Metal detectors and pinpointers for handheld usage are simple to operate, portable, and light. When compared to bulkier metal detectors, they can also be more effective at recognizing targets. You may use a pinpointer in conjunction with your standard metal detector. Once you’ve been notified of a target, just dig your plug and use your device to pinpoint its exact placement within the hole. Having a pinpointer on hand may make the task much easier.
When picking a portable device, we recommend a pulse induction (PI) pinpointer over a Very Low-Frequency detector (VLF). PI detectors can detect deeper and provide more precise signals than VLF detectors, making them suitable for saltwater hunts.
This means that while you may unearth some trash in the process, they will not be fooled by the minerals present in salt water or on the beach.
You may save time and energy by using a pinpointer. There are models that are:
- Waterproof
- For night hunting, have built-in LED lights.
- Sensitivity settings for features
- When looking for riches, have vibration settings so you don’t bother others.
Take a look at our list if you’re not sure where to begin when it comes to purchasing a pinpointer.
Also Read: 9 Best Metal Detectors For The Beach
1. Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof pinpoint with Z-Lynk
The Garrett Pro-Pointer is the best in its class for precision and durability when it comes to detecting treasure buried in the earth. If you’re on a loud beach, it can be linked with Garrett MS-3 Z-link wireless headphones so you can listen to the signals in the headphones. It’s also waterproof to a depth of 20 feet and, thanks to its high frequency, it can locate even the tiniest things (like gold nuggets) better than other pinpointers on the market today.
Features:
- With a 360-degree detecting area and a pinpoint tip, you can find what you’re looking for.
- The operational frequency is 11.5 kHz.
- Reduce the detecting field to pinpoint objects with greater precision.
- Sound/vibrate system using a patented proportional sound/vibrate system
- Temperature range: -4°F (-20°C) to 130°F (54°C).
- For those low-light searches, use an LED flashlight.
Pros:
- It’s precise and durable enough to resist probing.
- Rechargeable batteries last 8 hours, carbon batteries 16 hours, and alkaline batteries 30 hours.
- Connects to Z-Link headphones with ease.
Cons:
- The black-and-white ruler on the side
2. Minelab Pro-Find 20 Pinpointer
The Minelab Pro-Find 20 Pinpointer is perfect for those who are just getting started with metal detecting. It features auditory and vibration target indications to help you find gold, jewels, and rings with great precision.
When the Pro-Find 20 is turned off, it has Detector Interference Free (DIF) technology, which reduces interference with other metal detectors by disengaging the coil’s magnetic field.
It has changing auditory tones that become louder as the probe approaches the target, making it simpler to pinpoint the object’s location. If you turn off the music, the vibration response will still alert you that you’re getting close to your prize.
Features:
- Splash-proof
- Sensitivity has been set.
- Vibration and sound feedback
- 30 hours of battery life
- 6.82 oz. in weight
Pros:
- It’s simple to recognize because of the vivid hues.
- Included is a semi-rigid pinpointer holster that connects to your belt.
- After a period of inactivity, the lost alert will ring.
Cons:
- It’s not water-resistant.
3. Garrett Pro-Pointer II Pinpointer
Garrett’s Pro-Pointer II Pinpointer is one of the most detectors on the market. As the target gets closer, its proprietary proportional audio/vibration technology rises, making discovering that buried treasure a little easier. The detector includes a pinpoint tip and a 360-degree side-scan detection area.
The Garrett Pro-Pointer II detector, unlike the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT detector, is not waterproof and should not be submerged completely in water. It is, however, water resistant and may be used in the rain and at shallow depths if the power switch is kept dry.
It features rapid on/off cycles, allowing you to tune out undesirable elements like moist sand, high-mineral-content soils, and even seawater. This function allows you to swiftly reduce the detection field in order to identify big targets with reasonable precision while simultaneously pinpointing several targets rather than one huge target signal.
Features:
- 12kHz is the operating frequency.
- Without retuning, microprocessors provide optimum sensitivity.
- The coil diameter of the probe is 4 inches.
- An alert for a misplaced pinpointer
- While wearing gloves, the big power button is simple to use.
- Weight (including battery): 6.5 oz.
Pros:
- The auditory and vibration alerts become louder as you approach closer to the goal.
- Other pinpoint detectors’ batteries can last twice as long as this one’s.
- There’s also a woven belt holster included, which fits most typical belt sizes.
Cons:
- It’s not water-resistant.
Must See: 7 Deepest Metal Detectors On The Market
4. Vulcan 360 Pinpointer
The Vulcan 360 Pinpointer is an excellent choice for someone who is new to metal detecting. It has 360° scan detection on both the lower and upper parts of the detecting shaft, as well as 5 sensitivity settings and built-in pulse wave auditory indications.
The Vulcan 360 is splash-proof and water-resistant, so it may be used in wet circumstances, but it cannot be submerged. The probe is the only part of the device that is meant to be waterproof.
All of the required controls and functionalities are in one handy location. When holding the pinpointer, the power button, LED power indicator, sensitivity adjustment button, and speaker are all within easy reach of your thumb. You may search and locate items incomplete 360° using its search/probe capability.
Features:
- 10.5in probe length
- The probe and tip are waterproof.
- Vibration target indication built-in
- After 5 minutes of inactivity, the device will power off automatically.
- As you approach closer to the goal, the audio and vibration levels rise.
- Continuous beeping indicates a low battery.
