Your Path to Gold: Top Metal Detectors for 2023

Choosing the best metal detector for gold is not an easy task and for beginners it is almost impossible thing to do. On the market there are lots of offers and if you try to gain some insight on these devices, you will find yourself lost in the variety of models and prices. Besides, treasure hunting for gold can be very different. Someone is looking for it on the beach and someone is looking for nuggets. Both these targets require using different metal detectors.

In the current article we’ll discuss types of metal detectors, choose the best ones for gold prospecting, perform comparison study of the most popular models and help you to select the device with optimal combination of price and parameters. But, first of all….

Best metal detectors for gold

I have chosen the best gold detector on the market (from cheap to expensive), most time-proven and high efficient. If you think that there are more recommendable models, you are welcome to write me a message and I will include them into the list.

Fisher Gold Bug Pro

Fisher Gold Bug Pro review

Fisher Gold Bug Pro is a multi-purpose, high efficient metal detector for coin, relics and gold nuggets hunting on very mineralized soils. Despite the fact, that this model was designed specially for detecting small nuggets, unlike other metal detectors designed for gold digging, it can also be helpful when using small coins and jewelry.

Traditionally Fisher Lab designed Gold Bug control simple and easy-to-use even for beginners. Distinguishing characteristic of Fisher Gold Bug is that it uses sequential discrimination scheme, which is the most proper one when gold nugget hunting.

Sequential discrimination is a process when objects are excluded from the search one by one starting from metals with the lowest conductivity and further.

Also this metal detector has a ground balance function that can be adjusted both manually and automatically.

Operation frequency is 19 kHz. It weighs only 1,25 kg!

Fisher Labs Gold Bug Pro Metal Detector, Black (GOLDBUG-PRO)
  • Finds the smallest gold nuggets in highly mineralized soils – v-break tm;…
  • Real-time computerized ground balancing – v.c.o. audio in all metal &…
  • Ground phase value indicates type of mineralization – fe3o4 graphic indicates…
  • 19kHz Operating Frequency – Ultra Simple User Interface – Ultra-Lightweight (2.5…
  • Recommended for gold nugget / prospecting

Last update on 2023-12-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

ModelFisher Gold Bug
Weight2.5 lbs
Batteries9 Volt (1)
HeadphonesNot included
Warranty5 years
Operating PrincipleVLF
Standard SearchcoilThree types of coils (5″ round DD, 7″ x 11″ elliptical DD, 5″ x 10″ elliptical DD)
Operating Frequencies (kHz)19.2 kHz
Water resistanceWaterproof coil
Submersion DepthNo
DiscriminationYes
Ground BalanceAuto, manual
Audio ThresholdNo
Electronic PinpointingYes
VDI (0 to 99 scale)Yes
Build-in flashlightNo

Garrett AT Gold

Garrett AT Gold review

Garrett (USA) has designed a new model of metal detector Garrett AT Gold specializing in non-ferrous metal and gold nuggets detecting. AT Gold has high sensitivity to small objects, like gold nuggets, rings, chains. For successful detection of nuggets, jewelry and small coins the device has high operation frequency (18 kHz) and minimized size of its search sensor.

Due to the fact, that AT Gold was designed basing on AT Pro, it can function under water, when it rains and in the places with heavy accumulation of dust and dirt.

The main difference between AT Gold and AT Pro, is that Garrett AT Gold metal detector has higher operation frequency 18 kHz (Garrett AT Pro has 15 kHz operation frequency); Garrett AT Pro is equipped with AT 8,5×11 DD coil in its set (it is a bit larger), while Garrett AT Gold has AT 5×8 DD coil (which is smaller).

Also Garrett AT Gold has wider possibilities when metal detecting on heavy-textured soils.

Bestseller No. 2
Garrett 1140680 AT Gold Metal Detector
  • Sold on Amazon
  • Roy Lagal (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
Bestseller No. 3
Garrett A.T. Gold + Pro-Pointer A.T. Special
  • Garrett AT GOLD is hot on gold nuggets, relics, coins and much more.
  • Fully waterproof up to 10 feet.
  • All Terrain Gold Finder
  • True All-Metal Mode
  • Advanced Ground Balance features

