Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure and search for buried treasure in the form of gold? Choosing the right metal detector is crucial to your success, and that’s where this comprehensive buyer’s guide comes in.
It’s time to join the ranks of gold prospectors and uncover valuable nuggets and artifacts, but first, you need to know how to choose the best tool for the job.
With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which metal detector is right for you. That’s why this guide is here to help.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced prospector, you’ll find everything you need to know about the importance of having the right detector for gold detection, considerations for selection, and a list of recommended models.
So, let’s dive in and start your journey to becoming a successful gold hunter.
Can’t wait to strike gold? I’m a big fan of Minelab metal detectors for their value for money and range of features. They are designed and (some are) made in Australia too! Check out the Minelab Equinox 800 Metal Detector at Anaconda.
Tip: If you need help, then we recommend skipping ahead to our buying guide which lists important things to consider when purchasing a metal detector.
Best Metal Detector for Gold Australia 2023 Comparison Guide
Jodoao Metal Detector
✔ Weight: 1.5kg
✔ Feature: Compact
Minelab Go-Find 22 Metal Detector
✔ Weight: 1.0kg
✔ Feature: Lightweight
Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro-Pack Metal Detector
✔ Weight: 1.3kg
✔ Feature: Multi-IQ technology
Teknetics T2LTD-BLK T2 Metal Detector
✔ Weight: 1.6kg
✔ Feature: Discrimination mode
Minelab Equinox 800 Metal Detector
✔ Weight: 1.34kg
✔ Feature: Multi-IQ frequency
Jodoao Metal Detector
Our Verdict:
If you’re on the hunt for treasure like a modern-day pirate, Jodoao’s Metal Detector is like having your very own treasure map, guiding you to lost coins, jewellery, and cultural relics with its unique tone and adjustable settings.
With its fully automatic all-metal detector, you can easily detect gold and silver, as well as eliminate unnecessary metal to focus on the desired metal. The ergonomic design, with a hand rest, saves energy while the adjustable telescopic rod allows you to adjust the height according to your preference.
The multifunctional LCD display displays target depth, sensitivity, battery status, and power level, making it easier for you to track your progress. The Jodoao Metal Detector comes with a high-sensitivity waterproof search coil and an 8.5-inch waterproof search probe, making it perfect for use in any weather condition.
The hidden search coil cables also prevent tangles, ensuring a smooth and easy treasure hunting experience. With its lightweight and easy-to-assemble design, this metal detector is perfect for beginners.
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable metal detector, the Jodoao Metal Detector is definitely worth considering.
Specifications:
- Search Coil: 10″ inch waterproof search coil
- Sensitivity: 3 levels
- Volume: 3 levels
- Battery Type: 2 x AA
- Weight: 1.5kg
- Features: Compact, lightweight
Minelab Go-Find 22 Metal Detector
Our Verdict:
You’ll learn about the Minelab Go-Find 22 and why it’s a great option for those looking to get into metal detecting without breaking the bank. This metal detector is perfect for beginners as it’s lightweight, easy to use, and won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
The Minelab Go-Find 22 is designed to be user-friendly, making it a great option for both adults and children who are interested in metal detecting. One of the standout features of the detector is its portability. It can easily be folded up and packed away for transport, making it perfect for those who love to travel and explore.
The detector also comes with a smartphone app that can be used to adjust settings and help identify targets. Plus, the Minelab Go-Find 22 is waterproof, allowing you to search for treasures in shallow water.
Specifications:
- Search Coil: Regular (8-inch waterproof coil)
- Sensitivity: 3 levels
- Volume: 5 levels
- Battery Type: 4 x AA
- Weight: 1.0kg
- Features: Compact, lightweight
Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro-Pack Metal Detector
Our Verdict:
Oh, so you think you’re a serious metal detector now? Well, let us introduce you to the Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro-Pack, the ultimate tool for uncovering even the most elusive treasures. This metal detector is the perfect choice for those who are ready to take their treasure hunting game to the next level.
With its advanced technology and powerful features, the Vanquish 540 Pro-Pack is designed to make your treasure hunting experience more efficient and successful. The Vanquish 540 Pro-Pack is equipped with Multi-IQ technology, which allows you to detect multiple targets at different depths simultaneously. This means that you can cover more ground and find more treasures in less time.
