So, you’ve decided you’d like to become an adventurous treasure hunter. You’re a self-starter, and you enjoy exploring the outdoors and discovering new—or old, hidden—things.
Now, you may have watched some Youtubers live streaming their hunting and their finds, and this has inspired you to go ahead and buy the equipment. There are many aspects to consider, from exploring what tools you’ll need to the laws and layout of the land. For instance, one of the first items to look for is a mini excavator for sale.
Here’s your checklist to make this venture a success.
Tools for Exploration and Digging
Below you’ll find a handy list of tools and equipment you’ll require for treasure-hunting.
Excavator
Although this is not recommended for beginners, a digger/excavator is the first item you’ll require. You can start with a hand shovel or spade, but you’ll soon find that it’s too much hard work. It’s best to invest in a mini-excavator or digger, and save yourself some physical labor. Not only that, but it’ll save you time as well.
You’ll need to get one that can travel over rough terrain, and fit in tight spaces, like mineshafts or caves. It’s best to get one that’s very stable because if it falls over in bushy areas, you’re not likely to find people to come and help you turn it up onto its tracks again.
Metal Detector
A metal detector is essential – you need to be able to find where any metal lies before digging deeper. It’s very user-friendly. All you do is swing your detector from side to side, and stop when you hear a consistent beeping noise.
There are several types of metal detectors to consider:
- VLF models: These are for beginners. Their limitations are the range of frequency and they give low performance in soils with high mineral content.
- Multi-frequency models: These are able to detect both small and large objects.
- Pulse induction models: They use one coil to transmit and receive electrical currents. They’re good for use on beaches, and for searching for gold.
Metal Detector Harness
If you’ve ever held a metal detector for long, you know exactly why you need a harness. It’ll take the weight off your arms and distribute it across your whole body. They’re made from canvas, leather or nylon. If you find one with pouches in, that’s a bonus, because you won’t have to buy separate pouches – see below.
Pinpointers
Pinpointers are detectors that can find smaller objects, such as coins. They enable you to be more exact about the location of your treasure, saving you time and energy in digging.
Pouch
Once you’ve found your coins or other objects of value, you need somewhere to keep them. Many a hunter has put items in their pockets, only to lose them. It is highly recommended that you put your items in a pouch that won’t pop open at the slightest hint of pressure or weight. Something that zips up is best.
Sieve
Once you’ve dug up some sand with your digger, you’ll want to run it through your sieve—given that it’s dry enough. This will save you time and hassle and will ensure you don’t miss small valuable particles.
It’s best if you’re not hand-digging, and hand-sifting the earth. If you really want to move fast, use a sieve, or series of sieves—each with smaller holes than the last.
Rechargeable Batteries
You’ll want a charger along with your rechargeable batteries. These are for your metal detector, pinpointer, and any electronic equipment you’d like to use, such as laptops and microphones.
Metal Detecting Headphones
You need metal detecting headphones—especially when prospecting in noisy places such as near roads, beaches, towns or more. It also amplifies the metal-detecting pings.
You want to consider the following features for headphones:
- They need to be noise-cancelling.
- It’s important that they’re lightweight. You don’t want to carry something heavy on your head for lengthy periods of time.
- They need to be usable even in harsh weather conditions.
- They need to be comfortable on your head and ears.
- Headphones must give high-quality sound, or they’re redundant.
Apparel
Clothing and shoes must be rugged and weather-proof. The last thing you want is to be drenched in a rain shower and have to leave instead of working through the soft soil, just because your clothes are too wet.
Magnifying Glass
A magnifier is invaluable for examining your find, in order to determine whether it has any value or not. It also assists you when the light is poor, and you need a better look at an object. Then you won’t carry around worthless, heavy objects that become a burden.
Cleaning Tools
It’s important to have some cleaning tools and equipment on hand. A simple cloth will often suffice, but you may require barreling kits for cleaning metals.
Conclusion
There’s so much adventure out there! If you have the chance, and you have the capital, treasure-hunting is an exciting step to a future filled with potential discoveries.
What will you find?
