If you’ve been into treasure hunting for a while (or even if you’re just getting started), you’ve probably heard about long-range metal detectors and regular metal detectors. They sound similar, but they actually work in very different ways — and choosing the right one can make or break your search.
Let’s break it down in plain English, so you know exactly when to use a long range metal detector and when to stick with a regular one.
What is a Long-Range Metal Detector?
A long-range metal detector is like your scout. Instead of sweeping the ground coil-by-coil, it can detect metal from a distance — sometimes hundreds of meters away.
- Best for: Large treasures, gold veins, or caches buried deep underground.
- How it works: Uses directional antennas or sensors to pick up signals from a distance, guiding you toward the general location of a target.
- Where it shines: Big open spaces, deserts, hillsides, or anywhere you can’t cover every inch of ground with a coil.
📍 Example: The BR SYSTEMS Gold Step Pro Max is a well-known long-range detector for professional treasure hunters.
What is a Regular Metal Detector?
A regular metal detector is your precision tool. You need to physically pass the coil over the target to detect it.
- Best for: Coins, relics, jewelry, small gold nuggets, and shallow to medium depth finds.
- How it works: Sends electromagnetic signals into the ground and reacts when it passes over metal.
- Where it shines: Parks, beaches, known gold patches, and smaller search areas.
📍 Example: The Garrett Axiom Lite is a powerful pulse induction detector that excels in mineralized soils and pinpoint gold hunting.
When to Use a Long Range Metal Detector
Go long-range if:
- You have a large search area and no exact starting point.
- You’re after big, deep treasures (like gold deposits or buried hoards).
- You need to survey terrain quickly before committing to digging.
When to Use a Regular Metal Detector
Grab your regular detector if:
- You’re in a smaller area or a known hotspot.
- You want precise pinpointing before digging.
- You’re hunting small or shallow targets.
Pro Tip: Use Both for Best Results
Professional treasure hunters often combine both types:
- Start with a long-range detector to find a general location.
- Switch to a regular detector to confirm the target and pinpoint the exact spot.
This combo saves time, energy, and keeps you from digging in the wrong place.
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer to the long range vs regular metal detector debate — it’s all about the situation. If you’re covering miles of desert, go long-range first. If you’re combing through an old park for coins, stick with a regular. And if you want the best shot at striking gold? Use both.
