The Ultimate Guide to the Best Metal Detecting Spade for Beginners

As a newcomer to the exciting world of metal detecting, one of the most crucial tools you’ll need alongside your detector is a reliable spade. The right spade can make the difference between an enjoyable treasure hunt and a frustrating dig. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore and rank the best metal detecting spades for beginners, helping you make an informed decision in your search for the best metal detecting spade.

Why a Specialized Metal Detecting Spade Matters

Before we dive into our rankings, let’s quickly address why a specialized spade is crucial for metal detecting:

1. Precision: These spades are designed for careful digging, allowing you to retrieve finds without damage.
2. Efficiency: The right spade makes digging quicker and easier, especially in challenging soil conditions.
3. Portability: Unlike regular garden spades, metal detecting spades are typically lighter and more compact.
4. Durability: They’re built to withstand frequent use in various soil types and weather conditions.

Now, let’s explore and rank the top metal detecting spades for beginners:

Top Metal Detecting Spades for Beginners – Ranked

1. Black Ada Maximus Spade – £30.49 (Best Overall)

Why it’s our top pick:
The Black Ada Maximus Spade offers the best combination of features for beginners, making it our top-rated choice.

Key Features:

• 2mm Thick Mild Steel Blade and Tube (30mm diameter)
• Measures: 690mm x 125mm
• Weight: 1.16kg
• Triangular tube handle for comfortable grip
• Plastic D-handle for warmer grip in cold weather
• Foot-assisted design for medium to heavier soils

Why it’s great for beginners: The robust construction makes this spade suitable for various soil types, while the plastic D-handle ensures comfort in all weather conditions. Its mid-range length offers a good balance between reach and portability.

2. Black Ada Big Foot Extended Black – £30.49 (Best for Tall Users)

Key Features:

• 14 Gauge Mild Steel Blade and 16 Gauge Mild Steel Tube
• Measures: 845mm x 153mm (including handle)
• Weight: 1260 grams
• Triangular tube handle for comfortable grip
• Foot-assisted brace for harder ground conditions
• Extended handle for a more elevated digging position

Why it’s great for beginners: The extended handle reduces back strain, making it ideal for taller users or those who prefer a more upright digging position. The foot-assisted design helps in tougher soil conditions.

3. Black Ada Sodbuster Black (Mild Steel) – £26.49 (Best for Tough Soil)

Key Features:

• 12 Gauge Mild Steel Blade and 16 Gauge Tube
• Measures: 815mm x 137mm
• Weight: Approximately 1500g
• T-Bar tube handle for comfortable grip
• Contoured foot brace for harder ground conditions
• Extra wide sharpened blade

Why it’s great for beginners: The heavy-duty construction and wide blade make this spade excellent for tough, compacted soil. The T-Bar handle provides good leverage for beginners tackling challenging terrain.

4. Black Ada Bigfoot Black – £23.49 (Best Value)

Key Features:

• 14 Gauge Mild Steel Blade and 16 Gauge Tube
• Measures: 562mm x 153mm
• Weight: 900 grams
• Triangular tube handle for comfortable grip
• Foot-assisted brace for harder ground conditions
• Sharpened blade with ‘Ripper’ edge

Why it’s great for beginners: Offering a good balance of features at a mid-range price point, this spade is versatile enough for various soil types while being light enough for extended use.

5. Black Ada Invader Black – £20.95 (Best for Root-Filled Soil)

Key Features:

• 14 gauge mild steel blade and 16 gauge mild steel tube
• Measures: 670mm x 125mm (including foot rest)
• Weight: 870 grams
• Rubber handle for comfortable grip
• Anti-skid foot rest for harder ground conditions
• Sharpened ‘ripper’ blade for cutting through light rooted soil

Why it’s great for beginners: The ‘ripper’ blade design makes this spade excellent for areas with lots of roots or tough, rocky soil. It’s a good choice for beginners detecting in woodland areas.

6. Minelab Mini Spade – £14.99 (Best Budget Option)

Key Features:

• Compact size: 640mm length
• Tough coated steel blade with a rolled top to protect your boots
• Sturdy plastic D-style handle

Why it’s great for beginners: Its affordable price point and compact size make it an ideal starter spade for those just getting into the hobby or on a tight budget. It’s easy to carry and store, perfect for casual detecting.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your First Metal Detecting Spade

As a beginner, keep these factors in mind when selecting your spade:

1. Soil Type: Consider the type of soil you’ll be digging in most often. Tougher soils may require a more robust spade with a foot assist.
2. Weight: Heavier spades provide more digging power but may tire you out faster. Choose based on your physical comfort and the type of detecting you plan to do.
3. Length: Longer spades can reduce back strain but may be less portable. Shorter spades are easier to carry but may require more bending.
4. Handle Design: Different handle designs (D-handle, T-bar, triangular) offer varying levels of comfort and leverage. Choose based on what feels most comfortable to you.
5. Price: While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a quality spade can enhance your detecting experience and save money in the long run.

Conclusion

Choosing the right metal detecting spade as a beginner doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our top-rated choice, the Black Ada Maximus Spade, offers the best all-around performance for beginners, with its robust construction and comfortable grip suitable for various conditions.

However, each spade on this list has its strengths. If you’re on a tight budget, the Minelab Mini Spade is an excellent starting point. For those tackling tough, root-filled soil, the Black Ada Invader Black might be the best choice.

Remember, your spade is an investment in your new hobby. A good-quality tool will make your detecting sessions more enjoyable and productive, encouraging you to stick with this fascinating pursuit. Happy hunting, and may your new spade help you unearth amazing treasures!

You might also be interested in – The Complete Guide to Choosing The Best Metal Detecting Spade