Hello friends, fellow gold prospectors and treasure hunters!
If you choose the wrong detector, you will likely not be successful.
If the choice of detector is correct, the gold is waiting to be taken by you.
Common mistake: Don't just choose the most expensive or the cheapest.
Choose the effective one so that it works well in your particular location later. Do you want to be successful?
Choosing the right gold detector is very important for those who actually want to succeed finding gold. The right gold detector increase your chance of finding gold. The wrong choice will basically render your chances nearly impossible. In addition, a gold detector that is suitable for your needs can also reduce the possibility of failure in the search process.
Therefore, it is very important for you as users to understand the various types of gold detectors available and determine the most suitable MD for your needs. In this guide, we will help you understand the various types of gold detectors available and provide tips on how to choose the right gold detector so that you will succeed in the end.
Don't worry. This article will help you make the best, safest and correct decisions. Choosing the right gold detector for tropical Gold fields in countries such as Indonesia.
We also provide a checklist. You can download it or fill in the online form. Completely free for you.
Table of Contents
Selection of 3 Best Metal Detector Models
3 Most Advanced Professional Gold Detectors
Premium Class. MD for Professional Gold Hunter / Prospector
#1. SDC2300 (Minelab)
The best gold metal detector for Indonesia.
Its sensitivity to gold is very good. This tool is able to detect larger gold flakes of 0.02g, which is an extraordinary performance. In addition, SDC2300 is a very compact detector. If folded, you can put it in a small backpack and no one can see it.
Special SDC2300 features:
highest level of sensitivity
water resistant up to 3 meters
strong military design
lightweight and compact
very simple to use.
SDC2300 outperforms the GPX5000 according to the founder of Minelab himself.
"With the SDC2300 you will find more small nuggets and fine gold flakes in termineralized soil than with any other gold detector, including the GPX 5000."
Explanation by Bruce Candy about the SDC2300.
Conclusion
Because the SDC2300 is water resistant, you can take it diving. The SDC2300 will always accompany you wherever you go and get the job done reliably. You will feel that this tool is military class. You can see and feel that. Material and performancewise. Extreme. A lot of research and special skills were used to make SDC2300. Best of the best.
Read more information about Minelab SDC2300.
Additional information related:
#2. GPX6000 (Minelab)
The most advanced special gold detector.
The GPX6000 is a metal detector specifically designed for serious or professional Gold prospectors. This detector was released in 2022 and is known for its sensitivity to fine gold.
This detector is similar to the SDC2300 but has more features and settings. If you want to have more options and settings than those offered by the SDC2300 the GPX6000 is a good choice for you.
The advantages of the GPX6000 are extraordinary:
its sensitivity to fine gold
outstanding detection depth
GeoSensePI technology
reduced signal interference
a wide variety features
automatic sensitivity setting
automatic ground balance setting
automatic noise cancel setting.
Conclusion
The GPX6000 control box is not water resistant. If it was water resistant it would be our top choice and lead the ranking. However, because there are so many gold fields in tropics such as Indonesia that require a fully waterproof detector, the SDC2300 is still the top choice.
More information about the GPX6000 Minelab.
Additional related information:
Testing the GPX6000 in Sumatra's Gold Fields
# Axiom (Garrett)
Best metal detector Made in USA
The Axiom is the newest and most advanced gold detection tool from the United States. Its quality is immediately visible and its performance in the field is only impressive for its users. Good for detecting both fine and coarse gold, the Axiom can easily detect everything. Its extreme depth puts it in the ranking of the best gold metal detectors.
Advantages of this American-made detector:
detects all types of gold, fine or coarse
enjoy high performance of Terra Scan and Ultra Pulse technology
freely use this MD on land or in shallow water
special metal detector design
lightweight MD
easy and intuitive operational methods.
In addition, the price of Axiom is still relatively cheap compared to its class of metal detectors.
Conclusion
If you want to use an extreme and advanced gold detector, this is a good choice.
Read more information about Garrett's Axiom.
Additional related information:
3 Best Mid-Range Gold Detectors
Mid-Range. Semi-Professional Level MD
#1. Equinox 900 Sniper Pack
Sophisticated all-purpose detector.
