7 Best Metal Detectors for Gold in 2023

7 Best Metal Detectors for Gold in 2023

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gold mining metal detectors

Best Metal Detector For Gold

Last updated: 20/06/2023. We made some improvements and updated some of our recommendations.

Are you on the hunt for the perfect metal detector to strike gold?

While many metal detectors are great at finding all types of metal, gold is a little tricky as it’s usually found in minimal concentrations, and nuggets are often tiny, so easy to miss. You also need to think about the soil’s mineralization level, as many cheaper metal detectors will not detect gold due to high iron levels in the soil.

The good news is that many of the latest metal detectors have been designed with gold prospectors in mind and utilize the latest technology to make finding gold a little easier.

If you don’t want to read my full article, these are the 4 Best Metal Detectors for Gold in 2023:

Metal Detector
Budget Option
Best Budget from USA
Best Overall for Most People
Great Made in USA Kit
PANCKY Metal Detectors for Adults Waterproof - Professional Higher Accuracy Gold Detector with LCD Display, 5 Mode, Advanced DSP Chip 10" Coil Metal Detectors - PK0075
Garrett at Gold Waterproof Metal Detector with Headphones and ProPointer at PinPointer
MINELAB Equinox 800 Multi-Frequency Waterproof Metal Detector for Adults with EQX 11" Double-D Smart Coil (4 Detect Modes, Wireless Headphones Included)
Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector with Waterproof Coil and Headphone Plus Accessories
Pros
Has all you need to look for gold for less than $150
High quality unit for the price
With gold mode you can find nuggets even in mineralized soil and near salt water
Great single frequency and gold capable metal detector
Cons
It's not going to have the same performance but is great for those new to the hobby
Doesn't come with any kit
This unit is an all rounder so gold only performance is better with the Gold Monster 1000 but this is the better unit for more general usage
Won't be close to performance on Minelab but a great unit for the price
Frequency
Single Frequency
7.69 kHz Operating Frequency
Multi, 5kHz, 10kHz, 15kHz, 20kHz, 40kHz
8 kHz
Made in
China
Texas, USA
Australia
Garland T, USA
Weight
2 lbs
3 lbs
2.9 lbs
5 lbs
Price
$147.99
$767.90
$949.00
$269.95
Budget Option
Metal Detector
PANCKY Metal Detectors for Adults Waterproof - Professional Higher Accuracy Gold Detector with LCD Display, 5 Mode, Advanced DSP Chip 10" Coil Metal Detectors - PK0075
Pros
Has all you need to look for gold for less than $150
Cons
It's not going to have the same performance but is great for those new to the hobby
Frequency
Single Frequency
Made in
China
Weight
2 lbs
Price
$147.99
Amazon
Best Budget from USA
Metal Detector
Garrett at Gold Waterproof Metal Detector with Headphones and ProPointer at PinPointer
Pros
High quality unit for the price
Cons
Doesn't come with any kit
Frequency
7.69 kHz Operating Frequency
Made in
Texas, USA
Weight
3 lbs
Price
$767.90
Amazon
Best Overall for Most People
Metal Detector
MINELAB Equinox 800 Multi-Frequency Waterproof Metal Detector for Adults with EQX 11" Double-D Smart Coil (4 Detect Modes, Wireless Headphones Included)
Pros
With gold mode you can find nuggets even in mineralized soil and near salt water
Cons
This unit is an all rounder so gold only performance is better with the Gold Monster 1000 but this is the better unit for more general usage
Frequency
Multi, 5kHz, 10kHz, 15kHz, 20kHz, 40kHz
Made in
Australia
Weight
2.9 lbs
Price
$949.00
Amazon
Great Made in USA Kit
Metal Detector
Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector with Waterproof Coil and Headphone Plus Accessories
Pros
Great single frequency and gold capable metal detector
Cons
Won't be close to performance on Minelab but a great unit for the price
Frequency
8 kHz
Made in
Garland T, USA
Weight
5 lbs
Price
$269.95
Amazon

Be aware of the rules when looking for gold with a metal detector. There are some laws about using them on federal property and you should always speak to landowners before detecting. If you plan to use it in a local park or beaches then check the latest rules or speak to someone from the parks department.

