10 Best Pinpointers for Accurate Metal Detecting
The gadget that can significantly simplify and improve your experience of treasure hunting is a metal detector pinpointer. Your primary detector can assist you in locating a target’s approximate area, but the pinpointer provides the fine-tuning.
It will help you in pinpointing the precise location of that coin, ring, or even small metal object, particularly when it’s difficult to spot in the mud. By rapidly indicating the area, the pinpointer metal detector helps you retrieve more findings with less effort and saves you time as compared to searching randomly.
Once your primary detector locates the target, a pinpointer metal detector is a compact yet practical gadget that can help you in speedy target identification. It saves time, minimizes digging, and guarantees that you are not missing little objects because a simple detector has a limited 50–70 cm range.
It is inexpensive, simple to use, and much better in harsh environments, as some waterproof pinpointer metal detectors are available with strong capabilities to detect underwater. There should be one for every serious detectorist.
Brands of best metal detectors like Minelab, Nokta-Makro, and Garrett, are offering Pinpointers as an extra purchase with their regular metal detectors. However, occasionally they give it away as a present when you purchase specific things, such as during special sales.
Best Pinpointers for Metal Detecting | Top 03 Picks
10 Best Pinpointers for Metal Detecting
Here are some of the pinpointers to boost your metal detectors.
1- Garrett Pro-pinpointer AT
Type: Vibration + Audio, Waterproof
Range: Up to 20 feet
This is a favorite among professionals and is also known as the “Carrot” because it has a bright orange color. It is susceptible and completely waterproof with a sturdy design. This is one of the best pinpointer metal detectors.
Features:
- 3 levels of sensitivity.
- An alarm in case the pinpointer is lost.
- Retune feature to get precise accuracy.
- LED flashlight.
It is best for serious hobbyists, all-terrain use, and underwater detection.
2- Minelab PRO-FIND 35
Type: Ferrous Tone, Audio, Vibration, and Waterproof ID
Range: Up to 10 feet below the surface
Before digging, you can determine whether the target is iron by using ferrous vs. non-ferrous tone ID. It is perfect for relic hunting.
Features:
- Ferrous tones identification.
- Adaptable sensitivity.
- LED illumination.
- Vibration and audio alert.
It is best for iron discrimination, coin and relic hunting.
3- Nokta Waterproof Pinpointer
Type: Waterproof, Audio, and Vibration
Range: Up to 3 feet waterproof
This metal detector pinpointer is a low-cost performer with all the features you need. It is long-lasting due to its sturdy design and tip protection.
Features:
- The waterproof rating of IP67
- Vibration or audio modes
- A tip protector that you can replace
- Buttons for sensitivity control
- LED flashlight
It is best for beginners, value hunters, and shallow water detectors.
4- The XP MI-6
Type: Wireless, waterproof, and rechargeable.
Range: 20 feet below the surface
Wirelessly pairs with Deus II and XP Deus. Provides you with remarkable depth detection and customized settings.
Features:
- Completely waterproof
- A battery that can be recharged
- Higher levels of sensitivity
- Customizable tones
- Lost alarm
It is best for professional detection, owners of XP Deus, and experienced users.
5- The Garrett Pro-Pointer II
Type: Vibration + Audio, Water-Resistant;
Range: only suitable for shallow ground
Garrett’s outstanding functionality is combined with simplicity and durability. Despite not being completely waterproof, it is excellent for dry ground detection due to its accuracy and ease of use.
Features:
- 360-degree side-scan detection.
- Auto-tuning for different soil types
- Sound and vibrational alerts.
- A large button that can make wearing gloves easier.
- A belt holster.
- Alarm for lost Pinpointers with auto-off functionality
- Extended battery life.
- LED flashlight
It is best for beginners, dry land hunters, users with a low budget, and people who appreciate dependability and simplicity.
6- Minelab PRO-FIND 15
Type: Audio Only, Waterproof
Range: Water, land, and shallow depth
A simple, reasonably priced pinpointer with strong waterproofing and reliable operation. Ideal for users who desire clear, audible audio signals with little interference with their primary detector.
Features:
- Up to 5 ft. of water resistance
- Bright design with high visibility.
- Extended battery life of up to 30 hours
- DIF technology reduces interference from detectors.
- When you approach the objective, the audio tones get louder.
- A lost alarm.
- A semi-rigid holster.
It is best for those looking for a simple, reliable instrument, users with a low budget, and underwater or wet settings.
7- XP MI-4
Type: Vibration + Audio, Waterproof
Range: Up to 20 feet
It lacks wireless capabilities but has a similar build quality to the MI-6. Reliable and rechargeable.
