Pinpointer: What Is It And Why Do I Need It?

Metal detecting is a popular hobby for detector users and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re searching for artefacts, coins or precious metals, having the right tools can really enhance your success. One tool that has revolutionised the metal detector experience is the pinpoint probe. In this article, we will explore what pinpointers are and discuss why they are essential tools for any serious metal detectorist. 

Pinpointers: What Are They?

A pinpointer is a miniature handheld electronic device specifically designed to assist metal detectorists in locating buried targets with greater accuracy. While metal detectors are excellent for scanning larger areas, they lack the precision required to pinpoint the exact location of a target. This is where pinpointers come into play. 

Unlike a full-size metal detector, pinpointers are compact and highly sensitive. They’re mostly operated by a single button and emit audio or vibration signals when they detect a metal target. Good probes also increase in intensity as you get closer to the target this narrowing down a search area, a pinpointer significantly reduces the time and effort required to recover a buried item. 

Why Do You Need A Pinpointer?

Increased Precision

One of the primary reasons to invest in a pinpointer is its ability to provide precise target location. Once your metal detector alerts you to a target you can use the ‘onboard’ pinpoint feature to narrow down where to dig the initial hole. After you have removed a plug you can then use the pinpoint probe to hone in on a specific spot, allowing for more accurate digging. This precision saves time and minimises the risk of damaging valuable items during the uncovering process.

Enhanced Target Recovery

You only need to use the pinpoint probe if the target is still in the hole (deeper maybe or the target may be on adge in the side of the hole, both of which can cause you to dig either not enough or to one side of the true location.

Features

A pinpointer offers several features that aid in the retrieval of buried targets. Many models are equipped with a built-in LED light, enabling you to see clearly in dimly lit areas, the LED also confirms the probe is switched on if it’s in silent mode of operation, some allow silent use but still vibrate in the hand. Additionally, some pinpointers are waterproof, allowing you to search in shallow water or wet environments such as wet grass, waterproofing especially is important in our British climate. Some probes are rechargeable, other run off a single PP3 9v battery with months of battery life. Lastly you can adjust sensitivity whilst down the hole with some better probes, very useful when you have a large target to pinpoint.

Improving Efficiency

The above features improve your overall success rate, expand your metal detecting opportunities & most importantly increase your efficiency at recovering targets, less time faffing around chasing the illusive target leaving more time detecting the next one. 

Versatility 

Pinpointers are lightweight and portable, making them easy to carry and handle when detecting. They can be used in conjunction with any type of metal detector, regardless of the brand or model, some even interact with your detector so only you hear the sound through your wirelsss phones and will also turn off the detectors coil so that you don’t suffer interference between detector & probe.  With their compact size, you can easily store a pinpointer in your pocket or pouch without adding significant bulk, most probes come with a convenient pouch.

Fakes

Watch out for fakes that abound on well known websites, some come in exact copies of manufacturers packaging including instructions & cheekily a fake warranty form, you can’t & won’t be able to tell until it’s too late, when have yet to see a good one. Also be wary of the ‘good value for money’ probe with every feature under the sun (most of which you don’t need). If you are not sure please phone us, Nigel did the BBC Fake Britain program a few years ago on fake probes, we can advise.

Detect Clever!

In the world of metal detecting, a pinpointer is an indispensable tool that greatly enhances your treasure hunting experience & efficiency. Its ability to pinpoint the exact location of buried metal targets with precision. Their features make them a ‘must have’ accessory for metal detecting enthusiasts. 

Regton stock a range of pinpointers for your days out. Find out more about the range of metal detectors we stock here. 

Metal Detecting Equipment: What Do I Need For Rallies?

metal detector equipment

Metal detecting rallies are exciting events that bring together hobbyists and enthusiasts who share a love for metal detecting and especially hunting for History. Whether you are a seasoned detectorist or a beginner, attending a rally can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. To make the most of your time at these events, you need the right metal detecting equipment. In this blog post, we will explore what you need for rallies and how to choose the best metal detecting equipment for your needs.