Last update on 2023-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


ModelGarrett AT Gold
Weight3.03 lbs (1.4 kgs)
Length (Adjustable)43″ to 56″ (1.09m – 1.4m)
Batteries4 AA (included)
Headphones Included
Warranty2 years
Circuit Type VLF
Standard Searchcoil5″ x 8″ ( 14×20 cm) DD PROformance
Operating Frequencies (kHz) 18
Water resistanceWaterproof detector
Submersion Depth up to 10 feet
Iron Discrimination Segments44
Ground Balance Manual, Auto
Search Modes 3
Updatable SoftwareNo
Audio Threshold Yes
Sensitivity/Depth Adjustments 8
Electronic Pinpointing Yes
VDI (0 to 99 scale) Yes
Build-in flashlightNo

Garrett Goldmaster 24K

Goldmaster 24K is a metal detector produced by the American company Garrett. It was specially designed for gold nuggets metal detecting. Earlier, this metal detector was called

White’s Goldmaster 24K, but the White’s company was bought by Garrett. The metal detector had some updates and improvements and came into the market with a new name.

Goldmaster 24K is a metal detector with a simple S-shaped shaft powered by 8 AA accumulators with a charger. Rechargeable batteries can function for up to 45 hours on one charge, allowing treasure hunting for several days. The device has a standard search coil 6×10 DD. Branded wired Garrett headset is included in the package set.

Why this metal detector for gold nuggets treasure hunting is better than other Garrett metal detectors? First of all, Goldmaster’s 24K feature is high sensitivity to gold due to its ability to operate using 48 kHz frequency. It has an upgraded ground balance function with tracking ability and full-fledged performance on magnetic soils.

Ground filter system – XGB was added, automatic ground tracking method. Due to XGB, you can go treasure hunting at different conditions by decreasing the noise level and without losing performance stability. Besides, this system allows partial ignoring of hot rocks.

The device has Iron Cancel. In case the places where you search for gold nuggets are very rubbished with ferrous objects, it will help you to discriminate iron. But remember that even though Goldmaster 24K has a perfect discrimination function, using any type of discrimination includes a chance of missing a signal from gold.

Last update on 2023-12-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Garrett Metal Detectors 1142620 Goldmaster 24k Two Coil Package
  • Super Sensitive Gold Detector
  • XGB Ground Balance System
  • Variable Self Adjusting Threshold
  • Iron and Hot Rock Elimination
  • Rainproof Detector with Waterproof Searchcoils

Last update on 2023-12-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

ModelGarrett Goldmaster 24K
Weight3.6 lbs (1.4 kgs)
Length (Adjustable)44″ to 54″
Batteries8 AA (included)
Headphones Included
Warranty2 years
Circuit Type VLF
Standard Searchcoil6″ x 10″ DD Standard, 6” Concentric Optional
Operating Frequencies (kHz) 48
Water resistanceWaterproof detector
Submersion Depth No
Ground Balance XGB; TracLock
Search Modes All Metal
Updatable SoftwareNo
Audio Threshold Yes, Variable Self-Adjusting Threshold
Sensitivity/Depth Adjustments Yes
Electronic Pinpointing Yes
BacklightYes

Garrett Axiom

Garrett Axiom is a metal detector manufactured in 2022 for gold and gold nuggets search. It uses pulse induction technology. This metal detector is of a completely different class than Garrett AT Gold and Garrett Goldmaster 24K. Of course, the price is different as well.

What are Garrett Axiom’s advantages?

PI technology is used in cases when you plan to operate on complex and extremely complex soils, and this is where you can actually find gold. Pulse Induction in Garrett Axiom provides improved sensitivity and full multipurposeness of the device on most highly mineralized soils and in brackish water. This metal detector is very sensitive, and it is capable of detecting cold particles of less than 1 gram weight.

Upgraded discrimination function and automatic ground balance tracking ensure the detection of all valuable targets.

Garrett Axiom operation time is almost 24 hours. Using the embedded battery, the device can function for up to 16 hours, and an additional unit with 8 AA power components will provide 6 more hours of treasure hunting.

A carbon fiber shaft of three sections can be folded to extremely small sizes. The device length in the folded state is just 63,5 cm! At that, it will be comfortable to work with Garrett Axiom for a user of any height since its shaft can be unfolded to a length of 156 cm. Moreover, the device is rather light weighted one – just 1,9 kg.

The standard package set also includes a bag for the metal detector, network adapters, charging cables, protecting covers for search coils, additional unit for 8 AA batteries.

