How to Properly Grid an Area for Metal Detecting?

Metal detecting is a relaxed and thrilling activity. At the same time, some tricks and methods are needed to achieve better results. Thus, gridding is a metal detection technique. Dividing the targeted ground into sections is a methodical approach. This way, you can systematically scan each of the divided areas and won’t miss any targets.
We’re talking about a few tactics and methods here. Using those tactics, as well as some more advanced tips, is also covered here.

Importance of Gridding in Metal Detecting:

The metal detecting grid method is important when detecting certain metals. You won’t have to spend as much time looking in the same place. Gridding makes it possible to create a structure that specifies where to begin and end your search.

Even if it gets dark and you have to come back another day, your search won’t be in vain, and you won’t have to do it again. You separated the space so that you wouldn’t overlook any part of the ground.

Types of Gridding Methods:

The types are divided according to the terrain and the targeted metal you are finding. So here are some efficient metal detecting methods:

1. Traditional Gridding Method:

This technique divides a space into manageable, tiny square blocks using wooden pieces.

Tools Required:

Pegs (Pins)
Hammer
Compass
Paper

Procedures:

Describe the origin point:

Select one mark to serve as the starting point.
On your paper map, mark this location.
Then, paint the pin a different color and label it “Origin.”

Observing Distances and Directions:

Firstly place every pin at the same distance from on another (e.g., 150 m) and walk in a specific direction (e.g., west). For this, you can use a compass.
Make indications on the map. The direction and distance of the pins (e.g., “150m West”).

Keeping Lines Straight:

Focus on far-off marks, like trees or tussocks.
Put some colorful tape on the pins to make it visible.

How to Measure Distances:

Make sure that spaces between the marks are uniform. For this, you can use a laser measuring device in open spaces or count steps to ensure uniform spacing.
Always make a straight line to make proper gridding for metal detecting.

Making a Grid:

To make a grid, make a square pattern of pins that you have placed. Like 100×100 m for a 4×4 grid.
You can also double the size of the square to make it larger. such as 8×8 or 16×16) can be produced.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Traditional Method:

Advantages:

It can provide you with a precise and clear vision of where you have to start and end.
This method ensures systemic coverage. You have fewer chances to miss the potential target.

Disadvantages:

You have calculated that it has been a very time-consuming method.
Also, your marked points have a risk of being affected by external factors such as the environment or something. It can be misplaced.

2. Modern Gridding Method Using GPS

This grid system for metal detecting offers accuracy and efficiency without the use of physical markers by generating virtual grids using GPS technology.

Tools Required:

GPS device
Metal Detector
Pre-installed maps or digital mapping software

Procedure:

GPS understanding: Firstly, you should be assured that you already know about GPS operations. Like settings of directions and navigation in between.
Gridding: A grid layout should be planned by using mapping software before you go to the field. With grid lines aligned perpendicular to geological features or historical data indicating the presence of a potential target.

Use your GPS to navigate with the grid lines and slowly cover the area systematically. Use the detector’s sweep width and understand how carefully you want to cover the area. Then, based on these two reasons, calculate the grid line spacing.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Modern Method:

Advantages:

Navigation will become highly precise and reliable for you.
Grid parameters for various terrains and search goals are readily adjustable.
This method will reduce your effort of making marks physically. Hence, your time gets reduced.

Disadvantages:

This needs some advanced knowledge about GPS.
You will have to rely on satellite reception and device battery life.

There are two other best ways to grid a metal detecting site. One is the spiral search pattern, and the other is the crosshatch technique.

1. Spiral Search Pattern: This method is used when you have a specific point only. Set a point as a center and move in an outward direction in a spiral pattern.

For example, a metal detectorist might discover a tiny piece of antique jewelry close to some specific point while searching on the beach. To cover the area completely, they choose to employ the spiral search pattern, thinking that there may be more items nearby.

Benefit: This pattern is best when one wants to search around a specific area.
Consideration: Making spiral loops can be tricky. You have to be careful.

2. Crosshatch Pattern: In this, you will detect an area in one direction and then repeat this process toward the initial point perpendicularly.

Benefit: By this method, your detection process becomes more precise because targets get approached from different sides.
Consideration: It is also a more time-consuming process.

Key Steps for Effective Gridding

Here are some of the metal detecting techniques for beginners.

Choose a starting point: As discussed earlier in the methods of gridding, the starting point is very important. It gives you a fixed point where you have started your hunting.
Set your grid size: After selecting the center point. Now you have to select the right size of the grid. The characteristics that may affect gridding can be the situation of the area and the type of your search. You may require the larger grids for large objects. For tiny objects, you may require the finer grids for more detailed searching.
Walk in straight lines: You must walk in straight, parallel lines. By this, your every divided area will be covered properly. Also, no area will be repeated.
Mark Your Progress: You should keep a record of covered areas, whether you are using GPS or physical marks. In this way, no area will be missed or overlooked.
Turn around and overlap: One thing more to do is to repeat the metal detecting search patterns. When you reach the end point of a line, turn around and go to the same path. This will give you the guarantee of not missing even a gap. You will have flawless coverage of the area.
Implement a Perpendicular Grid: To make your search more precise, always try to have a systematic approach. For example, when you finish the one grid, you should go to the very next grid. Don’t search randomly because systematic searching will enhance the chances of success in detection.
Adjust for terrain: To ensure consistent coverage despite physical obstacles, adjust your grid strategy to account for changes in the terrain or environmental conditions.

Important Considerations:

Detector’s setting: First consideration that is very important. The setting of the detector. You should adjust the settings of the detector according to the condition of the ground.
Depth adjustments: These are made according to the condition of the ground. Adjustments for depth are also essential. For instance, to guarantee accurate readings when calibrating depth sensors, the apparatus must be positioned at known depths.
Safety First: To avoid any risks during searching. You always have to put your safety first. Take precautions, dress properly, and always keep a first aid kit with you. Also, you should consider every potential risk while making a metal detecting grid strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is it important to grid first before metal detecting?

It is important because it gives you a precise methodology to find the target more accurately. You will not have to go to the same place again and again. Even if you come on the next day, you know, from where to start again.

How should I start gridding?

Firstly, select a point as your initial point. Make marks on the ground with the tools you have. Divide the area into sections through metal detecting methods. Move in parallel lines. Overlap the sections. Sweep slowly to cover every inch of the area.

How large a grid should be?

It certainly depends on the area and the time. The target type is another option. To find targets more accurately, smaller sections are recommended to cover the area properly.

What type of settings are required for my metal detector?

Adjust the main settings on your metal detector before detecting. Like discrimination, sensitivity, and ground balancing. Change the settings according to the ground condition through the sections.

Should I move in one direction only?

Obviously, No. You should divide the section vertically and horizontally. This way, you will not miss any of the target.