Metal Detector

The most important piece of metal detector equipment for any detectorist is a reliable and high-quality metal detector. When it comes to attending rallies, you want a metal detector that can handle all types of terrains and conditions. Look for a metal detector with a good discrimination system, which will allow you to distinguish between different types of metal and avoid false signals.

Batteries & Chargers

Don’t forget to take spare batteries for both detector & pinpoint probe if they are not rechargeable. For those pieces of equipment that are rechargeable including your phone you have many options to re-charge:

  • Battery bank/portable charger
  • Solar charger
  • Vehicle USB or lighter socket

Pinpointer

A pinpointer is a handheld metal detector equipment device that helps you locate the exact location of a metal object once you have dug the initial hole. It saves you a lot of time by reducing the amount of digging and sifting through the spoil. When choosing a pinpointer make sure you research which will be the best to work alongside your detector as they are not all compatible, you are looking for well known brands & be aware of the many lookalikes & fakes on the market, especially the ‘good ones’.

Digging Tools

To retrieve the metal object you have detected, you need either a spade, a trowel/digging knife. Look for digging tools that are made of durable materials, (not plastic) that have comfortable grips. A good digging tool should also be lightweight and compact enough to carry around easily however bear in mind light often means weak so take that into account.

Headphones

Headphones are an essential detecting accessory for metal detectorists attending rallies. They allow you to hear the signals from your metal detector clearly, even in noisy environments. Look for specialist metal detector headphones that are comfortable to wear for long periods and have good sound quality, wireless headphones are now available for most detectors but beware cheap Bluetooth wireless headphones as Bluetooth has a latency from transmission to reception, not good for detecting. Rally organisers insist on the use of headphones at events as you don’t want hundreds of speakers all sounding off over the field.

Bags and Backpacks

You may need a bag to carry all your metal detecting equipment, snacks and water during rallies. Look for a bag or backpack that is lightweight and has enough compartments to organise your gear. A backpack with adjustable straps and a padded back will ensure that you carry your equipment comfortably.

Protective Gear

Finally, it’s essential to have protective metal detector equipment such as gloves, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Gloves protect your hands from sharp objects & possibly chemical such as fertiliser, while suncream protects your skin from harmful UV rays. Insect repellent keeps bugs away, ensuring that you enjoy your rally without being bitten.

In conclusion, attending a metal detecting rally can be an exciting experience, but you need the right metal detecting equipment to make the most of it. By investing in good-quality equipment such as pinpointer, correct digging tools, headphones, backpack, and protective gear, you can increase your chances of finding goodies and have a great time at the event.

Remember to do your research and choose metal detecting equipment that suits your needs and budget. If you’re looking for metal detecting equipment, Regton has plenty of stock to help you out! Take a look at our website for more. And remember, we are detectorists ourselves so if you’re not sure please ask us, we also attend all the large rallies throughout the year so come & say hello. Happy hunting!

Mental Health & Metal Detecting

Metal detecting is a valued activity across the globe, exploring new territory, unearthing the past or recovering lost valuables and returning them back to their rightful owner.

Luke Webb, based in Dorset, has been supporting young people with mental health conditions for over a decade. His role is to help young people out of inpatient services, back into the community using a social prescribing, solution-focused model of care.

Luke introduced metal detecting into his work after spending a significant amount of time with a young person cleaning the beaches of Weymouth in Dorset. This time was used to not only clean their mind of troubles that they were facing, but to also clean the local beach of an impressive quantity of litter, left by the seasonal beachgoers.

Throughout their cleaning and wellbeing journey, they came across many items, including a collection of ring pulls, brightly coloured stones, coins and padlocks from a local gymnasium. The young person spoke about the value in unearthing treasures that may have been once forgotten, bringing them back to their former glory and valuing the precious item for their own. Their inquisitive mind asked about metal detecting as something they would like to try. 

Listening to the voice of the young people, the team invested in some Garrett metal detectors and were ready to explore.

