Metal Detecting Essentials?

[johnstac]

I've decided on a Garrett AT Pro as my first detector and I'm fired up! Trying to work with Kellyco and see if I can maybe get the detector and matching propointer in lieu of their free package. But it brings up a good question. Aside from the detector and a pin pointer, what else do I need? I really believe in quality the first time around as opposed to buying the stuff over and over. There are a few things I see people use. First, everyone draws their trusty knife. Is there a standard for this? Next, everyone uses a collecting bag. Most I've seen have velcro. Suggestions would be appreciated. I have also seen people using scoops. I'm thinking there are probably all different kinds but I would likely use one for sand and to save my back, maybe one that you point in to the ground and push in with your foot? I don't know. I saw one guy using this around soft soil near a lake.
Any other suggestions would be appreciated.

[marcus118]

I'd say apart from the pinpointer you need a Lesche digging knife and some sort of backpack to carry everything you bring with you - including food and water!

[johnstac]

So I ended up buying the following. Tell me if I bought stuff I didn't really need to or if I might need something else:

AT PRO
Pro Pointer
Super Snipe 4.5 Coil
Razor Edge Gator Digger
Fiskars Big Grip Digger
Kellyco 3 pocket mesh pouch
Beachmaster 8" scoop
Galvanized 10x7x4 scoop


What I didn't buy that I was considering was the AT PRO battery adapter because I don't know what it's for yet. Didn't buy a long handled scoop or shovel because I there are so many and they are kind of costly and wanted to make an informed decision. And then I'm also rethinking the mesh pouch because I cant tell from the photo if it is visible from the outside which would not be a good think IMO.

[marcus118]

Looks like you're pretty set to go! The only other thing I can think of is a backpack to put everything in. I use this one personally: http://www.hollandsbrook.com/accesso...rett-backpack/

I put all my accessories in there plus things like a pocket knife, compass, magnifying glass, spare batteries, whistle, a cloth and some food/water. Can never be too prepared when you're out on a hunt!

Marc

[Jersey Digger]

You guys use backpacks? I went to Home depot and got an electricians tool belt. it holds everything and its only about $10.00

[marcus118]

I've used a backpack for years - I guess it's all about preference :-)

[Big Boys Hobbies]

Originally Posted by Jersey Digger

You guys use backpacks? I went to Home depot and got an electricians tool belt. it holds everything and its only about $10.00

Plus 1!

[dogpound]

this is what i use for dirt huntin...if on the beach then its a mesh pouch and long handled kickable sand scoop, either pouch always has spare batteries.

[Thatsit]

You are good to go...grab some gloves....and a TT...True Tempur Tool from Lowe's and you willl kill it....Im gonna get some flack cuz its not a Lesche...but oh well.....it does well for me....and I have seen vids on the Lesche, and i see it bend where the TT does not....another discussion.....You did well...and HH

[dogpound]

for the beach i ues the kellyco 3 pocket mesh pouch and it works very nice, the sand filters out great, my scoop is a RTG 6" with stainless tip

[RWJR13]

Originally Posted by dogpound

this is what i use for dirt huntin...if on the beach then its a mesh pouch and long handled kickable sand scoop, either pouch always has spare batteries.

Man, what an arsenal.....WARRIOR.....love the double serrated Lesche...

[dogpound]

Originally Posted by RWJR13

Man, what an arsenal.....WARRIOR.....love the double serrated Lesche...

it helps ta have the right tools for the job

[Devildog2345]

If you do any dirt hunting I would HIGHLY recommend some good knee pads...

[johnstac]

backpack, needpads and gloves., check. Wondering on the gloves. What types do you use? Are they thin? Are the fingertips there?

[Devildog2345]

I use a set of mechanix gloves, enough dexterity but still great protection. After doing this for a while you will see why you never want to dig with bare hands...

[CoiltoSoil]

I don't like carrying a lot of stuff with me. When I detect I bring my detector, headphones, batteries, gloves, and a shovel. That's all you really need. Pin pointers do make thing's easier but I never really used one in 20 years of detecting and have gotten along fine, I actually have a new one laying around somewhere. If you beach hunt substitute a sand scoop for the shovel and if you hunt deep in the woods Camalbacks are nice to have, they hold some gear and plenty of fluid for you but for your everyday hunting were the car is a few hundred yards away I don't see a need to haul along much gear.