8 Tips for Using Tone ID to Identify Different Types of Metals While Metal Detecting
As a metal detectorist, you probably already know that different types of metals produce different signals. However, did you know that you can also use the tone ID feature on your metal detector to discriminate between different types of metal objects? Here are eight tips to help you identify what’s in the ground and make more informed decisions about which targets are worth digging up.
1. Learn the Basics
Before we get into specifics, let’s review some basics. Most metal detectors have several modes for detecting specific types of objects such as coins, jewelry or relics. Within each mode there may be further discrimination options such as notch discrimination or iron audio. These features allow you to adjust your detector’s sensitivity to certain metals while reducing interference from other materials like iron.
Tone ID is another tool available on most modern metal detectors that can help improve your accuracy when identifying targets. Tone ID assigns a unique tone or pitch to various target categories based on their conductivity (ability to conduct electricity) and ferrous properties (magnetic attraction). For example, most machines will assign low tones for iron targets and high tones for non-ferrous targets like silver or copper.
2. Iron Identification
Iron is one of the most common materials found while metal detecting but it can also be one of the most frustrating because it produces a wide range of signals depending on its size and shape. Larger pieces will often register as a solid “thud” while smaller bits might produce inconsistent scratchy sounds with no clear pattern.
In addition to using notch discrimination or iron audio settings, learning how your machine responds specifically to iron is essential for improving overall accuracy when hunting in areas with lots of trash and iron debris.
3. Gold Identification
Gold has a unique conductivity level compared to other metals which means it has its own distinct signal response on many detectors. In general, gold will produce low-pitched tones similar to those produced by small nails or foil wrappers but with slightly longer duration.
If you’re hunting for gold, it’s important to understand that not all metal detectors are created equal. Some machines are designed specifically for finding small nuggets while others may struggle in highly mineralized soil conditions. Be sure to research your machine’s capabilities before heading out to maximize your chances of success.
4. Silver Identification
Silver is a non-ferrous metal that produces high-pitched tones on most detectors. However, because silver can come in many different forms and sizes (coins, jewelry, flatware), the tone quality can vary widely depending on the object being detected.
For example, a large silver coin might register as a solid high tone while a small piece of silver jewelry might produce multiple mixed signals due to its unique shape and thickness.
5. Copper Identification
Copper is another non-ferrous metal that typically produces high-pitched tones on most detectors. However, like with other metals, copper’s exact signal response will depend on several factors including size and shape.
One tip for identifying copper targets is to pay attention not only to the tone but also the length of time the signal lasts. Copper objects tend to have slightly longer audio responses than similar sized aluminum or brass targets which can help differentiate them from other types of metals.
6. Aluminum Identification
Aluminum is one of the most common types of trash items found by detectorists and therefore something we often want to discriminate against when hunting for more valuable finds. On most machines aluminum will produce mid-range tones somewhere between iron and non-ferrous metals like copper or brass.
To improve accuracy when discriminating against aluminum targets try using notch discrimination settings or adjusting sensitivity levels until you start hearing fewer false signals from this type of material.
7. Lead Identification
Lead objects such as bullets or fishing weights will usually produce low-pitched tones similar in sound quality to iron nails or larger pieces of debris but without any accompanying ferrous readings on your machine’s display.
One important note when hunting for lead objects is to be cautious of potential safety hazards. Lead can be toxic and handling large quantities of spent bullets or fishing weights can potentially expose you to harmful amounts of lead dust.
8. Brass Identification
Brass is another non-ferrous metal that produces high-pitched tones similar in quality to copper but often with slightly shorter duration. Brass objects like belt buckles, buttons, or ammunition casings can be common finds on older sites and are typically highly valued by collectors.
To improve your accuracy when identifying brass targets try using a smaller search coil which will help reduce interference from larger iron debris in the soil. You may also want to experiment with adjusting discrimination levels until you start hearing fewer false signals from other metals like aluminum.
Final Thoughts
Using tone ID effectively requires practice and patience but it’s an essential tool for discriminating between different types of metals while metal detecting. By learning how your machine responds specifically to each type of material, you’ll not only increase your chances of finding valuable treasures but also save time digging up unwanted trash items along the way.