The advanced hobbyist will know how to use a pinpointer and he will know why it is so important during metal detecting. If you just started with metal detecting it might be completely new for you.
Don’t worry when you have never heard about a pinpointer. I also had no idea what a pinpointer was when I just started with metal detecting.
Over the years I have gained a lot of experience using several pinpointers. Now I am here to tell you everything about it that you need to know. What is actually a pinpointer and do I need one for metal detecting?
A pinpointer is essentially a small metal detector that resembles a little rod. It makes metal detecting much easier by quickly detecting small objects. The pinpointer is operated manually by hand. Although it is not essential for beginners, using a pinpointer can save you a lot of time.
It would be a good idea to read this article if you want to know how a pinpointer works and why you should purchase one. In this article I will tell you about all the advantages and disadvantages of a pinpointer. In the last part of the article I will also mention some good pinpointers on the market.
What is a pinpointer and how does it work?
A pinpointer is the small version of a metal detector. You have to use the pinpointer with your hand. The pinpointer creates a little electromagnetic field in the little coil and sends this into the ground in 360 degrees. You can find little targets very accurately in a short time with a pinpointer.
Of course, this might sound a little abstract, so I will explain everything in detail.
A pinpointer typically looks like a portable stick. When the batteries power the copper wire inside the pinpointer’s coil, an electromagnetic field is created and sent into the ground (see picture below).
When a metal object (like a coin) in the ground comes in contact with the electromagnetic field of the pinpointer, it will also create its own electromagnetic field. This electromagnetic field will then be sent back to the pinpointer’s receiver coil.
The receiver coil of the pinpointer will convert the energy from this reflected electromagnetic field into a signal, which will activate the loudspeaker or vibration motor, causing the pinpointer to beep or vibrate.
Allright, now you know how a pinpointer works! Let’s talk about all the advantages of a pinpointer.
What are the advantages of a pinpointer?
1. Detects very accurate
You can search for little metal objects with great accuracy using a pinpointer, thanks to its small coil that sends out the small electromagnetic field. The ability to detect small objects quickly and accurately will save you a lot of time during metal detecting.
2. Small measurements
A big advantage of a pinpointer is its small size. It is only around 10-11 inches (25 centimeters) long and is also very compact. This allows you to reach into small holes with your device, leading to better target recognition and more accurate locating of targets.
3. Ability to adjust the sensitivity
Luckily, you have the option to adjust the sensitivity of your pinpointer. Really useful because each situation is different! Most devices will have more than three sensitivity levels, so you can adjust your settings really precisely. I will come back to this later in the article.
4. Generates sound and vibration
The majority of pinpointers on the market offer both an audible and vibrating alert when they detect a metal object’s electromagnetic field. This vibrating feature can be particularly helpful for individuals with hearing impairments, or for those who find the beeping sound annoying.
5. Light weight
The average pinpointer weighs up to 1 pound, which is very light. This makes it extremely convenient to carry with you during metal detecting as you hardly notice the weight.
6. Loss function
The modern versions of pinpointers also have a “lost” function, where the pinpointer will emit a sound after a certain period of time (usually 5 minutes) if it has been left idle.
This feature is useful in case you misplace your pinpointer or forget where you last used it. It ensures that you can quickly locate it and avoid losing your valuable equipment.
7. Long battery life
The most devices need a 9 volt battery and with this battery, you can use the pinpointer for 30 hours without replacing the battery! This means that you don’t often have to replace the batteries. There are also modern versions that work on an external battery.
8. Bright colors
Another advantage of pinpointers is their color. Most pinpointers come in bright and bold colors that are easily noticeable. Manufacturers design them this way to ensure that you don’t lose your pinpointer.
In case you accidentally misplace your pinpointer, it’s much easier to locate it when it has a distinctive color compared to a plain black one. My advice is to choose a color that stands out and is clearly visible on the surface of a field.
What are the disadvantages of a pinpointer?
1. No discrimination function
The main disadvantage of an average pinpointer is that it lacks discrimination function, which means you cannot selectively ignore certain types of metals. As a result, the pinpointer will respond to all metals in the ground, even if you are not interested in them.
