Search for Treasure With Metal Detector Coils
Whether you're searching for minerals or lost treasure, your metal detector may eventually start to have issues and fail to do its detecting job at an optimum level. Replacing the batteries of your metal detector should be the first step, but when that doesn't work, you may need to consider replacing the search coil. Finding a suitable replacement is as simple as searching for one that is compatible with your detector, whether that be a Minelab X-Terra or Minelab SDC.
What Is a Search Coil?
A search coil is the flat and typically circular part of a metal detector designed to generate a metallic field and sense any metallic objects in the surrounding environment. When it detects a metallic object, it creates a distortion in the magnetic field to alert you.
- It is located at the end of a metal detector's stem and usually connected through a cable wound around the stem.
- The size and shape of this metal detecting device determines the size and depth of the magnetic field and the applications for which it is suited.
- These search devices normally consist of two internal sets of coiled wires, a transmit (TX) and a receive (RX), although mono coils have just one that functions as both.
What Should You Look for When Buying a Metal Detector Search Coil?
The metal detector search device that's right for you depends on what you are searching for and the ground conditions you typically experience. There is no point using a small one when you are searching for metal buried deep in the ground as it just won't penetrate far enough.
- As a general rule of thumb, the detection depth is equal to its diameter when searching for an object the size of a coin. If the diameter of a search coil increases significantly, so does its field pattern, and it may miss smaller metal objects as it becomes less concentrated.
- Most are either circular or elliptical in shape, with an elliptical one easier to maneuver. It usually provides better coverage due to its elongated shape, but a circular one often has a greater detecting depth and is more sensitive in non-mineralized soils, making it the preferred choice for many detectors and treasure hunters.
- While you don't need to buy exactly the same coil as the one your detector came with, always check that the replacement you're considering is compatible with the control box on your metal detector.
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