Garrett Axiom Metal Detector with 13″x11″ DD Coil, 11″x7″ Mono Coil and Wireless MS-3…
  • ULTRA-PULSE Technology
  • Terra-Scan and Iron Check Features
  • 13” x 11” DD searchcoil
  • 11” x 7” Mono Searchcoil
  • Garrett’s MS-3 Wireless headphones

Last update on 2023-12-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

ModelGarrett Axiom
Weight4.2 lbs. (1.9 kg) with 11” mono coil; 4.7 lbs. (2.1 kg) with 13” mono coil
Length (Adjustable)25” (63.5 cm) to 61.5” (156 cm)
BatteriesRechargeable Lithium Ion, built-in; 76 Wh, 306 g
Headphones Included
Warranty2 years
Circuit Type PI (Pulse Induction)
Standard Searchcoil11” x 7” mono coil; 13” x 11” mono coil
Operating Frequencies1500 Hz
Water resistanceWater/Weather Resistance
Submersion Depth No
Ground Balance Automatic, dual channel
Search Modes Fine, Normal, Large, Salt
Updatable SoftwareYes
Audio Threshold Yes
Sensitivity/Depth Adjustments 8
Electronic Pinpointing Yes
VDI (0 to 99 scale) Yes
Build-in flashlightNo

Minelab Gold Monster 1000 – best overall

Minelab Gold Monster 1000 review

Minelab Gold Monster 1000 – is a high frequency metal detector designed for treasure hunting on highly mineralized soil. Due to its high operation frequency 45 kHz it has very high sensitivity to small sized gold nuggets (0,2-0,3 gram). This metal detector was designed as the most adaptive system with several different configurations.

Minelab Gold Monster 1000 is completely automated device. That’s why you won’t have to adjust ground balance and threshold tone all the time. Therefore, while searching you will be able to devote more time to the process itself and not to the device settings. As for me, this is best gold detector on the market.

You have to make up your mind if you adjust the device sensitivity level yourself or use auto adjustment. At that you should keep in mind that automatic mode will decrease the device sensitivity for a sake of more stable productivity.

Bestseller No. 1
Minelab Gold Monster 1000 Universal Metal Detector with 2 Search Coils, Waterproof
  • KIT INCLUDES: Minelab Gold Monster 1000 Metal Detector | 10×6″ DD Waterproof…
  • 45 KHZ VLF & 24-BIT SIGNAL PROCESSOR: This primary combination greatly boosts…
  • IMPROVED DISCRIMINATION: The GOLD MONSTER 1000 also has improved…
  • VERY LOW FREQUENCY: VLF (Very Low Frequency) is a conventional single frequency…
Bestseller No. 2
Minelab Gold Monster 1000 Bundle with Pro Find 15, Carry Bag, 2 Search Coils, and More
  • Minelab GOLD MONSTER 1000 Bundle (3) Items:
  • Minelab GOLD MONSTER 1000
  • Minelab Pro Find 15 Pinpointer
  • Minelab Carry Bag
Bestseller No. 3
Minelab Gold Monster 1000 Gold Detector for Adults with Waterproof Coil
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY. The 45 kHz VLF and 24-bit signal processor greatly boosts…
  • FULLY AUTOMATIC. The GOLD MONSTER turns beginners into professionals with fully…
  • PRECISE DISCRIMINATION. Improved identification enhances searches in salty soils…
  • EASY TO USE. This gold finder has a touchpad interface that features a gold…
  • ADAPTABLE HEIGHT. Whether you’re searching wide ground or confined spaces, you…

Last update on 2023-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


ModelMinelab Gold Monster 1000
Weight1.33kg (2.94lbs) excluding battery
Length (Adjustable)1382mm–944mm (54.4″–37.2″)
BatteriesLi-Ion (included), 8 AA Batteries (not included)
HeadphonesIncluded
Warranty2 years
Operating PrincipleVLF
Key TechnologyUltra-wide dynamic range 45kHz VLF
Standard Searchcoil 2 coils: 10″ x 6″ Double-D, 5″ Double‑D
Operating Frequencies (kHz)45 kHz
Water resistanceCoils waterproof to 1m (3′), Control box rain/splash-proof
Submersion DepthNo
Detect ModesGold (Iron reject), Deep All-Metal
DiscriminationYes, Gold Chance Indicator (high/low)
Ground BalanceAutomatic (Easy-Trak)
Noise CancelAutomatic (On start-up)
Detect Modes2 (Gold (Iron reject), Deep All-Metal)
Sensitivity AdjustManual (1–10), Auto (11), Auto+ (12)
Volume AdjustManual 1–6
Visual DisplayMonochrome LCD
Audio OutputInternal speaker or headphones 3.5mm (1/8″)

XP Deus II

XP Deus II review

Nowadays it is the best metal detector on the market. XP Deus 3 has accumulated all the best groundwork made by XP during all these years.