To illustrate, let’s say you are searching for a coin but you don’t want to detect a nearby soda can. With a pinpointer that lacks discrimination function, it will pick up both the coin and the soda can because they both produce an electromagnetic field. This can lead to false signals and make it more difficult to locate your target accurately.
2. Limited detection depth
It is important to note that the detection range of a pinpointer is generally limited to a depth of 0-6 inches (15 centimeters) depending on the model.
This can be a disadvantage when searching for objects that are located deeper in the ground. To avoid missing out on potentially valuable targets, it is recommended to increase the sensitivity of your pinpointer when it fails to detect signals that are picked up by your metal detector.
Always think about the main function of the pinpointer… A pinpointer is literally made to find objects that are located near to the coil so this depth limitation might no be the biggest problem.
3. Takes effort to carry it with you
You have to carry your pinpointer with you the whole time when you are metal detecting. This could bother you when you don’t have a proper pinpointer holder. I will tell you more about the accessories that you need for your pinpointer later in the article.
4. Only splash water-proof
Most pinpointers are only splash-proof, which means they’re not suitable for detecting underwater. However, there are some pinpointers that are fully waterproof up to 6 meters deep, but they tend to be more expensive than regular pinpointers.
5. Expensive
The last disadvantage of a pinpointer is that they can be quite expensive. While there is a range of prices for different types of pinpointers, the average cost is around $100.
This may not be a significant expense for experienced hobbyists, but for beginners, it could be a substantial investment. As such, it’s crucial to be well-informed about the product features before making a purchase.
How do I use my pinpointer?
Not everyone will know how to use a pinpointer. Especially for the people who just started with metal detecting it can be challenging. Don’t worry, it is really easy to learn.
1. Start by searching with your metal detector
The first thing you want to do is to use your metal detector to search for a metal object in the ground. Move from left to right with your metal detector.
When there is a metal object in the ground (in this case, a silver coin), your metal detector will detect its electromagnetic field and starts beeping.
2. Start digging
When you have accurately determined the place of the metal object with your metal detector, you can start digging. Try to dig very carefully. By doing this, you decrease the chance of damaging the target. Place the soil to one side of the hole.
3. Check the excavated sand
After digging up the sand. You should check if the excavated sand contains the metal object that you are looking for. You can finally start using the pinpointer by doing this!
4. Locate the object with your pinpointer
If the metal object is located within the sand heap you dug up, use your pinpointer to search through the sand. If the metal object is still in the hole, use your pinpointer to search all corners of the hole. By doing so, you can accurately locate the metal object in a short amount of time.
5. Find the object and restore the hole that you made
Using a pinpointer can help you quickly locate the metal object, saving you valuable time during metal detecting.
Once you have found your metal object, it’s important to properly restore the hole you dug. This is crucial to avoid angering the landowner and preventing harm to animals that may fall into the hole and injure themselves. Always make sure to restore the hole after finding your metal object.
What accessories do I need for my pinpointer?
To get the most out of your pinpointer, consider using some accessories that can enhance its functionality. Accessories such as a pinpointer holder, an anti-loss cable, an extra set of batteries, a protective case, and a stem support can provide added value to your metal detecting experience.
I will explain you why you should definitely use these accessories when you are metal detecting.
1. A pinpointer holder
A pinpointer holder is a very convenient accessory to use. You can easily tie the holder to your pants and quickly insert and remove the pinpointer as needed. This makes metal detecting much more convenient and efficient.
2. An anti-loss cable
Losing an expensive pinpointer would be a terrible experience. Fortunately, you can prevent this from happening by using an anti-loss cable.
Simply attach the cable to your pinpointer and your pants. If you accidentally drop your pinpointer, the anti-loss cable will prevent it from getting lost
3. An extra set of batteries
Having an extra set of batteries is essential for your pinpointer. You don’t want to be caught in the field with a dead pinpointer.
Make sure to check the type of battery your pinpointer requires. Most pinpointers operate on a 9-volt battery.
