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Are you looking for metal detecting gift ideas?
There are times when you just might want to buy someone a metal detecting related gift, this might be for Christmas, or for a birthday, or some other time. Here we look at some popular metal detecting gifts. The product links below will take you this product on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This just means that a tiny percentage of the sale is paid to us which goes towards the running costs of this website. Here are our recommended metal detecting gift ideas for 2024.
Top Metal Detecting Gift Ideas for Every Budget
Are you searching for the perfect present for the metal detectorist in your life? Look no further! We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of gift ideas to suit every budget. From practical tools to fun accessories, there’s something here for every detectorist, whether they’re just starting out or have years of experience under their belt.
Metal Detecting Gifts Under £10
Metal Detecting Gloves
Gloves are an essential item for any metal detectorist. They protect hands from blisters, cuts, and the general wear and tear that comes with hours of digging and searching.
Of course there are hundreds of different gloves out there. For me personally I don’t like thick bulky gloves. I need to be able to operate the controls on my detector and to access my phone. So my preference is for lightweight gloves that keep my hands dry and clean but don’t get in the way. These gloves are the ones that I wear. I always have a few spare pairs with me and they will always make a welcome inexpensive gift for any metal detectorist. This offer is for 12 pairs of these lightweight PU coated polyester gloves. They are actually surprisingly warm too. They are available in 4 sizes (The large work best for me). Just £8.49 plus postage for 12 pairs, you can’t go wrong with these.
Finds Pouch
A finds pouch is a small but crucial accessory for any detectorist. It provides a secure place to store discovered items while out in the field, keeping them safe and organized.
Choose a pouch with multiple compartments to separate different types of finds. Water-resistant materials are a plus, as they’ll protect the contents from damp conditions often encountered during detecting sessions.
This particular one is less than a tenner so great value and even has a space for a water bottle, or maybe for your pinpointer plus separate compartments, maybe keep your car keys safe in one of them. Available in black or khaki for just £9.99.
Digital Pocket Weighing Scales
I have lost count of the number of times I have used my digital scales, when we are identifying finds it can be very useful to be able to weigh them, whether it be a coin or a musket ball or an item of jewellery.
These are the ones I use. They can weight up to 200g in 0.01g increments so are very accurate. they close into a handy pocket size case.
Metal Detecting Camouflage Cap
A dedicated metal detecting cap not only protects the detectorist from sun and rain but can also be a fun way to show off their hobby.
Look for caps with UV protection, moisture-wicking properties, and adjustable fit. Some may feature embroidered detecting-themed designs or have pockets for storing small items.
This one is perfect for every detectorist lightweight with vented mesh panels and in a camo design. What more could you ask for, for just £5.49.
Metal Detecting T-Shirt
A metal detecting themed t-shirt is a fun and affordable way for detectorists to show off their passion for the hobby, even when they’re not out in the field.
Look for shirts made from comfortable, breathable cotton or cotton blends that are suitable for outdoor wear. Designs might include humorous slogans like “Dirt Fisher” or “Treasure Hunter in Training”, vintage-style graphics of old detectors, or illustrations of famous historical finds. Some shirts might feature glow-in-the-dark or reflective prints, which can be both fun and practical for early morning or late evening detecting sessions. When choosing a size, consider that a slightly looser fit might be more comfortable for the physical activity involved in detecting.
Here is a great inexpensive metal detecting t shirt. Other designs are also available.
Metal Detecting Mug
A metal detecting themed mug is a practical gift that can remind detectorists of their hobby even during their coffee breaks, and it’s perfect for bringing hot drinks on chilly detecting trips.
Look for mugs made from durable materials like stainless steel or thick ceramic that can withstand outdoor use. Insulated models are great for keeping drinks hot (or cold) during long detecting sessions. Designs might include detecting-related puns like “Dig It!” or “Beep Beep Dig Deep”, illustrations of detectors or treasure chests, or even humorous images of disappointed detectorists finding yet another bottle cap. Some mugs might feature a special reveal design where the image changes when hot liquid is added – perhaps revealing a ‘buried treasure’ at the bottom of the mug. Consider mugs with wide, stable bases to prevent spills when placed on uneven ground, and comfortable handles for easy gripping with gloved hands. Here is a great one for less than a tenner.
Metal Detecting Gifts Under £20
Basic Pinpointer
A basic pinpointer is an excellent gift for beginners or as a backup for more experienced detectorists. These handheld devices help to precisely locate small objects in soil or sand after the main detector has identified an area of interest.
Look for models with adjustable sensitivity, a clear audio or vibration signal, and waterproof construction. Even basic models can significantly speed up the process of retrieving finds and reduce damage to delicate objects.