XP Deus II is a metal detector designed in 2022 that is one of the best multipurpose metal detectors nowadays. It is fast both for ground and underwater metal detecting, with FMF ® technology (fast multifrequency technology), extra lightweight (it weighs just 800 grams), the device is mobile and completely wireless: its control unit, search coil, headset, connection with a pinpointer are wireless. This is the best metal detector model designed by XP.

The most important about this novelty is its own technology, FMF – Fast Multi Frequency. This means the ability of the device operation simultaneously using a multifrequency from 4 to 45 kHz. At that, the frequencies in multi-frequency mode will be selected according to the device operation mode selected.

While XP Deus predecessor was good in many ways but not for beach hunting, XP Deus II can be used not only for beach hunting but the device also can be submerged up to 20 meters deep!

For underwater treasure hunting, there was designed a bone conduction headset that allows for hearing the weakest signals. Vibration mode was also added to the headset features.

Moreover, XP Deus II is a multifrequency device that efficiently searches both large-sized targets and small gold nuggets for which it has a special program, «Goldfield»

XP Deus II is as light weight as possible (it weighs 815 g max), which means that the device is very convenient in use. Since we all know how hard it is to sweep with any other device and then your hand starts aching. Now these issues are settled and you can enjoy using this metal detector.

Deus II is quickly assembled and dismantled and at that there is no chance of loosing or breakage of any device’s components. The metal detector has embedded batteries with at least 2 years term of service and then you should replace them with new ones. The batteries high capacity ensures very long service term without recharging.

XP Deus II can be considered the most light-weighted, ergonomic, and multipurpose metal detector with the highest efficiency when searching for any targets under any conditions. It is obvious that here we have a really new device, not just a veiled upgrade of the previous device model.

Bestseller No. 1
XP Metal Detectors Deus II RC – 9″ FMF Coil with WSAII Wireless heapdhones & BH-01 Bone…
  • World’s first fully wireless Fast Multi-Frequency (FMF) metal detector with…
  • Including WSAII wireless headphones with a 10 Times faster wireless technology…
  • Including BH-01 bone conduction headphones siting in front of the ears on the…
  • Lithium powered wireless headphones with long battery life of 27 hours, product…
  • Rich audio options with a non-exhaustive sound library and a 4 band equalizer…
Bestseller No. 2
XP Metal Detector Deus II – Waterproof and Multi Frequency, Ideal for Treasure and relic…
  • World’s first fully wireless Fast Multi-Frequency (FMF) metal detector with…
  • Including headphones with a 10 Times faster wireless technology compared to…
  • Choose one of the 12 Fast and simultaneous Multi Frequency factory programs or…
  • 66 feet waterproof detector thanks to its shockproof and underwater remote…
  • All terrain: high performance metal detector on land for Gold or Relic hunting,…

Last update on 2023-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Weight
Total detector weight with batteries750-815 g
Stem weight370 g (S-Telescopic) – 305 g (S-Telescopic lite)
Remote weight with battery150 g
Headphone weight with batteryWS6: 82 g – WSA II: 72 g – WSA II XL: 250 g
Coil weight22.5 (9’’) – 345 g; 28 cm (11’) – 470 g; 34×28 cm (13’’x11’’) – 570 g
Length
StemFully telescopic, S-shaped
Length of folded stem58 cm
Length of extended stem130 cm
Coils
Wireless coilsDD 22.5cm-9’’/28 cm-11’’/34x28cm-13’’x11’’ (fully waterproof 20m – 66 ft)
Temperature
Operating T°0 to + 40°C
Max ambient T° during charging0 to + 40°C
Recommended storage T°25°C
Waterproofness
CoilIP 68 – 20m – 66 ft
Bone conduction headphonesWaterproof IP68 – 20m – 66 ft (optional)
Wireless Headphones optionalWS6 (rainproof) – WSAII (rainproof) – WSAII XL (IP 68-1m)
Batteries
BatteriesRemote/Coil: 700 mAh – Headphones: 320 mAh
Battery level indicatorYes: Remote/Headphones/Coil/MI-6
Wireless Remote Control battery life~ 15 to 30H depending on audio output activated
Wireless Headphone battery life~ 15H WSAII/WS6
Wireless Coil battery life8H to 20H depending on programs and frequencies
Mains power chargerDepending on version, Input 100-220V 50/60Hz, Output 5V- 1A max
Charging time~3 h
Features
Software updatesYes, by USB/Internet connection
Hip mount remote control caseYes
Headphones storage caseYes (WS6, WSA II)
WarrantyFive years parts and labor. Batteries, chargers and connectors have a 2 year
warranty
Settings
Detection frequenciesSimultaneous Multi Frequency or between the 49 single
frequencies from 4 to 45 kHz
Sensitivity99 levels
Sound typeDifferent sound options: PWM, SQUARE
Audio Volume10 levels for each audio output
Reactivity9 levels (0/0.5/1/1.5/2/2.5/3/4/5)
Audio Response8 levels
Iron Volume6 levels
Multi Tones 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Pitch and Full Tones 1 and 2 + EXPERT modes
Ground balanceTracking, Grab, Manual
Multi-NotchYes, with adjustable window width
PinpointYes, with and without Autotune – Audio and visual
DiscriminationAudio and visual/ferrous bottle cap rejection on 5 levels/Silencer
ThresholdThreshold and Audio frequency adjustable
Equalizer4 Bands configurable
Programs12 factory programs + 12 users
Backlight20 levels adjustable, very low power consumption