Features:
- Completely waterproof
- Sound and vibration
- No alarm in case it is lost
- Lithium rechargeable battery
- Adjustable sensitivity
It is best for all detectorists who desire premium features without the XP system.
8- Nokta PulseDive Pinpointer
Type: Waterproof, Pulse Induction + Percussion
Range: Up to 200 feet
This multipurpose pinpointer metal detector is perfect for beach hunters and anyone looking for underwater treasure. It can be used as a mini pinpointer and underwater detector.
Features:
- Up to 200 feet of water resistance
- Wireless capability
- Replaceable tip cover
- LED illumination and diving mode
- Using pulse induction in saltwater
It is best for saltwater use, beach hunting, and diving.
9- Nokta AccuPoint
Type: Vibration + Visual Display, Waterproof
Range: up to 10 ft. waterproof
Sophisticated GPS-based pinpointer with a screen display. Full of features, it has a highly modern vibe.
Features:
- Completely waterproof
- A battery that can be recharged
- LED display
- Adjustable sensitivity
- Display + tone + vibration
It is best for accurate field control and tech-savvy users.
10- SUNPOW IP68 Pin Pointer Wand
Type: Waterproof, Vibration + Audio
Range: Water and shallow ground
An excellent, reasonably priced choice for beginners who wish to experiment with pinpointing without making a significant financial commitment. Easy to use, reliable, and completely waterproof, ideal for light treasure seeking.
Features:
- For use underwater, an IP68 waterproof rating.
- Target indication by vibration and sound
- A belt holster.
- Small and light design
- Simple one-button functionality
It is also best for beginners, low-budget, occasional users, and people trying out pinpointers metal detectors for the first time.
Benefits of Pinpointers for Metal Detecting:
Speed & Precision: Pinpointers’ metal detectors will reduce the time and effort by precisely detecting the object’s spot.
Less Damage: Minimizes over‑digging, reducing harm to delicate artifacts.
Versatility: Ideal for tight spaces, rocky soil, shallow finds, beach sand, and even underwater.
User-Friendly: Most models are lightweight, with straightforward controls and durable construction.
How to choose the Best Pinpointer for your Metal Detector?
1. Waterproof system:
Choose a completely waterproof type if you are going to hunt close to the water, such as beaches, rivers, or underwater. Waterproofing isn’t necessary for dry land exclusively, but of course, it can save you time and effort.
2. Alert Mode:
To ensure that you don’t miss a signal, even in noisy settings, a good pinpointer metal detector should have LED notifications, vibration, and audio. Adjustable sensitivity is a huge benefit if you want to locate the deeper, tiny metals.
3. Depth Detection Vs Accuracy:
Offering a more in-depth detection by a pinpointer is not enough, but accuracy is. Because an exact tool with a good performance can even fail in a cluttered soil, when buying a pinpointer, you should focus on accuracy, not on range.
4. User-Friendly
Look for a pinpointer with quick retune capabilities, one-button operation, and easy controls.
Durability:
Going at night, it’s essential to have a pinpointer with the best visibility feature. Bright colors (such as orange), a belt holster, replaceable batteries, and a durable pinpointer. All these can improve performance and visibility in the field. Your tool’s lifespan can be increased with small things like tip guards.
How to use a metal detecting pinpointer in the best way?
Frequently returning:
After using the ground or scraping soil, always return your pinpointer. This will help in filtering out the false signals and improve the accuracy.
Move in Slow and small circles:
Don’t sweep in broader circles; instead, moving the pinpointer in small circles will help you to locate the exact location more precisely and quickly.
Use vibration mode:
Whenever you are detecting in a noisy area, turn on the vibration mode. Even if you are unable to hear the signal, you will still feel it.
Replace any worn-out tips:
Regularly check the pinpointer’s tip. Because in condensed soil, a sharp, undamaged tip performs well.
Keep it safe:
When not in use, keep your pinpointer in a holster. This keeps it safe and always will be ready to use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a pinpointer, and how does it work?
A pinpointer is like a mini metal detector you can use after your central detector finds a target. It tells you exactly where the object is by giving stronger audio or vibration signals as you get closer.
Why do I need a pinpointer?
It will save you time, effort, and unnecessary digging. You’ll recover finds faster, protect delicate items, and help you avoid making big, messy holes.
What features should I look for in a pinpointer?
You should go for the good sensitivity, easy one-button use, and waterproofing if you detect near water. Audio and vibration feedback is necessary. A sturdy build will last longer.
How do I use a pinpointer effectively?
After your detector marks the spot, dig, then scan inside the hole with the pinpointer. Move slowly and watch for stronger signals as you reach the target.
