Waterproof & Underwater Metal Detectors

Waterproof, submersible or just a waterproof coil?

Detector makers use these words loosely, so check the rating, not the label. A waterproof coil only protects the search head: the control box still has to stay dry, which is fine for wet grass and rain but not for wading. A fully submersible detector seals the whole machine. The IP rating tells you how far you can trust it:

• IP65: dust-tight and protected from rain and splashing. Not for submersion.
• IP67: can be submerged to about 1 m (3 ft) for a short time.
• IP68: rated for continuous submersion, to a depth the manufacturer states. Check that depth before you dive or snorkel.

What changes when you hunt in water

Salt water conducts, and so does wet salt sand. A detector tuned for a park will chatter and false-signal there. Machines that cope best use multiple frequencies or pulse induction, and they need ground balancing whenever you move from dry to wet sand. If you are hunting fresh water, such as lakes, rivers and swimming areas, a standard VLF often works well, because fresh water barely affects the signal. Our VLF vs pulse induction guide explains the difference.

Gear that has to get wet too

Your detector is only as waterproof as its weakest part. Standard headphones are not waterproof, so check for submersible ones before you wade. Pair your machine with a waterproof pinpointer, a long-handled sand scoop for working in the water, and a secure pouch. After every salt-water session, rinse the coil, shaft and connectors in fresh water and let everything dry fully.