Metal detecting pinpointers are handheld devices used in conjunction with a metal detector to precisely locate buried targets like coins, relics, and jewelry. After your metal detector alerts you to a potential target, you can use the pinpointer to zero in on the exact location by waving it over the area. This allows you to dig smaller, more precise holes – saving time and minimizing ground disturbance.
Pinpointers provide several key benefits over just using a metal detector alone. Their high sensitivity and discrimination allow them to detect targets at shallower depths, including in tight spaces like rock crevices that a detector coil can’t access. They help eliminate false signals from mineralized soil, and quickly identify junk targets so you don’t waste time digging them up. Pinpointers also make it much easier to extract targets from tough soil conditions like hardpacked dirt or clay.
For any serious metal detectorist, the best metal detecting pinpointer is an essential tool that will greatly increase your efficiency and enhance your overall experience. Whether you’re chasing ancient coins, gold nuggets, or just want to recover more targets, a pinpointer will elevate your treasure hunting abilities.
What to Look for in a Quality Metal Detecting Pinpointers
When shopping for the best metal detecting pinpointer, there are several key features to prioritize for an efficient and user-friendly experience:
Sensitivity/Detection Depth: A pinpointer’s depth detection capabilities are crucial. The more sensitive it is, the deeper it can sense targets beneath the surface. Best Metal Detecting Pinpointers can detect objects 10+ inches deep, allowing you to easily locate your quarry.
Battery Life: Since you’ll be out treasure hunting for hours, a long-lasting battery is essential. Best Metal Detecting Pinpointers use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that can last 20+ hours on a single charge. This ensures you won’t be frequently swapping batteries mid-hunt.
Waterproof Rating: For versatility in all environments, a waterproof pinpointer rated to at least 10 feet is ideal. This allows worry-free usage at beaches, in shallow waters, and during rainy conditions without fear of water damage.
Ergonomic Design: An ergonomic pinpointer minimizes hand fatigue from constant use. Rubberized grips, balanced weight distribution, and a contoured shape make them comfortable to operate for extended periods.
Ease of Use: The best Metal Detecting Pinpointers keep things simple with basic one-button operation. With audio and vibration indicators, you can easily locate targets without getting bogged down in complex menus or settings. Clear target ID is also a plus.
5 Best Metal Detecting Pinpointers
Top Pick: Garrett Pro-Pointer AT
The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT is widely considered the best all-around pinpointer for metal detecting hobbyists and professionals. This tried-and-true model has been a favorite for over a decade thanks to its impressive performance and user-friendly design.
The Pro-Pointer AT boasts truly impressive detection capabilities. With a scanning range of 9 inches for non-ferrous objects like gold and silver, you can zero in on those elusive targets with pinpoint accuracy. The bright LED light and proportional audio tone make target identification a breeze.
Specs:
- Scanning Range: 9″ for non-ferrous, 6″ for ferrous
- Audio & Vibration Target Indicators
- LED Flashlight
- Automatic Ground Tracking
- Weatherproof Design
- Runs on a 9V Battery
Pros:
- Excellent all-around performance for all soil conditions
- Durable and weatherproof for harsh outdoor use
- Simple one-button operation, easy for beginners
- Bright LED light for low-light detecting
- Versatile for coin shooting, relic hunting, prospecting, etc.
Cons:
- Not fully submersible for underwater use
- Some users find the vibration mode too weak
- More basic feature set than high-end competitors
Best Uses:
The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT is a fantastic choice for general metal detecting across beaches, parks, fields, and more. Its versatility makes it a great investment for hobbyists of all levels. While not the most advanced, it reliably gets the job done without any hassles.
Most Sensitive: XP MI-6 Pinpointer
If extreme pinpointing sensitivity is your top priority, the XP MI-6 is in a class of its own. This top-tier pinpointer delivers unmatched target detection depth and precision thanks to its cutting-edge 28kHz operating frequency and advanced microprocessor technology.
Overview and Specs:
- 28kHz operating frequency for maximum soil penetration
- Detects targets at depths over 16 inches
- Bright LED light and vibration mode for poor visibility
- Automatic ground balance and iron discrimination
- Fully submersible to 10ft/3m
- Rechargeable lithium polymer battery
Pros:
- Extreme pinpointing depth and accuracy
- Highly configurable sensitivity and discrimination settings
- Durable and waterproof for any environment
- Long battery life from rechargeable power source
Cons:
- Expensive price point around $400
- More complex operation with multiple settings
- Overkill for basic pinpointing needs
With its unrivaled detection capabilities, the XP MI-6 is the go-to pinpointer for serious relic hunters and treasure seekers. While the cost is high, the precision this pinpointer delivers is worth it for those unwilling to miss any deep targets.
Best for Prospecting: Fisher F-Pulse Pinpointer
The Fisher F-Pulse pinpointer is a top choice for gold prospectors and nugget hunters. Its specialized 11″ DD coil configuration is designed to penetrate mineralised ground more effectively than standard pinpointers. This allows the F-Pulse to pick up deeper targets that other pinpointers might miss.
