Glossary Of Metal Detecting Terms

General Terms

1. Detectorist: A person engaged in the use of a metal detector
2. All Metal Mode – A detection setting that identifies all types of metal objects without discrimination.
3. Discrimination – A feature that allows metal detectors to ignore certain types of metal or objects, reducing unwanted detections.
4. Ground Balance – Adjusting the detector to ignore the mineralization of the ground, improving detection depth and accuracy.
5. Pinpointing – A technique or feature used to locate the exact position of a detected object in the ground.

Detection Technologies

1. VLF (Very Low Frequency) – The most common type of metal detector technology, ideal for distinguishing between different types of metals.
2. PI (Pulse Induction) – A technology used in metal detectors for deep ground penetration, often used in areas with high mineralization.
3. Multi-Frequency – Detectors that use multiple frequencies simultaneously to detect a wider range of targets under various conditions.

Metal Types and Targets

1. Ferrous – Metallic objects containing iron, often discriminated against due to their commonness and low value.
2. Non-Ferrous – Metals that do not contain iron, such as copper, silver, and gold, typically sought after by detectorists.
3. Relic – Historical artifacts made of metal, such as old coins, tools, and weapons, that are targeted for their historical value.

Equipment and Accessories

1. Coil (Search Coil): The part of the metal detector that emits an electromagnetic field to detect metal objects. It is available in different sizes and shapes.
2. Headphones – These are used to hear the audio signals from the metal detector more clearly, especially in noisy environments.
3. Digging Tools – Specialized tools used to dig up targets with minimal damage to the surrounding area.
4. Pinpointer – A handheld metal detector used to locate targets more precisely once a larger detector has found them.
5. Carrying Case: For transporting and protecting the metal detector
6. Pouches and Bags: For carrying finds and trash collected during metal detecting
7. Cleaning Kit: Essentials for cleaning and preserving finds
8. Protective Covers: For safeguarding the detector’s control box from environmental elements

Techniques

1. Swing – The action of moving the metal detector’s coil in a side-to-side motion close to the ground to cover an area.
2. Target ID – A feature that provides information about the detected object, such as its conductivity or type, often displayed as a numerical value or icon.
3. Notching – A discrimination technique that allows specific types of targets to be accepted or rejected based on their conductivity.

Locations and Environments

1. Mineralization – The presence of minerals in the soil that can affect the performance of metal detectors, requiring adjustments to the device.
2. Eddy Current – Swirling currents of electricity induced by the metal detector’s electromagnetic field, used to detect metal objects.
3. Cache – A collection of items that have been intentionally hidden or stored, often a target for treasure hunters.

Types of Metal Detectors

1. VLF (Very Low Frequency): Describes a type of metal detector using a low frequency
2. PI (Pulse Induction): A type of metal detector known for its depth in highly mineralized soils
3. Multi-Frequency: Detectors that operate on more than one frequency at a time

Finds and Terms

1. Relic: An object of historical interest found with a metal detector
2. Cache: A hidden storage for items or valuables, often buried and sought by detectorists

Environmental and Ethical Terms

1. Responsible Detecting: Practices that respect the environment and local laws
2. Artifact Preservation: Techniques and considerations for preserving historical finds

Advanced Detection Technologies

1. Z-Lynk: Wireless technology used for connecting headphones to the detector without cables
2. GPS Integration: Feature in some detectors to record locations of finds