It’s quite amazing to know that metal detectors have been around since the 19th century. Metal detectors came about just after the invention of electricity when scientists, gold miners, were experimenting on the development of the machine that can detect metal substances under the ground.
It would be a very significant instrument for gold miners, especially when looking for gold after the preceding “Goldrush”. Quite amazing is the fact that the first metal detector found in history had nothing to do with gold mining but was instead used when President Garfield of the United States was shot in Washington D. C. on July 2, 1881.
The focus of this article is Underwater Metal Detectors, but the history of metal detectors is so fascinating that its temptation is hard to resist. Underwater Metal Detectors are waterproof metal detectors often used by deepwater divers or even sea transports to detect metals from a distance. Here are 5 Things to know about Underwater Metal Detectors.
Types of metal detectors
There are two common types of metal detectors, and they are
- VLF metal detectors
- PI metal detectors
VLF metal detectors
In full, very Low-Frequency metal detectors operates within the range of 3 to 30 kHz. They are sensitive to coins, jewelry, and relics. VLF is often affected by element mineralization, so necessary adjustments are vital to cater for it. Examples of sound VLF metal detectors are Garrett AT Max, Tesoro Tiger Shark, Whites MX Sport.
PI metal detectors
In full, Pulse induction metal detectors operate by transmitting a series of fast electronic signals to the ground. They are not affected by ground mineralization nor wet salt sands, unlike VLF metal detectors. Examples of Pulse induction metal detectors are Tesoro Sand Shark, Whites TDI BeachHunter Extreme, Whites PI Dual Field, Garrett ATX, and so on.
The best type of Underwater Metal detector that suits you
The decision of Underwater Metal Detectors you should go with depends mainly on the nature of the water, whether it is freshwater or saltwater. Pulse induction metals are most suitable for metal detection in saltwater, while VLF metal detectors are not but can be used in freshwater.
When you want to purchase or choose the metal detector to use, check the depth ratings on these detectors and make a choice depending on how deep you might go during diving. Most VLF can’t go too deep.
Necessary Accessories
As a professional diver, some accessories are quite important during diving for a complete outfit. A standard underwater Metal detector comes with waterproof headphones so you can still do your thing. Other accessories include Sand Scoops, trowel, etc.
Best Underwater Metal Detector to use
All Underwater Metal Detectors are often portable, so this might not necessarily be a determining factor for the one to use but must check for their durability and for how long they can be used.
A very good example is the Fisher CZ21-8 Underwater Metal Detector, which has a great submersible power and can go as deep as 250 feet. It has been the greatest choice of scuba divers because of the comfort it affords them.
Another good example is Garrett AT PRO with Underwater Pinpointer. It is so sophisticated and can be used both on land and sea. It definitely will be a good choice as it can give exact location within 10 feet of your metal object.
Safety measures in the use of Underwater Metal Detectors
It’s time to get your gold, but most importantly, be careful of its use because it emits waves that might pose little danger to you. Ways to avoid these dangers are in guide books that come along the Underwater Metal Detectors during purchase.