By using metal detecting as an activity to support reflection on self, it has been really valuable to Luke and the young people that he supports. The analogy of “unearthing the past” is a common discussion when taking part in this therapeutic activity.

Do we choose to throw our finds in the bin, or do we keep the forgotten treasures and bring them back to life?

This can relate to potential past trauma and also previously enjoyed hobbies and interests, do we bring back the things we once enjoyed or do we discard and keep looking for new interests? This focus has helped Luke and the young person think about their identity, current interests and future goals.

The staff within his organisation also had the opportunity to visit the local beach on their breaks to enjoy a bit of time to themselves during shifts. Focusing on an activity has great value in wellbeing and the benefits can support stress, anxiety, internal debriefs along with an opportunity to network with like minded people.

Luke has also offered this activity to his own family and local scout group as a way of enabling them to take part in something new, highlighting the wellbeing benefits of being outdoors, learning about tides, history and finding lost items, scoring their wellbeing pre and post activity has been valuable to evidence the benefits of metal detecting as a fun and interesting way of occupying oneself.

Luke will continue to explore the outdoors and offer the sustainable activity of metal detecting with those that show an interest. He will continue to support the young people to dig deep into their challenges and will be alongside them with whatever outcome they choose. They are yet to find any gold but have found many gems within the young people that may have once been forgotten. The hunt continues and he looks forward to unearthing more valuable qualities within the young people he cares for, helping them to recognise their strengths and have the best start in challenging times.

Garrett Metal Detectors and Accessories: All You Need To Know

There are a range of Garrett metal detectors and accessories for a variety of applications, including treasure hunting, security screening, and industrial inspection. Read ahead if you want to find out some of the best Garrett products!

What are the top Garrett metal detectors and products?

ACE Series Metal Detectors

The ACE series metal detectors are designed for beginners and experienced detectorists alike. They offer high-quality performance at an affordable price.

AT Series Metal Detectors

The AT series metal detectors are designed for advanced users and offer features like advanced ground balance, digital target ID, and waterproof search coils.

Pro-Pointer Metal Detector

The Garrett Pro-Pointer metal detector is a handheld device that allows you to pinpoint the location of buried metal objects with precision.

Headphones

Garrett offers a range of headphones that are designed to work with their metal detectors. These headphones provide clear audio feedback and can be used in noisy environments.

Search Coils

Garrett offers a range of search coils in different sizes and shapes to suit different metal detecting applications. These coils are designed to provide optimal performance and sensitivity.

Overall, Garrett offers a wide range of products and accessories that are designed to meet the needs of metal detecting enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you are looking for a beginner’s metal detector or a high-end industrial metal detector, Garrett has a product that will meet your needs.

If you are looking for Garrett Metal Detectors, Regton has got you covered. We hold a large stock of Garrett products including metal detectors, metal detector accessories, pinpointers and more! Take a look at our range of Garrett Metal Detectors here. 

Metal Detecting For Beginners 

Are you starting out in the metal detecting world? Our latest blog details all you need to know about metal detecting for beginners, including which metal detector is best to start out with and all the tools and tricks you need to get started on your rallies!

What is hobby metal detecting?

Hobby metal detecting consists of searching for objects with a metal detector. It’s a great hobby which incorporates exercise, engages you with history and is inclusive of all ages! The best thing about metal detecting is that anyone can do it – and it’s easy to get started.

Metal detecting for beginners: Where do I start?

There are only a few tools you really require to begin metal detecting. We recommend getting a metal detector for beginners, a tool to dig with, some specialist metal detecting headphones, a carry case for your equipment and something to store your finds in. 

We recommend starting with a well known brand, beware of brands that hide where they are made –  it’s best to check reviews before you make your purchase being sure the review is not backed by a retailer, look closely for links to where to buy….beware.  Ensure it’s not too basic or advanced for your needs. You can also purchase a guidebook or search online for information – perfect for metal detecting beginners. 

How do I meet other detectorists?