Overview & Specs
- 11″ DD coil design
- All-metal and non-motion mode
- 360° side scan detection area
- Adjustable audio pitch
- LED brightness adjustment
- Runs on 2 AA batteries
- Waterproof to 10 feet
Pros
- Excellent depth and sensitivity for gold prospecting
- Specialized coil nulls out hot rocks and mineralized soil
- Side scan detection helps cover more ground quickly
- Loud, adjustable audio pitch cuts through noisy environments
- Rugged and waterproof case
Cons
- More expensive than standard pinpointers
- Larger coil size not as precise on tiny targets
- Shorter 2-year warranty
The Fisher F-Pulse really shines for gold prospecting due to its enhanced detection capabilities in mineralized soil and ability to find deeper nuggets. Its specialized coil design helps eliminate frustrating false signals from hot rocks. While pricier than basic models, it’s an outstanding pinpointer for serious nugget shooting.
Best Budget Pick: Nokta Pointer
The Nokta Pointer is an excellent value pinpointer that delivers impressive performance for a very reasonable price. This little unit punches above its weight class with features you’d expect from more expensive models.
The Nokta Pointer has a waterproof design rated up to 5 meters, vibration mode for silent operation, and automatic ground balance. It can detect targets down to 8 inches deep and has a bright LED light to illuminate potential finds. The body is ergonomically shaped for a comfortable grip.
Specs:
- Detection Depth: Up to 8 inches
- Waterproof: Up to 5 meters
- Vibration Mode
- Automatic Ground Balance
- LED Light
- Runs on One 9V Battery
Pros:
- Incredible value for the price
- Waterproof and vibration mode
- Automatic ground tracking
- Simple one-button operation
- Bright LED light
Cons:
- Slightly less sensitive than higher-end models
- Basic feature set compared to more expensive pinpointers
- Not fully submersible
For metal detectorists on a budget, the Nokta Pointer provides exceptional bang for your buck. It has all the core functionality you need in a pinpointer at a very reasonable price point. While it may lack some advanced features, it excels as an affordable workhorse pinpointer.
Honorable Mention: Teknetics Tek-Point
The Teknetics Tek-Point may not have all the bells and whistles of some higher-end pinpointers, but it’s a solid budget-friendly option that gets the job done. This pinpointer has a straightforward design with one-touch operation, making it a nice choice for beginner detectorists.
With a detection range up to 6 inches and a waterproof design rated to 10 feet, the Tek-Point can handle most basic pinpointing tasks. It runs on a single 9V battery and has a handy LED light to assist in low-light conditions. While not the most sensitive on the market, the Tek-Point reliably detects most common metal targets like coins, jewelry, and relics.
For those on a tight budget who want a basic but capable pinpointer, the Tek-Point is worth considering as a no-frills option. It may lack advanced features, but it makes up for it with simple operation and affordability.
Using Metal Detecting Pinpointers for Gold Prospecting
Pinpointers are invaluable tools for gold prospectors and nugget hunters. Their high sensitivity and precision targeting allow you to zero in on tiny gold nuggets and specimens that would otherwise be missed by a metal detector alone.
The Fisher F-Pulse is widely considered the best pinpointer for gold prospecting. Its 12″ detection range and specialized gold prospecting mode make it incredibly adept at separating minute gold targets from mineralized soil and hot rocks. The F-Pulse’s LED light is also extremely bright, making it easy to inspect deep crevices and cracks where gold likes to hide.
The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT is another excellent choice thanks to its impressive 9×9″ detection area and true all-terrain, all-purpose design. The Pro-Pointer’s rugged construction shrugs off dust, moisture, and impacts while the proportional audio/vibration target indicators allow easy pinpointing without having to constantly look at the display.
No matter which pinpointer you choose, the increased target recovery and saved time and effort make it an essential prospecting accessory. With a quality pinpointer in your arsenal, you’ll wonder how you ever hunted for gold nuggets without one.
Beach and Underwater Hunting with Metal Detecting Pinpointers
When metal detecting on beaches or searching underwater, a waterproof pinpointer is an absolute must-have. The harsh saltwater environment can quickly destroy standard electronics if they aren’t properly sealed. Look for a pinpointer rated IP68 or higher for complete waterproof protection.
The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT and XP MI-6 are excellent waterproof choices for beach and underwater use. The MI-6 has slightly better sensitivity and depth in saltwater conditions. For a budget option, the Nokta Pointer is waterproof to 5 meters.
When hunting in wet environments, it’s crucial to properly maintain your pinpointer. Always rinse it with fresh water after use and keep the battery compartment clean and dry. Using a pinpointer pole can help prevent accidentally submerging the entire unit.
For underwater metal detecting, scuba divers should opt for a pinpointer with a bright LED light to help see targets in low visibility conditions. The XP MI-6 has an ultra-bright LED that really shines underwater. Moving slowly and using the pinpointer to check every hit can uncover incredible finds that a standard metal detector might miss.