What to consider when choosing a metal detector for gold:

  1. Type of Metal Detector: Choose among Very Low Frequency (VLF), Pulse Induction (PI), or Multi-Frequency. VLFs are affordable and detect small nuggets near the surface. PIs find larger nuggets and perform well in mineralized soils. Multi-Frequency models operate at varying frequencies, suitable for different ground conditions.
  2. Frequency: Gold detectors operate at higher frequencies. Frequencies of at least 18kHz or higher are ideal for gold detection.
  3. Ground Balance: An essential feature for gold prospecting. It helps the detector ignore signals from ground minerals that can interfere with gold signals.
  4. Discrimination: This helps the detector ignore non-gold metals, enabling more focused prospecting.
  5. Search Coils: The size, shape, and type affect sensitivity, depth, and discrimination. Larger coils cover more ground but are less sensitive to small nuggets.
  6. Sensitivity: This reflects the detector’s ability to detect gold. High sensitivity can help find smaller nuggets but can increase interference from mineralization.
  7. Depth Indicator & Pinpoint Mode: These features can provide the target’s estimated depth and exact location, improving efficiency.
  8. Operating Environment: Consider your detecting environment. If you are in wet or noisy areas, you need a waterproof model or one with a headphone jack.
  9. Cost: The cost varies widely. Assess your prospecting seriousness and frequency before deciding how much to spend. You can spend close to $10k with the high-end Minelab GPZ 7000,, but these are aimed at professionals vs hobbyists.
  10. Ergonomics and Weight: Choose a comfortable and lightweight model for long prospecting sessions.
  11. Battery Life: Ensure the battery life suits your needs.
  12. Warranty and After-sales Support: Check for a good warranty and reliable after-sales support to safeguard your investment. If you are spending a lot, you want to ensure the detector brand has your back if something goes wrong. It’s one reason we love the metal detectors from Minelab – they have an excellent reputation and have been building metal detectors since 1985.

7 Best Metal Detectors for Gold In-depth Review

1. Minelab Equinox 800 – Best Mid Range

MINELAB Equinox 800 Multi-Frequency Waterproof Metal Detector for Adults with EQX 11' Double-D Smart Coil (4 Detect Modes, Wireless Headphones Included)

The Minelab 800 is the one metal detector I beleive is best for most people looking for gold. It’s not cheap but it’s also affordable when compared to the higher-end Minelabs that start at $2K+. It has 2 modes for gold and has all the right features for those wanting to find gold with the latest metal detection technology.

Its advanced Multi-IQ technology employs five frequencies simultaneously, facilitating the efficient search for all metals in all soil types. Notably, the device is fully submersible up to 10 feet, enabling underwater treasure hunting. With four customizable detect modes – Park, Field, Beach, or Gold – it allows you to focus on target types or ground conditions. Its accurate Target ID system confidently differentiates between valuable items and trash, and the lightweight design (2.06 lbs) ensures comfort during long sessions. The Equinox 800 is a solid choice for any gold prospector.

FeatureDescription
Multi-IQ TechnologyUtilizes 5 frequencies concurrently for comprehensive metal detection
WaterproofFully submersible up to 10 feet for underwater detection
4 Detect ModesOffers Park, Field, Beach, or Gold modes, customizable per your needs
Accurate Target IDEfficiently distinguishes between valuable targets and trash
DesignSleek and lightweight (2.06 lbs) for comfort during extended use