The Equinox 900 is a new metal detector that can find all types and sizes of gold, both fine and coarse, treasure and naturally occurring forms of gold. However, the Sniper Pack includes an additional small coil that provides extra sensitivity for very fine gold. So, whatever you are looking for, the Equinox 900 will find it for you. During testing we managed to detect Gold pickers as light as 0.02g. That means the Nox900 has about the same sensitivity level as the Gold Monster 1000 but it achieves better depth compared to the Gold Monster. This combined with 2 coils in the box and a fully waterproof detector just make it the number 1 choice in this category.
Advantages of the Equinox 900:
Multi IQ technology
very stable signal due to MultiIQ
able to find all types of targets
detects gold and treasure alike
fully water resistant up to 5 meters
good coil flexibility (2 coils included)
easy and intuitive operation
very good performance-price ratio
long warranty (3 years).
Until there is an additional small coil (sniper coil) for Manticore, the Equinox 900 still maintains its position at number 1 in this ranking.
Conclusion
The Equinox 900 is the top choice for anyone looking to find all types of targets with serious performance expectations. Very good.
More information about the Minelab Equinox 900.
#2. Gold Monster 1000 (Minelab)
Best metal detector for fine Gold.
Gold Monster 1000, also known as GM1000, is the most capable metal detector to find very fine gold specs although it is still within the mid-price range. In addition, this model is equipped with 2 coils and fully automatic operating features. The only weakness of GM1000 is that it's not fully waterproof, so it cannot be number 1 in this category.
4 Advantages of Gold Monster 1000:
extreme sensitivity to fine gold
package includes 2 coils
simple and automatic use
suitable for beginners and experienced prospectors
suitable for fields with fine gold.
Must-know facts about Gold Monster 1000
Gold Monster 1000 with its small coil reaches the most extreme sensitivity level. Even more sensitive to fine gold than GPX6000 or GPZ7000. Therefore, the Gold Monster metal detector is preference of many gold hunters, especially in Indonesia. If you don't want to use the detector to dive underwater and fine Gold is dominant in your Gold field then Minelab's Gold Monster 1000 is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
If you want to buy a detector with a mid-range price and it doesn't have to be waterproof but has to reach very high sensitivity, please choose the GM1000. No questions. It will serve you well and find you nuggets.
More information about Gold Monster 1000.
#3. GoldMaster24k (Garrett)
Very popular gold detector from the United States.
The GoldMaster 24k has an outstanding track record of success in the Gold fields. Its high performance makes it a favorite among hobbyist and semi-professional prospectors. This model is based on the Whites GoldMaster GMT 24K model.
5 advantages of the GoldMaster 24k:
reasonably priced compared to other detectors in its class
specifically designed to detect all gold nuggets
absolutely able to detect very fine gold
<1% of these tools have warranty cases
proven to have a very high quality standard.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a classic, simple, and high-performing gold detector then this is a good choice. Without any unnecessary bells and whistles. Turn it on and find gold. That's it.
More information about the Goldmaster 24K.
Additional related posts:
3 Best and Most Affordable Metal Detectors for Beginners.
Entry Level Detectors. Cheap but well performing.
#1. Vanquish 440 (Minelab)
High performance at a very low price point.
Vanquish is the latest generation metal detector from Minelab that uses Multi IQ technology. Multi IQ means that this MD doesn't just use one frequency but uses various frequencies (5, 10, 15, 20 and even 40 kHz) simultaneously. This technology allows you to detect all sizes of metal objects at all ranges in the ground. The Minelab Vanquish series consists of 4 types: Vanquish 340, 440, 540, and 540 Pro.
Although in terms of performance this is not a beginner's detector anymore, its price is still affordable and therefore the Vanquish 440 is clearly the best choice for beginners.
5 good characteristics of Vanquish 440:
extensive features
new technology (Multi IQ)
high performance
unbeatable price
long warranty (3 years).
Options and settings features are more extensive compared to Vanquish 340 which is why in our opinion and according to our customer this is the best choice in this category.
Conclusion
Small budget, performance in the field is still very good. No choice. This MD is clearly number 1 in this category.
More info about Minelab's Vanquish 440.