Minelab SDC 2300

In summer 2020, the company has introduced an improved version of its classical metal detector Minelab SDC 2300. The new device package set includes new headphones, protection for the armrest and Li-ion accumulator. An additional detail (a protector) was added to the connector joint to protect the connection with the search coil during metal detecting.

MINELAB SDC 2300 beyond all doubt is a milestone in production of metal detectors for gold nuggets hunting – it represents combination of pure functionality and efficiency.

It doesn’t have the slightest hint of some ‘ornamental’ options. The device demonstrates perfect performance characteristics when going metal detecting at highly complicated conditions.

This multi-purpose device allows quickly and thoroughly examine a prospecting site concerning possible detection of gold nuggets that may indicate the presence of larger nuggets deeper in the ground.

The metal detector is small sized and waterproof. It has a reliable structure and it is easy to master even for beginner. All these characteristics are based on call of the times and completely meet the requirements of modern nuggets hunter.

It is convenient to carry SDC 2300 in a rucksack and it is perfect for treasure hunting in shallow waters. Yet it performs better when jewelry hunting, than when nuggets detecting. It is capable of ‘seeing’ even thin chains and bracelets.

Bestseller No. 1
Minelab Metal Detectors Minelab SDC 2300 Gold Metal Detector w Pro Find 15, Carry Bag, Finds…
  • Minelab SDC 2300 All Terrain Gold Metal Detector Bundle (4) Items:
  • Minelab SDC 2300 All Terrain Gold Metal Detector
  • Minelab Pro Find 15 Pinpointer
  • Minelab Carry Bag
  • Minelab Finds Pouch
Bestseller No. 2
Minelab SDC 2300 All Terrain Gold Detector
  • Compact – Folds to small portable size – 8.5 in x 15.7 in. Fits into carry-on…
  • Waterproof Capability – Fully submersible to 10 ft. for detecting riverbeds and…
  • Rugged & Assembly Free – Military grade construction, one piece detector…
  • Easy Patch Hunting – Search quickly and efficiently in hard to reach and remote…
Bestseller No. 3
Minelab SDC 2300 Li-Ion Battery
  • Rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery pack is compatible with the SDC 2300.
  • Perfect to use as a back-up battery for long detecting days.

Last update on 2023-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

ModelMinelab SDC 2300
ApplicationGold Prospecting (waterproof 10ft)
Coil (standard)8″ Round Monoloop
Audio OutputBuilt-in speaker, Minelab headphones (supplied), Koss Waterproof Headphones (not supplied), Pro Sonic Wireless Audio (not supplied)
Visual Display9 LEDs indicate detection, battery status and threshold level; 1 low battery warning LED
LengthExtended: 1500 mm (59.1″) Collapsed: 400 mm (15.7”)
Weight2.3 kg (5.1 lbs)
BatteriesLi-on Battery Pack with Charger, 4 x C-cell 1.2 V 5000 mAh Rechargeable (not supplied), 4 X C-cell 1.5 V Alkaline (not supplied)
Detect ModesNormal (1-5 Sensitivity range) & Salt (1-3 Sensitivity range)
Noise CancelManually Initiated, Automatic Scanning
Ground BalanceAutomatic Ground Tracking (AGT) Fast Ground Balance
Threshold9 audio levels
Audio PitchLow, High
TechnologyPulse Induction (PI) and Multi Period Fast (MPF)
Warranty3 years control box & coil
Included AccessoriesArmrest Cover, Coil Joint Protector
Optional AccessoriesKoss Waterproof Headphones, Pro-Sonic Wireless Audio, Carry Bag

Minelab GPX 6000

New metal detector GPX 6000 has a range of innovations in comparison with the previous model GPX 5000. The device uses modern noise reduction technologies and complex probing pulses which allows applying it at the most complicated search conditions.

