With the advent of electronic technology, gold hunting is now a far cry from what it used to be in the time of our forefathers, way back when gold diggers used to dig fervently for gold deposits through the use of tools like pick-axes and hoes. The metal detector device has taken gold prospecting into a whole new level, bringing into the fold a slew of hobbyists that see the activity as a recreational pursuit.
While hunting for gold nuggets is obviously an engaging long-term activity, one has to keep in mind a lot of facts and conditions before taking the plunge. Metal detecting, especially for gold, is a sophisticated endeavor, one that requires persistence, patience, financial resources, and a bit of luck. Perhaps the best way to gauge whether it’s going to be worth it in the long run is figuring out whether your love for the activity is all encompassing. If your interest in metal detecting is superficial, it may be best to take up another hobby, perhaps less strenuous ones such as stamp collecting or cultivating an art farm. If you believe you’re hardcore enough, then I recommend you read this guide.
There are a multitude of metal detectors out there, and they vary a lot in specifications. The safest bet is to choose a metal detector that works best for gold nuggets, since many of them are also meant for picking up signals from iron minerals, coins, artifacts, and many others. There are two types of detectors. The first one uses VLF technology, which is more able to sense smaller gold, but susceptible to the negative effects of mineralization. Pulse Induction technology (PI), on the other hand, is more capable of picking up signals from larger gold but is less sensitive to mineralization. If you want optimal results, purchasing these two types of detectors is advisable. If you don’t have enough financial resources, then choose the one that suits your preference.
Here are some tips that might assist you in your search for gold nuggets through metal detection.
1. After you have purchased a metal detector, it is best to read and study the manual before you head out for your first expedition. Hunting for gold is a tricky business, so learning the fundamentals and the specialized functions of your device are paramount in all things while starting out.
2. Toggle your metal detector’s amount of frequency according to the concentration of iron minerals in the ground. Remember that higher frequency means higher sensitivity to smaller gold, but with the penalty of picking up iron minerals. Detectors with low frequency are less sensitive to smaller gold but are much better at handling iron ground.
3. Do some extensive research before gold prospecting. Go to your local library and target locations with a history of gold production.
4. Finding even the smallest gold in a location makes it an official hot spot. A nugget of gold is not its own island. There might still be chunks lying around.
5. Choose the best headphones. The tiniest distinction of sound, or the faintest noise, can yield the most precious gold.
You can also get valuable advice from experienced gold prospectors. Joining a club of prospectors can help you acquire advanced techniques in hunting for gold. Prospecting in groups is often very enjoyable, and gives you the opportunity to brag when you catch a big one!