In this review we are presenting Bounty Hunter Tracker IV – an easy-to-use and very convenient metal detector for beginners. The device has a user-friendly interface, 3 modes of operation, several settings and a display with needle indicator. However, the main advantage of this metal detector is its price. At that, it is good for the money and it really detects valuable targets, not just beep all the time. You shouldn’t expect any miracles from it though.
At the beginning, I’d like to clarify one very important thing – Bounty Hunter Tracker IV is the cheapest metal detector of all the devices on the market I know.
I’m not considering Chinese metal detectors and those manufactured for kids, since they are more likely to be just toys. Bounty Hunter Tracker IV has really surprised me, because it appeared to be a real metal detector. Even though a simple one, this device will definitely do for beginners.
You can even find this device in the list of the best metal detectors, since it is quite good for its price.
Contents
The device package set
- Bounty Hunter Tracker IV metal detector;
- 8″ concentric coil;
- A Manual;
Power Supply
This device operates on two 9V alkaline batteries, which are not included in the package. For cost-effective use, I recommend replacing standard batteries with rechargeable ones, as this will save you money in the long run.
Alternative Package Options
There is also an alternative package available that includes a carrying bag, headphones, a pinpointer, and a complete accessory kit. However, this bundle is not always readily available for purchase.
In my experience, beginner treasure hunters may not need all the extras right away. If you find yourself enjoying the hobby, you can always purchase this accessory set later.
| Model | Bounty Hunter Tracker IV |
| Weight | 2,98 lbs (1,35 kg) |
| Batteries | 9v x 2 |
| Headphones | No |
| Warranty | 5 year |
| Operating Principle | VLF |
| Standard Searchcoil | 8” weather resistant coil |
| Operating Frequencies (kHz) | 6.6 |
| Water resistance | Waterproof coil |
| Submersion Depth | No |
| Discrimination | 2 discrimination levels |
| Ground Balance | Preset |
| Search Modes | 3 |
| Audio Threshold | No |
| Sensitivity/Depth Adjustments | No |
| Electronic Pinpointing | No |
| VDI (0 to 99 scale) | No |
| Build-in flashlight | No |
- Rugged metal detector ideal for detecting treasure in extreme ground conditions
- Motion All-Metal mode, Discrimination mode, and 2-Tone audio mode
- Preset ground balance neutralizes response to mineral content in the ground
- Disc/notch control distinguishes between targets and unwanted metals
- Rugged metal detector ideal for detecting treasure in extreme ground conditions
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates
The review
The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV metal detector comes with a standard package that includes a coil, a control unit, and an adjustable shaft. The device can be modified in length from 45 inches (114 cm) to 53 inches (135 cm), accommodating users of different heights. Weighing no more than 4.2 lbs (1.2 kg), this metal detector is lightweight and easy to handle, making it an excellent choice for long treasure-hunting adventures.
Equipped with a branded 8-inch waterproof search coil, the Tracker IV is designed for surface searching and can effectively locate metals in various ground conditions. However, it’s important to note that the device is not intended for submersion in water.
The mono-type coil operates at a frequency of 6.6 kHz, which allows for precise detection of a range of metal types. This feature enhances the detector’s performance, making it suitable for diverse hunting environments, from beaches to parks.
The control unit
The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV features a simple yet effective control system consisting of two control handles and a single tumbler switch. This straightforward design allows users to turn on the device and begin detecting with ease, making it highly accessible for beginners.
Instead of a digital display, the control unit uses a dial gauge with a needle pointer to provide real-time feedback on detected targets. The position of the needle indicates whether the object beneath the coil is ferrous or non-ferrous, helping users identify potential finds.
The Tracker IV includes two potentiometers for adjusting sensitivity and discrimination levels. The first potentiometer regulates the sensitivity, allowing users to customize the detector’s performance for specific search conditions. This adjustment helps maintain stable operation and minimizes false signals while maximizing detection depth for various soil types.
The second control handle enables users to adjust the discrimination level, sequentially excluding metals with different conductivity from detection. This feature helps avoid unnecessary digging. For example, users can eliminate signals from iron objects first, followed by aluminum foil, allowing them to focus on more valuable targets like gold, silver, and copper.
However, it’s worth noting that the discrimination function is not the strongest aspect of this detector; many experienced treasure hunters prefer to use the ‘all metal’ mode for detecting.
When a target is located, the metal detector emits a tone signal. To ensure that you don’t miss faint signals from deeply buried or small items, you can connect headphones via the jack on the control unit panel, providing a more immersive and focused detecting experience.
Modes of operation
The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV metal detector features a simple set of operational characteristics, making it easily adjustable and user-friendly for beginners. It offers three modes of operation: Full Discriminate, Tone, and All-Metal, which can be selected using the tumbler switch.
- All-Metal Mode: This mode allows the detector to search for all types of metals, both ferrous and non-ferrous. When the mode is selected and the switch is in the mid position, the detector will produce signals for every metal object that comes under the coil. This mode is ideal for comprehensive searches, as it does not discriminate between different metal types and is particularly effective for detecting deeply buried items.
- Full Discriminate Mode: When using the discrimination function, the detector only signals for non-ferrous targets, effectively filtering out unwanted metals like iron. This feature is particularly useful for treasure hunters looking to avoid digging up common, less valuable items, such as bottle caps or nails often found in urban areas.
- Tone Mode: This mode emits different tones based on the type of metal detected, providing auditory feedback that can help users quickly identify valuable targets without needing to dig every time. Different tones can also help gauge the depth and size of objects without visual confirmation, enhancing the overall treasure-hunting experience.
By understanding and utilizing these modes, users can optimize their treasure-hunting experience, focusing on the most valuable finds while minimizing unnecessary digging. The straightforward switch design allows for quick mode changes, enabling users to adapt to different searching environments on the fly, catering to both beginners and experienced users while offering versatility without overwhelming complexity.
Ground balance
The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV metal detector features an automatic ground balance function that enables effective operation on highly mineralized soils. However, it’s important to note that this function is pre-set within the device, meaning the ground balance remains the same across different soil types. The pre-set ground balance allows the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV to operate effectively across various terrains, making it versatile for different searching environments.
While the detector adjusts to changes in soil type automatically, true automatic ground balancing—where the device continuously adapts to varying conditions—is typically found only in more expensive models. Many advanced metal detectors come with customizable ground balance settings, allowing users to fine-tune their detector based on specific soil conditions, which can enhance detection accuracy.
Despite this limitation, the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV remains an excellent choice, particularly for beginners. Its affordability and efficient metal detection capabilities make it a great entry-level option for those new to treasure hunting.
However, it may not be the top choice for experienced amateurs and professional treasure hunters, as its limited set of features and settings might not meet their advanced needs. Nonetheless, for newcomers looking to explore the world of metal detecting, the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV offers a solid introduction without breaking the bank.