Extremely high sensitivity of the device provides maximum detection depth as well as successful detection of the smallest nuggets. This model is aimed not only at gold nuggets hunting, but it is also adapted for relic and beach hunting which requires super sensitivity to very small targets.

GPX 6000 is supplied complete with round shaped 11-inch mono-coil a large 14″ Double-D coil. There are 100 coils you can get to replace the ones you have and this number grows each year. This is a reliable, time-proven metal detector suitable for almost any situation.

Bestseller No. 1
Minelab GPX 6000 All Gold Detector for Adults with 11” Monoloop & 14” Double-D Waterproof…
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY. Powered by GeoSense-PI technology that precisely analyzes…
  • FINDS ALL GOLD. This gold finder can accurately locate small fragments to large…
  • BUILT TO LAST. Tested in the harsh environments of the Australian outback,…
  • EASY TO USE. With automatic features and an easy interface, you’ll be an expert…
  • LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN. Made with lightweight carbon fiber shafts, this gold…
Bestseller No. 2
Minelab GPX 6000 Artisanal Gold Detector for Adults with 11″ & 17″ Waterproof Monoloop Coils…
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY. Powered by GeoSense-PI technology, the GPX 6000 is equipped…
  • EASY TO USE. With automatic features and an easy-to-use interface, this detector…
  • BUILT TO LAST. Tested in the harsh environments of the Australian outback,…
  • LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN. Made with lightweight carbon fiber shafts, this gold…
  • 2 INCLUDED COILS. This metal detector comes with 2 coils: a versatile 11″ round…
Bestseller No. 3
Minelab GPX 17 Waterproof Monoloop Coil for GPX 6000 Metal Detector (Skidplate Included)
  • MONOLOOP TECHNOLOGY. Increase your chances of finding large gold nuggets at a…
  • DEEP DETECTION. If you want to find more gold buried deep underground, go with…
  • COVER MORE GROUND. This large coil for adults is 17″x 13″, meaning it can…
  • WATERPROOF. Don’t stop your search at the beach or the river bank. This coil is…
  • SPECIFICATIONS. The GPX 17 coil weighs 2.2 lbs (997.9g) for a lightweight…

Last update on 2023-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

ModelMinelab GPX 6000
Search Modes (Ground Types)Difficult (default) | Normal
Double-D ModesEMI Cancel (default) | Conductive Ground Cancel
Ground BalanceAuto | Manual (Quick-Trak)
Noise CancelAutomatic (on start-up) | Manual (as needed – 5s duration)
SensitivityManual (levels 1 — 10) | Auto (level 11) | Auto+ (Level 12)
Threshold ToneOn, Off
Volume5 Levels
LengthExtended: 155 cm (61 in) | Collapsed: 67 cm (26.5 in)
Weight2.1 kg (4.6 lb) (with 11″ round Monoloop coil)
DisplayMonchrome LCD with backlight
Available coilsGPX 11™ 11″ round Monoloop | GPX 14™ 14″ round Double-D | GPX 17™ 17″x13″ elliptical Monoloop
Audio OutputBuilt-in loudspeaker | Wired 3.5 mm (1/8″ headphones) | Bluetooth wireless audio (aptX™ Low Latency)
Supplied HeadphonesML 100 wireless headphones
Supplied BatteriesRechargeable Lithium-Ion battery 5833 mAh
Battery Runtime8 hours (approximately)
WaterproofCoils: submersible to 1m (3.3 ft) | Detector: splash / rain proof
Operating Frequency1.225 kHz
Operating Temperature Range-10°C to +50°C (+14°F to +122°F)
Storage Temperature Range-20°C to 70°C (-4°F to 158°F)
Key TechnologiesGeoSense-PI™ | Bluetooth | aptX™ Low Latency

Minelab GPZ 7000

This is best metal detector for finding gold nuggets, heavyweight champion of gold metal detectors. But its price is very high.

This new metal detector by Minelab uses a breakthrough technology of gold detection – ZVT. This device stands head and shoulders above metal detectors of GPX series when detecting large and deep resting nuggets as well as detecting gold at any depth.

The device weights 3,32 kg, it has 14х13 waterproof coil. We can even call it a metal detector of tomorrow. All the results it demonstrates are significantly higher than that of previous Minelab models.