Makes a great gift as a main pinpointer or as a backup pinpointer.
Folding Metal Detecting Spade
A folding spade is a versatile tool that’s essential for any serious detectorist. It allows for efficient digging and is much more portable than a full-sized spade.
When choosing a folding shovel, look for one made of durable materials like carbon steel. Features like a serrated edge for cutting through roots and a comfortable grip can make a big difference in usability.
Here is an amazing one from the well known manufacturer Draper. It folds up into its own bag and has serrated edges to the blades to help cut through roots. A great back up spade for less than £15.
Beginners Metal Detecting Book
A comprehensive book on metal detecting can be an invaluable resource for newcomers to the hobby, providing guidance on techniques, equipment, and best practices.
Look for books that cover a range of topics, from choosing equipment to understanding soil conditions and local laws. Books with case studies or success stories can also be inspiring for new detectorists.
There are plenty of books written by American authors but they aren’t really relevant to metal detecting in the UK, but here is an excellent example written by two well known metal detectorist from England and it will make a great gift at just £12.95
Waterproof Finds Container
A waterproof finds container is crucial for safely storing and transporting discoveries, especially in wet or muddy conditions.
There are essentially three types of finds container. There is one type that is like a plastic pot with a foam insert with slots in to slide your coin finds into. There is also a small plastic case with various areas with individual lids, then there is the coin pod style ones. These are a flat foam lined case that can hold a number of small finds at once. the foam lining holds them still and stops them from rubbing against each other. It is this last type that I use myself.
Here is one that also includes a scale the photographic your finds against.
Metal Detecting Knee Pads
Knee pads can greatly improve comfort during long detecting sessions, especially when frequently kneeling to dig or examine potential finds.
Look for knee pads with durable outer shells, comfortable inner padding, and adjustable straps for a secure fit. Some models designed for detecting may have extra features like built-in pouches for small tools.
These camouflage ones are perfectly suited to metal detecting and are a great gift idea
Waterproof Detecting Trousers
Waterproof detecting trousers are a game-changer for detectorists who often find themselves kneeling in damp grass or trudging through wet undergrowth.
Look for trousers made from breathable, waterproof materials with reinforced knees and seat areas. Adjustable waists, multiple pockets for storing small tools, and boot clips to prevent water ingress are all valuable features.
We recently came across these which look amazing for the price and available in black, grey, green or khaki.
Digital Micrometer Calipers for Measuring Finds
Digital calipers are a precision tool that allows detectorists to accurately measure and record the dimensions of their finds.
Look for calipers with both imperial and metric measurements, a clear digital display, and a durable construction. Models with data output capabilities can be particularly useful for serious detectorists who maintain detailed records of their discoveries.
These ones are highly recommended due to their sturdy and robust stainless steel construction. They can measure up to 150 mm in 0.01mm increments meaning that they can give you an accurate measurement for even the smallest musket ball.
LED Headlamp for Night Detecting
An LED headlamp is essential for detectorists who enjoy searching in low-light conditions or want to extend their detecting time into the evening hours. It is surprising how quickly we lose the late, particularly in the winter months. All of a sudden you realise that you can’t see the bottom of the hole that you just dug.
Choose a headlamp with adjustable brightness levels, a comfortable headband, and a long battery life. Some models offer red light modes to preserve night vision or USB rechargeable batteries for convenience.
This is one of our favourites. It has a powerful 5000 lumens lamp that has an angle adjustment and a zoom function. The head strap stops it from sliding down over your eyes and it is fully rechargeable.
Metal Detecting Gifts Under £30
Metal Detector Carry Bag
A dedicated detector carry bag is a practical gift that helps protect the detector during transport and storage. It also makes it easier to carry all necessary equipment to and from detecting sites.
Choose a bag with padded compartments to protect the detector and its accessories. Look for models with multiple pockets for organizing small items like finds bags, gloves, and tools. Waterproof materials or a rain cover are valuable features for all-weather detectorists.
We particularly like this one.
Black Stealth Camouflage Metal Detecting Backpack
A backpack is almost a necessity for metal detecting. Once you have set off you might not get back to your car for most of the day so you need to carry with you everything that you need. You might need to put on a waterproof coat if it starts raining, or take one off when the sun comes out. You will need to carry food and water with you along with any other essentials.
This one is great because at 25 litres its not too big and bulky and it looks great in this dark camouflage design, but three other colours are available too. Make a great, not too expensive gift for any metal detectorist.
Beach Metal Detecting Sand Scoop
A sand scoop is an essential tool for beach detecting or searching in loose, sandy soil. It allows the detectorist to quickly sift through material to find small objects that might be missed with a traditional shovel.
