Metal Detectors for Kids: What to Look For and 4 Options
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A kids' detector should be light, simple and honest about what it can find. Here's what each listing says. We haven't tested them.
National Geographic Starter Kit
Listed for ages 8 to 12 with a 7.4 inch coil that's waterproof up to 4 inches and detects objects up to 4 inches deep, LED and audio alerts, an adjustable arm and 1.2 pounds. A trowel and learning guide are included.
National Geographic Kids Starter Metal Detector
- For ages 8-12, per the listing
- 7.4 in. coil waterproof up to 4 in.; detects objects up to 4 in. deep
- LED and audio alerts; 1.2 lb
- Trowel and learning guide included
Bounty Hunter Junior
Listed for ages 6+, with a 6.5 inch coil, adjustable length, discrimination control and a target strength meter. The listing says it finds coins up to 5 inches deep.
Bounty Hunter Junior
- For ages 6+, per the listing
- 6.5 in. coil; adjustable length
- Discrimination control; target strength meter
- Listed for coins up to 5 in. deep
Bounty Hunter Tracker IV
Listed for adults and kids, with all-metal, tone and discrimination modes and an 8 inch waterproof coil. The maker's page says the control box is not waterproof and lists 2.6 pounds.
Bounty Hunter Tracker IV
- 3 modes: all-metal, tone and discrimination, per the listing
- 8 in. waterproof search coil
- Analog controls with adjustable sensitivity
- Made in USA (title)
Garrett ACE 200
A full-size entry model listed for adults and kids: 0-99 Target ID, a 6.5 x 9 inch waterproof coil (control box not waterproof), under 3 pounds, adjustable stem.
Garrett ACE 200
- Digital Target ID, 0-99, per the listing
- 6.5 x 9 in. waterproof concentric coil; control box is not waterproof
- Under 3 lb; adjustable stem
- 4 AA batteries; 3-year limited warranty
Teaching good habits
- Know where you can go. Federal regulation bans metal detectors in National Park Service areas. Get permission on private land. See metal detecting laws. This isn't legal advice; confirm with the land manager.
- Fill every hole. Garrett's code of ethics: "I will always fill the holes I dig," and carry out trash and dug targets.
- Swing low and slow. Garrett's tips: keep the coil just above the ground and move slowly. More in metal detecting for beginners.
FAQ
What age?
Check the listing: 8-12 for the Nat Geo kit, 6+ for the Junior.
How heavy?
1.2 lb for the Nat Geo kit; under 3 lb for the ACE 200.
Where can kids detect?
Same rules as adults.