By means of this function (GPS-navigation) and application XChange 2 for PC you can put the marks you need on the map and also create a table of your own findings, record occurrence depth and weigh of nuggets and make any other notes in the field.

Now you won’t need a separate notebook or GPS, all information can be stored as a GeoHunt in your device and when you come back home you can copy all the data to your PC and show them on Google maps.

Supporters of serious, thorough approach to metal detecting by means of screen ‘Map’ can travel to the places they are interested in and look through GeoTrail, where they’ve been to, save their WayPoints (points that are of some interest to them) and FindPoints (their findings).

Another distinctive feature of Minelab GPZ 7000 metal detector is its high noise resistance and nowadays its is second to none in terms of this parameter. Due to its 256 channels of noise suppression you can use the device at maximum level of concentration, nothing strains your ears, there are no noises or sounds that distract you from the detection process, you won’t miss even the quietest and weakest signal from a target.

Bestseller No. 1
Minelab GPZ 7000 All Terrain Gold Metal Detector with GPZ 19″ Search Coil
  • Extreme Gold Depth: So how deep can you go? Well, up to 40%* deeper than the GPX…
  • Maximum Gold Sensitivity: The incredible sensitivity of the GPZ 7000 with the…
  • Precision Ground Balance: Most gold is buried in the mineralised ‘difficult’…
  • Enhanced Noise Immunity: The outstanding noise immunity of the GPZ 7000 enables…
  • Simple Menu System: The easy-to-use Menu Pages group similar functions together…
Bestseller No. 2
Minelab Metal Detectors GPZ 7000 All Terrain Gold Metal Detector Bundle with Pro Find 15, Carry…
  • Minelab GPZ 7000 All Terrain Gold Metal Detector Bundle (3) Items:
  • Minelab GPZ 7000 All Terrain Gold Metal Detector
  • Minelab Pro-Find 15
  • Minelab Carry BaG
  • Power source type: Battery Powered
Bestseller No. 3
Minelab GPZ 19-19×18 Super-D Search Coil for GPZ 7000 Metal Detector
  • Compatible: GPZ 7000 Application: Gold Prospecting (Waterproof coil to 1m/3ft)…
  • 3 year Limited Warranty
  • Waterproof

Last update on 2023-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

ModelMinelab GPZ 7000
ApplicationGold Prospecting (Waterproof coil to 1m/3ft)
TechnologyZVT
Frequency/TransmissionZero Voltage Transmission (ZVT)
Coil (standard)14″ x 13″ Super‑D Configuration with skidplate (waterproof to 1 m/3 ft)
Audio Output6.3 mm (¼”) non waterproof socket, Wi‑Stream wireless signal transmission
Headphones SuppliedKOSS UR 30 100 ohm with 6.3 mm plug (¼-inch) (non waterproof)
Visual DisplayFull colour LCD (320 x 240 pixels)
BacklightYes
USB ConnectivityUSB interface for XChange 2 PC software
MemoryYes
Depth IndicationNo
Detect ModesGold Mode (High Yield, General, Extra Deep) Ground Type (Normal, Difficult, Severe)
DiscriminationAll Metal
TimingsNo
Audio tone1-100
Audio TypeNo
Ground BalanceAuto and Manual (Quick‑Trak trigger button)
Ground Balance TypeAuto and Manual (Quick‑Trak trigger button)
Trash DensityNo
PinpointNo
Sensitivity AdjustLevel (1-20)
Tune / Noise CancelAuto and Manual (256 channels)
ThresholdLevel (1-50) Pitch (1-100)
Target Volume AdjustRange (1-20) Limit (1-20)
BatteryLi-Ion Rechargeable Pack (7.2V DC, 72Wh)
Low battery alertYes
LengthCollapsed: 1170 mm (46.1”) Laid flat, packed position: 1304 mm (51.3”) Extended: 1526 mm (60.1”) Laid flat, packed position: 1651 mm (65.0”)
Weight3.32 kg (7.32 lb) (Including GPZ 14 coil, skidplate and 72Wh battery)
Warranty3 years control box & coil

Can metal detectors detect gold?

Actually, on the market there are no metal detectors that can detect only gold. All these devices are capable of equally detect copper, aluminum, lead and other metals, not just gold.

However, there are metal detectors that are very good at detecting nuggets and jewelry or coins made from gold that rest quite deep under ground.

We can conventionally divide such models into two groups: devices for underwater and on the ground treasure hunting.