MINELAB Equinox 800 Multi-Frequency Waterproof Metal Detector for Adults with EQX 11" Double-D Smart Coil (4 Detect Modes, Wireless Headphones Included)
  • SIMULTANEOUS MULTI-FREQUENCY. The Equinox 800 combines the power of multiple detectors into 1. Equipped with our revolutionary Multi-IQ technology, it automatically employs 5 frequencies at once so you can search all metals, all soils, all the time.
  • FULLY WATERPROOF. Don't stop your search at the beach or the bank. This metal detector is fully waterproof and submersible up to 10 ft (3 m) so you can find gold, silver, jewelry, coins and other treasures underwater.
  • 4 DETECT MODES. Easily select from Park for high-trash recreation areas, Field for fine coins and artifacts, Beach or Gold modes to focus on target types or ground conditions. Save your favorite 2 settings in each mode with custom Search Profiles.
  • ACCURATE TARGET ID. Confidently sort trash and treasure thanks to the fast and accurate Target ID. Large Target ID numbers help you see targets at a glance while wireless audio allows for high-speed audio operation (Bluetooth headphones & WM 08 included).
  • SLEEK & LIGHTWEIGHT. The lightweight design is easy to operate, allowing you to enjoy long detecting sessions comfortably in any environment. Size: 56.7" (1440 mm). Weight: 2.06 lbs (1.34 kg). Battery Run time: approx. 12 hours; charging cable included.

2. Minelab GPZ 7000 – Best High End

Minelab GPZ 7000 Extreme Depth Gold Detector for Adults with Super-D Waterproof Coil

If you’re serious about finding gold (and we mean super serious) then let us introduce you to Minelab’s GPZ 7000. This beast of metal detector will up your prospecting game to the next level. Before you look at the price tag, let’s go through some of the features and you will understand why Minelab has priced this device the way they have.

Minelab has coined the GPZ 7000 as ‘The Future of Gold Detection’ as it uses the ZVT (Zero Voltage Transmission) technology to detect up to 40% deeper than its previous models. It’s designed to find larger gold nuggets typically around 100 grams using the powerful sensitivity in its Super-D coil giving you the edge over other prospectors which may have failed in the same locations. This 14-inch coil is also waterproof up to 1m allowing you to hunt in rivers, shorelines, and in wet conditions.

A really cool feature of the GPZ 7000 is its GPS locating and mapping. This allows you to log your gold finds, see where you’ve already searched, and create your own ‘hot spots’ all using XChange 2 and Google Maps.

You can use standard wired headphones, but with its in-built Wi-Stream technology, this device can utilize a wireless, low-power digital audio output that gives you high-quality sound with near enough zero lag time. As soon as you get the faintest of signals, you’ll hear it.

The digital display has everything you need at the push of a button making the GPZ 7000 simple to set up and a breeze for adjusting settings on the fly.

All in all, if you want to find gold in a multitude of terrains and conditions, this device is the one for you.

Features:

eatureDescription
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) with backlight
USB ConnectivityUSB interface for XChange 2 PC software
Detect ModesGold Mode (High Yield, General, Extra Deep), Ground Type (Normal, Difficult, Severe)
DiscriminationAll Metal
Audio Tone1-100
Ground BalanceAuto and Manual (Quick-Trak trigger button)
Sensitivity AdjustLevel (1-20)
Tune / Noise CancelAuto and Manual (256 channels)
ThresholdLevel (1-50), Pitch (1-100)
BatteryLi-Ion Rechargeable Pack (7.2V DC, 72Wh)
LengthCollapsed: 1170 mm (46.1 in), Extended: 1526 mm (60.1 in)
Weight3.32 kg (7.32 lb) (Including GPZ 14 coil, skidplate and 72Wh battery)

What we love:

  • 8 hour battery life on a single charge
  • Comes with a pack of accessories
  • Has an easy to follow 6-step beginners setup

We don’t like this as much:

  • There’s no depth indication
Minelab GPZ 7000 Extreme Depth Gold Detector for Adults with Super-D Waterproof Coil
  • ULTIMATE DEPTH. Go deeper than ever before thanks to the advanced Super-D coil and ZVT technology. This metal detector is specially engineered for deeper detection so you can find both sub-gram gold and "retirement nuggets" buried deep beneath the ground.
  • PRECISION GROUND BALANCE. This gold finder automatically weeds out interference from mineralized ground so you can accurately find more gold in even the most severe ground conditions.
  • WATERPROOF COIL. Don't stop your search at the beach or the bank. The GPZ 14 coil is waterproof and submersible up to 3 ft (1 m) so you can strike gold in rivers, on shorelines and in rainy, wet conditions.
  • EASY TO USE. The simple menu system and enhanced noise immunity allow for smooth, quiet detecting without distractions. Choose between your favorite headphones, the supplied wireless headphones or the built-in speaker to freely detect.
  • BUILT-IN GPS. See your location and log gold finds as you detect. With the built-in GPS you'll cover more ground and never miss a nugget. Save your favorite "hot sports" to XChange 2 with Google Maps.

3. Minelab SDC 2300

Minelab SDC 2300 All Terrain Gold Metal Detector with SDC Waterproof Headphones

The perfect unit is you don’t fancy spending the time to learn all the processes involved with owing something like a GPZ 5000 or 7000.

This metal detector was set with the task of having just one job to do – finding elusive sub-gram gold nuggets both on dry land and water.

This unit is not cheap and is aimed at those who have are likely not new to the hobby but it doesn’t require excessive knowledge to get going.

It uses Pulse Induction and Multi-Period Fast and is usable under 10ft of water.

It’s fairly portable compared to something like the GPZ 7000 and is smaller enough for carry-on luggage.

As with many of the higher-end Minelab, it’s military-grade construction for dealing with tough conditions.

If you are serious about metal detecting for gold, then you will want to at least look at the SDC 2300.

Features:

FeatureDescription
CompactPortable, 8.5″ x 15.7″ size. Fits in most backpacks 5.7 lbs
WaterproofSubmersible to 10′ (3m). Ideal for land and water use
Rugged & Assembly FreeMilitary-grade, single piece design. No assembly needed
Easy Patch HuntingEnables efficient search in hard-to-reach gold-bearing deposits
MPF TechnologyEnables clear detection of very small gold by fast Pulse Induction switching
Minelab Quality & DesignDesigned to military standards. High-quality and easy to operate
Powerful PerformanceSuperior detection of small gold in heavily mineralized grounds
Increased SensitivityHigh sensitivity to small gold in mineralized ground
Unique AdvantageLow ground noise and high sensitivity to fine gold and fine targets
BatteryNiMH rechargeable C cell batteries

What we love:

  • Ground balance is almost a non issue with this detector
  • EMI resistant compared other Minelab detectors
  • Great at doing it’s one job well
  • Batteries lasted a good 7 hours

We don’t like this as much:

  • Armrest could be better designed for comfort
  • Stock options can be limited during busy periods
Minelab SDC 2300 All Terrain Gold Metal Detector with SDC Waterproof Headphones
  • Compact- Folds to small portable size, 8.5” (216mm) by 15.7” (400mm). Fits into carry-on luggage and most backpacks.
  • Waterproof Capability- Fully submersible to 10’ (3m) for detecting riverbeds and shorelines, allowing you to transition with ease from land to water.
  • Rugged & Assembly Free- Military grade construction, one piece detector designed to perform in the toughest conditions. No assembly required.
  • Easy Patch Hunting- Search quickly and efficiently in hard to reach and remote places to find those elusive gold bearing clustered deposits.
  • MPF (Multi Period Fast) technology- incorporates extremely fast Pulse Induction switching between Transmit (Tx) and Receive (Rx) detector signals. Therefore minimal residual transmit signal is present during the receive cycle, enabling clear sharp detection of very small gold.