Additionally, the Vanquish 540 Pro-Pack comes with a range of accessories, including headphones, a waterproof search coil, and a carry bag, making it easy to take with you wherever you go.
Specifications:
- Search Coil: V12 12″x9″ Double-D
- Sensitivity: 10 levels
- Volume: 10 levels
- Battery Type: 4 x AA NiMH rechargeable
- Weight: 1.3kg
- Features: Multi-IQ technology, collapsible snap-lock system
Teknetics T2LTD-BLK T2 Metal Detector
Our Verdict:
Get ready to redefine deep and out-hunt any other detector with the Teknetics T2LTD-BLK T2 Special Edition. This metal detector is unmatched in its capability for coin shooting and relic hunting, with lightning speed and extreme depth.
The T2 Special Edition features double filter discrimination modes for searching in iron infested areas and trigger-actuated target pinpointing, making it easy to find your target quickly and accurately. It comes with both a 5-inch and 11-inch DD waterproof search coil, providing you with versatility depending on your hunting environment.
This high-end metal detector provides a range of settings for the most versatile hunting experience. The LCD is easy to read, and the detector itself is well balanced, making it comfortable to use for extended periods without arm fatigue. Although it doesn’t come with batteries, it uses four AA alkaline batteries, which are widely available.
The T2 Special Edition is an investment that pays for itself in a short time with its ability to find targets that other detectors can’t.
Specifications:
- Search Coil: 5-Inch and 11-Inch DD Coils
- Sensitivity: Adjustable 1-99
- Volume: 4 levels
- Battery Type: 4 x AAA
- Weight: 1.6kg
- Features: Discrimination mode, depth boost, large screen
Minelab Equinox 800 Metal Detector
Our Verdict:
If you’re serious about metal detecting and want the latest technology to give you the best chance of finding treasure, the Minelab Equinox 800 is a game-changer that will leave you feeling exhilarated with every discovery. This metal detector is designed to be used in all types of terrain, from beach sands to highly mineralised soils.
The Equinox 800 is a versatile machine that can detect gold, silver, coins, and other valuable metals with ease. It is equipped with Multi-IQ technology that allows the detector to search for multiple frequencies at once. This feature makes it easy to detect small targets that may be hidden in highly mineralised soil.
Additionally, the Equinox 800 has a waterproof design that allows for use in shallow water and wet environments. This metal detector is perfect for those who want to take their metal detecting to the next level and find hidden treasures that others may have missed.
Specifications:
- Search Coil: 11-inch DD Smart coil with skidplate
- Sensitivity: 25 levels
- Volume: 25 levels
- Battery Type: In-built rechargeable Lithium-ion battery
- Weight: 1.34kg
- Features: Multi-IQ frequency, 4 detect modes, custom search profiles
How to Choose the Best Metal Detector for Gold: Buyers Guide
If you’re looking to choose the best metal detector for gold, there are several key points to consider. First, you’ll need to consider the different types of metal detectors available, from VLF to pulse induction.
Operating frequency is also important, as it can impact the depth and range capabilities of your detector.
You’ll also want to consider features like ground balance and discrimination, as well as the price and overall value for money of each detector.
Types of Metal Detectors
When it comes to detecting gold, understanding the types of metal detectors available is crucial.
Two common types of gold detectors are those with pulse induction circuits and VLF circuits.
Pulse induction detectors are typically more expensive but can locate deeper gold deposits, making them ideal for serious prospecting.
VLF circuits are more affordable and can detect fine gold particles, making them perfect for beginners or hobbyists.
Operating Frequency
Operating frequency refers to the number of waves per unit of time measured in kilohertz.
Higher frequencies are more sensitive to small targets, while lower frequencies are better at detecting larger targets at greater depths. For gold hunting, it’s best to go for a metal detector with a higher frequency VLF circuit or a lower frequency Pulse Induction (PI) circuit.
PI detectors tend to be more expensive but can locate gold buried deeper in the ground. Additionally, ground balancing is crucial for filtering out minerals in your search area and distinguishing gold nuggets from the ground.
