Uncovering the Mystery of Pull Tabs: A Comprehensive Guide to Identifying and Avoiding Them While Metal Detecting
Pull Tabs: A Comprehensive Guide
Metal detecting is an exciting hobby that has been gaining popularity over the years. It involves using a metal detector to search for hidden treasures in the ground, sand, or water. One of the most common finds that you will come across while metal detecting are pull tabs. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about pull tabs and how to identify them.
What Are Pull Tabs?
A pull tab is a small piece of metal with a loop on one end and a folded tab on the other. They were commonly used as drink can openers before cans had pop tops. The user would insert their finger into the loop and lift up on the tab to open the can. Pull tabs were widely used in soda cans from 1962 until they were replaced by stay-on tabs in 1975.
Why Are Pull Tabs So Commonly Found?
One reason why pull tabs are so commonly found by metal detectors is because they were discarded everywhere during their heyday, especially at beaches, parks, and other public areas where people gathered for picnics or parties. As a result of this widespread use and discarding behavior, these objects have become ubiquitous targets for treasure hunters today.
How To Identify Pull Tabs
Identifying pull tabs is essential for any metal detectorist as it saves time digging up unwanted targets repeatedly. Here are some things to look out for when identifying pull tabs:
1) Size – Most soda can pull tabs measure between 0.75”-1” inches long and roughly 0.25″-0.5″ inches wide.
2) Shape – The shape of modern-day soda can pulls has remained relatively unchanged since they first came onto the market in 1963; however, there have been variations over time.
3) Material – Soda can pulls are made from lightweight aluminum that generally tarnishes quickly after being exposed to air.
4) Age – If you come across an old pull tab, it may have a rusted appearance and be thicker than more modern tabs.
How To Avoid Digging Up Pull Tabs
While pull tabs can be frustrating to dig up repeatedly, there are ways to avoid them. One solution is using discrimination settings on your metal detector. Discrimination settings allow the metal detectorist to adjust their machine’s sensitivity to specific metals, including aluminum (which is what most pull tabs are made of). However, this method has its drawbacks since it can miss other valuable targets that might contain aluminum.
Another way to avoid digging up pull tabs is by using a smaller coil on your metal detector. This will help limit the area of detection and make it easier for you to focus on finding only valuable items.
Are All Pull Tabs Created Equal?
No! While most soda can pulls look similar in size and shape, some variations exist that are worth noting:
1) Stay-Ons – The stay-on tab was introduced in 1975 as a replacement for the detachable tab. These types of cans have a small piece of metal attached permanently.
2) Ring Pulls – A ring pull looks like a small loop with an opening in the center instead of having a fold-over piece at one end.
3) Other Uses – There were other uses for pull-tabs beyond drink cans such as pet food lids or soup cans that require opening without sharp edges.
What Can You Do With Your Collection Of Pull Tabs?
If you’re lucky enough to find large quantities of these little bits over time, then don’t throw them away! Some people collect these objects because they’re interesting artifacts from our past while others turn them into unique pieces of jewelry or art projects. For example: bracelet chains made entirely out of pop tops!
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding how to identify and avoid pulling up unwanted targets like pull-tabs takes time but will save you hours during your hunt once mastered. Remember, not all pull tabs are created equal! Keep an eye out for ring pulls and stay-ons that can be mistaken for other valuable targets. Ultimately, if you’re lucky enough to collect a large quantity of these little objects over the years, don’t throw them away — get creative with your new treasure trove!