Joining a club or local Facebook page for metal detecting is the best way to meet others! Other detecting enthusiasts will be happy to share their knowledge, and organised events can help you understand the best areas to detect near you. 

If you are planning on detecting alone, make sure you obtain permission for detecting from the landowner. You need to have consent from a landowner before you begin to detect – and some areas require permits for metal detecting. 

If you’re looking for a metal detector for beginners, look no further than Regton. We have a wide range of handheld metal detectors and accessories for you to start your detecting journey. 

Metal Detecting Tools: Make The Most Of Your Rallies!

If you want to know how to make the most of your rallies, our latest blog details what metal detecting tools are and how they can benefit you! Whether you’re a beginner to the metal detecting world, or you’ve been attending rallies for years, we have some top tips about tools that can help you!

What Are Metal Detecting Tools?

Metal detecting tools are extra accessories that make finding easier and more exciting. Most tools are portable and easy to store in a tool box or your favourite bag. We have some examples of tools and how they can help you.

  1. Metal Detector Headphones

Metal detector headphones are essential when you are hunting. They will cancel our sounds around you and ensure you are not missing any finds. You will also get privacy with these.

  1. Trowels and Diggers

Having the right metal detecting tools is key. With digging tools, ideally something that can dig deep holes with a small diameter works well – making filling holes back up easy.

  1. Metal Detecting Pouches and Bags

Finding a pouch or a bag to store your finds is important. You don’t want to lose your finds on site after spending the time and care to gather them!

  1. Metal Detecting Gloves

Metal detecting gloves can prevent you from cuts, abrasions, dirt and more! Finding the right pair of metal detecting gloves will keep you safe and clean. We recommend gloves with secure fitting. 


If you’re looking for metal detecting tools, Regton has got you covered. We stock a wide range of products including metal detecting gloves, trowels, headphones, pouches and more! Take a look at our range on our website.

Best Metal Detectors For The Beach

The summer season might be coming to an end, but there is never a better time to head on down to our coasts for some beach metal detecting! We have provided an extensive guide on the UK’s best beach metal detectors, ready to help you score some great finds!

Garrett Distributor Rally

What should I look for in a beach metal detector?

Features of a metal detector for the beach are definitely key. Consider transportability and other features before your purchase. If you are considering detecting on the wet part of the beach, a waterproof metal detector may be beneficial. Detecting the beach can present you with a variety of different finds!

You will possibly have a metal detector in mind already for beach detecting, but if you don’t, researching the benefits of each brand will help enable your decision. There’s no one-size-fits-all with metal detecting, especially beach detecting so finding what suits you best is key.

What are the best metal detectors for the beach?

There are two main (optimal) types of detectors for beach detecting – pulse induction and multi-frequency. Technology of both of these features can be beneficial for beach detecting. Pulse Induction (PI) detectors are used to maximise your depth when detecting on a beach as they’re not so affected by minerals in the ground, so they’re great for beach metal detecting. This seems like the ultimate detector, right? Unfortunately PI machines do not have the ability to discriminate between ferrous and non-ferrous targets very well. This is why you don’t see them typically used in land- there are VLF detectors that can discriminate much more efficiently.

Simultaneous Multi-Frequency (SMF, Multi-flex or FMF) detectors have excellent detection depth, with an ability to reject iron targets as well as other rubbish if required. This means you can sift through beaches without finding too many junk items. They are great on mineralized environments such as wet sand environments both in the water & also on dry sand/inland.

What is the benefit of tailoring my detector to the beach?

Enhanced performance, iron rejection and weatherproofing are all key in beach metal detecting. A water/weatherproof metal detector is beneficial to beach detecting as you will have access to wider areas on the beach which then enables you to detect freely without the worry of dropping your metal detector in the water.

Regton offers a range of beach metal detectors, including weatherproof & waterproof metal detectors, on our website. To get started on your beach detecting journey, find our products here.

Can I Metal Detect On The Beach?

