrong frequency.

Search slowly and steadily

To get the best results from underwater pulse detector scans, you have to search slowly and steadily. Be sure to move the detector’s search-head from side to side over the sandy sea bottom.

Clean your metal detector after use

Be sure to clean your metal detector after using it. Use only clean water to flush away any sand and silt from the metal detector’s exterior to avoid damage to your equipment. You should also make sure that no saltwater has leaked through the control box to avoid corrosion. If this has happened, you can remove the cover and dry it thoroughly.

Having the right tools and equipment will allow you to find many exciting things in Florida.