Metal detecting is a popular hobby enjoyed by many, whether for treasure hunting, relic recovery, or simply exploring the outdoors. The United States is home to several leading metal detector manufacturers that have earned a reputation for quality, durability, and innovation. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best metal detectors made in the USA, highlighting their features, benefits, and ideal uses for both beginners and experienced hobbyists.
1. Garrett AT Pro
The Garrett AT Pro is one of the most popular metal detectors made in the USA. Known for its versatility and high performance, the AT Pro is suitable for a variety of environments, including parks, beaches, and fields. It is designed for both beginners and advanced users, offering a range of features that make it easy to use while still providing powerful capabilities.
Key Features:
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Waterproof up to 10 feet: Perfect for shallow water hunting, such as beach and lakefront detecting.
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Pro Audio Mode: Provides more precise audio feedback, allowing users to differentiate between target types and sizes.
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Adjustable Sensitivity: Helps eliminate interference from surrounding conditions.
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All-Metal and Discrimination Modes: Offers flexibility in detecting different types of metals.
Why It’s Great:
The Garrett AT Pro is known for its excellent depth and target separation capabilities, making it ideal for detecting small and deep objects. It is highly durable and can withstand tough outdoor conditions, making it a favorite among treasure hunters.
2. Minelab Equinox 800
While Minelab is an Australian company, the Equinox 800 is assembled in the USA, making it a top contender on this list. The Equinox 800 is a multi-frequency metal detector that uses advanced technology to detect a wide range of metals at significant depths. It’s a versatile machine capable of finding relics, coins, and jewelry.
Key Features:
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Multi-IQ Technology: Allows users to detect multiple targets simultaneously at various frequencies.
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Waterproof up to 10 feet: Perfect for both land and water hunting.
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Target Identification: Clearly shows the depth and type of target, providing more accurate readings.
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Lightweight Design: Easy to carry for long periods, making it suitable for extensive hunts.
Why It’s Great:
The Equinox 800’s multi-frequency technology allows it to operate effectively on various terrains, from saltwater beaches to freshwater lakes. It’s a reliable and efficient machine, making it ideal for seasoned metal detectorists who require precision and depth.
3. Fisher F75
The Fisher F75 is one of the most advanced metal detectors in the Fisher lineup. It is known for its exceptional sensitivity and depth capabilities, allowing users to find even the smallest targets buried deep in the ground. It is particularly popular for relic hunting and coin shooting.
Key Features:
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High Sensitivity: Detects small targets at greater depths.
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Multiple Search Modes: Includes all-metal, discrimination, and pinpointer modes for different hunting scenarios.
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Adjustable Sensitivity and Volume: Offers customized settings for various environments.
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Lightweight: Comfortable to use for extended periods.
Why It’s Great:
The Fisher F75 is favored by experienced treasure hunters due to its advanced features and ability to locate small objects at impressive depths. It also offers minimal interference from other detectors, ensuring clean, precise signals.
4. White’s MXT All Pro
White’s Electronics, now a part of Garrett, has long been a leader in the metal detecting industry. The MXT All Pro is a versatile machine that can handle a wide variety of detecting tasks. It’s suitable for detecting coins, jewelry, and relics, and is particularly effective for those hunting in diverse environments.
Key Features:
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Three Detection Modes: Coin, Relic, and Prospecting modes provide maximum versatility.
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Multiple Audio Alerts: Differentiates between various types of metals with distinct sounds.
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Backlit Display: Easy to read in low light conditions.
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Built-in Pinpointing: Allows for accurate target location.
Why It’s Great:
The White’s MXT All Pro is known for its balanced performance and ease of use. Its multiple detection modes make it a great choice for both beginners and experienced detectorists, offering a versatile tool for various hunting scenarios.
5. Nokta Makro Simplex+
The Nokta Makro Simplex+ is a budget-friendly option that offers high-end features, making it a great choice for beginners or hobbyists on a budget. Despite its lower price, the Simplex+ delivers impressive performance and durability, suitable for a wide range of detecting activities.
Key Features:
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Waterproof up to 10 feet: Ideal for beach and underwater detecting.
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Multiple Search Modes: Includes All-Metal, Field, and Park modes for different environments.