As the weather has brightened up and we are heading towards the winter storms, you might be wondering… Can I metal detect on the beach? The short answer is yes, but like most detecting spots, there are some rules and regulations you need to consider before you get out to the beach. 

Metal Detecting On Beaches

The Crown Estate does not own every beach – so you need to make sure that you get the right kind of permission before you start your beach metal detecting adventures. Check beforehand what beaches your permission gives you, and also the kind of beach you are planning to attend.

Crown Estates

Anybody wishing to carry out metal detecting on our foreshore is granted a permissive right from The Crown Estate; this permissive right does not apply to the seabed, riverbeds or any other Crown Estate land. For more information about the crown estate, please click here.

On beaches not owned by The Crown Estate, you should contact the relevant council or trust first and seek permission to detect on their land. In most cases, this should be acceptable – but it is always good to contact who is relevant first.

There may be council or trust owned beaches where metal detecting on beaches is not acceptable – not necessarily because of the metal detector itself, but because of digging rules. A short search or phone call should be able to clarify if digging is permitted on the beach before you travel.

What Will I Need For Beach Detecting?

Beach metal detecting can differ from land detecting due to the fine texture of sand and the ocean. It’s important to check the kind of detector you have before you set off. A waterproof metal detector would be most beneficial for the beach to reduce the limits of where you can detect. 

We recommend a metal beach spade or equivalent digging equipment to dig your finds. Ensure that your spade or trowel is suitable for sand, so you can easily access any finds. Don’t forget to bring a finds pouch or somewhere to store your new finds! 

Regton offers a wide range of waterproof metal detectors, metal beach spades and other items suitable for beach metal detecting. Please take a look at our product range here

Hobby Metal Detector Guide

If you are considering purchasing a handheld metal detector, there are a few things you may want to consider in order to choose the right one. At Regton, we stock a wide range of metal detectors for a variety of uses.

Hobby metal detectors at regton metal detectors


Uses of hobby metal detectors
Buying a metal detector to suit your needs is essential. It is important to consider what you will use your metal detector for. If you are considering a hobby detector that can be used in a variety of locations, you will want to choose a device that is specifically designed for that purpose.
We have a detector for every budget if you are a beginner or looking for a device to use in parks, beaches or back gardens. You might consider a detector within a lower price range. Be cautious of cheap detectors that flood well-known online sales platforms – we have yet to see a decent detector under £140.

Features of hobby metal detectors
Hobby metal detectors can come with various features, such as pinpoint mode, preset discrimination modes, sensitivity control, target ID and depth reading. There are specific detectors, known as pinpoint probes which are designed for locating targets using a small palm-size detector. This is an invaluable tool. Regton stocks a range of pinpointers, including Garrett, XP and Nokta Makro.

How much will a metal detector cost me?
Consider how often you are planning to use your metal detector. They range in price, so if you are planning on using your device frequently, investing in a more expensive, durable model with a range of attributes and features will be worthwhile.
No matter what your budget, there is a hobby detector perfect for you at Regton. We stock a wide range together with supporting accessories such as spades, headphones, pinpoint probes and books to aid you in your hobby metal detecting journey.

Rodney Cook Memorial Metal Detecting Rally – May 2022

by Aaron Reynolds

Firstly, I’d like to thank all the staff and marshals at the Rodney Cook Memorial one day metal detecting rally. It was truly amazing to speak with you all and express our love of metal detecting, charity events, and the love of the hobby together. This doesn’t begin to mention the countless detectorists who attended, and it wouldn’t have been possible without you. I have not seen how much we have raised so far, but I imagine it will go a long way to help the RUH (Royal United Hospitals of Bath) Forever Friends appeal, which supports patients who require more care than the average patient. Raising over £100,000 so far, the RCM rally continues to support local charities. I couldn’t be more proud of the whole team for getting it so far along, raising an incredible sum that will make a big difference in many lives.

The briefing.

