A Beginner’s Guide to Metal Detector Coils

Unlocking Better Detecting Through the Right Coil Choice

When starting out in metal detecting, one of the most overlooked, but crucial, components is the search coil. The right coil can make a big difference in how you search, how accurately you find targets, and how well you can handle challenging ground conditions.

Are Coils Interchangeable?

Many modern detectors offer interchangeable coils—but not all do. Always double-check whether your detector model supports coil swapping before buying a new one. Our expert team at Regton can help you make the right match. Choosing a detector that offers interchangeable search coils offers you more flexibility and versatility when detecting.

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Types of Coils Explained

1. Concentric Coils

These coils create a cone-shaped search field, which makes them great for precise target identification, especially in clean and open ground. They come in solid or open-centre styles and are perfect for general-purpose detecting.

2. DD / Double-D (2D) Coils

DD coils are adept at fine target separation, and typically offer an increased depth over concentric coils. They have a transmit coil and a receive coil which intercept each other, creating a narrow, powerful and precise window of detection. Due to this, they are able to distinguish between close proximity targets, possibly alerting you to a nice find next to a piece of junk that otherwise would be missed! 

3. Elliptical Coils

Designed to reach tight spots and iron-infested areas, elliptical coils can be found either concentric or DD in design. Their shape makes them ideal for navigating tough terrains where precision is key. Usually found being used in tough environments, a good elliptical coil is a key addition to your coil collection. 

Coil Size Matters

Coil sizes can range from 4.5″ to 18″. Larger coils cover more ground and detect deeper on larger objects, but they can be heavier and less effective in cluttered sites. Smaller coils offer better target separation and are ideal for trashy or tight locations.

Need Help Choosing?

At Regton Ltd, our team can guide you to the right coil for your needs and detector model. Whether you’re metal detecting in open fields or navigating tricky, iron-rich terrain, the right coil will make all the difference.

👉 Explore our full range of metal detector coils: Regton Coil Collection