#2. Vanquish 340 (Minelab)
Serious metal detector at a very low price.
The Vanquish 340 is similar to the Vanquish 440. The difference is in the setting options. The Vanquish 340 has a narrower range of setting options. Additionally, the performance is still the same or similar to the Vanquish 440. Both use the same Multi IQ technology. The frame of the detector is also the same. However, the price of the Vanquish 340 is lower than the Vanquish 440.
Therefore, its strengths are also similar to the Vanquish 440:
Multi IQ with frequencies up to 40kHz
extremely low price
latest technology
good performance
long warranty (3 years).
Usually, detectors with frequencies around 40 kHz are not available at this prices level. However, the Vanquish's price is a small fraction of other detectors in its class. Therefore, the Vanquish wins in terms of price and technology. Unfortunately, the control box cannot be used for diving.
Conclusion
It is actually hard to believe that there is a detector with a performance profile like this at such a low price. 2 years ago this was not even imaginable. The Vanquish 340 is a smart choice for beginners. In a nutshell: very good and very cheap. What else is needed?
More information about the Vanquish 340 Minelab.
# 3. ACE APEX (Garrett)
Apex is the best American-made metal detector for beginners
While it can't be considered a beginner-class detector due to its high metal detection performance, its low price puts it in the category of metal detection equipment for beginners to intermediate levels.
There are several reasons why the Apex is a great choice for beginners:
professional features,
affordable price,
latest MultiFlex technology,
long warranty (2 years),
sturdy design (less than 1% of all tools have warranty cases),
and American made.
The Apex is a new detector from Garrett that uses the Multi Flex technology, which allows the detector to detect metal more accurately and quickly. It uses several frequences at the same time and you can choose single or multiple frequency mode.
In addition, the Apex is much cheaper than most other detectors with the same features. With its long warranty and state-of-the-art technology the Apex is clearly a good choice for beginners who want to start their journey as serious treasure hunters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Apex is the best choice for beginners who want to try professional-grade metal detection equipment at an affordable price. Its latest technology will help you find metal and treasures faster and more accurately.
For more information on the ACE APEX.
Why do so many foreigner ask about how to get prospecting permit in Indonesia?
Easy answer: Because they are perfectly aware that Indonesia has a great number of stunning gold fields where you can unearth small to very large nuggets. They are even more aware of that than most Indonesian. DDK → Detect it. Digg it. Keep it.
How to Choose a Metal Detector That Lets You Find Gold
Why you need to be careful when choosing a gold detector?
I'll give you a simple example. Let's say you want to buy a good car because you want to use it in the jungle an off-road. Gold deposits are often in remote locations. So you need a suitable car for that. Now you buy a Ferrari. Is that the right choice or not?
No. The choice is not right. Sure, the Ferrari is a good and expensive car. But it is not suitable for the context of use that you want. So what determines the right choice is not just the quality of the car itself, but the context of the car's use. Don't buy a Ferrari if you want to use a car to get through the jungle on an off-road track. That's logical.
The same goes for metal detectors. The metal detector must be suitable for the type of area where you wish to hunt for Gold . Don't just look at the price. What's important when choosing a metal detector is the context. What's you location like? What's the size of the Gold there? How deep is the Gold?
That's why you need to choose the detector very wisely. In line with your specific requirements and in line with the character of your location. Only then can you succeed in finding gold.
Principle of Effective Choice
The GPZ7000 is the most expensive metal detector on the market, with exception of all those fraudulent and ridiculous long range detectors. The GPZ7000 is a truly great detector. The most advanced detector at this time. The most advanced technology. But this detector is designed to find larger nuggets at very deep depths. Not to detect very fine gold. So if you spend a whopping amount of dollars for a GPZ7000 but you want to find very fine gold, it's not an appropriate choice. Its out of context so to say. You won't succeed like that. It's not the metal detector you picked is bad. But the choice is wrong. Once again, CONTEXT DETERMINES THE RIGHT AND SMART CHOICE.
Avoid high price orientation. "Most expensive" is not the same as "most suitable".
You will be more successful hunting for fine Gold if you use the Gold Monster 1000, Equinox 900 Sniper, Gold Master 24k or GPX6000, even though the price of these models is only half the price of the GPZ7000.
