Do you want to try your hand at metal detecting? Feeling extra lucky and keen on finding something special? While the process of searching for that precious gold nugget is full of mystery, the decision of which metal detector to equip yourself with shouldn’t be.
Of course, it’s not as easy as it sounds, especially given the small details that could potentially make all the difference in detecting a buried treasure or a lost coin. To maximise the success of your search mission, you will need to find a device that is reliable and functional, which is exactly what a sturdy and precise Minelab metal detector can offer.
What Are the Most Accurate Minelab Metal Detectors?
But even within a single brand, there can be a range of offers to choose from. Some models are better suited for different conditions than others and your choice will depend on the type of detection you are interested in. To help you narrow down your options, here’s a shortlist of all the top contenders that made an impact on the metal-detecting world:
GPX 6000
This incredibly powerful and accurate device is one of the best in Minelab’s range. It has excellent ground balance capabilities, so it can detect even the slightest changes in mineralisation levels and adjust to them accordingly. Its Geosense technology analyses the mineral content of the soil and helps you pinpoint those hidden targets more accurately.
The compact backlit display offers an intuitive interface, with numerous settings that can be adjusted to suit your needs. Additionally, its resilient built can withstand extreme heat and cold, and its waterproof design makes it suitable for use in any weather condition.
Equinox 800
Offering a more affordable solution that still has all the bells and whistles of its top-range counterpart, the Equinox 800 is an excellent choice for those who are just starting out in metal detecting. It redefines multi-purpose search with its dual frequency capabilities, and its advanced technology allows you to detect both ferrous and non-ferrous metals more effectively.
The best part is that it has four search modes that can be used for different environments, such as beach hunting or relic hunting. With its lightweight design and built-in GPS locating mode, it makes this particular task easier and more convenient than ever before.
Gold Monster 1000
This Minelab metal detector is highly adaptable and offers superior performance in a number of terrains. Its auto ground balance compensates for changes in mineralisation automatically, and it features two-tone audio to help you identify which items are worth digging for.
It’s also incredibly easy to use and has a host of helpful features that make it suitable for all levels of experience. It has a fast processor, with one of the quickest recovery times, making it ideal for searching in challenging terrains and finding targets quickly. Its digital electronics also offer improved detection accuracy, and its adjustable length stem lets you customise it to your height.
GPZ 7000
A premium-grade device, the GPZ 7000 is considered one of the most innovative and cutting-edge metal detectors in the Minelab range. It has a precision search coil that is designed to find targets buried at greater depths and it is equipped with Multi Period Sensing (MPS) technology that enables you to detect even the smallest signals from deeper areas.
The Zero Voltage Transmission (ZVT) technology helps reduce false signals, giving you even more control over your search. It has a sophisticated all-metal mode that allows you to detect coins, relics, and jewellery more easily, and its waterproof design makes it suitable for use in wet conditions.
Major Factors to Consider
To help you decide on the make and model of the device you need for your newly found hobby, you’ll need to look into the technicalities that go into its make-up. Your particular goals and requirements are also at play here, as some models might meet your needs better than others.
Detection Range
This refers to the depth at which a device is able to accurately detect and identify targets. The higher the range, the deeper it can go and find hidden treasures. However, longer ranges are often more expensive and require more power which makes them unsuitable for beginners or those on a tighter budget.
Sensitivity
This term encompasses the device’s ability to detect the smallest of targets and signals. More sensitive varieties pick up more signals, helping you to cover larger areas with ease. But this is often accompanied by more false signals, so finding the right balance is important.
Operation Frequency
The number of frequencies a device operates at affects how easily it can penetrate different types of surfaces. Generally, higher frequencies are better suited for shallow searches but have difficulty detecting larger targets. Lower frequencies provide greater depth but can be more prone to false signals and could potentially miss more diminutive items.
Coil Dimensions
The size of the search coil will influence the detector’s performance. Smaller coils are more sensitive and have better discrimination, but they are more limited in range and cover less ground. Larger models offer greater search coverage but may not be as sensitive to smaller targets.