4. Minelab Goldmonster 1000 – Best for Next Step Up

Minelab Gold Monster 1000 Gold Detector for Adults with Waterproof Coil

With the Minelab Goldmonster 1000, the clue is in the name. This monster of a metal detector will set you back $899 but for good reason. Minelab is one of the leading companies in metal detection and has a few models made for gold detection on the market.

The Goldmonster 1000 uses an ultra-wide dynamic range of 45kHz VLF which is ideal for locating small nuggets and gold flakes as well as other metals. It features automatic ground tracking so you don’t need to adjust it every time you move locations. This unit comes with both a 10 inch elliptical and a 5 inch round DD coil which are both waterproof up to 1m so can adjust to your surroundings with ease.

Its monochrome LED display lets you seamlessly change the detect modes from Deep All-Metal to Gold, adjust the sensitivity or switch to auto, and adjust the volume. It also shows you the strength of the current being received.

This metal detector can be easily collapsed and packed away for ease of travel and comes with a few accessories in the box. As well as the unit itself, you get a pair of headphones, a digging tool, AC charger, and carrier for a replaceable charger.

All in all, the Minelab Goldmonster is a great tool if you’re a keen hobbyist and want a metal detector that’s easy to use, comes with accessories, and will adjust to different environments.

Features:

FeatureDescription
BrandMinelab
ModelGold Monster 1000
AutomationFully automatic with noise cancelling, auto-ground balance and automatic sensitivity
User InterfaceTouch pad interface with gold chance indicator, 3 detection modes, sensitivity options, adjustable volume controls
AdjustabilityTelescoping shaft for height adjustment
Coil WaterproofYes, up to 1 m (3 feet)
Control BoxRainproof
Key TechnologyUltra-wide dynamic range 45kHz VLF
Detect ModesGold (Iron reject), Deep All-Metal
DiscriminationGold Chance Indicator (high/low)
Ground BalanceAutomatic (Easy-Trak)
Noise CancelAutomatic (On start-up)
Sensitivity AdjustManual (1–10), Auto (11), Auto+ (12)
Volume AdjustManual 1–6
Visual DisplayMonochrome LCD
Detector Length1382mm–944mm (54.4″–37.2″)
Detector Weight (with coil)1.33kg (2.94lbs) (excluding battery)
Audio OutputInternal speaker or headphones 3.5mm (1/8″)
Coils (standard)GM 10 (10″ x 6″ Double-D), GM 05 (5″ Double‑D)
Waterproof/SplashproofCoils waterproof to 1m (3′), Control box rain/splash-proof
Battery optionsLi-Ion (included), 8 × AA Batteries (not included)

What we love:

  • It is pretty lightweight
  • Automatic settings for beginners
  • Comes with headphones

We don’t like this as much:

  • Lack of audio threshold
Minelab Gold Monster 1000 Gold Detector for Adults with Waterproof Coil
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY. The 45 kHz VLF and 24-bit signal processor greatly boosts sensitivity to gold over a wide range of nugget sizes, without any excess noise or false signals.
  • FULLY AUTOMATIC. The GOLD MONSTER turns beginners into professionals with fully automatic operation in an easy-to-use, high performance metal detector. It's equipped with automatic noise canceling, ground balance and sensitivity to do it all for you.
  • PRECISE DISCRIMINATION. Improved identification enhances searches in salty soils for more precise detection, while the waterproof coil (up to 3 ft) works in wet conditions.
  • EASY TO USE. This gold finder has a touchpad interface that features a gold chance indicator, gold (iron reject) and deep all-metal detect modes, sensitivity options and adjustable volume controls (headphones not included).
  • ADAPTABLE HEIGHT. Whether you're searching wide ground or confined spaces, you can use this detector thanks to its universal shaft adaptability. To fit your height, simply adjust the telescoping shaft.

5. Garrett AT Gold – Best for Beginners

Garrett at Gold Waterproof Metal Detector with Headphones and ProPointer at PinPointer

Another key name in the metal detector game is Garrett. The AT Gold is designed for those who want a metal detector with multiple features. It retails for around $750 and is ideal for intermediate detectorists who want to immerse themselves further into their hobby.

