The following "Hinged Door Method" of digging is widely recommended to minimize damage to lawns. Careful recovery in multiple-use well-groomed areas is the responsibility of all metal detector users.
Hints, Tips, Accessories
Target Recovery
After locating a good target (metal), pinpoint the center. If your instrument has depth reading, take note of the depth. Practice on surface
metals with the loop held several inches above the target. |
Using a sturdy digging tool, preferably a trowel or knife, cut a horseshoe-shaped size plug around the pinpointed target. Leave an uncut hinge area to keep the grass in place. |
Cut through the turf, being careful to cut around the target and not damage it. |
Use your digging tool to pry the turf flag up and hinge it over. Your pinpointed target now rests down-side up. |
Check for the target visually, and with your detector, to see if the target is in the flap or remains in the hole. |
A pinpointing probe can be used to speed the process of finding the target in the flap or in the hole. |
If additional dirt needs to be removed from the hole, place it on a drop cloth. |
After recovering the target, the dirst can then easily be replaced with a minimum of spreading. |
Replace the turf flap and step on it firmly. One completed, very little indication of digging should be seen. |
It is very important for the future of metal detecting that you use care in digging- - -
- Check with your Dealer, Area Club, Local Police, or Parks & Recreations Department.
- Some areas may have rules on the size and type of digging tools allowed.
- Be aware of the rules, and respect the laws and restrictions in your area.
- Unsightly holes are dangerous to people and livestock, and detrimental to the continued use of detectors.