Look for scoops made from durable, rust-resistant materials like stainless steel or aluminum. The size of the holes in the scoop is important – they should be small enough to catch tiny objects but large enough to allow sand and small pebbles to pass through easily.
This one is in stainless steel and is well constructed.
Portable Battery Pack for Charging Devices in the Field
A portable battery pack can be a lifesaver for detectorists who rely on electronic devices like smartphones for GPS, research, or logging finds, and of course many detectors can now be charged with USB charging devices, so never get caught out again by turning up at a detecting event with no power to detect
Choose a high-capacity power bank with multiple USB ports to charge several devices simultaneously. Look for models with rugged, weather-resistant designs suitable for outdoor use. Fast-charging capabilities and LED indicators for remaining power are useful features.
This one is our favourite with a whopping 27000mAh capacity.
Metal Detecting Gifts Under £50
High-quality Digging Tool
A quality digging tool is an absolute essential for anyone who enjoys their metal detecting. Once you have dug out the first plug of soil you then need something more accurate than your spade to either explore that plug in more detail, or to dig down a little bit further.
This hand digging tool from Quest is perfect. It is robust and sturdy yet can be as delicate as a surgeons scalpel in the right hands. Its bright orange handle means that can easily spot it in the grass and it comes with a holster to attach it to your belt.
Metal Detecting Boots (Waterproof and Durable)
Specialised metal detecting boots combine the waterproofing needed for working in wet muddy marshy areas with the durability required for long days of fieldwork.
Look for boots with reinforced toe caps and soles to protect against accidental strikes from digging tools. Good ankle support, comfortable insoles, and quick-drying properties are important features. Some models may also offer additional insulation for cold weather detecting.
These non metallic safety boots from Apache are the boots I use for metal detecting.
Coin Identification Book
Every metal detectorist loves to be able to identify the coins that they find, otherwise what is the point in finding them? The absolute Bible as far as English coins go is Spinks Coins of England. It covers every coin produced in England from early Celtic Staters and Units right through to the last pre-decimal coins of Elizabeth II, so pretty much everything you are going to find in the UK other than Roman coins and modern coins. Each coin is photographed life size, so that you can sit your find on it too make sure that the size matches. A new edition comes out every year that gives updated values for each coin. Without it you are going to have a harder job identifying your finds. This is the latest 2024 edition.
Drone for Aerial Site Surveying
A drone can be a game-changer for detectorists interested in aerial site surveying, allowing them to spot potential features or patterns in the landscape that might indicate promising search areas.
Look for models with decent battery life, stable flight characteristics, and a camera capable of capturing clear still images and video. Ensure the drone complies with local regulations regarding recreational drone use.
This example is a great one. The batteries are rechargeable giving you a total of 32 minutes flying time between charges. Watch live footage on your phone or record it for use later. You can even draw a flightpath and the drone will follow it. Amazing features for this price.
Metal Detecting Gifts Under £100
Professional-grade Pinpointer
A professional-grade pinpointer represents the pinnacle of precision in close-range target location. These devices offer the highest level of accuracy and a range of advanced features that can significantly improve the efficiency of finds retrieval.
Look for pinpointers with features like target retuning to eliminate electromagnetic interference, lost pinpointer alarms, and fully submersible waterproof construction. Some top-end models may also offer integrated LED flashlights, adjustable operating frequencies, or even Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with smartphone apps.
The highest specification pinpointers can cost up to £150 these days but here is one that we really like and are sure that anyone who receives this as a gift will too.
High-end Sand Scoop with Long Handle
A high-end sand scoop with a long handle is a game-changer for beach detecting or working in loose soil. The long handle reduces strain on the back and allows for faster, more efficient sifting of material.
Look for scoops made from lightweight yet durable materials like anodized aluminum or stainless steel. The best models will have a comfortable grip, a curved leading edge for easy soil penetration, and precisely sized holes to catch small objects while allowing sand and pebbles to pass through. Some may even feature replaceable baskets for easy maintenance.
Here is a great one at an amazing price.
Waterproof Detecting Jacket
A high-quality waterproof jacket designed for detecting can make a huge difference in comfort during inclement weather, allowing enthusiasts to pursue their hobby year-round.
Look for jackets with fully taped seams, adjustable hoods, and plenty of pockets for storing small tools and finds. Breathable fabrics will help prevent overheating during active detecting sessions. Some jackets designed for detectorists may have special features like reinforced areas for wear from detector straps.
Here is a great waterproof metal detecting jacket.
Remember, the joy of metal detecting isn’t just in the hunt, but also in the camaraderie and shared excitement of discoveries. Any of these gifts are sure to bring a smile to your favourite detectorist’s face and enhance their detecting experience.
Whether you’re shopping for a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s a perfect gift out there for every budget.