The great thing about this detector is that it is easily adjustable for different terrains. You can switch between manual and automatic ground balance or take advantage of its special Ground Balance Window. This allows you to spread the ground balance to reduce response to variations in the terrain. Plus it can be submerged up to 10ft if you’re willing to get stuck into underwater detection.

The AT Gold display has all the information you need and more. It will show you the depth, mode setting, and battery life, but will also give you a digital target ID. By giving you a number, this will tell you what type of metal the target is.

This detector runs on an 18kHz VLF frequency and has a 5 inch DD coil. It runs on AA batteries so you’ll have to stock up as these can drain on a long day out detecting. In the box, they provide you with a pair of headphones, a waterproof ProPointer, and batteries to get you started.

The AT Gold is for those who want to take their detector to different environments and have the option to detect underwater. It is straightforward to use and the display makes it plain what your target is most likely to be.

Features:

FeatureDescription
Ground BalanceManual, Automatic, and Garrett Ground Balance Window for effective handling of ground mineralization
Iron AudioAudible identification of iron trash before digging
DurabilityCan withstand dust, dirt, and submersion up to 10 feet
Proportional AudioHelps in determining a target’s size, shape, and depth
True All Metal ModeDetects all types of metal with great depth and sensitivity
All Metal Iron AudioIdentifies discriminated iron in True All-Metal Mode
Graphic Target AnalyzingShows a target’s conductivity and the detector’s discrimination pattern
Fast Track Ground BalanceQuickly balances the detector in mineralized soil conditions
High-Res Iron DiscrimOffers 44 levels of iron discrimination
Adjustable ThresholdManual adjustment of audio threshold to better hear targets
Digital Target IDNumeric identification of a target metal’s conductivity
Electronic PinpointingPrecisely locates a detected target’s position

What we love:

  • You can fully submerge it in water
  • They include a pointer
  • Only weighs 2.8lbs

We don’t like this as much:

  • The headphones are not waterproof

6. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV – Cheapest Possible

Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector with 8-inch Waterproof Coil

Bounty Hunter is known for their entry-level metal detectors, perfect for new enthusiasts and hobbyists. The Tracker IV is a great addition to their range. This product has no fancy gadgetry, digital display, or knobs galore. It is designed to be as straightforward as possible. This is why we chose it as the best metal detector for beginners.

It is only a 6.7kHz VLF detector so keep in mind that it will only find the gold that is on, or pretty close to the surface. It is also a motion metal detector, meaning it must be moving to detect metal. Simply holding it over a target won’t trigger a signal.

The control box is the most simplistic on our list. There’s a target indicator dial, headphone input, sensitivity knob, discrimination notch knob, and a discrimination tone switch. That’s it. The lack of features makes the Tracker IV easy to operate with no complicated buttons or displays.

It retails at around $85. You sacrifice any of the box candy you get with our other picks for that low price. No alternate coils, multi-tools, or headphones which you should invest in as there’s no volume control on this model.

This device includes three search modes: All-Metal, Tone, and Full Discriminate, so you can adapt to different environments. A major demerit to the Bounty Hunter is that you can’t adjust the ground balance. This will seriously limit the number of different terrains you’ll be able to use it on.

Overall, the Tracker IV is an ideal introduction to the world of metal detection. It’s the price point, minimal features, and build quality make for a quick learning curve to give you a taste of treasure hunting.