Arriving at the dig, we drove in to see lots of smiles and people setting up, and we quickly parked up and followed suit. After getting geared up, Seb and I had a chat with some detectorists and made our way over to the briefing area, ready to start. The briefing was to-the-point, clear and well communicated by Gary Cook himself, and then the hoards of detectorists were off.
As usual, I waited 15 minutes for everyone to disperse and had a chat in the meantime with some of the marshals, who were incredibly helpful and kind. Walking out into the first field I wanted to tackle, first hole and boom; A ship halfpenny, all the way from 1946, right in the entrance to the field. Considering my usual find rate, it was a good sign for me.

First hole!

Getting further into the field and a couple of buttons later, I had a fantastic signal ringing in my ears, and I plunged the spade in after pinpointing. Turning over the clod, I found the target straight away, staring me in the face; A broken crotal bell. There were small fragments around a considerable chunk, including the top loop, with the ‘ringer’ still nestled inside. The ringer was iron and had rusted over and loosely bonded to the shell of the bell, keeping it in place until I had it in my hand. It had decoration, and I believe (from the little knowledge I have on crotal bells) that it was an older variant, with a drilled casted loop at the top as opposed to the more common later method of adding a sprew after casting. Broken or not, it was my first crotal bell, and I was over the moon. I have been searching for one for a long time, and it finally came up for me.

Broken but glorious!

After an hour or so, following a quick stop at the food van for a snack, Seb and I decided to try the other fields. The second field we tried was the main field (the field we parked in for those who attended), and we slowly made our way up to the top field near the Saxon church. These fields were buzzing with detectorists (naturally, considering the location and what others had found there in the morning). I didn’t have much luck on these fields, but I did pick up a couple more buttons for good measure. Speaking to other detectorists, I found that there were quite a few with hammered coins, even some lucky souls with a few of them in their finds box. It was great to see them nonetheless, especially the Gold Louis (XVIII?) in the find’s cabinet for the event. Well done to that lucky finder.
I also had a great chat with Mike and Dennis, part of the RCM team. They were delightful to talk to, and I can’t wait to see them at the next RCM weekender. I hope they managed to get a bit of detecting. The marshals deserve it more than us for the fantastic job they do!

I HAVE PADLOCKS ON MY DEUS II REMOTE!
As I was sweeping with my XP DEUS II, I approached another detectorist’s hole and received a great tone. I’m used to checking holes and retrieving the trash from them that some detectorists leave behind, but it seemed this target was slightly off from the existing hole. Reopening the plug, I manually pinpointed the target and dug in my spade, pulling up a find many would consider trash, but I quite like – a lock, still clasped around a bracket. Long past its days of operation, I still class this as an intriguing find. There might not be hundreds of years of history behind it, it may not have seen the rise and fall of various empires and tyrants, but it has its own story that will likely never be known, same as every other artefact or relic. Before spending its life drowning in soil and worms, it probably once acted as an attempt to keep something or someone safe from others, and based on where I found it, still locked, it did its job until the end.
We have all had the padlocks on the Deus II remote at some point (diving mode, for those not in the know), but now I can say it literally!

Locked up!

We made our way back to the main area for the raffle, which was a great success. Lady luck wasn’t by my side, but many lucky detectorists got their hands on some detecting equipment, RCM merchandise or some other donated prizes and bottles of bubbly. I’m sure everyone left with a smile and was content with their finds and/or rewards. Most of all, we all got together as a community to raise some cash for a great charity. Of all the rallies we visit, the RCM is always guaranteed to be a great event to attend, and I will always recommend it as one of the friendliest and well-run rallies in the UK.
Lastly, I’d like to give a big shoutout and thank you to Gary Cook, whom I consider the leading architect of the RCM team. He ensures the events are as enjoyable as possible, makes sure everyone is safe and happy and sets a new bar when it comes to rallies. If you have attended an RCM rally, or are considering joining them for a weekend, be sure to give him a firm handshake and a thank you. This wouldn’t be happening without him. Thank you for having us, RCM. It was an absolute pleasure.

Gary Cook (right), Seb (behind) and I, Aaron (left).