Quite often completely different demands are made for these devices because they function in various conditions.

In this article we’ll consider models that are used to find gold onshore, since we’ve already written about the best underwater metal detectors here.

In most cases people look for gold, silver or platinum jewelry in water. If you are going to look for jewelry on the beach or under water, you’d better read that review.

What are the features of these metal detectors?

So, let’s see, what metal detector is the best when searching for gold?

A metal detector for gold has some differences if compared with metal detectors of other types. These distinctions are due to features of the technology they use. Its main aim is to detect the smallest particles at final depth.

Though these devices can detect other metals, yet it isn’t proper to use them for ordinary metal detecting. The thing is, that the process will be complicated with constant signals received from metal rubbish which these devices are highly sensitive to.

Golden coins and other jewelry items are easily detected by devices that use high operation frequencies (i.e. higher than 14 kHz). The advantage of working at such frequency is the ability to detect small objects such as earrings, rings, coins.

Metal detecting of golden items has some peculiarities. Gold has conductivity and discrimination scale parameters similar to those of oxidized iron. Due to this a metal detector for gold should have an expanded range of ferrous metals.

Coins, nuggets and jewelry made of precious metals is most cases are small, that’s why the device should also be highly sensitive to small objects.

It has to be able to function on highly mineralized soils, since usually these are the areas where golden items and nuggets are detected.

Metal detectors for gold, nuggets and coins hunting mainly use VLF (Very Low Frequency / Low Frequency) and PI (Pulse Induction) technologies. Some of them are designed to work either on the ground or underwater, the others can function both underwater and on ground.

Nowadays VLF technology is a more widespread one, since it is more multi-purpose approach. Metal detectors that are using this technology have operation frequencies up to 100 kHz. The devices utilizing VLF- technology have efficient discrimination and support multi-frequency functioning.

However, one of the most expensive devices for gold hunting use PI technologies. These metal detectors have high sensitivity to the smallest objects and demonstrate stable productivity on mineralized soils where ordinary metal detectors just fail.

The key feature of such metal detectors is minimal set of functions and high energy consumption.

VLF and Pulse Induction – what’s the difference?

VLF-metal detectors have operation frequencies from 3 to 30 kHz; from 30 to 300 kHz (deep search) and from 20 to 100 kHz (in the upper soil layer), but there are also multi-frequency devices. They allow detecting large targets at low frequencies as well as coins, earrings, rings – at high ones.

PI technology means that the device emits a bunch of alternating short or long electric pulses (MPS, Multi Period Sensing) or alternating voltage is applied to its head (DVT, Dual Voltage Technology).

PI-detectors «see» gold deep under ground, they are very sensitive to small objects, ignore noise generated by soil rich in magnetic inclusions (sodium and potassium salts, ferriferous oxides) and «rubbish» (nails, pieces of various metal containing objects).

Often these devices function using some special programs.

For example:

  • «leveled sensitivity» (improves response from small fragments in mineralized soil, excludes signals from magnetic rocks)
  • «small gold» (improves the device sensitivity to coins and jewelry in mineralized soils)
  • «Salt / gold» (helps to perform treasure hunting in alkali soil, beaches, deposits with mineralized soils)
  • «Improved sensitivity» and or «fast response» (for deep metal detecting in neutral soils)

Example with a gold chain

One of the most popular things found by means of metal detecting is a chain or some parts of it. However, this is one of the most hard to find targets for a metal detector (it can be made from any metal, not necessary from gold).

The metal detector sees the chain not as a single object, it detects its chain links. The coil of the device doesn’t identify mass of the whole chain and it seems that it tries to ‘divide’ it into separate chain links and detect them as different targets located close to each other.

That’s why if the chain lies lengthwise, you won’t get sufficient detection depth. If its rests as a ‘pile’, there is a chance to detect it even at a large depth.

Another key factor is the chain link size – the larger (the heavier it is) the deeper the device can see such a target.

As a rule, only expensive VLF – detectors can see a chain even not very deep, if it lies lengthwise and yet not all of them can pass this test. PI detectors deal with this task more successfully.

References

  1. https://garrett.com/sport/at-all-terrain/at-gold
  2. http://fisherlab.com/hobby/fisher-goldbug-pro-metal-detector.htm
  3. https://www.minelab.com/metal-detectors/gold-monster-1000
  4. https://www.minelab.com/metal-detectors/sdc-2300
  5. https://www.minelab.com/metal-detectors/gpx-6000
  6. https://www.minelab.com/metal-detectors/gpz-7000