Features:

FeatureDescription
Country of ManufactureCHINA
Weight4.2 lbs
LengthAdjustable
Coil Size8 inch waterproof coil
PowerTwo 9V alkaline batteries
Operating frequency6.6 kHz
Target Strength MeterYes
Discrimination ControlYes
Automatic Ground BalanceYes
Sensitivity ControlYes
Detectable MetalsGold, silver, brass, aluminum, iron, steel
Modes of Operation3 (Discrimination, All-Metal, Tone)
Searchcoil8-Inch Waterproof
ApplicationsCoin and jewelry hunting, relic hunting, prospecting, utility applications

What we love:

  • Two-tone audio mode for discerning trash signals
  • Batteries can last up to 30 hours
  • Ready to use straight out the box

We don’t like this as much:

  • No ground balance adjustment
Sale
Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector with 8-inch Waterproof Coil
  • Model Number: Tracker II
  • 8-in, waterproof, interchangeable coil
  • Dual-tone discriminate
  • Sensitivity adjustment
  • Discriminate adjustment

7. Fisher Gold Bug-2

Fisher Gold Bug-2 Metal Detector with 10' Coil, 6.5' Coil by Fisher Labs

At a whopping 71kHz, the Gold Bug 2 from Fisher is one of the highest frequency detectors under $1000. It is designed with extreme sensitivity to the smallest gold nuggets over a multitude of terrains.

This model is built for one job, detecting gold. It doesn’t come with a fancy digital display, automatic ground control, or pre-sets. The analog control box has three dials, two switches, and a headphone input.

A beginner may feel a little out of their depth with the Gold Bug 2 but for detectorists who don’t need high-tech buttons and meters, and know-how ground control works this model could be ideal. It comes with a 6.5-inch elliptical coil that comes in handy when navigating through rocky landscapes.

It has three operating modes including an audio boost and iron discrimination mode which will reject any targets made of iron. We would recommend using it with headphones because of the sensitivity in its iron discrimination mode, you may not hear the faint changes in frequencies if you’re searching in a loud environment like next to a river.

A downside for some is that the coils are waterproof but the control box isn’t so you can’t submerge it if you want to search a deep riverbed.

With a price tag of just under $700, this model is designed for those who are on a mission and know how to find gold. The fine adjustments you can make to the ground control means you can take this detector anywhere and make it work for you. If you’re serious about finding gold, you should really consider the Gold Bug 2.

Features:

FeatureDescription
Manufacture CountryUSA
Weight2.9 lbs (1.3 kg)
FrequencyUltra High 71 kHz
Coils2 (6 ½” & 10” waterproof, elliptical)
Ground BalanceHigh Precision Dual-Control
Iron Disc ModeYes
Audio BoostYes
ResistanceDust and Moisture
PowerTwo 9 V batteries
Modes3 (All Metal auto-tune normal, auto-tune audio boost, Iron discrimination)
Warranty5 years

What we love:

  • Made in the USA
  • Only needs two 9V batteries
  • Simplistic control box

We don’t like this as much:

  • No presets

You should also take a look at what we think are the best magnet fishing kits as of 2022 – you can still find treasures without the need of a metal detector.

Sale
Fisher Gold Bug-2 Metal Detector with 10" Coil, 6.5" Coil by Fisher Labs
  • Powerful 71 kHz Operation for extreme sensitivity to small gold nuggets
  • 'IRON DISC'' mode rejects iron (trash) targets and hot rocks.
  • Both 6.5 inch and 10 inch coils included.
  • Only 2.9 pounds and convertible to hip mount or chest mount
  • Dual-knob ground control for coarse and fine adjustment.

FAQ About Gold Metal Detectors

What is the best metal detector for gold?

If you aren’t concerned about budgeting, then the Minelab GPZ 7000 Gold Detector is your best bet. It is a high-end model for serious users rather than hobbyists. Even so, this still has helpful tools for beginners considering the easy-to-read and navigate LCD screen in full color as well as the 6-step beginner’s setup process.

This detector offers deeper detection, tracking large gold nuggets that some other models may have missed. Also, the Minelab GPZ 7000 comes with cool extra features like GPS mapping and location so you can keep track of your finds. This works with numerous terrains too so you can take it anywhere whether on land or in water, freeing you to take your gold hunting as far out as you’d like.

How deep can a metal detector detect gold?