Having said that the GPZ7000 is doing an outstanding job of finding medium and large sized Gold nuggets in astonishing depth.
In a nutshell: Context, context, context. Be smart about it. Why would you want to overspend without getting an actual advantage from that?
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Metal Detector
Factor: Type of Gold Detection Technology
Each metal detection technology has its own advantages. So here is a brief summary of the 3 technologies available.
PI (Pulse Induction) will find larger nuggets at a deeper detection range. More information about Pulse Induction
VLF (Very Low Frequency) with higher kHz is more suitable for finding small nuggets at shallow depths - but struggles in highly mineralized soils. More information about VLF
Multi IQ and Multi Flex have solved that problem and can reach depths good for all types and sizes of gold/metal objects. Detectors with multi-frequency technology are the best choice for most metal detector users. More information about Multi Frequency Detectors
Factor: Coil Diameter
When searching for fine gold, it is better to use a small coil. The smaller the coil the better the sensitivity of the detector to fine gold.
When searching for man-made gold objects, it is better to use a large coil. The larger the coil the better the depth. However, do not use a large coil to search for fine gold. The sensitivity of a large coil to gold is less.
Additional information about Detector Coils, their strengths and weaknesses.
Factor: Operating Frequency
We have already discussed that VLF detectors are good for finding small to medium sized gold nuggets. The next thing to decide is the operating frequency. As mentioned earlier, VLF machines typically operate at frequencies between 3 kHz and 70 kHz. The higher the frequency, the higher the sensitivity of the detector and the more often you will find gold. That's simply because there is just more tiny Gold out there than large nuggets.
Factor: Soil and Rock Mineralization
Another factor is to consider operational frequencies. Soil mineralization at the location where you will be hunting is very important to know. However, gold is most commonly found in high mineralization areas - at least to a certain level. So your detector needs to be able to handle that.
PI and multi-frequency machines will handle high mineralization more easily than VLF detectors. If you are in an area with extreme mineralization such as black sand at the bottom of a river, then PI and multi-frequency machines are likely the best choice for you because they are not easily disturbed by such mineralization. Therefore, it is not recommended to hunt for gold using the Gold Monster 1000 if you are in an area with very high mineralization. You are better off choosing the SDC2300, Manticore, Equinox or Axiom there.
Another feature to consider when dealing with mineralization is ground balance. Almost all gold detectors are equipped with automatic ground balance (or ground tracking) nowadays - but not all have manual ground balance.
So, I recommend that you invest in a detector that has both ground balancing options (automatic and manual). If you have both types, you have far better control in keeping up with the trend of popular gold detectors on the market. However, make sure the detector is suitable for your needs and the conditions where you are hunting for gold.
Don't be swayed by cheap prices or tempting advertisements that don't meet your needs. It is best to join a trustworthy gold-hunting community or ask experienced gold hunters to help you decide on the right tool. Careful ya. In countries like Indonesia communities are not always what they are supposed to be. Do not easily trust people. In the end this is about Gold.
Gather trustworthy people around you. but don't be naïve. Too many here have earned that lesson by loosing their Gold and their detector. You hunted the Gold and they hunted you.
Don't overthink about the features of the metal detector that you will use. Some people basically make a PhD thesis out of this. Don't do that. Just select your MD in line the conditions on the ground where you will hunt the Gold.
Factor: Discrimination Feature
In addition to the varied soil mineralization levels, you also need to consider how much metal trash is in the ground there. I'm using the term trash a bit loosely here. When I say trash, I'm referring to something that is not gold.
VLF and multifrequency detectors have good ability to differentiate metal types and targets and can distinguish between iron and non-iron objects. Especially the Multi Frequency ones.
Alternatively, PI detectors tend to struggle with discrimination or distinguishing between metal types. However, PI machines can handle high mineralization levels much better than VLF machines. So there is a take and give situation here.
Therefore, if you are in an area with high mineralization, you need a machine that can handle it. If you are in an area with a lot of metal trash, you need a machine with good discrimination. If you are in an area with high mineralization and a lot of metal trash, you need a machine that can handle both.