So, when choosing a metal detector, consider the operating frequency and ground balancing features to help you find the most significant amount of gold possible.
Depth and Range Capabilities
You’ll want to know about the depth and range capabilities of your metal detector when searching for gold, as these factors can greatly impact your success in finding the elusive metal.
Depth
The depth capabilities of a metal detector determine how deep it can detect a target, while the range capabilities refer to how far away from the detector a target can be detected.
Generally, metal detectors with higher frequency and pulse induction technology have better depth and range capabilities, making them ideal for gold hunting.
Range
When choosing a metal detector for gold detection, consider the depth and range capabilities of the device to ensure you can detect gold at the necessary depths and distances.
Keep in mind that deeper and farther targets may require larger search coils and more advanced technology, which can also increase the cost of the detector.
However, investing in a detector with good depth and range capabilities can greatly increase your chances of finding gold, making it a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Ground Balance and Mineralisation Handling
Don’t forget to take into account how well a metal detector handles mineralisation and ground balance, as these factors can greatly impact your success in finding the precious metal.
Mineralisation can cause your detector to give false signals, leading you to waste time digging up useless targets.
A good metal detector should have a ground balance feature that filters out minerals in your search area, allowing you to focus on the gold.
Additionally, the ability to adjust your detector’s sensitivity to mineralisation is crucial. This feature will help you distinguish between gold nuggets and the ground, ensuring that you don’t miss out on any potential finds.
When selecting a metal detector, be sure to choose one that can handle the mineralisation in your search area, as this will greatly increase your chances of striking gold.
Discrimination and Target ID Features
Discrimination allows you to filter out unwanted targets, such as nails or bottle caps, while target ID features help you identify potential gold finds. It’s important to find a balance between discrimination and sensitivity, as setting the discrimination too high can filter out small gold nuggets.
Most metal detectors come with adjustable discrimination settings, allowing you to set the level based on your preferences and the area you’re searching in. Many detectors also come with target ID features, such as audio and visual cues, to help you differentiate between different types of metals. These features can save you time and frustration by focusing your search on the targets that are most likely to be valuable.
Price and Value for Money
It’s important to consider your budget and what you’re getting for your money but keep in mind that the most expensive detector may not always be the best for your needs.
When shopping for a gold metal detector, look for a balance between cost and features. You want to get the most bang for your buck, but also ensure that the detector has the necessary features to help you find gold. Some detectors may be more expensive due to additional features, such as GPS mapping or wireless audio, but if you don’t need these features, it may not be worth the extra cost.
Final Thoughts
By now, you should have a good understanding of the importance of having the right detector for the job, as well as some key considerations to keep in mind when making your selection.
As you embark on your gold prospecting journey, remember that your metal detector is your trusty companion. Just like a loyal dog, it’ll lead you through the wilderness, sniffing out the treasure hidden beneath the earth.
So choose wisely, and trust in your detector’s ability to guide you to riches beyond your wildest dreams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common mistakes to avoid when using a metal detector for gold detection?
Avoid common mistakes when using a metal detector for gold detection. Don’t forget to check the rules and regulations for gold hunting in specific areas. Also, not all metal detectors are designed for gold detection, so consider factors such as inductance and conductivity when selecting the best option for your needs. Additionally, having the best metal detector for gold is important, so take into account your budget, skill level, and desired features when making a selection. By avoiding these mistakes and choosing the right metal detector, you can improve your chances of finding gold and becoming part of the community of successful gold hunters.
How do you differentiate between gold and other types of metal when using a metal detector?
As you sweep your metal detector over the ground, you may wonder how to differentiate between gold and other types of metal. One way to identify gold is by its conductivity levels, which are typically higher than other metals. Some metal detectors also have discrimination settings that can filter out junk targets and help distinguish between gold and other metals. Additionally, experience and knowledge of the area can increase your chances of finding gold.
Are there any specific laws or regulations regarding gold hunting in certain areas?
Before heading out to search for gold with your metal detector, it’s important to research any laws or regulations that may apply to your specific area. Some locations may require a permit or have restrictions on the use of metal detectors, so it’s best to check beforehand to avoid any legal issues.