Generally, metal detectors don’t have a standard maximum detection depth. Instead, it largely depends on the individual unit. Some that work to detect gold can reach around 15in. or so. However, there are many gold detectors that offer far greater detection depths than that.

There are factors that contribute to how deep a metal detector can detect though. For instance, the soil plays a large role. Detecting in soil with a high mineral count is tough. Size matters plenty here too. The smaller a gold flake or nugget is, the more difficult it is to detect.

Also, coil and frequency on the metal detector is vital. Higher frequencies penetrate deeper while larger coils can reach deeper into the soil. Consider an all-terrain detector to search in various conditions without issue.

Is there gold in every river?

This might surprise some of you, but gold indeed exists in every river around the world. A lot of it exists on such a microscopic level that you can just see it at a glance. Because of this, it’s truly not worth exploring every river and hoping to come across some gold, making panning or using a gold detector useless in these cases.

So, why does every river have gold? Well, it’s because they’ve all flowed throughout gold-bearing grounds. Rivers easily pick up gold through exposed and eroded gold veins from the ground, transporting the gold further and further away.

If you want to check a river, remember that gold is more commonly found in quartz. Quartz can be located around riverbeds, so it’s worth checking those areas out whether you are panning or using a top-rated gold detector.

What frequency is best for gold detection?

If you want to detect gold, even gold that’s hiding deep beneath the soil or water, then you need a higher frequency. Thanks to gold having a low conductivity, you need something penetrating to find them. This is even truer with those smaller pieces.

So, what frequency works best? Consider looking for a detector with at least 14kHz. Higher is better, of course, as there are gold detectors with 18kHz.

Remember though that the frequency is only a part of the overall picture. You still need to pair that with other strong elements like a large coil. Also keep in mind the terrain as that can make things either more difficult or easier.

How deep can a metal detector find gold?

The depths that a metal detector can go to find gold varies. There are some metal detectors intended to reach around 18in. underground, while others boast going over 50in. So, when shopping around for a metal detector, keep an eye out on its length so you know just how much you can investigate.

Another thing worth remembering is that there many detectors that are waterproof. In this case, how deep they can go when submerged further varies and may be completely different than how deep they can find gold on land.

Furthermore, gold nuggets are typically not discovered too deep. Much of it is hidden about 1ft or so underground. The most time you’ll spend is actually tracking the location of said gold.

Do gold detectors really work?

Gold detectors are useful if it’s only gold you want to find. They are typically designed with discrimination to weed out other metals so you aren’t sent off on a chase for things other than gold. The filtering process is more than useful in this case.

Additionally, the gold detectors are also made to cancel out mineralization. By doing so, you are ensuring that you can search in a variety of terrains and locate gold that you may have otherwise not notice without that mineralization process.

This is wonderful since gold detectors can be found closer to the surface or a couple of feet deep.

How much is a gold detector?

Like with metal detectors, the price of a gold detector varies widely. You can find some models under $200. However, those are the more budget-friendly options and typically work out well for beginners or simple hobbyists.

At the same time, there are gold detectors that will easily scale $2,000 and more. These are, of course, high-end models. They also have numerous features that can help increase the price range even more. Some provide a full-color LCD screen to keep track of things. Frequency seems to add things to the cost as well.

How much you are willing to spend is what matters the most. If you want to feel like a pro, then it’s worth it to invest in a new gold detector with all the extra features.

Is there a difference between gold detector and metal detector?

Yes, there is a difference between a standard metal detector and a gold detector for gold.

For one thing, a metal detector does as the job implies. It can help you find numerous items and not just gold. Some metal detectors are designed to handle that though, offering a different mode you can switch in to track some gold.

As for a gold detector, it’s also obvious what it does: track gold. There may be differences into frequency, how it works in various terrains, etc.

If you want to be able to track more than gold, then finding a reliable metal detector is the way to go. Otherwise, you’ll find with sticking with a gold detector if you know that’s all you’re interested in finding one.

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