If you’re unsure whether to use alkaline or lithium batteries, be sure to check out my blog post on choosing the right batteries for your metal detector.
4. A protective case
It is really important to use a protective case when you are finished with metal detecting. This will reduce the chance of damaging your pinpointer!
5. A stem support
If you think a pinpointer holder for your pants is convenient, wait until you see a stem holder! A stem holder allows you to attach your pinpointer directly onto your metal detector’s stem.
When using a stem holder, it’s important to remember to turn off your pinpointer after locating the object. Otherwise, the electromagnetic field of the pinpointer can interfere with the metal detector’s electromagnetic field, causing it to constantly beep.
If you’re experiencing constant beeping with your metal detector and want to know the reasons why, be sure to check out my article where I provide all the possible causes.
What are the best pinpointers?
There are some really good affordable pinpointers on the market. I will give you some examples of good pinpointers.
1. Garret Pro-Pinpointer AT
- Waterproof to 20 ft
- 30 hours battery life
- Anti-loss system
- Sound and vibration function
- Scraping edge
- 3 sensitivity levels
The Garret Pro-Pointer AT pinpointer has a battery life of at least 30 hours and is waterproof up to 20 ft (6 meters). It’s also highly visible with its bright orange color and features an anti-loss system that will sound an alarm if it’s lost. The device includes both sound and vibration functions.
In addition, the pinpointer has an anti-loss cable connection, which is very useful for preventing loss.
Another advantage of the Garret Pro-Pointer AT is the scraping edge located at the detection point, making it a highly versatile tool. It’s suitable for all soil conditions, including salty bottoms. Additionally, the pinpointer has three sensitivity levels, allowing you to adjust the sensitivity settings based on your specific situation.
Overall, the Garret Pro-Pointer AT offers excellent value for its price.
2. Quest X-Pointer
- 30 hours battery life
- Anti-loss system
- Two adjustment buttons
- Sound and vibration function
- 4 sensitivity levels
A difference with the other pinpointer is that this pinpointer has two buttons to adjust the settings. Very useful! This Quest X-Pointer has an additional sensitivity level compared to the Garret Pro-Pinpointer AT, giving you even more precise sensitivity adjustment. Overall, I think that this pinpointer has a really good price-quality ratio.
3. Other pinpointers
Of course, there are way more good pinpointers. So I made a table to show all the benefits of each pinpointer. Always think about the features that you want during metal detecting. Based on your preferences, you can make a well-considered choice.
| Picture | Name | Battery life | Waterproof | Audio | Vibration | Anti-loss system | Sensitivity adjustment buttons | Weight | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
  | Garret Pro-Pinpointer AT | 30 hours | 20 ft (6 meters) | Yes | Yes | Yes | 3 | 184 grams | Buy Now |
  | Garret Pro-Pinpointer II | 30 hours | Only splash-waterproof | Yes | Yes | Yes | None | 174 grams | Buy Now |
  | Minelab Pro-Find 35 | 30 hours | 10 ft (3 meters) | Yes | Yes | Yes | 5 | 193 | Buy Now |
Final Conclusion
A pinpointer is not immediately necessary while metal detecting, although it makes it much easier. With a pinpointer you can find the metal objects much faster than without a pinpointer. This is because the pinpointer can detect the little metal objects very accurately.
The current pinpointers have really modern features like a anti-loss system and a sensitivity adjustment button. If you want to upgrade your metal detecting equipment, the pinpointer is definitely the first thing that you need in addition to your metal detector!
Frequently Asked Questions
Although a pinpointer is not specifically required during metal detecting, it is a very good idea to use one. It makes it much easier to locate little metal objects in a short time. This will save you a lot of valuable time while metal detecting.
There are several ways how you avoid to lose your pinpointer. You should use an anti-lose cable. Also, it might be a good idea to buy a pinpointer that has a remarkable color. This makes it much easier for you to find it back in case you lost it. The most pinpointers start making a noise when you lose it. So the pinpointer itself warns you.
The most pinpointers have the possibility to adjust the sensitivity. The disadvantage is that the average pinpointer has no discrimination function. This means that you can’t ignore certain materials.