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User-Friendly Interface: Simple controls make it easy for beginners to get started.
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Lightweight Design: Comfortable for long detecting sessions.
Why It’s Great:
The Simplex+ is one of the most affordable waterproof metal detectors, offering advanced features like high sensitivity, depth, and multi-mode searching at a fraction of the price of other models.
6. Teknetics T2 Classic
The Teknetics T2 Classic is a powerful and highly regarded metal detector known for its deep-searching ability and fast recovery time. It is particularly effective for detecting coins and relics in areas with high mineralization.
Key Features:
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High Sensitivity and Depth: Capable of detecting small targets at impressive depths.
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Fast Target Recovery: Great for areas with heavy trash or mineralized soil.
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Adjustable Tone and Volume: Allows for customized audio settings.
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Lightweight and Balanced: Easy to carry and maneuver during long hunts.
Why It’s Great:
The Teknetics T2 Classic is highly regarded for its depth, speed, and accuracy. It is a great choice for experienced detectorists who need a machine capable of handling complex hunting conditions.
7. Garrett Ace 400
The Garrett Ace 400 is one of the best entry-level detectors on the market, providing high performance and reliability at an affordable price. It’s a great option for those new to metal detecting but still looking for a machine that can offer solid performance.
Key Features:
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Digital Target ID: Helps users identify the type of metal detected.
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Customizable Sensitivity: Adjust sensitivity levels based on ground conditions.
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Iron Audio: Allows users to hear iron targets separately, reducing unwanted signals.
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Adjustable Frequency: Reduces interference from other metal detectors in the area.
Why It’s Great:
The Ace 400 provides excellent performance at a budget-friendly price. It’s ideal for beginners who want a reliable detector that can grow with them as their skills improve.
8. Minelab X-Terra 705
The Minelab X-Terra 705 is a versatile detector that is known for its adaptability and ease of use. It features a wide range of advanced features, including a digital target ID system and adjustable frequency settings, making it perfect for a variety of detecting environments.
Key Features:
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Multi-Frequency Detection: Offers high-performance detection at multiple frequencies for greater accuracy.
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Digital Target ID: Helps identify the target type and depth.
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Adjustable Sensitivity: Customizable sensitivity for varying ground conditions.
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Waterproof Coil: Suitable for beach hunting and shallow water detecting.
Why It’s Great:
The X-Terra 705 offers exceptional depth and accuracy, along with a variety of features to help metal detectorists find targets in a range of environments, making it a solid choice for hobbyists and seasoned detectorists alike.
9. Bounty Hunter Tracker IV
The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV is an affordable, no-frills metal detector that is perfect for beginners. Despite its simple design, it offers reliable performance and is easy to use for those just starting out in the hobby.
Key Features:
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Target Identification: Helps users identify the metal type detected.
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Adjustable Sensitivity: Allows for customization based on conditions.
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All-Metal Mode: Useful for detecting a wide variety of metals.
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Lightweight Design: Comfortable for extended use.
Why It’s Great:
The Tracker IV is one of the most affordable metal detectors on the market, making it a great option for beginners who want to try out the hobby without a large investment.
10. Fisher F22
The Fisher F22 is a reliable and affordable metal detector designed for beginners and hobbyists. It is compact, lightweight, and easy to use, while still providing solid performance in various environments.
Key Features:
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Weatherproof: Suitable for use in various weather conditions.
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Multiple Search Modes: Includes jewelry, coin, and custom modes.
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Target Identification: Provides visual and audio feedback on the type of metal detected.
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Lightweight Design: Comfortable for long hunting sessions.
Why It’s Great:
The Fisher F22 is a great entry-level detector that offers features typically found in higher-end models. Its reliability and ease of use make it a great choice for newcomers to the hobby.
Conclusion
When it comes to metal detectors made in the USA, these top 10 models offer a wide range of features, from advanced technologies to user-friendly designs. Whether you’re a beginner just getting started in the hobby or an experienced detectorist looking for a high-performance machine, there’s a metal detector on this list for you. Each model excels in specific areas such as depth, sensitivity, and ease of use, ensuring that you can find the perfect metal detector for your needs.
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