Metal Detecting Scoops

The most important thing after buying a new metal detector for the beach is to find the right scoop for your type of hunting.

Small hand scoops are designed with wire mesh, and they are mainly for sifting dry sand. Short-handled designs are for beach hunting or at the water's edge. Only about two-feet long, they are made for easy kneeling and scooping, which is especially enjoyable for children. The long-handled varieties range from light, aluminum types for sand, and heavier, steel "kick" scoops for gravel and rocky bottoms in deeper water. They may be five feet long or more. Some have adjustable-length handles.

Most scoop holes are drilled just smaller than an American Dime so that coins do not fall through. Many detectorists fasten magnets in the bottom of their scoops to make it easier to catch nails, screws, and wire and remove them from beaches and swim areas. Sometimes handles are made of wood so they will float, keeping the scoop upright if it is let go. If the handle is metal, simply slide a few feet of foam pipe insulation over it to make it bouyant. The foam also protects your hands from turning black if the handle is aluminum, or from cold metal on chilly days.

The price ranges start around 25 dollars for a basic sand scoop to the $225.00+ range at the top end for the most versatile models. Aluminum is lighter, but steel scoops can handle rocky lake bottoms without bending. The model I prefer is the most versatile: the "Titanic" which features a break-down shaft, a steel scoop, a built-in sifting/viewing tray, a colored foam-filled floating handle, and ergonomic design.

You don't have to be able to see metal finds to scoop them, just hear them beep in your headphones. All of these scoops can be used in silty or murky water. When you hear a clear signal, just "tag" it with your toe, slide your foot back 3 or 4 inches, and scoop where your toe was. Check where you scooped to see if you captured the find. Keep scooping till the signal disappears. Shake the sand and dirt through the scoop and look in it for your treasure! Most of the time, it's going to be pop tabs, bottle caps, and pennies, but just keep scooping till the gleam of gold or silver appears. It usually happens when you least expect it to. That's very exciting, especially with the prices of precious metals being very high! Be sure to safeguard your best finds in a separate pouch and try not to scream too loudly when you find your first gold. It may attract others to your favorite spot! Welcome to treasure hunting!