Factor: Gold Grain Size
It's important that you already know about the size of the gold rocks and flakes in your area. What's the average size? Large gold nuggets, smaller pickers, small flakes, or even gold sand. This allows you to choose a detector with optimal sensitivity. If you haven't done so yet, you can ask the local miners about it. They usually also have pictures. This will give a better idea.
Or, you buy a tiny nugget off a artisanal miner so that you can train with your ear with your detector. If you know what the Gold there sounds like on you detector you are in a good position to succeed.
Factor: Your Budget for Buying a Detector
Finally, consider your budget when choosing a gold detector. There are many high-quality gold detectors available at various price points. Determine how much you want to spend and choose the best detector that still fits within your budget. Don't let price be the only factor in your decision. Consider the features, performance, and sensitivity of the detector and your goals.
In conclusion, choosing the right gold detector depends on your particular needs and preferences. Consider your level of experience, the type of gold you want to find, the soil and rock mineralization in the area you will be prospecting and your budget. Each technology has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best meets your needs.
The Importance of Context for Gold Prospectors
I will provide some examples to explain the importance of context for you and your detector. This context is the basis for making a mature and best choice for MD. Please take note.
Indonesia and Tropical Countries
A good detector for gold locations in Indonesia and tropical countries like it, is different from a good detector for locations in non-tropical countries. The field characteristics in Australia are not the same as in Indonesia. The location characteristics in the United States are not the same as in Indonesia. Africa is also very different. Most detector users are in Africa. In countries like Mali, Sudan, Burkina Faso, etc. , the areas are usually dry and there is not much vegetation. This is very different from locations in Indonesia where locations are often watery and vegetation is usually abundant. In these African countries and in the Outback in Australia, for example, a water-resistant detector is not needed. It's all dry. But in Indonesia? Clearly, the detector must be water-resistant. If it's not, most locations can't be tested with a detector here.
Metal Detecting in Watery Locations
Don't buy a non-waterproof detector if you want to play in watery locations. If you're going to play in a watery area, please choose a detector that is overall water-resistant.
Make up your mind: Gold Prospecting or Treasure Hunting.
Don't buy a treasure detector if you want to hunt for fine gold. If you want to hunt for fine gold in the soil, don't choose a treasure detector. It's not appropriate. The sensitivity level is not appropriate.
Treasure Hunting With A Gold Detector?
Don't buy a detector for fine gold if you want to hunt for treasure. If you want to use a detector to search for treasure then choose a suitable treasure detector, not a detector for fine gold. Your focus should be on the detection depth, not the sensitivity of the MD for fine gold.
Large Coil for Large Targets. Small Coil for Small Targets.
Don't use a detector with a large coil if you're hunting for fine gold. Use a detector with a small coil when you want to detect fine gold grains. The weakness of a large coil is sensitivity to fine gold.
Beginners vs. Pros
Don't buy a detector for beginners if you're a professional. Appropriate, yes. You get what you pay for. When you want to be a professional, choose a professional-grade Gold detector. High-tech professional-level metal detectors are productive assets and can generate serious profits. But ... you need to start. No detecting, no Gold. No matter how advanced your gear is.
You do not need to overspend. Pick your detector wisely. In line with what you want to achieve and in line with your location type.
Free Detector Recommendations - Fill in the selection form and we will send you a customized Metal Detector recommendation for you particular needs. Completely free. Choose a detector that is suitable and appropriate for your goals and field context, not just based on price. We are here to help you succeed. Also learn about collecting gold with a detector.
Conclusion
From what is discussed above, this is the conclusion.
The most expensive detector is not necessarily the right detector for you. Please choose an MD that is effective and appropriate instead.
The cheapest detector is not necessarily a bad choice. It depends on the application.
Detector choices must be "SUITABLE" and "RIGHT", not just "EXPENSIVE" or "CHEAP" alone.
The best choice is a choice that looks at the field context and your goals. Avoiding too expensive prices. Choosing an affordable model.
To be safe, you can use this detector selection checklist. Free. Please ask first until everything is clear. It is important so that you can make a mature and optimal decision. What is important is that you succeed in the Gold field. With that we are ready to help you.
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