Pros:
- The Vulcan 360 Pinpointer is reasonably priced and accessible to most people.
- The completely automated mode eliminates the need to fiddle with settings.
- The battery cap is simple to remove and has an O-ring seal.
Cons:
- There is no hole or slot for attaching a lanyard.
5. Nokta-Makro PulseDive 2-in-1 Scuba Detector and Pinpointer
The Nokta-Makro Pulsedive Scuba Detector is a 2-in-1 portable device. Not only is it totally waterproof to a depth of 200 feet, but the Scuba coil can be removed and changed with a Pinpointer coil with a hard-shell cover There are two colours to choose from: black or yellow, and it comes with a hard-shell carrying bag.
If you’re a seasoned diver and treasure seeker, the PulseDive’s Dive Mode will come in handy. By locking the keys and preventing them from being forced in by the pressure when deep diving, it makes underwater exploring simpler. Nokta-Makro 2.4GHz wireless headphones are compatible with the built-in wireless module.
You can detect in seawater or any type of soil using strong Pulse Induction technology.
Features:
- 3kHz is the operating frequency.
- Waterproof to a depth of 200 feet.
- There are five levels of sensitivity.
- 1650mAh Lithium Polymer Rechargeable Battery
- 5.5′′ and 8′′ scuba coils are available.
- Scuba Detector: 14.8 oz., Pinpointer: 10 oz.
Pros:
- It’s well-balanced and simple to use.
- Underwater, the detector may be readily heard and felt.
- In the hard case, you’ll find everything you need to get started.
Cons:
- After recharging the battery, ensure sure the battery cap is securely fastened; otherwise, the battery will not be waterproof.
6. Treasure Products Vibra-Tector 740 PI Waterproof Pinpointer
If you’re a serious treasure hunter looking for a portable metal detector, the Treasure Products Vibra-Tector 740, their newest updated state-of-the-art handheld metal detector, is a fantastic choice. It has updated firmware algorithms that enable it to locate targets faster while keeping the sophisticated capabilities of previous models.
The entire machine is waterproof and can be used in nearly any environment, including fresh or saltwater, making it an excellent beach metal detector. It employs Pulse Induction technology, which allows you to search in muck, dirt, grass, and sand. When you get close to a target, the 740 sends out vibration pulses and flashes its built-in bright LED to let you know you’re coming closer. The signals get more strong as you approach closer.
Features:
- Pulse Induction Frequency
- Fully submersible up to a depth of 100 feet.
- Tuning is completely automated.
- One 9-volt standard battery is used to power the device.
- Included are a belt and wrist strap.
- Low battery warning
Pros:
- Lightweight and simple to transport on the beach in a small bag
- It can detect things even in the sand that is deep below the surface.
- The battery may be readily replaced, and there is a compression seal in the chamber.
Cons:
- Because of the “Tilt On & Off” feature, the battery must be removed before traveling to prevent it from draining.
Also Checkout: 12 Best Metal Detecting Gear Accessories You Must Have!
Hand-Held Metal Detectors Buying Guide
This basic term taken to be a consideration while buying handheld metal detectors:
Size
Because a handheld metal detector is designed to be light and portable, its size is an important factor to consider. Some versions are only five inches long, while others may be up to 15 inches long. One size may be preferable to another depending on how you want to use your handheld metal detector, but virtually any model can fit in a backpack for convenient carrying.
Metals Detected
All portable metal detectors can identify ferrous metals, such as carbon and alloy steel, which contain iron. Because these metals are magnetic, a detector can detect them via electromagnetic induction.
Non-ferrous metals can be detected by some portable metal detectors, albeit they aren’t magnetic. Tin, brass, aluminium, copper, and zinc are examples of non-ferrous metals. Choose a device that can locate both sorts of metals for the most flexible handheld metal detector.
Sensitivity Settings
It may be essential to change the sensitivity of a metal detector while looking for certain metal products. You can identify incredibly small or deeply buried things with a greater sensitivity level since it can pick up even the weakest electromagnetic fields.
A greater sensitivity level may cause you to strike on too many metals in the ground, such as minerals in the earth, making it more difficult to find valuable objects. Lowering the sensitivity helps you to focus on larger metal bits rather than trash, which you may be seeking for.
Alerts
When a portable metal detector detects an object, it generally emits an audible alarm. Some versions also include a vibration warning, and you may select whether to use both or just one, depending on which is most effective in the place you’re looking for.
Light
It might be tough to see what you’re looking for if you frequently go treasure hunting in low-light conditions. Although you may carry a second flashlight, it can be difficult to handle both the light and the metal detector at the same time.
Some portable metal detectors have a light to offer sufficient lighting in low light without the need to carry a separate flashlight. Choose a model with an LED light, which is often brighter and more durable.
Waterproof Construction
You may need to use your handheld metal detector in an ocean, lake, river, or even a puddle, depending on the objects you’re looking for. As a result, choosing a waterproof model is critical. Most handheld metal detectors are waterproof up to a specific depth, so check to see how far you can go with them.
Battery-saving Features
Metal detectors for handheld use are often powered by batteries that must be replenished. Choose a model with an energy-saving mode to avoid your battery dying in the middle of a treasure hunt. The detector may include an automated shut-off option that shuts it off if it hasn’t been touched in a specific period of time to preserve the battery, in addition to an indicator light that informs you when the battery is low.
