Best Pinpointers for Metal Detecting
A pinpointer is a small handheld detector used after you've dug a hole to locate the exact position of the target in the hole or plug. It's not strictly necessary, but after a few hunts without one, you'll understand why nearly every experienced detectorist carries one. The time savings are real, especially in loose soil where targets roll around.
How They Work
Pinpointers detect metal at very close range (a few inches) and alert you with vibration, audio, or both when a target is near the tip. You probe the sides and bottom of your hole, and the loose soil in your plug, to zero in on the target. Without one, you're poking through dirt with your fingers trying to find a small object by feel.
What to Look For
- Sensitivity: It should detect small targets (a dime or small button) at 2-3 inches. Less than that and you'll spend too long searching.
- Proportional response: Getting louder/stronger as you get closer to the target, rather than just on/off.
- Durability: It lives in your pocket or pouch and gets jabbed into dirt and gravel thousands of times. It needs to take abuse.
- Water resistance: At minimum, enough to handle rain and wet holes. Full waterproofing is a plus for beach detecting.
Price Range
Good pinpointers run $25-$160. The major brand-name models from Garrett, Minelab, and XP sit at the higher end and are proven performers. Budget options from other manufacturers have improved significantly and many work well enough for most uses. Read reviews from actual detectorists before buying.