Pinpointer Price Ranges
When it comes to the best Metal Detecting Pinpointers, you’ll find options across a wide range of price points. At the budget end of the spectrum, expect to pay between $100-$150 for a basic but capable model. These affordable pinpointers get the job done for casual metal detecting without too many bells and whistles.
In the mid-range from $150-$250, you’ll find pinpointers packed with advanced features like increased sensitivity, vibration mode, higher quality waterproofing, and rechargeable batteries. Brands like Garrett, Nokta, and XP offer excellent mid-tier options that are a great value.
For the serious relic hunter or prospector, high-end pinpointers over $250 provide the ultimate in target acquisition. Models like the XP MI-6 use cutting edge pulse induction technology to detect targets at incredible depths. With maximum sensitivity and full programmability, these premium pinpointers leave no stone unturned.
No matter your budget, there’s a quality pinpointer model to match your metal detecting needs and experience level. An investment in a good pinpointer will pay dividends in saved time and more accurate target recovery.
Metal Detecting Pinpointers vs Detector Coils: What’s the Difference?
While metal detectors are essential for initially locating buried targets over a wide area, pinpointers serve a different purpose. These handheld tools are designed to precisely pinpoint a target’s exact location once your detector has narrowed it down.
The main difference is that pinpointers have a much tighter, focused detection field compared to a detector’s broad scanning coil. This concentrated sensitivity allows you to scan just inches of soil and zero in on a target with extreme accuracy. Pinpointers excel at separating good targets from trash items and discriminating between multiple buried objects in a tiny area.
Another key distinction is portability and ease of use. Metal detector coils are bulky and require sweeping movements to cover ground. In contrast, pinpointers are compact, lightweight tools that can be operated with one hand. Their simple push-button design lets you quickly scan spots like rock crevices and bushes that are hard to access with a detector coil.
So while detector coils are built for the initial target acquisition over a wide area, pinpointers are the precision tools that let you extract finds quickly and efficiently once you’ve honed in on an area of interest. Using both in tandem provides the best of both worlds for successful metal detecting.
Are Metal Detecting Pinpointers Worth the Extra Cost?
While a quality metal detector alone can get the job done, adding a pinpointer to your metal detecting setup provides significant value and return on investment. A pinpointer allows you to quickly and accurately locate a buried target once your detector has alerted you to its presence. This saves considerable time and effort compared to methodically hand-digging an ever-widening hole.
With their increased sensitivity and discrimination, pinpointers virtually eliminate those frustrating moments when you can’t seem to unearth the target object despite your best efforts. By precisely pinpointing the target’s location, you’ll drastically cut down on turf damage and the need for excessive digging. This makes for a much more efficient, enjoyable hunt and helps quickly recover your pinpointer’s cost through all the extra finds.
Many detectorists find that after upgrading to a pinpointer, they’re able to locate 30-50% more targets that would have otherwise been missed or abandoned due to frustration. For the avid or professional treasure hunter, that translates to a substantial increase in recoverable valuables over time. When you factor in the time and effort saved, a quality pinpointer proves to be an extremely valuable and cost-effective investment.
Wrapping Up: Finding Your Perfect Pinpointer
A quality metal-detecting pinpointer is an essential tool for efficiently recovering your hard-earned finds. After digging a target, the pinpointer allows you to quickly zero in on the exact location, saving you time and frustration.
For the versatile hobbyist, the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT is the top overall recommendation. It strikes the right balance of performance, ease of use, and affordability. The XP MI-6 is the premium choice for those who demand maximum sensitivity and customization.
Gold prospectors and nugget hunters will appreciate the specialized ground scanning capabilities of the Fisher F-Pulse. Those on a tighter budget can’t go wrong with the Nokta Pointer as a reliable, yet inexpensive pinpointer.
If you’ll be hunting in shallow water frequently, prioritize a fully waterproof, submersible model like the XP MI-6 or Garrett Pro-Pointer AT. For dry land use only, the budget Nokta Pointer is perfectly capable.
No matter which pinpointer you choose, it will pay dividends by allowing you to extract targets faster with pinpoint accuracy. Treat yourself to this invaluable time-saving tool and get ready to unearth those long-buried treasures!
Emma Youell is a passionate metal detectorist hailing from Kent, UK. With a deep-seated love for history and a keen eye for uncovering relics of the past, Emma’s adventures extend beyond metal detecting to beachcombing and fossil hunting. By day, she channels her creativity into motion design and videography, bringing stories to life through her work at @emma.motion. Her enthusiasm for history shines through her social media presence, where she shares her discoveries and insights under the handles @emloveoldstuff and @ehmahh. Emma is also a talented enamel pin designer, blending her love for history and design into unique pieces. Follow along as Emma takes you on a journey through time, unearthing hidden treasures and sharing the stories they hold.